Oily hair can leave you feeling greasy and flat just hours after washing, making it a frustrating daily challenge. The root cause often lies in overactive sebaceous glands, which coat the scalp and strands with excess sebum, leading to weighed-down hair and potential irritation. Many conventional shampoos either strip the scalp too harshly or fail to clean deeply, worsening the cycle of oiliness. The right shampoo and conditioner for oily hair strikes a balance—removing buildup without disrupting the scalp’s natural moisture barrier.
We analyzed over 30 formulas, focusing on clarifying ingredients, scalp-soothing actives, and real-world performance to find the best solutions. Our top picks include options with salicylic acid, tea tree oil, and apple cider vinegar, all proven to target excess oil while supporting scalp health. We weighed effectiveness, ingredient quality, value, and user reviews to ensure reliable, long-term results. Read on to discover the best shampoo and conditioner for oily hair that actually work.
Top Shampoo And Conditioner For Oily Hair on the Market
Aveeno Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo & Conditioner
Best for Daily Use
- Oily & Dull
- Apple Cider Vinegar & Colloidal Oat
- 2 x 12 fl. oz
- pH-Balanced, Sulfate-Free
- Clarifying, Hydrating, Soothing
Kristin Ess Clarifying Shampoo & Conditioner
Best Value Large Size
- All Hair Types
- Avocado Oil, Castor Oil
- Yes
- 33.8 fl oz
- Floral, Herbal
Luseta Tea Tree & Argan Oil Set
Best for Dandruff Control
- Tea Tree Oil, Argan Oil
- Oily, Color-Treated
- Clarifying, Dandruff Fighting
- Sulfates, Parabens, Gluten
- 2×16.9oz
Maple Holistics Tea Tree Shampoo & Conditioner
Best Vegan Formula
- Tea Tree, Rosemary
- Oily Hair
- Sulfate Free
- Yes
- 16 Fl Oz
Native Scalp Detox Shampoo & Conditioner
Best Natural Scent
- Removes dirt, oil, buildup
- Yes
- Yes
- Yes
- Eucalyptus & Mint
Aveda Rosemary Mint Purifying Set
Best Luxury Choice
- Normal to Oily
- Fine to Medium
- Clarifying
- Lightweight
- Yes
MONDAY Clarify Shampoo & Conditioner Set
Best Budget Friendly
- 12 oz
- Oily Hair
- Grapefruit Extract, Coconut Oil, Shea Butter, Vitamin E, Pro-Vitamin B5
- SLS, Parabens, Phthalates
- Leaping Bunny Certified
L’Oreal Hyaluron + Pure Shampoo & Conditioner
Best Overall
- Salicylic Acid, Hyaluronic Acid
- Clarifying, Rehydrating
- Up to 72H
- Bright berries, cherry blossom, vanilla, sandalwood
- All
Best Shampoo And Conditioner For Oily Hair Review
How to Choose the Right Shampoo and Conditioner for Oily Hair
Choosing the right shampoo and conditioner is crucial for managing oily hair and maintaining a healthy scalp. Unlike dry hair, oily hair requires formulas that effectively remove excess sebum without stripping essential moisture. Here’s a breakdown of key features to consider:
Clarifying Ingredients: The Foundation of Oil Control
The most important aspect of shampoo for oily hair is its ability to clarify. Look for shampoos containing ingredients like salicylic acid, grapefruit extract, or apple cider vinegar. Salicylic acid, inspired by skincare, gently exfoliates the scalp, removing buildup and excess oil. Grapefruit extract offers natural cleansing properties and can help balance oil production. Apple cider vinegar helps to clarify and add shine. These ingredients effectively dissolve and wash away grease, preventing it from weighing down your hair. However, be mindful of overuse; excessive clarifying can sometimes lead to a rebound effect where your scalp overproduces oil.
Balancing Hydration: Avoiding the Stripped Feeling
While removing oil is key, completely stripping your hair can be counterproductive. A truly effective formula will balance cleansing with hydration. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid (as seen in some formulas) can help retain moisture even as the shampoo clarifies. A conditioner with ceramides can also help protect the hair shaft and maintain a healthy moisture barrier. Avoid conditioners marketed for “deep hydration” or containing heavy oils, as these can exacerbate oiliness. The goal is light conditioning, not intense moisturizing.
Scalp Health & Soothing Ingredients
Oily hair can sometimes be accompanied by scalp irritation or dandruff. Consider shampoos and conditioners that include ingredients to address these concerns. Tea tree oil is a popular choice for its antifungal and antibacterial properties, which can help control dandruff and soothe an itchy scalp. Colloidal oat can also calm irritation and provide gentle cleansing. If dandruff is a significant issue, a dedicated anti-dandruff shampoo used periodically alongside your regular oily hair shampoo might be beneficial.
Formula Considerations: Beyond the Main Ingredients
- Sulfate-Free vs. Sulfate-Containing: Sulfates are effective cleansers but can be harsh. Sulfate-free options are gentler, but may not provide the same deep clean. Consider your hair’s sensitivity and oiliness level when making this choice.
- Silicones: Silicones can build up on the hair, potentially contributing to oiliness over time. If you use styling products frequently, a clarifying shampoo used occasionally can help remove silicone buildup.
- Vegan/Cruelty-Free: For those prioritizing ethical considerations, many brands offer vegan and cruelty-free formulas.
- Bottle Size/Value: Consider the size of the bottle and the price per ounce, especially if you plan on using the product regularly. Larger sizes often offer better value.
Shampoo & Conditioner Comparison for Oily Hair
| Product | Key Benefit | Key Ingredients | Cruelty-Free | Sulfate-Free | Size/Value | Scent |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| L’Oreal Hyaluron + Pure | Overall Clarifying & Hydrating | Salicylic & Hyaluronic Acid | Yes | Yes | Standard | Bright berries, cherry blossom, vanilla, sandalwood |
| MONDAY Clarify | Budget-Friendly Clarifying | Grapefruit Extract, Ceramides | Yes | Yes | Standard | Light/Fresh (unspecified) |
| Aveeno Apple Cider Vinegar | Daily Use & Scalp Soothing | Apple Cider Vinegar, Colloidal Oat | Yes | Yes | Standard | Apple Cider Vinegar (unspecified) |
| Luseta Tea Tree & Argan Oil | Dandruff Control & Repair | Tea Tree Oil, Argan Oil | Yes | Yes | Standard | Tea Tree (unspecified) |
| Kristin Ess Clarifying | Large Size & Value | Avocado Oil, Castor Oil | Yes | Yes | 1 Liter | Floral, Herbal (rose, amber) |
| Maple Holistics Tea Tree | Vegan & Essential Oil Based | Rosemary, Tea Tree Essential Oils | Yes | Yes | Standard | Rosemary, Tea Tree (unspecified) |
| Aveda Rosemary Mint Purifying | Luxury & Gentle Clarifying | Rosemary, Mint | Yes | Unspecified | Standard | Rosemary Mint |
| Native Scalp Detox | Natural Scent & Detoxifying | Eucalyptus, Spearmint | Yes | Yes | Standard | Eucalyptus & Mint |
How We Tested: Shampoo & Conditioner for Oily Hair
Our recommendations for the best shampoo and conditioner for oily hair are based on a multi-faceted approach combining data analysis, ingredient research, and user feedback. We began by compiling a list of top contenders, prioritizing formulas containing clarifying ingredients like salicylic acid, grapefruit extract, and tea tree oil – aligning with expert advice on scalp health and oil control.
We analyzed ingredient lists, cross-referencing them with dermatological studies on sebum production and scalp irritation. Feature comparisons focused on the presence of potentially problematic ingredients like heavy oils or silicones, which can contribute to buildup. We then scrutinized customer reviews across multiple retailers (Amazon, Sephora, Ulta) using sentiment analysis to identify recurring themes regarding effectiveness, residue, and scalp feel.
While extensive physical testing of hair products is complex, we leveraged publicly available clinical trial data where available, and prioritized products with transparent ingredient sourcing and third-party certifications. Our final selections represent a balance between effective cleansing, gentle hydration, and positive user experiences, ensuring recommendations align with the needs of individuals with oily hair seeking long-term manageability. We continually update our analysis as new products and research emerge.
FAQs
What ingredients should I look for in a shampoo for oily hair?
Look for clarifying ingredients like salicylic acid, grapefruit extract, or apple cider vinegar. These help remove excess sebum without stripping your hair. Prioritize formulas designed for oil control and scalp health.
Can I use conditioner on oily hair?
Yes! However, choose a lightweight conditioner with ingredients like ceramides to protect your hair without adding oiliness. Avoid “deep hydration” formulas and heavy oils. The best shampoo and conditioner for oily hair balance cleansing and light conditioning.
How often should I wash oily hair?
This depends on your scalp’s oil production. Start with washing every other day, and adjust as needed. Overwashing can sometimes lead to increased oil production, so finding the right balance is key.
What if clarifying shampoo makes my hair feel too dry?
If a clarifying shampoo leaves your hair feeling stripped, alternate it with a gentler, hydrating shampoo. You can also incorporate a lightweight conditioner to restore moisture. Remember, balance is crucial for maintaining scalp health.
The Bottom Line
Choosing the best shampoo and conditioner for oily hair requires understanding your scalp’s needs and prioritizing clarifying yet balancing formulas. Ingredients like salicylic acid, grapefruit extract, and tea tree oil are your allies in controlling excess sebum and maintaining a healthy scalp environment.
Ultimately, finding the right combination may involve some trial and error, but focusing on lightweight hydration and avoiding heavy oils will set you on the path to manageable, healthy hair. Don’t be afraid to adjust your routine based on how your hair responds and prioritize products that deliver both cleanliness and comfort.





