Oily scalp is a common enemy for every hair type. It weighs down curls for those with curly hair and is an absolute ‘flat hair” nightmare for those with fine or thinning hair. All in all, it is not flattering for anybody.
Given there are many hair types out there that face one common problem, one cannot help but wonder “What are the best shampoo options for different hair types and related concerns?” Well, read on for a list of the best shampoo for the oily scalp that caters specifically to hair types and their concerns.
Editor
Nina Shahriman chevron_right
Table of Contents
12 Best Hair Shampoos for Oily Scalp in Malaysia
Why It’s Our Top Pick?
Sebamed is one of the leading skin, body, and hair care companies that specialises in producing gentle formulations for the most sensitive and oily skin types.
If you don’t know, most skin types are better off with milder formulations than those with harsher ingredients, as it may lead to unwanted side effects that would do more harm than good.
Overview
Do you want to leave the house with healthy-looking, glossy hair without the additional oil on the scalp? If so, we have got you covered! Formulated at pH5.5, Sebamed shampoo keeps the scalp’s pH in check at all times. This ensures an adequate pH balance which aids in sebum regulation and prevents scalp irritation or itchiness.
Furthermore, it contains active ingredients like Piroctone Olamine which allows gentle removal of dandruff. Speaking of gentleness, the formulation also contains Sodium Laureth Sulphate which gently removes excess oil.
To top that off, this shampoo also contains moisturising and conditioning ingredients that revitalise the hair while adding shine.
Details
- Volume: 200ml
- Key ingredients: SLES (Sodium Laureth Sulfate), Piroctone Olamine
- Suitable for: Sensitive, oily scalp
- Free from colour additives
Who is this for?
Sebamed is a popular brand that is recognised by almost every household and is widely recommended for its effectiveness in combating oily scalp. Users note that its formulation is much gentler than other shampoos on the market. Besides that, they also love the fact that it doesn’t irritate the scalp and helps in dandruff control.
Overview
This formula, which uses the anti-itch component menthol as its star, employs time-tested technology to give the scalp a nice cooling sensation to reduce irritation and inflammation that contributes to itching. You can have an itch-free experience of up to 72 hours thanks to this clinically tested itch remedy.
To safely and effectively remove dandruff from the scalp, it also contains zinc pyrithione. To top it all off, its pH-balancing, dermatologist-tested formula is packed with antioxidants to offer gentle treatment by preventing the damaging effects of free radicals on your scalp and hair that come from the environment.
Details
- Volume: 780ml
- Key ingredients: Menthol extracts
- Suitable for: Flaky and itchy scalp, oily scalp
- Clinically proven treatment to remove dandruff and itch for up to 72 hours
Who is this for?
Are you tired of dealing with the flaky and itchy scalp? Fret not; this product by Head & Shoulders has got your back. The title of the top-selling anti-dandruff brand in the world is one that Head and Shoulders has earned.
Their Cool Menthol Anti-Dandruff Shampoo generally offers encouraging results in decreasing dandruff and itching. Hence, you can enjoy the cool effect on your scalp, which makes your scalp feel renewed after every wash.
Overview
Being hesitant is normal when it comes to choosing products for self-care. After all, we want the best outcome as most products do not come cheap. Worry not as we have a dermatologist-recommended product for people with oily scalp.
Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo has a formula that helps to clear crusty scalp build-up thanks to its 3% salicylic acid content. It also provides relief from itching and flaking of the scalp.
Besides that, the formulation delivers nutrients to nourish the scalp and relieve it from irritation which prevents an itch-scratch cycle of the scalp. This cycle is essentially the main reason for dermatitis and once that cycle is halted, the disease is well-controlled.
Additionally, this alcohol-free shampoo also helps alleviate symptoms from conditions such as psoriasis and dandruff.
Details
- Volume: 133ml
- Key ingredients: Salicylic Acid (3%)
- Suitable for: Flaky scalp, oily scalp
- Free of added colour, preservatives, and fragrance
Who is this for?
Neutrogena T/Sal Shampoo is undoubtedly one of the most reliable shampoos for the oily scalp in the market. It has a high user satisfaction rate as it not only combats oily scalp but also relieves itchy and irritated scalp from conditions like psoriasis and dermatitis. To top it off, it also prevents acne and flaky scalp in many users.
Overview
Taking care of frizzy hair is already difficult, let alone frizzy hair with an oily scalp. To help you tame your frizz (and have some rizz), The Olive Tree formulated its Balancing Geranium Shampoo with natural ingredients. Free from sulphate, paraben, silicone and synthetic colours, the shampoo enhances, deep-conditions your hair and stimulates its growth.
Testimonies mentioned that it helps calm scalps with dandruff issues and help strengthen hair bond. In short, the geranium shampoo removes excess oil, improves scalp condition and makes dull hair shine brighter. Say goodbye to flaky and itchy scalps.
Details
- Volume: 500ml
- Key ingredients: Aloe vera extract, broccoli seed oil, pure essential oils, glycerin
- Vegan: Yes
Who is this for?
For those struggling with oily scalp and frizzy hair, this shampoo will help you remove excess oil and tame your frizz. Those with dry hair may also opt for this shampoo as glycerin is one of the shampoo's ingredients–it will also hydrate your hair for better moisture retention.
Overview
Are you tired of battling oily hair that loses its volume by midday? Look no further! COLAB Dry Shampoo Plus Extreme Volume is here to rescue your locks. With a delightful scent of bergamot and rose, this dry shampoo absorbs oil and adds instant volume, texture, and lift, giving your hair a much-needed oomph.
Plus, it's quick and convenient, requiring no water, which makes it perfect for those on-the-go touch-ups. And here's the cherry on top: COLAB is proudly cruelty-free and vegan-friendly.
Details
- Volume: 200ml
- Key ingredients: Vitamin E
- Suitable for: Greasy and flat hair, oily scalp
- Cruelty-free and vegan-friendly
Who is this for?
If you have an oily scalp and find your hair losing its life and volume throughout the day, COLAB Dry Shampoo Plus Extreme Volume is the solution. Whether you're a student rushing to early morning classes, a busy professional with back-to-back meetings, or someone who values fresh, voluminous hair, this dry shampoo is perfect for on-the-go touch-ups. Say goodbye to flat, greasy hair and hello to instant volume and freshness!
Overview
Are you feeling exhausted from dealing with that persistent dandruff issue and the discomfort it brings? If yes, get your hands on this product! This shampoo is a game-changer for men with oily scalps. Infused with the power of FluidiPure™8G, it doesn't just cleanse your hair; it's your ultimate defence against dandruff and scalp irritations.
This shampoo helps you bid farewell to pesky dandruff reoccurrences and the discomfort they bring. Plus, it reduces the odours and makes you feel fresh and confident all day.
Details
- Volume: 350ml
- Key ingredients: FluidiPure™8G
- Suitable for: Flaky and itchy scalp, oily scalp
Who is this for?
If you're a man dealing with an oily scalp and the never-ending battle against dandruff, Bad Lab Fearless Soothing Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is your ideal companion. This shampoo is perfect for those seeking a reliable solution to cleanse their hair, soothe an itchy scalp, and maintain fresh, dandruff-free confidence. It's time to reclaim your self-assuredness and say goodbye to dandruff-related shyness, especially when you want to impress the ladies.
Overview
Are you still looking for the ideal shampoo that helps to treat your curly hair while combating an oily scalp? Look no further than SheaMoisture Coconut Hibiscus Curl and Shine Shampoo. This phthalate-free and paraben-free formula is kind to your locks and our furry friends as it is cruelty-free.
This natural hair shampoo features coconut oil's goodness, which works wonders in keeping your hair moisturised and protected while restoring lost oils. Plus, it has hibiscus flower extract that boosts your hair’s elasticity and lessens the possibility of breakage. It washes away impurities with a rich and creamy lather, leaving you with frizz-free waves and curls.
Details
- Volume: 384ml
- Key ingredients: Coconut oil, hibiscus flower extracts
- Suitable for: Curly hair, oily scalp
- Phthalate-free, paraben-free, and cruelty-free formula
Who is this for?
SheaMoisture Coconut Hibiscus Curl and Shine Shampoo perfectly match those with curly hair and an oily scalp. If you are seeking a natural, cruelty-free solution that not only cleanses your hair but also restores its shine, this product is the solution.
It is a gentle yet effective way to maintain healthy, beautiful curls without the use of harmful chemicals. Plus, it's perfect for those who care about ethical and sustainable products, as it's both ethically traded and sustainably produced.
Overview
If you are a Korean skincare fan, you’ve probably already heard good reviews about Ryo’s Anti Hair Loss Shampoo. Not only is it great for reducing hair loss, but it is also extremely effective for those with an oily scalp.
Enriched with GinsenEXTM, this popular Korean Shampoo stops hair fall while strengthening hair roots for users to attain stronger hair roots and a thicker mane. It also has anti-dandruff and cooling properties which prevent itching and promote a calm and non-irritated scalp for better hair growth.
Furthermore, Ryo Anti Hair Loss Shampoo is a herbal-based formulation that delivers nutrients for smooth and manageable hair. On top of that, it uses sulphates which are useful to combat oily scalp.
Details
- Volume: 400ml
- Key ingredients: Ginseng EX
- Suitable for: Thin hair, oily scalp
- Free from animal-derived ingredients
Who is this for?
Do you know that this product is constantly sold out? One reason is that the product is relatively cheap and makes your hair healthier. It has a positive impact on the hair as it helps reduce hair fall and dandruff significantly. Moreover, some users appreciate its cooling effect from Menthol, and it helps in preventing scalp itch as well.
Overview
Imagine having a busy day, and your hair feels weighed down by grease, leaving you frustrated. The Select Tea Tree Oil Anti-Oxidant Shampoo could be your new bestie. This mild yet effective shampoo suits those with excessive oil on their scalps.
It’s formulated with herbal extracts of Cinchona, Ivy, and Lavender, which provide an astringent and invigorating effect and soothe your scalp. Most importantly, the mild surfactants in this shampoo won’t strip the natural oil on your scalp and hair. Plus, it boasts humectants, Panthenol, and Pro-Vitamin B5 to keep your hair moisturised, nurtured, and well-conditioned.
Details
- Volume: 780ml
- Key ingredients: Tea tree leaf oil, cedar wood, peppermint, rosemary
- Suitable for: Oily scalp
- Clinically proven treatment to remove dandruff and itch for up to 72 hours
Who is this for?
If you battle with an oily scalp and seek a solution that cleanses, soothes, and nourishes, the Select Tea Tree Oil Anti-Oxidant Shampoo is the answer. It can balance the scalp’s oil production and maintain the health of your hair. Thus, bid farewell to frustrating greasy hair and hello to refreshing hair!
Overview
Finding the right shampoo for an oily scalp may be difficult when time and budget are concerned.
Thankfully, Pantene is widely available in drugstores and is known to deliver quality products at an affordable price. This brand carries a popular line of shampoo that is a great choice for those with an oily scalp and who are on a budget at the same time.
Pantene Pro-V Total Damage Care Shampoo contains a formulation that fights existing damage and prevents future damage by strengthening and replenishing the hair simultaneously. The formulation starts the Pro-V Nutrient Blend which is a mix of active nutrients that contributes to healthier and stronger hair.
Details
- Volume: 720ml
- Key ingredients: Keratin Damage blockers
- Suitable for: All hair types (Mainly damaged hair), oily scalp
- Improves hair's retention of natural protein bonds to help stop damage progression
Who is this for?
Pantene Pro-V Total Damage Care Shampoo is one of the famous and best-selling shampoos in drugstores today. This is because there is a noticeable difference in hair texture after usage where the hair is smoother and more manageable. Users also appreciate this shampoo for removing dirt and oil from the scalp and hair.
Furthermore, it contains Protective Keratin Complex, which protects hair from external harm like heat damage from styling tools or changes in humidity. This shampoo uses strong sulphates to remove dirt and oil buildup on an oily scalp.
Overview
It might seem impossible to have a solution for dry hair and oily scalp all in one bottle. But nothing is impossible with modern technology and science! Introducing Kerastase Bain Divalent Shampoo, the shampoo that cleanses thoroughly and moisturises simultaneously.
Made especially for oily roots, this shampoo rids excess oil from the scalp while removing odour at the same time. It has an ultra-light formula that balances scalp oiliness without overly stripping the scalp of its natural oils. Other than that, its formulation contains Glycine which plays a role in providing moisture from the hair shaft to the tip.
Vitamin B6 is also an important ingredient in its formulation because it boosts scalp circulation which is vital in supporting hair growth.
Details
- Volume: 250ml
- Key ingredients: Amino acid, Vitamin B6
- Suitable for: Oily scalp
- Purifies the scalp to reduce excess oil and odours
Who is this for?
For most, this shampoo is a miracle in a bottle. The main reason is that it can prevent an oily scalp while giving moisture to the hair. Hence, this product is suitable for those who suffer from oily scalp and dry hair. On top of that, you only need one bottle of shampoo to get both cleansing and moisturising effects.
Being hesitant is normal when it comes to choosing products for self-care. After all, we want the best outcome as most products do not come cheap. Worry not as we have a dermatologist-recommended product for people with oily scalp.
Features
Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo has a formula that helps to clear crusty scalp build-up thanks to its 3% salicylic acid content. It also provides relief from itching and flaking of the scalp.
Besides that, formulation delivers nutrients to nourish the scalp and relieve it from the irritation which prevents an itch-scratch cycle of the scalp. This cycle is essentially the main reason for dermatitis and once that cycle is halted, the disease is well-controlled.
Additionally, this alcohol-free shampoo also helps alleviate symptoms from conditions such as psoriasis and dandruff.
Testimonies
Neutrogena T/Sal Shampoo is undoubtedly one of the most reliable shampoos for the oily scalp in the market. It has a high user satisfaction rate as it not only combats oily scalp but also relieves itchy and irritated scalp from conditions like psoriasis and dermatitis. To top it off, it also prevents acne and flaky scalp in many users.
Product Review
“If you suffer from acne on your head then this is the shampoo for you. My boyfriend goes to the gym a few times a week and often wears a hat. This creates sweat and he eventually gets spots on his head. He has hair that unfortunately, you can see the pimples through so he must always have a nice and clean scalp. This does the job. He uses it about 4 times a week and his head acne has completely gone away. Thank you!” – Savannah
FAQ:
- How do I stop my scalp from being oily?
Dealing with an oily scalp is a common concern, but there are several effective ways to manage it. Below are some of the tips:
- Regular Hair Washing: Washing your hair regularly is crucial. Use a gentle, sulphate-free shampoo and oily hair products designed for your hair concerns.
- Don't Overwash: Overwashing can strip your scalp of natural oils, prompting it to produce more oil. Find a balance; aim for 2-3 times a week or as needed.
- Use a Clarifying Shampoo: A clarifying shampoo can help remove excess oil and build-up from styling products.
- Condition Carefully: Conditioner is essential for hair health but apply it mainly to the ends, not the scalp.
- Avoid Hot Water: Hot water can stimulate oil production; opt for lukewarm or cool water.
- Use Oil-Absorbing Products: Dry shampoos and oil-absorbing powders can help on those no-wash days.
- Healthy Diet: A balanced diet rich in nutrients can promote healthy hair and scalp. Think of it as feeding your hair from the inside out.
- Stress Less: Stress can trigger oil production; try relaxation techniques.
- Seek Professional Advice: If the problem persists, consider consulting a dermatologist. Sometimes, an expert's touch is all you need for a healthy scalp.
Remember, managing an oily scalp is a journey. Be patient, and don't be afraid to experiment with these tips to discover what works best for you. Your scalp will thank you with fresher, healthier hair days!
- What ingredients help with oily scalp?
Shampoos with a water-based formula would work best with oily scalps. Aside from that, there are a few ingredients to look out for in shampoo to combat the oil.
Sulphates:
- Firstly, sulphates are quite useful in removing excess oil from the scalp.
- However, it is not exactly suitable for those with dry or limp hair types because it may be overly stripping which may do more harm than good.
- A few examples of popular sulphate ingredients in the market would be sodium lauryl sulphate, selenium sulphide and sodium sulfacetamide.
Benzoyl Peroxide:
- Another ingredient that is helpful for oily scalps will be Benzoyl Peroxide.
- You may have heard of this ingredient in most anti-acne treatments.
- This ingredient allows degreasing and follicular flushing which is suitable in combating oily scalp.
Ketoconazole:
- Lastly, ketoconazole may be helpful for the oily scalp as it helps in regulating sebum production, reduces dandruff and prevents future fungal infections.
- What are the Dos and Don’ts for oily scalp?
There is a general guideline to preventing oily scalp and you’d be surprised with the degree of impact of everyday life choices on your scalp’s sebum production.
Do:
1. Diet control
The saying “you are what you eat” applies to individuals that are prone to oily scalp. To keep oily scalp at bay, they should avoid oily, fried food and choose food with healthy fats. Besides that, it is good to do their research on foods that contain Omega-3 as it helps regulate sebum control of the scalp.
2. Coldwater shower
It is advised to rinse your scalp with cold water rather than hot water because the latter stimulate your sebaceous glands to produce more sebum, resulting in an oily scalp. Coldwater prevents your sebaceous glands from going into secretory overdrive, ensuring a well-balanced scalp.
3. Gentle scrubbing and brushing
A normal, healthy scalp has a strong skin barrier to protect it against infections and to lock in moisture within the scalp. Scratching, scrubbing or brushing harshly will cause a break in this skin barrier, allowing the entrance of bacteria and water loss.
It also strips our scalp from its natural oils which causes the sebaceous glands to secrete more sebum as a compensatory mechanism. When this mechanism continues for a long period, it contributes to a greasy scalp and hair.
4. Dry Shampoo
Dry shampoo is helpful for those who shampoo their hair less frequently. It is a good option to keep the grease away for the time being. But it is important to take note that it should never replace normal shampooing as your scalp requires water to rehydrate now and then in order to maintain its sebum regulation.
Don't:
5. Touch your hair and scalp excessively
Our hands produce sebum which can be transferred to our hair and scalp upon contact. Actions like scratching the scalp or fiddling with the hair can add sebum to these areas, making it greasier than it already is.
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