8 Tips for Oily Hair: How to Keep Hair Fresh for Longer

Editor: BRUSH Amsterdam | Updated: 2026 | Reading time: 7 min

Oily hair is common, but it is rarely permanent. If your roots look greasy quickly, your scalp feels itchy, or your hair loses volume within a day, the issue is usually not your hair itself—it is your scalp balance and routine.

At BRUSH Amsterdam, we take a hair health first approach. That means looking beyond surface symptoms and helping clients understand what their scalp and hair actually need. In this guide, we explain the most common causes of oily hair and the 8 most effective ways to keep your hair fresher, lighter, and more balanced for longer.

How do you fix oily hair fast?

The best way to improve oily hair is to use a gentle shampoo, wash less often, avoid heavy products at the roots, and support the scalp with the right care. Oily hair is usually caused by excess sebum production, which can be triggered by overwashing, product buildup, scalp irritation, or using the wrong products.

What causes oily hair?

Oily hair happens when the scalp produces too much sebum. Sebum is not the enemy—it is a natural oil that protects the scalp and helps prevent dehydration. The problem begins when the scalp becomes imbalanced and starts producing more oil than necessary.

There are several possible causes of oily hair, including:

• Washing too often
• Using harsh shampoos
• Heavy products that build up on the scalp
• Hormonal fluctuations
• Scalp irritation or inflammation
• Fine hair, which shows oil faster at the roots

In many cases, oily hair is not just about cleansing more—it is about restoring scalp balance.

8 tips for oily hair

1. Switch to a gentler shampoo

One of the most common mistakes with oily hair is using a shampoo that is too aggressive. Harsh formulas can strip the scalp completely, which often causes it to compensate by producing even more oil.

Choose a gentle shampoo that cleanses effectively without irritating the scalp. If your hair gets oily fast, avoid overly rich or heavy formulas that can weigh down the roots.

A better routine starts with balance, not over-cleansing.

2. Wash your hair less often

If your scalp becomes greasy quickly, your instinct may be to wash it every day. That usually makes the cycle worse. Frequent washing can prevent the scalp from regulating itself properly.

Spacing out washes gives the scalp time to rebalance. This transition can take time, but it often makes a significant difference.

To make that process easier, dry shampoo can help absorb excess oil between washes—but only when used in moderation.

3. Use dry shampoo strategically

Dry shampoo can be useful for extending the time between washes and adding volume at the roots. It is a support tool, not a long-term solution.

Use it lightly, focus on the roots, and avoid excessive buildup. Too much dry shampoo can congest the scalp and eventually make oiliness worse.

4. Exfoliate the scalp occasionally

If your scalp feels congested, itchy, or heavy, a scalp scrub can help remove buildup and impurities. A gentle exfoliating treatment once a week—or every 10 days—is usually enough.

This can be especially helpful if you use styling products regularly or struggle with flakes and residue around the scalp.

Healthy hair starts with a clean scalp, but the key is moderation.

5. Use conditioner, but only where you need it

If your roots get oily fast but your ends feel dry, do not skip conditioner entirely. Instead, apply it only through the mid-lengths and ends.

A lightweight conditioner helps detangle, smooth the cuticle, and keep the hair soft without making the roots heavier. For oily hair, placement matters just as much as product choice.

6. Treat scalp irritation early

If oily hair comes with itching, redness, sensitivity, or dandruff, the issue may be more than excess sebum alone. In that case, targeted scalp care can help calm irritation and support a healthier scalp environment.

Persistent discomfort is a sign that your scalp may need more than just a different shampoo. If symptoms continue, it is worth getting professional advice.

For a broader guide, read our Scalp Care 101 blog.

7. Use a scalp massage brush correctly

A scalp massage brush does not make your hair oilier when used properly. It can help distribute shampoo more evenly, loosen buildup, and stimulate the scalp gently during washing.

Use it with light pressure and keep it clean. It can be a useful addition to your wash routine, especially if your scalp feels congested.

8. Choose hairstyles that work with oily hair

On the last day before washing, loose hair can often look flat and separated at the roots. Instead of fighting that texture, work with it.

Sleek buns, low ponytails, and polished tied-back styles can look intentional and refined while helping oily roots appear fresher. A smart haircut also makes a difference here—shape, weight, and movement all influence how quickly hair looks heavy.

If your hair tends to fall flat quickly, a tailored cut can improve body and balance. Explore our haircuts services page to learn more.

What not to do if you have oily hair

• Do not use harsh shampoos daily
• Do not apply masks or heavy conditioners at the roots
• Do not overload the scalp with dry shampoo
• Do not ignore itching, irritation, or dandruff
• Do not assume oily hair only needs stronger cleansing

In many cases, oily hair improves when the routine becomes gentler and more precise.

When oily hair may need professional advice

If your scalp becomes oily within hours, or if oiliness is combined with irritation, flakes, or discomfort, it may be time to look deeper. The right cut, scalp care routine, and product advice can make a major difference.

At BRUSH Amsterdam, we look at the full picture: scalp condition, hair texture, product use, and overall hair health. That is especially important if you also color your hair or struggle with dryness through the lengths.

If your hair is oily at the roots but dry through the rest, our hair and scalp treatments and hair color services are always tailored with hair condition in mind.

FAQ: Oily hair

Why does my hair get oily so fast?

Hair gets oily quickly when the scalp produces excess sebum. This can be caused by overwashing, harsh shampoos, product buildup, hormones, or scalp irritation.

Should I wash oily hair every day?

Usually not. Washing every day often keeps the scalp in a cycle of overproduction. A gentler routine with more space between washes is often more effective.

Is dry shampoo bad for oily hair?

No, but it should be used carefully. Dry shampoo can help absorb oil between washes, but too much can build up on the scalp and worsen the issue.

Should I use conditioner if I have oily hair?

Yes. Conditioner should be applied only to the mid-lengths and ends, not the roots. Skipping it completely can leave the hair dry and harder to manage.

Can haircuts help oily hair look better?

Yes. The right haircut can improve movement, reduce heaviness, and make oily hair look fresher for longer.

Healthy scalp, better hair

Oily hair is rarely solved by stronger cleansing alone. The best results come from understanding the scalp, adjusting the routine, and choosing products and services that support long-term balance.

At BRUSH Amsterdam, hair health always comes first—whether you visit us for treatments, color, or a precision haircut designed to make your hair look naturally better every day.

You may also find these guides helpful: Hair Treatments: The Solution for Dry, Damaged and Frizzy Hair and Scalp Care 101.