Oily scalp: a matter of health and well-being

We often use the term "oily hair," when in reality the imbalance is usually located in the scalp . That's why it's more accurate to refer to an oily scalp, since it's common for the scalp to have excess sebum while the mid-lengths and ends of the hair are dry or dehydrated . This very common confusion often leads to the choice of inappropriate or even harmful hair care routines .

In this article, we explore the causes, consequences, and treatments of oily scalp from an expert perspective based on hair health and cosmetic formulation.

" It's common to confuse an oily scalp with "oily hair," when in reality the excess sebum is located at the root, and the hair may be dry. Having an oily scalp and dry hair requires different care to restore balance without aggravating either extreme. " Modesta Cassinello

Beyond aesthetics: a question of skin health

Oily scalp is a very common condition that goes beyond a purely aesthetic concern. Although excess oil can affect the appearance of hair, making it look matted, dull, or dirty, it can also compromise scalp health by altering the skin ecosystem that supports it.

It has no age : oily hair can manifest itself in adolescence, at any stage of adult life or even in moments of maturity, especially when there are hormonal changes, stress or imbalances in care .

Recognizing and treating it with an expert approach is key to preserve the balance of the scalp and the vitality of the hair.

Why does the scalp get oily?

Each hair follicle is associated with a sebaceous gland that secretes sebum, a mixture of lipids that lubricates and protects both the skin and hair . This sebum is released into the follicular canal and distributed to the skin's surface. Its function is to maintain hydration, protect against external agents, and contribute to the skin barrier.

Sebum is composed mainly of triglycerides, wax esters, squalene and free fatty acids .

Causes of oily scalp

Sebum isn't bad in itself. In fact, it's part of the scalp's protective barrier. The problem arises when its production is unbalanced by factors such as:

1. Hormonal changes : During puberty, pregnancy or menopause, hormonal fluctuations can increase sebum production.
2. Stress : Chronic stress can stimulate the sebaceous glands, increasing sebum secretion.
3. Diet: A diet rich in fats and refined carbohydrates can exacerbate sebum production.
4. Use of inappropriate products : Shampoos that are too mild or not respectful of the scalp can cause imbalance, causing sebum production as a regulatory mechanism.
5. Genetics : Hereditary predisposition influences the activity of the sebaceous glands.
6. Changes in season or environmental humidity.
7. Skin microbiota imbalances .

Consequences of an unbalanced scalp

Untreated excess sebum can:

• Inflammation, itching, sensitivity...
• Overgrowth of microorganisms , such as Malassezia. While Malassezia can generate beneficial anti-inflammatory metabolites, an imbalance can trigger seborrheic dermatitis or worsen dandruff.
• Obstruction of the hair follicle , hindering proper oxygenation and nutrition of the hair bulb.
• Reactive hair loss , when the follicular environment becomes unfavorable for the hair growth cycle.

Therefore, maintaining sebum balance is not just a matter of aesthetics, but a key step in preserving the health of the scalp and, therefore, the vitality of the hair.

Tips to reduce oil on the scalp

• Wash your hair in the morning : Sebaceous activity is greater during the night, washing your hair in the morning helps control accumulated grease and keep your hair cleaner for longer.
• Use warm water : Hot water can stimulate the sebaceous glands, while cold water doesn't effectively remove oil. Warm water is ideal for maintaining balance.
• Avoid over-rubbing : Gently massage your scalp with your fingertips to avoid stimulating sebum production.
• Control heat sources : Frequent use of hair dryers or flat irons can increase oil production. If you use them, opt for low or medium temperatures.
• Comb instead of brush : Over-brushing can distribute sebum throughout your hair. Use a wide-tooth comb to minimize this effect.
• Avoid touching your hair constantly : Hands transfer oils and dirt to your hair, accelerating its dirtiness.
• Select appropriate products : Choose effective shampoos that are gentle on your scalp and hair. Shampoos that remove excess sebum, protecting the skin barrier.
• Recommended cleansing routine : Alternate between deep and gentle cleansing to maintain scalp balance.

Oily scalp and dry hair: how to care for it?

This common and poorly understood combination requires a two-pronged approach: effectively cleansing without harming the scalp and restoring the hair fiber to the lengths and ends.

Regulating scalp cleansing

Once a week, or twice a week for oilier scalps, use a deep-cleansing shampoo to remove product buildup and excess sebum, such as H07 Sea Salt Shampoo . If you have dry hair, consider applying pre-shampoo treatments to your mid-lengths and ends to protect your hair during this deeper cleanse.

Smart product switching

It's not necessary to wash your hair every day, but it's important to wash it often enough to prevent sebum buildup. On the other days of the week when you want to wash your hair, opt for gentle shampoos that maintain hydration and scalp health.

Moisturizing care for mid-lengths and ends

Always apply conditioners or masks after washing to restore the hair fiber and return its characteristic softness, shine, and manageability.

Complementary gestures

Wash with warm water, avoid excessive scrubbing, avoid using direct heat sources on your roots, and limit aggressive brushing. And remember that balance is also maintained from within, with a diet rich in essential micronutrients.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I have an oily scalp and dry hair?

Because excess sebum tends to concentrate at the roots, hair loses moisture and natural lipids due to dyes, styling tools such as flat irons and hairdryers, or prolonged sun exposure.

What shampoo should I use if I have an oily scalp and dry ends?

We recommend a deep cleansing to effectively and gently remove sebum, alternating with gentler, more gentle cleansing shampoos . Conditioning your hair's mid-lengths and ends after each wash is very important. You can apply styling treatments such as hair oil or styling cream to the mid-lengths and ends. It's best to do this when your hair is wet, before towel-drying, as this allows for better distribution of the product.

Can I use oils if I have an oily scalp?

Yes, just avoid using them at the roots . You can apply them to the lengths and ends, as a pre-shampoo or finishing treatment.

Does washing your hair frequently increase oiliness?

Washing alone cannot regulate the sebaceous glands . Washing frequency should be tailored to individual needs. The important thing is to use appropriate products that don't overstimulate the sebaceous glands.

Is oily hair the result of poor hygiene?

No. Factors such as genetics, hormones, and stress are the main causes of oily scalp, not necessarily poor hygiene.

Our recommendation

Balancing an oily scalp without drying out your hair is possible with formulas tailored to each need. At Modesta Cassinello, we develop products with effective, skin- and hair-friendly active ingredients, such as our H07 Sea Salt Shampoo, ideal for regulating without damaging, and our H04 Nourishing Conditioner, a nourishing treatment for restoring dry hair.

To delve deeper into this topic and get more tips on caring for an oily scalp, I invite you to visit Modesta Cassinello's blog: Deep Hair Cleansing . There you'll find detailed information and specific recommendations for maintaining a healthy and balanced scalp .

Don't know where to start? Take our Diagnostic Test and discover your personalized hair routine based on your scalp and hair's real needs.

Each product is backed by the expertise of Dr. Modesta , a pharmacist and founder committed to excellence in hair care.