Cart is emptyDealing with oily hair and dandruff can be incredibly frustrating. One minute your hair feels fresh, and the next it’s greasy, itchy, and full of flakes. Sounds familiar? You’re not alone, this combo is more common than you think. But here’s the thing: using the wrong shampoo can make it even worse.
Harsh formulas or overly moisturizing shampoos can throw your scalp out of balance, triggering more oil and more dandruff. That’s why choosing the right shampoo for your specific scalp type and dandruff level is so important.
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Best Shampoo For Oily Hair And Dandruff – Best Shampoo For Greasy Hair
Table Of Contents
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What are Oily Hair And Dandruff?
If your scalp constantly feels greasy, and those pesky white flakes keep showing up on your shoulders, you’re not alone. Oily hair and dandruff are two of the most common hair problems faced by people of all ages. And while they may not be dangerous, they can seriously mess with your confidence and comfort.
Why Do Oily Scalp and Dandruff Happen?
Our scalp naturally produces sebum (oil) to keep hair healthy. But when this oil is overproduced, it leads to an oily, sticky scalp—and that’s a breeding ground for dandruff-causing fungus. Add heat, sweat, and pollution into the mix, and things only get worse!
Using the Wrong Shampoo Can Make It Worse!
Yes, you heard that right! Many people unknowingly pick shampoos that are too creamy, too drying, or full of harsh chemicals. These can either strip your scalp too much (causing rebound oil production) or leave residue behind, making your dandruff even more stubborn. Not fun.
Why Picking the Right Shampoo Matters
Everyone’s scalp is different. Some have mild oiliness with light flaking, while others deal with heavy sebum and thick dandruff patches. That’s why you need a shampoo that targets your specific scalp condition, not just any “anti-dandruff” label on a bottle.
A good shampoo for oily hair and dandruff should:
- Control excess oil without drying out your scalp.
- Gently cleanse and remove buildup.
- Fight dandruff-causing fungus and reduce flaking.
- Be suitable for your hair texture and sensitivity level.
What Causes Oily Hair and Dandruff?
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Overactive Sebaceous Glands
Your scalp has sebaceous glands that produce oil (called sebum) to keep your hair healthy and moisturized. But when these glands go into overdrive, they produce too much oil, making your hair greasy and weighed down. This oil can also trap dirt and dead skin, creating the perfect setup for dandruff.
Malassezia: The Dandruff-Causing Fungus
There’s a yeast-like fungus called Malassezia that naturally lives on your scalp. In a balanced scalp, it’s harmless. But when there’s too much oil, it can grow excessively, leading to inflammation, flaking, and dandruff. Oily scalps give it the fuel it needs to thrive.
Using the Wrong Hair Products
Not all shampoos are created equal. If you’re using a shampoo that’s too creamy, too harsh, or full of sulfates, it could either clog your pores or strip your scalp. Both situations lead to more oil production, irritation, and, you guessed it, more dandruff.
Hormonal Changes (Especially in Teenagers)
Hormones play a huge role in oil production. That’s why teenagers often experience greasy hair and dandruff during puberty. Women may also notice changes in scalp oiliness during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause due to hormonal fluctuations.
Weather and Climate Factors
Hot, humid weather or excessive sweating can make your scalp oily in no time. On the flip side, cold weather can dry out your scalp, triggering rebound oil production as your body tries to compensate. Both conditions can worsen dandruff.
Can Oily Dandruff Cause Hair Loss?
Yes, it can indirectly. Oily dandruff doesn’t usually cause permanent hair loss, but it can lead to temporary shedding. Here’s how: when oil and flakes build up on the scalp, they can clog hair follicles and cause inflammation, making it harder for hair to grow. Plus, constant scratching from an itchy scalp can weaken the roots.
Why Is My Hair Greasy After Just 1 Day?
If your hair looks oily just one day after washing, it’s likely due to overactive oil glands or product buildup. Washing too often can actually trick your scalp into producing even more oil to “make up” for what’s lost. Other causes could include:
- Using a shampoo that doesn’t cleanse properly
- Touching your hair frequently
- Sleeping on unclean pillowcases
- Hormonal imbalances or stress
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How to Choose the Best Shampoo for Oily Hair and Dandruff
Finding the right shampoo isn’t just about grabbing the one that says “anti-dandruff” or “oil control.” If you’ve got an oily scalp and dandruff combo, your hair needs special care. Let’s break down how to choose the perfect shampoo that actually works.
Key Ingredients You Should Look For
These ingredients are game-changers for oily, flaky scalps:
- Salicylic Acid
→ Exfoliates the scalp and removes dead skin cells, helping reduce dandruff and oil buildup. - Zinc Pyrithione
→ A powerful anti-fungal ingredient that fights Malassezia, the main cause of dandruff. - Tea Tree Oil
→ Natural antibacterial and antifungal properties that soothe irritation and unclog follicles. - Apple Cider Vinegar
→ Balances scalp pH, dissolves excess oil, and adds shine. - Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
→ Strengthens the scalp barrier, reduces oil production, and calms inflammation. - Sulfate-Free Options
→ Sulfates strip too much oil and may trigger even more oil production. Look for gentle, sulfate-free formulas that still cleanse well.
Ingredients to Avoid
Some ingredients make oily dandruff worse. Avoid shampoos that contain:
- Heavy Silicones (e.g., Dimethicone)
→ These coat your scalp, trap oil and dirt, and are hard to rinse off without harsh cleansers. - Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)
→ Though cleansing, SLS can over-dry your scalp, leading to rebound oiliness and irritation in some people.
Match Shampoo to Your Hair Type
Every oily scalp isn’t the same. Choose based on your specific needs:
| Hair Type | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Oily Scalp + Dry Ends | Dual-action shampoos that cleanse the scalp but hydrate the lengths (like clay + moisture balance). |
| Oily & Thin Hair | Lightweight, volumizing formulas that remove grease without flattening your strands. |
| Oily Teenage Hair | Clarifying shampoos with tea tree or apple cider vinegar – perfect for hormonal oiliness. |
| Oily Scalp + Hair Loss | DHT-blocking or soothing shampoos (with niacinamide, caffeine, zinc) that support scalp health. |
How to Wash Your Hair the Right Way
Many people don’t wash their hair correctly, which can make oil and dandruff worse.
Quick Guide:
- Rinse with lukewarm water (not hot!) to avoid drying out your scalp.
- Use a quarter-sized amount of shampoo (add more only if needed).
- Massage your scalp gently for 1–2 minutes – don’t rush!
- Rinse thoroughly to remove all product and buildup.
- Avoid applying conditioner on the scalp – keep it on the ends only.
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Top 5 Best Shampoo for Oily Hair and Dandruff
| Shampoo | Price Range (USD/PKR) | Key Ingredients | Benefits | Pros | Cons | Best For | Rating Summary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Oribe Serene Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo | $50–$55 USD / PKR 14,000–16,000 | Salicylic Acid, Caffeine, Oribe Signature Complex | – Reduces visible flakes – Soothes itchy scalp – Balances oil without stripping | ✅ High-end salon formula ✅ Smells luxurious ✅ Works on frizz + dandruff | ❌ Expensive ❌ Not easily available in local stores | All hair types, especially oily & frizzy scalps | ⭐ 4.6/5 (based on premium users & salon feedback) |
| 2. dpHUE Apple Cider Vinegar Soothing Shampoo | $30–$35 USD / PKR 8,000–10,000 | Apple Cider Vinegar, Aloe Vera, Argan Oil | – Calms sensitive, flaky scalp – Controls excess oil – Adds shine naturally | ✅ Sulfate-free ✅ Gentle for irritated scalps ✅ Color-safe | ❌ Strong vinegar scent (for some) ❌ May not lather much | Sensitive, irritated, or oily scalps | ⭐ 4.5/5 (great for weekly deep cleanse) |
| 3. Kerastase Specifique Bain Divalent Shampoo | $38–$42 USD / PKR 10,500–12,000 | Glycine, Vitamin B6 | – Removes oil from roots – Moisturizes dry lengths – Doesn’t cause buildup | ✅ Salon-grade results ✅ Recommended by dermatologists ✅ Lightweight formula | ❌ Pricey ❌ May take 2–3 washes to see full results | Oily roots + dry, brittle ends | ⭐ 4.7/5 (very popular in pro salons) |
| 4. Tea Tree Special Shampoo by Paul Mitchell | $20–$25 USD / PKR 5,500–7,000 | Tea Tree Oil, Peppermint, Lavender | – Kills dandruff-causing microbes – Refreshes scalp instantly – Removes excess oil & odor | ✅ Best for sweaty scalps ✅ Tingly, cool feeling ✅ Loved by teens & men | ❌ May dry out hair if used daily ❌ Not ideal for very dry ends | Teenagers, men, gym-goers, oily dandruff-prone scalps | ⭐ 4.4/5 (top pick for freshness) |
| 5. L’Oréal Paris Extraordinary Clay Shampoo | $6–$10 USD / PKR 950–1,400 | 3 Refined Clays | – Absorbs scalp oil – Keeps hair fresh for 48 hours – Hydrates ends without heaviness | ✅ Affordable & widely available ✅ Great for everyday use ✅ Ideal for oily scalp & dry ends | ❌ Contains sulfates ❌ Fragrance may be strong | Budget-conscious users with oily scalp/dry ends | ⭐ 4.3/5 (best drugstore option) |
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Top 5 Shampoos At A Glance
| Shampoo | Price (USD/PKR) | Key Benefit | Hair Type | Sulfate-Free | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oribe Serene Scalp | $$ / ~PKR 8,500+ | Anti-dandruff | All (esp. frizzy/oily) | ✅ Yes | Frizzy + oily hair types |
| dpHUE ACV Shampoo | $$ / ~PKR 6,500–7,500 | Scalp soothing | Sensitive/oily scalp | ✅ Yes | Itchy, irritated, oily scalps |
| Kerastase Bain Divalent | $$$ / ~PKR 9,000+ | Balances oil | Oily scalp + dry ends | ✅ Yes | Salon-level care & professionals |
| Tea Tree Special Shampoo | $$ / ~PKR 5,500–6,500 | Antibacterial + fresh | Normal to oily | ❌ No | Teens, gym-goers, active scalps |
| L’Oreal Clay Shampoo | $ / ~PKR 1,500–2,000 | Oil control | Oily | ❌ No | Budget shoppers, daily use |
Other Popular Shampoos for Oily Dandruff Hair
| Shampoo | Key Benefit | Hair Type | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bumble and Bumble Sunday Shampoo | Deep clarifying | All hair types | Heavy product buildup, oily scalp | Excellent for weekly clarifying |
| Dercos Vichy Anti-Dandruff | Anti-dandruff + oil control | Oily scalp | Persistent dandruff, oily scalp | Dermatologist recommended |
| Avalon Organics Clarifying Lemon Shampoo | Clarifies & refreshes | Oily, normal | Natural ingredients lovers | Contains lemon for oil balance |
| Sachajuan Scalp Shampoo | Soothes & detoxifies | All hair types | Sensitive, oily scalps | Gentle yet effective |
| Muvo Deep Cleansing Shampoo | Removes buildup | Oily, product-heavy hair | Active lifestyles | Great for removing sweat and dirt |
| Clear Deep Cleanse Shampoo | Deep cleanse + oil control | Oily | Budget-conscious users in Pakistan | Affordable & easily available |
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How to Use Anti-Dandruff Shampoo on Oily Hair (Proper Method)
- Frequency: Wash oily, dandruff-prone hair 2–3 times a week to avoid stripping natural oils or causing scalp dryness.
- Step 1: Wet your hair thoroughly with lukewarm water.
- Step 2: Apply a small amount of shampoo focused on the scalp.
- Step 3: Gently massage your scalp with fingertips for 1–2 minutes to loosen flakes and dirt.
- Step 4: Let the shampoo sit for 2–3 minutes to allow active ingredients to work.
- Step 5: Rinse your hair completely with lukewarm water.
- Double shampooing: Use a clarifying shampoo first (weekly or as needed), then follow with your anti-dandruff treatment shampoo.
- Conditioner: Always use conditioner, but apply it only to the mid-lengths and ends, not the scalp, to avoid extra oiliness.
Tips to Control Oily Scalp and Dandruff Naturally
- Use apple cider vinegar rinses to balance scalp pH and reduce oiliness.
- Avoid over-brushing your hair to prevent stimulating extra oil production.
- Don’t wash your hair too often; over-washing can strip natural oils and cause rebound oiliness.
- Reduce heat styling tools like blow dryers and straighteners to prevent scalp dryness and irritation.
- Use dry shampoo occasionally to absorb excess oil between washes, but don’t overuse it.
- Clean your pillowcases regularly to avoid the buildup of oils and dirt that worsen dandruff.
- Cut down on sugar and dairy intake, as they may trigger increased oil production and inflammation.
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FAQs
What is the best shampoo for oily teenage hair?
Look for shampoos with gentle, oil-controlling ingredients like tea tree oil or salicylic acid that won’t strip the scalp but reduce excess oil and dandruff.
Which shampoo is best for an oily scalp and frizzy hair?
Shampoos like Oribe Serene Scalp or L’Oreal Extraordinary Clay help balance oil while smoothing frizz.
Can I use dandruff shampoo every day?
Daily use is usually not recommended as it can dry out your scalp; 2–3 times per week.
Is Sunsilk good for oily hair?
Sunsilk offers some oil-control shampoos, but they may contain sulfates that can irritate sensitive scalps; choose formulas carefully.
Which Pakistani shampoo is best for an oily scalp?
Clear Deep Cleanse Shampoo and some local herbal options are popular and budget-friendly choices.
Can an oily scalp cause hair loss?
Excess oil and dandruff can clog follicles and lead to scalp inflammation, which might contribute to hair thinning over time.
Which is the best sulfate-free shampoo for oily hair?
dpHUE Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo and Kerastase Bain Divalent are excellent sulfate-free options.
How to permanently remove dandruff in oily hair?
Consistent use of medicated shampoos, maintaining scalp hygiene, and avoiding triggers like harsh hair products help control dandruff long-term.
Can diet affect an oily scalp and dandruff?
Yes, reducing sugar, dairy, and processed foods can help improve
How often should I wash oily hair?
Washing 2–3 times a week is usually sufficient to control oil without over-drying.
What role does weather play in an oily scalp?
Hot, humid weather can increase oil production, while cold weather may dry out the scalp and worsen dandruff.
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Conclusion
Choosing the right shampoo for oily hair and dandruff depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re on a budget but want effective oil control, L’Oreal Paris Extraordinary Clay Shampoo is a great daily-use option.
For those with sensitive scalps seeking gentle, natural ingredients, DPHUE Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo stands out. If you have oily roots but dry ends, Kerastase Bain Divalent offers professional-level care without over-drying.
For stronger dandruff control and a fresher scalp feel, Oribe Serene Scalp Shampoo and Tea Tree Special Shampoo are excellent choices. Overall, consider your hair type, the severity of your oiliness and dandruff, and ingredient preferences like sulfate-free or natural formulas.
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