11 Best Shampoos for Oily Hair – Tested & Reviewed

The 11 Best Shampoos for Oily Hair, Tested and Reviewed

Struggling with greasy hair that never seems fresh, no matter how often you wash it? You’re not alone. Oily hair can be tricky to manage — too much washing can make it worse, while the wrong shampoo leaves your scalp heavy and flat. That’s why we’ve curated and tested the best shampoos for oily hair, from clarifying cleansers to lightweight balancing formulas, to help you achieve that clean, fresh, and voluminous look.

In this guide, we break down the top 11 shampoos for oily hair, explain their key ingredients, and share expert tips for maintaining a balanced, healthy scalp.

 

 

Understanding Oily Hair: What Causes It?

Before diving into our top picks, it’s important to understand why your scalp gets oily.
 Excess oil production is often caused by:

  • Overwashing – which strips natural oils, leading your scalp to produce even more sebum.

  • Product buildup – from conditioners, styling sprays, or dry shampoos.

  • Hormonal changes or stress – both can trigger increased oil production.

  • Genetics – some of us are simply predisposed to oilier scalps.

A clarifying or balancing shampoo helps remove buildup, refresh the scalp, and restore harmony — without drying out your strands.

 

 

The 11 Best Shampoos for Oily Hair (Tested & Reviewed)

Below are our editor-approved favorites after extensive testing on different hair types — from fine and straight to thick and wavy.

 

 

1. Neutrogena Anti-Residue Clarifying Shampoo

Best for: Deep weekly detox
 Why we love it: This cult favorite removes up to 90% of product buildup, leaving your scalp squeaky clean and refreshed. Perfect for once-a-week use to reset oily hair.
 Key Ingredient: Mild surfactants that cleanse without stripping.
 Pro Tip: Use it before your regular shampoo to boost its effectiveness.

 

 

2. L’Oréal Paris Elvive Extraordinary Clay Rebalancing Shampoo

Best for: Balancing roots and nourishing ends
 Why we love it: Infused with three refined clays, this balancing shampoo purifies oily roots while hydrating dry ends — the perfect dual-action formula.
 Result: Fresher roots for up to 48 hours.

 

 

3. Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Special Shampoo

Best for: Scalp refresh and cooling sensation
 Why we love it: The tea tree oil and peppermint combo provides a tingly, refreshing cleanse, ideal for those who love that just-washed feeling.
 Bonus: Helps control dandruff while energizing your scalp.

 

 

4. Bumble and Bumble Sunday Shampoo

Best for: Weekly clarifying
 Why we love it: A salon favorite, this clarifying shampoo eliminates buildup from styling products and pollution, restoring natural shine and bounce.
 Use: Once a week to maintain clean, healthy hair.

 

 

5. Kérastase Specifique Bain Divalent Shampoo

Best for: Luxury balancing care
 Why we love it: Designed specifically for oily roots and dry ends, this shampoo rebalances sebum while delivering lightweight nourishment.
 Main Ingredients: Vitamin B6 and glycine to regulate oil and strengthen strands.

 

 

6. Aveeno Apple Cider Vinegar Blend Shampoo

Best for: Natural scalp detox
 Why we love it: With apple cider vinegar and oat extract, this gentle formula clarifies and adds shine without harsh sulfates.
 Ideal for: Those seeking a clean beauty option.

 

 

7. OGX Refreshing Scalp + Tea Tree Mint Shampoo

Best for: Affordable scalp refresh
 Why we love it: This lightweight shampoo for greasy hair revitalizes your scalp with peppermint and tea tree oils.
 Result: Hair feels cool, bouncy, and fresh for longer between washes.

 

 

8. Living Proof Perfect Hair Day (PhD) Triple Detox Shampoo

Best for: Removing product and pollution buildup
 Why we love it: This powerful formula tackles oil, hard water, and product residue. It’s a triple-threat cleanser that’s gentle enough for color-treated hair.
 Extra: Comes with a clarifying scalp brush for deeper cleansing.

 

 

9. Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal + Coconut Oil Shampoo

Best for: Detox and nourishment
 Why we love it: This micro-exfoliating shampoo detoxifies with binchotan charcoal while hydrating with coconut oil. It’s ideal for those with flaky, oily scalps.
 Scent: Subtly minty and refreshing.

 

 

10. Pantene Pro-V Micellar Cleanse & Nourish Shampoo

Best for: Everyday lightweight washing
 Why we love it: Inspired by micellar water, this formula gently removes oil and impurities without over-drying.
 Perfect for: Daily use if your scalp tends to get oily quickly.

 

 

11. Redken Amino-Mint Scalp Shampoo

Best for: Deep scalp balancing
 Why we love it: Enriched with amino acids and mint, this shampoo balances pH levels while delivering an invigorating scalp experience.
 Result: Hair feels clean, strong, and full of life.

 

 

How to Choose the Right Shampoo for Oily Hair

When shopping for a shampoo for greasy hair, look for:

  • Clarifying ingredients: like tea tree oil, apple cider vinegar, or clay.

  • Lightweight formulas: avoid heavy moisturizing shampoos.

  • Sulfate-free options: if your hair is color-treated or sensitive.

  • Balancing properties: to clean roots and hydrate ends.

Avoid creamy, rich shampoos meant for dry or damaged hair — they can weigh down your roots and worsen oiliness.

 

 

Expert Tips to Keep Oily Hair Fresh Longer

Here’s how to extend that freshly washed feeling:

  1. Avoid overwashing – every other day is ideal.

  2. Rinse thoroughly – leftover shampoo or conditioner can cause buildup.

  3. Use dry shampoo between washes.

  4. Limit heavy styling products near the roots.

  5. Rinse with cool water – it helps close cuticles and slow oil production.

Small changes in your routine can make a big difference in keeping your hair clean, balanced, and voluminous.

 

 

Final Thoughts

Finding the right shampoo for oily hair can completely transform your routine. Whether you prefer a clarifying shampoo for deep cleansing or a balancing shampoo for daily freshness, these top 11 picks offer something for every hair type and budget.

Healthy, clean, and refreshed hair starts with the right wash. Try one of these tested and reviewed favorites — and say goodbye to greasy scalp days!

 

 

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