The health of your hair begins with your scalp. When it becomes oily, it can turn into one of the most common hair concerns. Excess oil not only affects your hair’s appearance—making it look dull and greasy—but it can also lead to issues like irritation, dandruff, hair loss, or unpleasant odors. If you’re wondering how to know if you have an oily scalp, here are the key signs to identify and address the problem effectively.
signs of an oily scalp
There are quick and practical ways to determine if your scalp is producing too much oil:
1. The Tissue Paper Test: Press a sheet of blotting or tissue paper against your scalp for a few seconds. If the paper shows stains or shines, it’s a clear sign of excess oil. Learn how to perform this test here.
2. Heavy, Flat Hair: Excess sebum weighs hair down, especially near the roots, making it look clumped and flat.
3. Dull Appearance: An oily scalp can make your hair look darker and less vibrant, especially when wet.
4. Shiny Roots: Under direct light, check if your roots have an unnatural shine—this is another sign of oil build-up.
5. Short-Lived Freshness: If your hair looks dirty shortly after washing, it’s likely due to an oily scalp.
6. Hair Loss: Excess oil can clog follicles, weakening hair strands and leading to hair loss.
problems associated with an oily scalp
An oily scalp isn’t just about aesthetics; it can lead to several other issues:
· Irritation: Excess sebum can inflame your scalp, causing itchiness and discomfort.
· Oily Dandruff: A mix of oil and dead skin cells can form sticky flakes that cling to your scalp.
· Weak Hair: Clogged follicles make it harder for healthy hair to grow, resulting in breakage.
· Unpleasant Odor: Excess oil attracts bacteria, which can produce bad smells.
why does your scalp get oily in winter?
During colder months, certain factors can contribute to increased oil production:
· Temperature Changes: Moving between the cold outdoors and warm interiors can disrupt sebum production.
· Hats and Scarves: Covering your head creates a microenvironment that traps heat and moisture, reducing oxygen flow and potentially weakening hair follicles.
· Pollution Exposure: Winter often means more time in urban environments, where pollution can clog follicles and lead to oil build-up.
how to reduce excess oil on the scalp
Managing an oily scalp is possible with the right routine and scientifically advanced products. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Exfoliate Your Scalp Weekly
Scalp exfoliation is essential to remove impurities and prepare your skin for the next steps.
· Extreme Caviar Exfoliating Scrub Scalp Mask: With Cell-Detox Booster, a botanical complex of 15 potent plant-based compounds, Caviar, and Provitamin B5, this mask neutralizes imbalances and discomfort while conditioning and protecting the scalp.
· Black Baccara Cellular Breathing Hair Multiplying Scrub Scalp Mask: This formula supports oxygenation, nutrient absorption, and follicle regeneration. It regulates oil production and relieves scalp discomfort with Hair Growth Factors and a Prebiotic Soothing Complex.
2. Deep Cleanse with a Detoxifying Shampoo
· Extreme Caviar Purifying Charcoal Shampoo: Formulated with Activated Charcoal, Caviar Extract, and natural antioxidants, this shampoo detoxifies the scalp, balances oil production, and ensures optimal absorption of active ingredients without drying out the scalp.
3. Hydrate Without Adding Weight
· Extreme Caviar Conditioner Balm: Lightweight and nutrient-rich, this conditioner revitalizes, hydrates, and restores shine while tackling common aging signs like split ends, weakened hair, and irregular sebaceous gland activity. It can even be applied to the scalp to balance oil and nourish the roots.
4. Adopt Healthy Hair Habits
· Avoid washing your hair with hot water, which can overstimulate oil production.
· Refrain from touching your hair often, as it transfers oils and dirt from your hands to your scalp.
· Rinse products thoroughly to prevent residue build-up.
achieve balance with science and biotechnology
A healthy scalp is the foundation of beautiful, strong hair. While excess oil can be challenging, using scientifically formulated products and maintaining a balanced haircare routine can help you manage it effectively. With Miriam Quevedo’s biotechnology-powered solutions, you can restore your scalp’s health and achieve hair that looks and feels amazing.
Discover our solutions for an oily scalp here.