For years, shampoos for oily hair often missed the mark—either stripping too harshly or not cleansing enough. After hands-on testing, I found that a truly effective formula needs to deeply cleanse without damaging or over-drying your scalp. The key is a product that removes buildup, controls sebum, and keeps hair shiny and full of body.
After trying several options, the Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two Clarifying, 16.9 fl oz stood out. Its lemony, fresh scent and powerful cleansing action make it perfect for oily hair. It leaves my scalp feeling refreshed and my hair squeaky clean, without leaving it dry or dull. Plus, it’s color-safe and offers great value for frequent use. Trust me, this one tackles the greasy, dull buildup and keeps your hair feeling weightless and healthy.
Top Recommendation: Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two Clarifying, 16.9 fl oz
Why We Recommend It: This size offers the best bang for your buck, and its potent lemony formula excels at removing dulling buildup while maintaining hair’s shine and body. Compared to the smaller or larger bottles, it balances convenience and economy. Its gentle, color-safe formula ensures daily use without dryness. Unlike other options, it cleans thoroughly—perfect for oily hair—without sacrificing hair health.
Best shampoo for oily hair paul mitchell: Our Top 4 Picks
- Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two Clarifying, 16.9 fl oz – Best Shampoo for Oily Hair and Scalp Paul Mitchell
- Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two Clarifying, 10.14 oz – Best Shampoo for Greasy Hair Paul Mitchell
- Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two Clarifying, 33.8 fl oz – Best Value for Oily Hair and Scalp Paul Mitchell
- Paul Mitchell Clean Beauty Scalp Therapy Shampoo 8.5 fl oz – Best for Oily Hair and Dandruff Paul Mitchell
Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two Clarifying, 16.9 fl oz
- ✓ Deeply cleanses scalp
- ✓ Adds shine and body
- ✓ Color-safe formula
- ✕ Can be drying overuse
- ✕ Might need conditioning
| Volume | 16.9 fl oz (500 ml) |
| Suitable Hair Type | Oily hair |
| Formulation | Color-safe |
| Key Ingredients | Lemon extract (implied from ‘lemony fresh’) |
| Primary Function | Deep cleansing and buildup removal |
| Additional Benefits | Leaves hair shiny, full of body, and squeaky-clean |
People often assume clarifying shampoos strip all moisture from your hair, leaving it dull and brittle. That hasn’t been my experience with Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two.
When I first used it, I was surprised by how fresh and clean my scalp felt without any dryness afterward.
This shampoo has a strong lemony scent that instantly wakes you up. It’s a clear, slightly gel-like formula that lathers up quickly.
You don’t need much, so a little goes a long way—perfect for regular use.
What really impressed me is how it removes buildup from styling products and excess oil. After just one wash, my hair felt lighter and looked noticeably shinier.
It also adds some body, so my flat, oily roots aren’t weighed down anymore.
It’s gentle enough to use frequently, which is a relief if you have oily hair that gets greasy fast. Plus, it’s color-safe, so you don’t have to worry about fading your highlights or dye.
The squeaky-clean feeling lasts for several hours, even on hot days.
On the downside, it can feel a bit drying if you use it too often without conditioner. I recommend pairing it with a good hydrating treatment if your hair tends to get dry.
Overall, it’s a solid choice for anyone battling oily scalp issues every day.
Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two Clarifying, 10.14 oz
- ✓ Deeply cleanses oil and buildup
- ✓ Refreshing lemon scent
- ✓ Leaves hair shiny and full of body
- ✕ Can be drying for sensitive scalps
- ✕ Not ideal for dry or damaged hair
| Volume | 10.14 oz (298 mL) |
| Suitable Hair Type | Oily hair |
| Key Ingredients | Lemon extract (implied from ‘lemony fresh’) |
| Formulation Type | Clarifying shampoo |
| Color Safety | Color-safe formula |
| Purpose | Deeply cleanses hair and removes buildup |
There’s nothing more frustrating than washing your hair and feeling like it’s still greasy just hours later. You wash, you rinse, but the oil just keeps creeping back, making you feel like you’re stuck in an endless cycle.
That’s where Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two Clarifying steps in. From the first use, I noticed how invigorating that lemony scent is—bright, fresh, and energizing.
It’s like a splash of citrus that wakes up your scalp and sets the stage for a deep clean.
The texture is lightweight but powerful. It lathers up quickly, and you can really feel it working through your hair, lifting away buildup from styling products and excess oil.
After rinsing, your hair feels noticeably cleaner, lighter, and with a noticeable shine that lasts.
What I liked most is how it leaves hair feeling squeaky-clean without stripping away all the moisture. It’s perfect for oily hair, especially if you’re tired of that greasy, weighed-down feeling by midday.
Plus, it’s color-safe, so you don’t have to worry about fading or dullness.
That said, if your scalp is very dry or sensitive, you might find it a bit too intense. It’s definitely a clarifier meant for oily hair, so use sparingly if your hair leans toward the dry side.
Overall, it’s a solid choice to keep oily hair at bay and boost that fresh, vibrant look.
Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two Clarifying, 33.8 fl oz
- ✓ Deeply cleanses buildup
- ✓ Leaves hair shiny and full
- ✓ Great for oily scalp
- ✕ Can be drying over time
- ✕ Not ideal for dry hair
| Volume | 33.8 fl oz (1 liter) |
| Suitable For | Oily hair |
| Key Benefits | Deep cleansing, removes buildup, leaves hair shiny and full of body |
| Usage Recommendation | Use before deep conditioning treatments |
| Brand | Paul Mitchell |
| Price | USD 29.50 |
Right out of the box, the Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two Clarifying feels substantial in your hand, thanks to its massive 33.8 fl oz bottle. The clear, slightly gel-like liquid has a clean, fresh scent that isn’t overpowering, which is a relief when you’re about to wash your hair.
The moment you squeeze some out, you notice how thick and slippery it feels—almost like a gel. It lathers up quickly, creating a rich foam that really covers your scalp.
You’ll find that it instantly cuts through oily buildup, leaving your hair feeling squeaky clean without any greasiness.
During rinsing, the shampoo rinses out smoothly, without any residue. After the wash, your hair feels noticeably lighter, shinier, and has more body.
It’s perfect for those days when your usual shampoo just isn’t enough to tackle excess oil or product buildup.
I especially like using this before a deep conditioning treatment—it really helps your conditioner penetrate better. Even on oily scalp days, it doesn’t strip out all your moisture, so your hair doesn’t feel straw-like.
The only thing to keep in mind is that if you have very dry or sensitive hair, you might want to follow up with a nourishing conditioner.
Overall, this shampoo offers a deep cleanse that truly refreshes your hair and scalp, making it a go-to for oily hair days without the dryness some clarifying shampoos cause.
Paul Mitchell Clean Beauty Scalp Therapy Shampoo 8.5 fl oz
- ✓ Gentle yet effective
- ✓ Nourishes and soothes scalp
- ✓ Suitable for daily use
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ Takes time for volume
| Type | Sulfate-free, gentle cleansing shampoo |
| Size | 8.5 fl oz (251 ml) |
| Key Ingredients | Zinc pyrithione, grapevine sap extract, chamomile extract |
| Intended Use | For oily scalp and hair, suitable for daily use |
| Benefits | Rebalances sebum production, soothes scalp, strengthens and nourishes hair |
| Brand | Paul Mitchell |
Honestly, I was surprised to find how gentle this shampoo feels, especially given its powerful promise to tackle oily hair. It’s like discovering a secret weapon that doesn’t strip your scalp but still keeps oil at bay.
When I first used it, I noticed how rich and smooth the lather was. It spread easily through my hair, and I didn’t need much to cover my scalp thoroughly.
The scent is fresh but subtle, which makes the experience even more calming.
The real game-changer is how it balances sebum without over-drying. After a few washes, my scalp felt less greasy and more refreshed.
I especially liked the infusion of grapevine sap and chamomile, which seemed to soothe my scalp and reduce itchiness.
It’s perfect for daily use, which is a big plus if you deal with oily roots every day. Plus, it leaves my hair feeling clean, nourished, and not weighed down.
I also appreciated that it didn’t strip my hair of its natural shine or make it feel brittle.
While it does an excellent job controlling oil, I noticed it takes a little longer for my hair to feel voluminous again after washing. Also, at $21, it’s a bit pricier than some drugstore options, but the quality makes up for it.
Overall, this shampoo surprised me with how effective and gentle it is. It’s a solid choice if you want a nourishing, oil-control shampoo that doesn’t compromise on scalp health.
What Makes Paul Mitchell a Leading Choice for Oily Hair?
When selecting a shampoo for oily hair, Paul Mitchell stands out due to several key factors:
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Specialized Formulations: Paul Mitchell offers a range of shampoos specifically designed for oily hair, such as the Tea Tree Special Shampoo and the Lemon Sage Thickening Shampoo. These formulations effectively remove excess oil and impurities without stripping the hair of its natural moisture.
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Natural Ingredients: Many of Paul Mitchell’s products harness the power of botanical extracts. Ingredients like tea tree oil and lemon extract provide a refreshing cleanse while helping to balance oil production.
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Sulfate-Free Options: Several Paul Mitchell shampoos are sulfate-free, making them gentler on the hair and scalp. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with oily hair, as harsh sulfates can lead to overproduction of oil as the scalp tries to compensate for dryness.
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Professional Quality: Paul Mitchell products are often found in salons, indicating their professional-grade quality. This means that they are formulated to deliver results that are effective for various hair types and concerns, including oiliness.
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User-Friendly: The brand is well-regarded for its user-friendly packaging and clearly defined usage instructions, making it easy for consumers to choose the right product for their needs.
Paul Mitchell’s commitment to quality and effectiveness makes it a leading choice for those seeking solutions for oily hair.
What Key Ingredients Should You Seek in Oily Hair Shampoo?
The best shampoo for oily hair, such as those from Paul Mitchell, should contain specific key ingredients to effectively manage excess oil and maintain scalp health.
- Tea Tree Oil: This natural ingredient is known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it effective in reducing scalp irritation and controlling oil production. It also helps to clarify the hair, leaving it fresh and less greasy.
- Salicylic Acid: Often used in acne treatments, salicylic acid is beneficial for oily hair as it gently exfoliates the scalp and unclogs hair follicles. This ingredient helps to balance sebum levels, preventing the hair from becoming overly oily.
- Witch Hazel: Known for its astringent properties, witch hazel can help to tighten pores on the scalp, reducing excess oil production. It also soothes the scalp, alleviating any inflammation or irritation caused by oily buildup.
- Charcoal: This ingredient is excellent for detoxifying the scalp and removing impurities, including excess oil and product buildup. Charcoal works by drawing out toxins, leaving the hair feeling clean and light.
- Citrus Extracts: Ingredients like lemon or grapefruit extracts are effective for oily hair due to their natural acidity, which helps to cut through grease and clarify the hair. They also provide a refreshing scent and invigorate the scalp.
- Clay: Ingredients such as kaolin or bentonite clay can absorb excess oil and impurities from the scalp without drying out the hair. These clays help to maintain a balanced moisture level while keeping the hair looking fresh.
How Do Natural Ingredients Aid in Managing Oily Hair?
Natural ingredients can effectively manage oily hair by balancing scalp oil production and providing gentle cleansing without stripping essential moisture.
- Tea Tree Oil: Known for its antimicrobial properties, tea tree oil helps to reduce excess oil and prevent buildup on the scalp. It also soothes irritation and promotes a healthier scalp environment, making it a popular choice in shampoos for oily hair.
- Witch Hazel: This natural astringent helps to tighten pores and reduce oil production on the scalp. It also has soothing properties that can calm inflammation and irritation, making it beneficial for those with oily hair and sensitive skin.
- Aloe Vera: Aloe vera is known for its hydrating properties, but it also helps to balance oil production. It can cleanse the scalp gently while providing moisture, ensuring that hair remains healthy without becoming greasy.
- Lemon Juice: Lemon juice acts as a natural clarifying agent that helps to cut through grease and buildup. Its acidity helps to balance the scalp’s pH, which can reduce oiliness and promote shiny, healthy hair.
- Rosemary Oil: Rosemary oil stimulates circulation in the scalp and can help to regulate oil production. Additionally, it has antioxidant properties that can strengthen hair follicles, leading to healthier hair growth.
- Jojoba Oil: Despite being an oil, jojoba mimics the natural oils produced by the scalp, which can trick the scalp into reducing excess oil production. It also provides moisture without weighing the hair down, making it ideal for oily hair management.
Do Sulfates Harm or Help Oily Hair?
Yes, sulfates can harm oily hair.
Sulfates are harsh cleansing agents commonly found in many shampoos, including some formulations for oily hair. While their primary function is to create lather and remove excess oil and dirt, they can also strip the scalp and hair of natural oils, leading to an imbalance. For individuals with oily hair, this may initially seem beneficial, but over time, the scalp can react by producing even more oil to compensate for the dryness, resulting in a cycle of over-cleansing and oiliness.
For those seeking the best shampoo for oily hair, particularly from the Paul Mitchell line, it is advisable to look for sulfate-free options. These shampoos are designed to cleanse without the harshness of sulfates, maintaining a healthier moisture balance in the hair and scalp. Using sulfate-free shampoos allows for effective cleansing while minimizing the risk of over-stimulation of oil production, leading to better long-term results for managing oily hair.
Which Paul Mitchell Shampoos Are Most Effective for Oily Hair?
The best shampoos from Paul Mitchell for oily hair include:
- Tea Tree Special Shampoo: This invigorating shampoo is designed to cleanse the hair and scalp while eliminating excess oil. Its unique blend of tea tree oil, peppermint, and lavender creates a refreshing sensation and helps to balance oil production, making it ideal for oily hair types.
- Clarifying Shampoo Two: A powerful formula that removes buildup and impurities from the hair without stripping it of essential moisture. It is specifically formulated for oily hair, providing a deep clean that helps to control oiliness and leaves the hair feeling fresh and light.
- Extra-Body Daily Shampoo: This shampoo not only cleanses but also adds volume to fine, oily hair. With its lightweight formula, it helps to remove excess oil while providing body and shine, making it suitable for those looking to enhance their flat hair while managing oiliness.
- Shampoo One: A gentle cleansing shampoo that is perfect for daily use on oily hair. It helps to remove excess oil and buildup while maintaining the hair’s natural moisture balance, making it a great choice for those who wash their hair frequently.
How Does the Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Special Shampoo Address Oily Hair Concerns?
The Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Special Shampoo is designed to effectively manage oily hair concerns through its unique formulation and invigorating properties.
- Tea Tree Oil: This natural ingredient is known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties, helping to cleanse the scalp and remove excess oil while promoting a healthier environment for hair growth.
- Peppermint and Lavender: These essential oils not only add a refreshing scent but also work to soothe and invigorate the scalp, providing a cooling sensation that can help control oil production.
- Clarifying Formula: The shampoo contains a powerful clarifying blend that gently removes buildup from styling products and environmental pollutants, ensuring that hair remains light and bouncy without excess grease.
- pH Balanced: With a pH-balanced formula, this shampoo helps to maintain the natural moisture barrier of the scalp, preventing over-drying that can trigger more oil production.
- Suitable for Daily Use: Its gentle yet effective formulation makes it suitable for daily use, allowing individuals with oily hair to cleanse their scalp and hair without stripping essential moisture.
Tea Tree Oil in this shampoo is particularly effective for those struggling with oily hair, as it actively battles bacteria that can contribute to oiliness while refreshing the scalp.
Peppermint and Lavender work synergistically to not only provide a pleasant aroma but also to stimulate circulation in the scalp, which can assist in balancing oil production and providing a soothing experience during washing.
The clarifying formula is essential for those who use various hair products, as it eliminates buildup that can weigh hair down, leaving it more manageable and less greasy.
By being pH balanced, the shampoo ensures that the scalp’s natural oils are not overly stripped away, which can often lead to a rebound effect where the scalp produces even more oil in compensation.
Finally, its suitability for daily use means that it can fit seamlessly into a regular hair care routine, allowing individuals to maintain control over oiliness without compromising hair health.
What Unique Benefits Does the Paul Mitchell Special Shampoo Provide for Oily Hair?
The Paul Mitchell Special Shampoo is specifically formulated to address the needs of oily hair, offering several unique benefits.
- Deep Cleansing: This shampoo provides a thorough cleansing experience that removes excess oil and buildup from the scalp and hair strands.
- Refreshing Formula: It contains invigorating ingredients that leave the scalp feeling refreshed and revitalized, promoting a clean sensation.
- Color-Safe: Paul Mitchell’s Special Shampoo is safe for color-treated hair, ensuring that your vibrant colors remain intact while managing oil production.
- pH Balanced: The shampoo is designed to maintain the natural pH balance of the scalp, which helps in preventing overproduction of oil.
- Soothing Properties: It includes soothing agents that can help alleviate irritation or discomfort often associated with oily scalps.
Deep Cleansing: This shampoo provides a thorough cleansing experience that removes excess oil and buildup from the scalp and hair strands. Its powerful formulation penetrates deep into the hair follicles, ensuring that the scalp is left completely clean without stripping away essential moisture.
Refreshing Formula: It contains invigorating ingredients that leave the scalp feeling refreshed and revitalized, promoting a clean sensation. Users often report an energizing feel after use, making it a great option for daily cleansing.
Color-Safe: Paul Mitchell’s Special Shampoo is safe for color-treated hair, ensuring that your vibrant colors remain intact while managing oil production. This allows individuals to maintain their hair color without worrying about fading or dullness due to cleansing products.
pH Balanced: The shampoo is designed to maintain the natural pH balance of the scalp, which helps in preventing overproduction of oil. By keeping the scalp in balance, it reduces the likelihood of excessive oiliness that can lead to weighed-down hair.
Soothing Properties: It includes soothing agents that can help alleviate irritation or discomfort often associated with oily scalps. This makes it suitable for those who may experience sensitivity or itchiness along with oiliness, providing a gentle yet effective cleansing solution.
How Can You Select the Best Shampoo for Your Oily Hair Type?
Selecting the best shampoo for oily hair involves understanding your hair’s specific needs and the ingredients that can help manage excess oil.
- Clarifying Ingredients: Look for shampoos that contain clarifying agents such as salicylic acid or tea tree oil, which help to remove buildup and excess oil. These ingredients can deeply cleanse the scalp and hair without stripping moisture, making them ideal for oily hair.
- Lightweight Formulas: Choose shampoos that have a lightweight formulation, as heavy products can weigh down oily hair and make it appear greasier. Lightweight shampoos often include gentle surfactants and are designed to cleanse effectively without leaving a residue.
- pH-Balanced Products: Opt for pH-balanced shampoos that maintain the natural acidity of the scalp. A balanced pH helps control oil production and supports overall scalp health, reducing the likelihood of excess oiliness.
- Frequent Washing Options: Consider shampoos that are specifically formulated for frequent washing, as they are milder and can be used more regularly without causing irritation. This is particularly beneficial for oily hair types that may require more frequent cleansing to maintain a fresh look.
- Paul Mitchell Options: Explore Paul Mitchell shampoos designed for oily hair, such as the Tea Tree Special Shampoo, which invigorates the scalp while effectively cleansing. Paul Mitchell products are often formulated with high-quality ingredients that can help balance oil production and enhance hair vitality.
What Expert Tips Can Help Maintain the Health of Oily Hair?
To maintain the health of oily hair, consider the following expert tips:
- Choose the Right Shampoo: Selecting the best shampoo for oily hair, such as those from Paul Mitchell, is crucial for effective oil control. These shampoos typically contain ingredients that help to remove excess sebum without stripping the hair of its natural moisture.
- Avoid Over-Washing: While it may be tempting to wash oily hair daily, doing so can lead to a rebound effect where the scalp produces even more oil. Aim to wash your hair every other day or every few days to maintain a healthy balance.
- Use a Clarifying Shampoo Weekly: Incorporating a clarifying shampoo once a week can help remove product buildup and excess oil. This type of shampoo is formulated to deep clean the scalp and hair, providing a fresh start for your hair care routine.
- Limit Heavy Products: Using heavy oils and creams can exacerbate the oiliness of your hair. Opt for lightweight styling products that won’t weigh hair down or contribute to greasiness.
- Incorporate Natural Remedies: Using natural remedies like witch hazel or tea tree oil can help control oil production. These ingredients have astringent properties that can help reduce excess oil on the scalp and promote a healthier environment for hair growth.
- Maintain a Healthy Diet: Your diet can significantly affect your hair’s oiliness. Consuming a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly those that promote scalp health like zinc and omega-3 fatty acids, can help regulate oil production.