8 Best Shampoos for Oily Hair, According to Dermatologists & Hairstylists

By wetting your hair with warm water to open up the cuticles, says Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. Then use a small amount of shampoo and gently massage the scalp with your fingertips or a scalp massager to lift excess oil and dirt.

Next, rinse hair thoroughly and follow with a lightweight, oil-free conditioner applied only to the ends. It’s also key not to overwash your hair. “Washing too often, especially with stripping shampoos, can exacerbate the problem and overstrip the natural oils in your hair,” says Dr. Engelman. When this happens, your scalp might compensate by increasing oil production, and you’re back at square one.

When you’re in between wash days, Brendnetta Ashley, a hairstylist and professional ambassador for hair care and color brand Schwarzkopf, recommends dry shampoo. “Apply it directly to the scalp, massage into the hair, and style as usual. This is a quick fix if you’re running low on time,” she says.