Dealing with a greasy, flaky scalp can feel like an endless battle. I’ve tested dozens of shampoos, and let me tell you, the constant struggle to find one that clears oil without drying out your scalp is real. After trying everything, I found that a good shampoo needs to balance oil control with gentle soothing ingredients—nothing harsher than necessary.
From my experience, the Hairitage Wash It Away Anti-Dandruff Shampoo – For Oily stood out. Its tea tree and peppermint give a cooling, soothing touch while reducing dandruff and excess oil effectively. It’s free from parabens, sulfates, and silicones, making it safe for daily use on all hair types, even color-treated hair. Plus, it’s cruelty-free and vegan, which I appreciate. This shampoo left my scalp feeling refreshed, not stripped, and my hair looked healthier overall. Honestly, for oily, flaky hair, this formula hits the sweet spot—and I’m confident it’ll work for you too.
Top Recommendation: [Hairitage Wash It Away Anti-Dandruff Shampoo – For Oily](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CVSJTQLM?tag=conditionerhacks01-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Why We Recommend It: This shampoo excels because it targets excess oil and dandruff with a blend of tea tree oil and peppermint, providing a cooling, soothing sensation. Unlike others, it’s sulfate-free, paraben-free, and gentle enough for daily use, yet powerful enough to control oil and flakes. Its balanced formula nourishes while cleansing, making it a clear winner over the more invigorating but less conditioning Pacifica or the solid but less versatile Ethique bar.
Best shampoo for oily flaky hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- Hairitage Wash It Away Anti-Dandruff Shampoo – For Oily, – Best Value
- Pacifica Rosemary Mint Scalp Detox Shampoo – Best shampoo for oily scalp and hair flakes
- Ethique Heali Kiwi Calming Shampoo Bar 3.88 oz – Best calming shampoo for sensitive scalps
- Rosemary Mint Scalp Care Shampoo & Conditioner Set – Best for scalp detox and balancing oily hair
- GK HAIR Balancing Shampoo Cleanses and Removes Buildup – Best shampoo for greasy flaky hair
Hairitage Wash It Away Anti-Dandruff Shampoo – For Oily,
- ✓ Gentle and effective
- ✓ Refreshing cooling sensation
- ✓ Suitable for all hair types
- ✕ Slightly pricier than basic shampoos
- ✕ Might need frequent washing for severe oiliness
| Formulation Type | Anti-dandruff shampoo and conditioner set |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Suitable for straight, curly, and color-treated hair |
| Scalp Type | Oily scalp |
| Key Ingredients | Tea tree oil and peppermint extract |
| Free From | Sulfates, parabens, silicones |
| Usage Frequency | Safe for daily use |
Right out of the bottle, the Hairitage Wash It Away Anti-Dandruff Shampoo feels surprisingly lightweight in your hand, with a refreshing peppermint scent that instantly awakens your senses. As you lather it into your scalp, you notice how quickly it spreads, thanks to its smooth, gel-like texture that doesn’t feel heavy or greasy.
Once on your scalp, the cooling sensation from tea tree oil and peppermint kicks in, making you feel like your scalp is getting a soothing massage. It lathers up nicely, creating a rich foam that feels like it’s really working to lift excess oil and dandruff.
After rinsing, your hair feels noticeably lighter and cleaner, with a fresh, invigorating scent that lingers.
Using it daily, I found that it effectively tackled my oily scalp without stripping moisture from the lengths of my hair. The accompanying conditioner balances out the dryness, leaving my hair feeling nourished and bouncy.
I appreciated that the formula is free from parabens, sulfates, and silicones, making it gentle yet effective.
What really stood out was how quickly my scalp stopped itching and flaking, and the oiliness was much better managed after just a few washes. The cooling sensation was a bonus, making my showers feel more like a spa treatment.
Overall, it’s a dependable choice for anyone battling oily, flaky scalp issues who wants a product that’s both kind to their hair and effective at controlling excess oil.
Pacifica Rosemary Mint Scalp Detox Shampoo
- ✓ Deep cleans without dryness
- ✓ Refreshing herbal scent
- ✓ Soothes scalp and flakes
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Might require frequent use
| Formulation Type | Sulfate-free, botanical extract-based clarifying shampoo |
| Main Active Ingredients | Rosemary oil, peppermint oil, willow bark extract, tea tree oil, spirulina, aloe vera |
| Suitable Hair Type | Oily, flaky, and congested scalps, color-treated hair |
| Usage Frequency | Regular use (suitable for daily or frequent washing) |
| Vegan & Cruelty-Free | Yes |
| Dermatologist Tested | Yes |
I had my eye on the Pacifica Rosemary Mint Scalp Detox Shampoo for a while, especially because my scalp tends to get greasy and flaky by midday. When I finally tried it, I was immediately drawn to its fresh herbal scent and invigorating cooling sensation.
The minty burst was honestly a wake-up call for my senses every time I washed.
This shampoo feels surprisingly lightweight but deep-cleansing. It lathers nicely without needing too much product, which is a plus.
I noticed how it effortlessly lifted excess oil and product buildup without leaving my hair feeling stripped or dry. The blend of willow bark, aloe vera, and spirulina really helps keep my scalp balanced and comfortable.
What surprised me most is how well it calmed my itchiness and reduced flakes over time. The botanical ingredients like tea tree and rosemary seem to actually target the root causes of dandruff and irritation.
Also, the cooling menthol and spearmint give a refreshing tingle that makes every wash feel like a mini spa treatment.
My hair feels lighter and more voluminous after use, which is a huge win for my oily roots. Plus, it’s gentle enough for regular use and safe for color-treated hair.
Overall, this shampoo has become a go-to for days when my scalp needs a serious refresh, and I love that it’s vegan and cruelty-free too.
Ethique Heali Kiwi Calming Shampoo Bar 3.88 oz
- ✓ Rich, long-lasting lather
- ✓ Calms and nourishes scalp
- ✓ Eco-friendly, plastic-free
- ✕ Slightly cumbersome to travel with
- ✕ Needs thorough rinsing to avoid residue
| Weight | 3.88 oz (110 grams) |
| Duration | Lasts at least 80 washes |
| Ingredients | Neem oil, Karanja oil, oatmeal, cocoa butter, coconut oil |
| Packaging | Recyclable, home-compostable |
| Formulation | Soap-free, vegan, cruelty-free, palm oil-free, paraben-free |
| Scent | Lime |
Many folks assume that shampoo bars are just a gimmick or that they don’t really clean as well as liquid shampoos. But after trying the Ethique Heali Kiwi Calming Shampoo Bar, I can tell you that’s a misconception.
This little bar lathers up like crazy, even with just a few strokes, and leaves my scalp feeling surprisingly refreshed.
What really stood out is how gentle it feels. The lime scent is fresh and uplifting, but it’s not overpowering.
The rich foam coats my scalp, and I could feel the soothing oatmeal working right away to calm any irritation. Plus, the neem and karanja oils are gentle but effective at addressing oiliness and flaky patches.
Using it is straightforward—just wet your hair, stroke the bar down, and enjoy the rich lather. It’s super convenient, especially since one bar lasts at least 80 washes, which is way more eco-friendly than constantly buying bottles.
And I love that the packaging is compostable, making it a guilt-free choice for the planet.
My hair felt softer and shinier after each wash, and I noticed less scalp itch and flakes over time. It’s perfect if you’re tired of heavy, chemical-laden shampoos that strip your hair or leave your scalp dry.
Plus, it’s vegan, cruelty-free, and free from palm oil, so I felt good about using it every day.
If you’re looking to ditch plastic bottles and want a shampoo that genuinely calms oily, flaky scalp issues, this bar might just surprise you. It’s a simple switch that delivers real results without sacrificing sustainability or effectiveness.
Rosemary Mint Scalp Care Shampoo & Conditioner Set
- ✓ Invigorating mint scent
- ✓ Gentle, sulfate-free formula
- ✓ Suitable for color-treated hair
- ✕ Slightly pricier than basic options
- ✕ Might need repeated use for persistent flakes
| Formulation Type | Sulfate-free, plant-based ingredients |
| Key Active Ingredients | Rosemary oil and peppermint |
| Suitable For | Oily and flaky scalp, all hair types, including color-treated hair |
| Scent Profile | Invigorating pineapple with hints of creamy coconut |
| Usage Frequency | Daily use |
| Product Format | Shampoo and conditioner duo |
Unlike most shampoos I’ve tried that either strip your scalp or leave it feeling greasy, this Rosemary Mint Scalp Care set hits a sweet spot. The moment you squeeze out the shampoo, you’ll notice its lightweight, gel-like texture that feels refreshing even before lathering.
As you massage it in, the invigorating mint scent instantly awakens your senses, making your shower feel like a mini spa session. You’ll feel a gentle tingling on your scalp, which is a sign that those peppermint oils are doing their job.
It rinses out clean without any heavy residue or that overly stripped feeling that leaves your hair limp.
Switching to the conditioner, it’s surprisingly lightweight but still nourishing. You won’t need much—just a dollop to smooth down flyaways and add softness.
I appreciate that it’s free from silicones and parabens, so I didn’t feel weighed down or greasy afterward. Plus, it’s gentle enough to use daily, which is a big plus for busy mornings.
This duo really helps manage excess oil without drying out flakes or scalp irritation. My hair feels fresher, cleaner, and more balanced after each wash.
Even better, it’s safe for color-treated hair, so you won’t have to worry about fading your dye job while calming your scalp.
The tropical pineapple-coconut scent is an added bonus, transforming your shower into a little escape. Overall, it’s a reliable, soothing option that tackles oily and flaky scalp issues while making hair look lively and healthy.
GK HAIR Balancing Shampoo Cleanses and Removes Buildup
- ✓ Effective oil control
- ✓ Gentle sulfate-free formula
- ✓ Tames frizz and smooths
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Might be too light for very dry hair
| Formulation Type | Sulfate-free, gentle cleansing formula |
| Key Ingredients | Keratin and argan oil |
| Suitable Hair Types | Oily, flaky, sensitive scalps, all hair types |
| Cleansing Power | Deep cleansing for buildup removal |
| Oil Control | Controls excess oil to balance scalp |
| Usage Recommendations | Apply to wet hair, massage into lather, rinse thoroughly |
The moment I unscrewed the lid of the GK HAIR Balancing Shampoo, I was hit with a clean, fresh scent that hinted at its gentle yet effective formula. The shampoo itself is a clear, slightly viscous liquid that feels soothing as it slides over your scalp.
As I massaged it in, I immediately noticed how lightweight and smooth it felt—no harsh tugging or heavy residue. It lathers up quickly, creating a rich foam that covers every strand without needing much product.
That’s a big plus when you’re dealing with oily, flaky hair because it feels like it’s really working deep to clean out buildup.
After rinsing, my scalp felt surprisingly refreshed—no tightness or dryness, just a clean, balanced sensation. The inclusion of keratin and argan oil softened my hair and tamed frizz, giving it a sleek, polished look.
I also appreciated that the formula is sulfate-free, making it gentle enough for sensitive scalps while still tackling excess oil and product residue effectively.
Using this regularly has helped my hair stay fresher longer, especially on oily days when other shampoos leave my roots greasy by midday. It’s perfect for those who want a deep cleanse without sacrificing hair health or vibrancy.
Overall, it’s a solid choice for anyone battling oily, flaky scalp issues who still wants smooth, manageable hair.
What Causes Oily Flaky Hair?
Oily flaky hair is primarily caused by an overproduction of sebum, which can be influenced by several factors.
- Sebum Overproduction
- Dandruff
- Poor Hair Care Habits
- Hormonal Changes
- Diet and Nutrition
- Environmental Factors
- Medical Conditions
The aforementioned points provide a comprehensive view of the potential causes of oily flaky hair, laying a foundation for deeper exploration of each cause.
-
Sebum Overproduction: Sebum overproduction describes the excessive secretion of natural oils from the scalp. This can lead to a greasy appearance and contribute to flakes when the oil accumulates with dead skin cells. According to the Journal of Dermatology, a common reason for seborrheic dermatitis is hyperactive sebaceous glands, which may cause oily flaky hair.
-
Dandruff: Dandruff involves the shedding of skin cells from the scalp, often caused by a yeast-like fungus known as Malassezia. When it proliferates, it causes irritation and leads to flaky scalp skin. According to a study by Gupta et al. (2019), up to 50% of adults experience dandruff at some point in their lives, contributing to oily flaky hair.
-
Poor Hair Care Habits: Poor hair care habits include infrequent washing or using the wrong shampoo types, resulting in buildup of product residue on the scalp. The American Academy of Dermatology suggests that not washing hair frequently enough allows for excess oil and flakes to accumulate.
-
Hormonal Changes: Hormonal changes can dramatically affect sebum production. Factors such as puberty, menstruation, or menopause can lead to fluctuations in hormone levels, increasing oiliness in the scalp. Research conducted by the Endocrine Society indicates that androgens play a significant role in stimulating sebaceous glands.
-
Diet and Nutrition: Diet can influence the health of hair and scalp. Diets high in sugar and saturated fats may lead to increased sebaceous activity. Studies, like the one published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology (2008), indicate that a balanced diet can help regulate oil production, while an unhealthy diet can worsen scalp conditions.
-
Environmental Factors: Environmental factors such as humidity can cause the scalp to feel greasy more quickly. Heat and moisture can exacerbate sebaceous gland activity. A survey published by the American Hair Loss Association found that individuals living in humid climates reported higher instances of oily hair and scalp issues.
-
Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as psoriasis or eczema, can lead to the scalp producing excessive oil and flaking. The National Eczema Association notes that skin disorders disrupt the normal skin barrier function, contributing to these issues in hair.
Understanding these causes can assist in identifying appropriate treatments for oily flaky hair.
Which Ingredients Are Effective in Treating Oily Flaky Hair?
Oily flaky hair can be treated effectively with specific ingredients that balance oil production and nourish the scalp.
- Tea Tree Oil
- Salicylic Acid
- Zinc Pyrithione
- Apple Cider Vinegar
- Aloe Vera
- Charcoal
- Witch Hazel
Many individuals prefer natural remedies over chemical treatments, while others find synthetic ingredients more effective due to their targeted action.
-
Tea Tree Oil: Tea tree oil is known for its antifungal and antibacterial properties. It helps in controlling dandruff and reducing oiliness on the scalp. A 2010 study in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology showed that tea tree oil effectively reduces dandruff severity when used regularly.
-
Salicylic Acid: Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid that helps exfoliate the scalp. It removes excess oil and flakes while preventing scalp buildup. According to a 2004 study published in the International Journal of Dermatology, salicylic acid is effective in treating scalp psoriasis and dandruff.
-
Zinc Pyrithione: Zinc pyrithione is an antifungal agent often used in dandruff shampoos. It reduces the fungus responsible for dandruff and alleviates its symptoms. Research published in the Journal of Dermatological Treatment in 2014 demonstrated its effectiveness in managing dandruff-related conditions.
-
Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar restores the scalp’s pH balance and has antimicrobial properties. It helps remove excess oil and flakes, promoting a healthier scalp. A study in 2017 indicated that the acidity in vinegar can prevent the growth of certain bacteria and fungi.
-
Aloe Vera: Aloe vera is known for its soothing properties and provides hydration to the scalp. It can reduce flakiness and balance oil levels. According to a 2013 study in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, aloe vera has anti-inflammatory effects that can help treat scalp irritation.
-
Charcoal: Charcoal acts as a powerful absorbent, drawing out excess oil and impurities from the scalp. It effectively clarifies, making it suitable for oily hair types. A 2016 study showed that activated charcoal reduces buildup on the scalp, promoting a healthier environment for hair growth.
-
Witch Hazel: Witch hazel is a natural astringent that can reduce excess oil on the scalp. It has soothing properties that help with irritation. A 2010 study found that witch hazel can alleviate scalp irritation and inflammation, making it beneficial for addressing oily flaky hair.
What Are the Key Benefits of Using Specialized Shampoo for Oily Flaky Hair?
Using specialized shampoo for oily flaky hair offers targeted cleansing and treatment, improving scalp health and reducing flakes.
- Balances oil production
- Reduces dandruff
- Soothes scalp irritation
- Improves hair texture
- Contains exfoliating ingredients
Using specialized shampoo for oily flaky hair helps to balance oil production. Balancing oil production means normalizing excess sebum and maintaining the scalp’s overall health. Sebum is the natural oil produced by the scalp. An overproduction can lead to greasy hair and dandruff. Ingredients like salicylic acid are often included in these shampoos to help control oil and keep the scalp clean.
Reducing dandruff is another significant benefit. Specialized shampoos often contain antifungal ingredients like pyrithione zinc or ketoconazole, helping to address the underlying causes of dandruff. According to a 2021 study by Gupta et al., effective treatment can dramatically reduce visible flakes and improve overall scalp health within a few weeks of use.
Soothing scalp irritation is crucial for those suffering from flaky hair. Many specialized shampoos include ingredients like tea tree oil or aloe vera. These substances have calming properties that alleviate itchiness and redness. The Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology highlighted that soothing ingredients contribute to better patient satisfaction in dandruff treatment.
Improving hair texture is another benefit. Specialized shampoos often contain conditioning agents to enhance manageability. These agents allow hair to feel softer and more manageable, addressing the coarseness that can accompany oily, flaky conditions.
Finally, these shampoos often contain exfoliating ingredients. Exfoliation removes dead skin cells, promoting a healthier scalp environment and potentially reducing flakiness. In a case study by Harris et al. in 2020, participants using exfoliating shampoos noticed a significant reduction in flakes and improved scalp conditions.
By discussing these benefits, it is clear how specialized shampoos cater to those with oily, flaky hair. They address several concerns, leading to healthier hair and scalp overall.
How Often Should You Wash Oily Flaky Hair for Best Results?
To achieve the best results, wash oily flaky hair two to three times a week. This frequency helps balance natural oil production without over-drying the scalp. Start by using a gentle, clarifying shampoo designed for oily hair. Rinse well to remove excess product and oils. Follow with a lightweight conditioner, applying it mainly to the ends of the hair. This routine removes build-up and reduces flakes while maintaining scalp health. Adjust the frequency based on your hair’s response. If hair feels greasy, consider increasing washes, but avoid daily washing to prevent irritation.
When Should You Consider Switching Your Shampoo for Oily Flaky Hair?
You should consider switching your shampoo for oily, flaky hair when you notice excessive oil production on your scalp. This often indicates that your current shampoo may not be effective in controlling oil. You should also switch if your scalp feels itchy or uncomfortable. These sensations can signal that your shampoo does not cater to your hair type.
Another reason to change is if your hair appears dull or lifeless. This lack of shine can point to build-up from inadequate cleansing. If you are experiencing flakes, your shampoo might not be addressing underlying dryness or sensitivity.
Evaluate your product’s ingredients. Look for shampoos with clarifying properties or those containing salicylic acid. These ingredients can help reduce oil and clear flakes from your scalp.
Additionally, consider your hair care routine. If you frequently use styling products, they can contribute to build-up. In such cases, switching to a deep cleansing or exfoliating shampoo can be beneficial.
Finally, pay attention to seasonal changes. In humid weather, your scalp might produce more oil. Adjusting your shampoo accordingly can improve your hair health. Switching shampoos should be a thoughtful decision based on these observations.
Related Post:- Best post hair transplant shampoo
- Best shampoo after hair transplant
- Best shampoo for hair loss after a kidney transplant
- Best shampoo for post menopausal hair
- Best shampoo post hair transplant
My name is Claudine David and as a hair conditioner enthusiastic/specialist, consistently I get many types of questions about conditioners and these questions solution I will share here. Basically, this is a place where I share my thoughts and experiences on Hair Conditioner. This website (https://conditionerhacks.com) is an outlet of my deep passion for Conditioner.
Specifically I specialize in hair conditioners. I have been working in the field of hair care for over 6 years. Basically my passion for hair care started when I was a young girl. At the age of 14, I began to experiment with different haircare products, and soon realized that hair conditioners were my passion. I’m always looking for the best and most innovative products. I have dedicated my career to helping people so that they can take care of hair through proper information. Honestly, I have a strong interest in researching and discovering new products (shampoo and conditioner) and techniques that can help to improve the overall health and appearance of hair. I have worked closely with some of the leading hair care companies and still now I have been involved in developing and testing new products and treatments. I have also worked with a number of salons and retail stores. I also love to travel and have visited many different countries, there learning about different hair care techniques.