Why is my hair greasy after I wash it? Causes and how to fix it

Greasy hair after you wash it? Don’t panic - there are lots of reasons this could happen, from over-washing, using the wrong products and pollution, and we’re here to identify what’s going on.

Read on to find out about the most common reasons for greasy hair - and how to fix it.

Over-washing

If you wash your hair too often you’ll know about it! It can disrupt your scalp’s natural oil balance and this triggers to the body to overproduct oil to compensate what is being stripped away by the shampoo. The result? Greasy hair.

Using the wrong products

Harsh shampoos with sulfates (look out for sodium lauryl sulfate and sodium laureth sulfate on the ingredients list) or silicones, can irritate the scalp and trigger excess oil production. Using too much conditioner can also leave a residue on the hair, which can make it look greasy.

Over-styling

Certain products, particularly those that have oil or wax in them, can cause a build-up in hair that looks and feels greasy.

Not rinsing when you wash hair

If you don’t rinse enough then you’ll most likely get a build-up of shampoo or conditioner which, you guessed it, leaves a residue that can weight hair down and make it feel and appear greasy.

Pollution

On holiday? Humidity can make hair greasy.

Hormone imbalances

If you’re experiencing hormonal changes this can impact sebum production, which makes hair look greasier than normal.

What to do to fix greasy hair

1. Adjust how often you wash your hair: Cut back on washes to see if that helps.

2. Go sulphate-free: Opt for lightweight, sulfate and silicone-free shampoos and conditioners designed for oily hair.

3. Rinse thoroughly: Make sure you rinse all shampoo and conditioner out of your hair.

4. Consider clarifying shampoos: Using these every so often can help to remove product build-up.

5. Use conditioner sparingly: Put conditioner on the ends of your hair, avoiding the scalp.

6. Clean hair tools regularly: Keep brushes, combs and other hair tools clean ro avoid build-up.

7. Address hormonal imbalances: If you think fluctuating hormones could be at play, talk to your doctor.

If you want to look after your hair this summer do these three things

Hold back on heat styling

Holidays are the time to go a bit more natural, so hold back on using heated styling tools or hairdryers to give your hair a break.

And don't forget to book your next appointment ready for when you get home, too.3 easy ways to prepare your hair for summer.

Freshen up

Not sure whether to book in a cut or colour before or after your holiday? We’ve got the stylist-approved answer: do it before!

Freshly-trimmed locks will ensure the hair is in the best condition to handle the heat, while newly dyed hair will look incredible in holiday photos.

Pack sun protection

Our hair needs UV protection too, so to shield your strands from the damaging effects of the sun by packing a protective hair spray or cream.

How hormones can affect your hair - and what to do about it

Hormones play a crucial role in the body and that includes hair growth and loss. They can influence how thick your hair is, how fast it grows and even changes in texture and colour. Here we answer some of your top questions around hormones and hair.

How do hormones affect hair growth?

If you’ve ever been pregnant you probably remember your hair being thicker and shinier than ever before, whereas when we get older and our oestrogen levels drop we might notice hair thinning or shedding.

Will my hair colour be affected by my hormones?

Short answer, yes. Hormones can something affect the result of your hair dye and it could mean it doesn’t take as well, fades quicker or doesn’t lift. But it can also make hair more responsive and it’s hard to predict as everyone is individual and hormones affect everyone differently. If you’re worried then we can give you a strand test before your hair appointment.

Do hormones make my scalp more sensitive?

Yes, scalp tenderness can be affected by hormones and you might notice that brushing, washing or combing hair is uncomfortable when you are on your period. For this reason we’d recommend avoiding booking your appointment when your scalp is feeling extra sensitive as we want you to have the most relaxing and pleasant experience possible.

Summer hair SOS

Our hair gets a beating in the summer by sunshine, chlorine in pools and hats but the good news is you can look after it with our stylist-approved tips.

Get a haircut

Not sure whether to book in a cut or colour before or after your holiday? We’ve got the stylist-approved answer: do it before! Freshly-trimmed locks will ensure the hair is in the best condition to handle the heat, while newly dyed hair will look incredible in holiday photos.

Hair needs SPF, too

Our hair needs UV protection so to shield your strands from the damaging effects of the sun by packing a protective hair spray or cream.

Put the hairdryer down!

Holidays are the time to go a bit more natural, so hold back on using heated styling tools or hairdryers to give your hair a break.

And don't forget to book your next appointment ready for when you get home, too.3 easy ways to prepare your hair for summer.

These are the hair masks to beat dry and damaged hair

If you have dry and damaged hair then you need to get your hands on a hair mask!

The beauty of a hair mask is that they get deep into hair strands and the cuticle to repair breakage and strengthen from root to tip. If you have dyed hair they are also a must.

“The key with hair treatments is to keep them up and ensure they are used weekly to keep hair condition at its best,” recommends Sam McKnight, celebrity hairstylist and founder of Hair by Sam McKnight.

Read on for our list of the best hair masks for dry, damaged hair.

These are the three hair styling tools you need to nail the curly girl look

Silk wave curler, £39.99 (was £79) at Silk-wave.com.

Mermade hair curler, pro waver mini 25mm, £55, Mermade.

BaByliss PRO Perfect Curl MKII, £112.50 from BaByliss.

All you need for super soft locks is this budget friendly hair product

Is your hair heat damaged and flyaway? Exposure to sun, excessive blowdrying, curling and straightening, can leave hair dry and frazzled, stripping it of its natural oils.

It's unrealistic for most of us to completely abandon our favourite heat styling tools, but you can bring your hair back to life with Argan oil (just £7.59 from Amazon).

Argan oil from Amazon

Add moisture to hair

Step one: Apply a generous amount of oil to your hair.

Step two: Comb the oil through to the ends.

Step three: Leave it on for 30-60 minutes (longer if you have time) before shampooing it out. Remember that a little goes a long way with argan oil, so start with a small amount and adjust as needed.

These are the five steps you need to follow for rapid hair growth

Growing out your hair can be challenging but with patience and dedication, you will get there!

And with our expert tips, you'll be on your way to achieving the long, healthy hair of your dreams. Simply follow our five steps, below:

1. Experiment with different styles

During the awkward phase, experiment with different hairstyles to find what works best for you. Try plaits, messy buns and ponytails to keep things interesting.

2. Get regular trims

Although it may seem counterproductive, getting regular trims can help your hair grow longer and keep it healtthy. Having a trim every six to eight weeks helps avoid split ends from travelling up the hair shaft, causing additional damage and breakage.

3. Avoid over-shampooing

Over-shampooing can strip your hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness and breakage. Ideally wash your hair every other day or every two days, depending on your hair type.

4. Use heat protection products

Using hot styling tools such as straighteners, curlers or your hairdryer can damage your hair. Protect it by applying a heat protectant before using hot tools, which helps reduce breakage and split ends.

5. Stay positive

The awkward phase can be frustrating, but it's important to stay positive and remember that it's only temporary. Keep your hair healthy and take care of it, and before you know it, you'll be out of the awkward phase and well on your way to achieving your hair goals!

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