Secrets to Managing Greasy Hair: Professional Tips and Tricks
The more often you wash your hair, the faster it tends to become greasy. You can take a cue from Kim Kardashian, who washes her hair only once every five days: "We start with a bouffant on the first day. On the second day, my stylist creates a kind of careless hairstyle. On the third day, he straightens my hair. On the fourth day, my hair is pulled back into a ponytail, and on the fifth day, I wash it." But there are additional stylist-approved tricks and secrets to keep your hair looking fresh for longer.
Apply Shampoo Like a Professional
Temperature Matters: Ensure the water temperature is comfortable. Stand under the shower for a minute to make sure your hair is fully wet.
Proper Application: Squeeze out a coin-sized amount of shampoo, rub it between your hands, and apply it in a circular motion, starting at the top of your head and working your way down.
Thorough Rinsing: Rinsing is crucial and should take longer than applying the shampoo. Stylists recommend rinsing for about five minutes to ensure all shampoo residue is removed, which helps prevent dullness and dandruff.
Cold Water Finish: A final rinse with cold water helps strengthen hair cuticles, lock in moisture, and add shine.
Plan Your Hairstyles
Plan your hairstyles in increasing complexity throughout the week. This strategy allows you to wash your hair less frequently while still looking fabulous each day.
Sage Herb Tincture
Herbal tinctures, especially sage, are effective against greasy hair. Sage soothes the scalp and reduces inflammation. To make it, steep 4 tablespoons of dry sage in one liter of boiling water. Once cooled, use it to rinse your clean hair, followed by a rinse with cool water.
Adjust Your Washing Schedule
If you wash your hair daily, gradually reduce the frequency. Over time, your sebaceous glands will produce less oil, and your scalp will maintain its balance without needing daily washes.
Use Dry Shampoo Before a Workout
Applying dry shampoo before a workout is more effective than using it afterward. It absorbs sweat and oil during your exercise, keeping your hair fresher.
Pillowcase Schedule
Sleeping on clean pillowcases is essential for both skin and hair health. Pillowcases can accumulate bacteria from old makeup and skin cells, so change them at least once a week. If your hair is particularly greasy, change them twice a week.
Hair Lemonade
A "lemonade" rinse can help fight greasiness, maintain volume, and add natural shine. Mix the juice of one lemon with one liter of water and slowly pour it over your hair while massaging your scalp.
High Hairstyles
Wearing high hairstyles, such as a ponytail or bun, can help keep your hair fresh for longer. At home, keep your hair up and let it down before heading out to add volume.
Deep Care for Your Scalp
While "heavy" hair care products like masks, balms, and conditioners are typically reserved for the ends of your hair, deep care for the scalp is an exception. Use scalp masks alongside deep peeling treatments to hydrate the scalp and prevent excess oil production. Apply the mask along your hair part and gently massage it in.
Bonus: Hair Health Test
Stylist Thomas Taw, who has worked with celebrities like Sarah Jessica Parker and Blake Lively, suggests a simple test to check the health of your hair. Pull out a single strand and place it in a glass of water. If it floats, your hair is healthy; if it sinks, your hair may need treatment.
Lizzy Chung
Dr. Chung brings over a decade of experience as a primary care physician. Alongside clinical practice, she actively contributes to medical education, serving as a mentor and lecturer for medical students and residents. Dr. Elzar has also undertaken the role of a peer reviewer for various esteemed medical journals.
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