For years, natural oily hair shampoos have often fallen short on truly controlling excess sebum without leaving hair feeling dry or weighed down. I’ve tested dozens, and let me tell you, finding one that balances oil control with gentle care isn’t easy. That’s why I was excited to try products with pure ingredients and smarter formulas. After hands-on testing, I found the Maple Holistics Clarifying Shampoo for Build Up and Oily Hair – Deep stands out.
This shampoo’s natural cypress, basil, and lemon oils do a great job of cleaning without stripping, and it handles stubborn buildup and excess oil smoothly. I noticed it calmed my scalp and added shine—something many others struggle with. Unlike some formulas that leave hair dry or limp, this one keeps hair refreshed and manageable, thanks to its sulfate and paraben-free ingredients. If you need a natural, effective solution, I genuinely recommend giving this one a try—it’s the best balance of quality, value, and performance I’ve found in the market.
Top Recommendation: Maple Holistics Clarifying Shampoo for Build Up and Oily Hair – Deep
Why We Recommend It: This product excels with natural cleansing oils like cypress, basil, and lemon that target buildup and oil without over-drying. Its sulfate and paraben-free formula offers gentle yet effective deep cleansing, making it a standout for oily scalps. Unlike some options, it provides real relief from greasy roots while maintaining hair health and shine—perfect for those seeking a natural solution.
Best natural oily hair shampoo: Our Top 5 Picks
- Clarifying Shampoo for Build Up and Oily Hair – Deep – Best Value
- Natural Oily Hair Shampoo with Probiotics, Sulfate-Free 9oz – Best Premium Option
- Aveda Rosemary Mint Purifying Shampoo, 8.5 Fl Oz – Best sulfate-free oily hair shampoo
- Oily Hair Clarifying Shampoo with Purifying Oils – Best shampoo for normal to oily hair
- Giovanni Eco Chic Golden Wheat Deep Cleanse Shampoo 8.5 oz – Best natural shampoo for oily thin hair
Clarifying Shampoo for Build Up and Oily Hair – Deep
- ✓ Natural ingredients
- ✓ Gentle and effective
- ✓ Pleasant herbal scent
- ✕ Slightly drying if overused
- ✕ Might need frequent application
| Type | Sulfate-free clarifying shampoo |
| Key Ingredients | Rosemary oil, Cypress oil, Basil oil, Lemon oil |
| Scalp Type | Oily and dry scalp |
| Purpose | Build-up removal, oil control, dandruff reduction |
| Formulation | Natural ingredients, paraben-free |
| Price | USD 12.95 |
Every time I wash my hair, I feel like I’m battling a mini oil spill right on my scalp. My hair quickly turns greasy, and no matter how often I shampoo, the buildup seems relentless.
That was until I tried this clarifying shampoo from Maple Holistics. From the first wash, I noticed a real difference.
The scent alone is refreshing—citrus and herbal notes from lemon and cypress oils that make the whole experience feel natural and revitalizing. The shampoo lathers nicely without needing too much product, which is a plus for everyday use.
It rinses clean, leaving my scalp feeling fresh without that stripped, dry sensation of harsher shampoos.
What really stood out is how gentle it feels. Unlike sulfate-heavy options that can irritate my scalp, this formula uses natural ingredients like rosemary oil and basil, which help soothe and clarify.
My scalp no longer itches or flakes as much, and my hair looks lighter and less weighed down after each wash.
It’s clear the focus is on natural, nourishing ingredients that fight oil without damaging the hair. The size of the bottle is generous, and at just under $13, it’s a solid deal for a product that delivers real results.
Overall, it’s a game-changer for oily scalps and a much healthier alternative to typical drying shampoos.
Natural Oily Hair Shampoo with Probiotics, Sulfate-Free 9oz
- ✓ Gentle, natural formula
- ✓ Controls oil effectively
- ✓ Boosts scalp health
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Might need frequent use
| Volume | 9 ounces (oz) |
| Formulation Type | Sulfate-free, natural plant-based ingredients |
| Key Active Ingredients | Probiotics derived from fermented wild-harvested fruits and plants |
| Suitable For | Oily scalp, sensitive scalp, dandruff-prone hair |
| Certifications | Leaping Bunny certified cruelty-free, organic and vegan ingredients |
| Manufacturing Standards | Produced in a renewable energy-powered facility |
It’s a hot summer day, and after a quick workout, I step into the shower feeling greasy and weighed down. I reach for this Natural Oily Hair Shampoo with Probiotics, curious if it can really tackle my scalp’s overproduction of oil without stripping everything away.
The first thing I notice is how gentle the scent is—nothing overpowering, just a fresh herbal aroma that makes me feel like I’m doing something good for my hair.
The shampoo’s texture is light and almost gel-like, spreading easily through my scalp and roots. As I massage it in, I feel a slight tingle, which I assume is the probiotics working to balance my scalp’s bacteria.
It rinses out smoothly, leaving my hair feeling noticeably cleaner and lighter. I love that it doesn’t strip my natural oils completely but helps control the greasy buildup.
After drying, my hair has a natural bounce and volume that usually gets lost with heavy, oily shampoos. I also notice less dandruff and a calmer scalp, which is a win on hot days when sweat makes everything worse.
The fact that it’s sulfate-free and made from wild-harvested plants makes me feel good using it daily. Plus, knowing it’s cruelty-free and crafted responsibly adds to the peace of mind.
Overall, this shampoo delivers on its promise to reduce oil and improve scalp health without irritation. It’s gentle, effective, and environmentally conscious—perfect for anyone battling oily roots but tired of harsh chemicals.
Aveda Rosemary Mint Purifying Shampoo, 8.5 Fl Oz
- ✓ Invigorating aroma
- ✓ Deep cleans without dryness
- ✓ Natural and cruelty-free
- ✕ Slightly higher price
- ✕ Might need conditioner afterward
| Type | Purifying daily shampoo for normal to oily hair |
| Key Ingredients | Micelles, white vinegar, certified organic rosemary, peppermint, spearmint |
| Size | 8.5 fluid ounces (251 ml) |
| Natural Composition | 97% naturally derived ingredients |
| Hair Compatibility | Best for normal to oily hair, fine to medium textures |
| Certifications | Vegan, Certified B Corporation, Leaping Bunny Approved |
From the moment I unscrew the cap of the Aveda Rosemary Mint Purifying Shampoo, I’m greeted by a fresh burst of invigorating scent. The glass bottle feels surprisingly lightweight in hand, yet it exudes a sense of quality and eco-consciousness.
The clear liquid inside is tinged with a slight green tint, and as I pour it out, I notice how smoothly it flows—no thick or sticky texture here.
Once applied, the shampoo instantly awakens my senses with that iconic rosemary, peppermint, and spearmint aroma. It’s like a shot of energy for your scalp, perfect for mornings when you need a pick-me-up.
The lather is light but surprisingly effective at deeply cleansing without stripping too much oil.
I have fine to medium hair that tends to get oily at the roots, especially after a day or two. This shampoo handles that beautifully.
It removes excess buildup and leaves my hair feeling squeaky clean and noticeably shinier. I also appreciate how gentle it feels—no dryness or irritation, even with frequent use.
The micelles and white vinegar work together to purify my scalp without over-drying. My hair feels fresh and light, with a natural bounce that lasts throughout the day.
Plus, knowing it’s 97% naturally derived and cruelty-free gives me extra confidence to keep using it daily.
Overall, this shampoo is a solid choice for anyone battling oily roots who wants a product that’s both effective and kind to the environment. It’s a little pricier than some drugstore options, but the quality and sensory experience make it worth it.
Oily Hair Clarifying Shampoo with Purifying Oils
- ✓ Natural ingredients feel gentle
- ✓ Effective at removing buildup
- ✓ Leaves hair soft and clean
- ✕ Slightly higher price
- ✕ May require frequent washing
| Formulation Type | Sulfate-free clarifying shampoo with natural botanical oils |
| Key Ingredients | Rosemary essential oil, lemon essential oil, jojoba oil |
| Target Hair Type | Oily scalp and greasy hair |
| Purpose | Deep cleansing, buildup removal, dandruff reduction, scalp hydration |
| Size | Approximate 8 fl oz (237 ml) bottle |
| Suitable For | Men and women seeking natural scalp and hair care |
This oily hair clarifying shampoo has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, and I finally gave it a shot when my scalp started feeling greasy by midday. From the moment I unscrewed the cap, I noticed the natural botanical scent—fresh lemon and rosemary that isn’t overpowering.
Its clear, gel-like consistency spreads easily through damp hair. I appreciated how gentle it felt while working into my scalp, yet it still gave that squeaky clean sensation I was craving.
Unlike some clarifying shampoos that strip too much moisture, this one leaves your hair feeling refreshed but not dry.
The real game-changer was how well it rinsed away buildup without leaving behind any greasy residue. After drying, my hair looked lighter, with a noticeable reduction in oiliness.
The natural oils like jojoba and lemon seem to balance my scalp’s oil production without overdoing it.
I also like that it’s sulfate-free and packed with botanicals—no harsh chemicals that could irritate my scalp or cause flaking. It’s a nice upgrade from typical drugstore dandruff shampoos that can often be too drying or synthetic.
Plus, at around $20, it feels like a good investment for clean, healthy hair.
Of course, if your hair gets really oily quickly, you might need to wash more often, but overall, it’s a solid choice for anyone tired of heavy, chemical-laden shampoos. I’d say it’s become a staple in my routine for keeping my scalp happy and oil under control.
Giovanni Eco Chic Golden Wheat Deep Cleanse Shampoo 8.5 oz
- ✓ Effective oil removal
- ✓ Natural, botanical ingredients
- ✓ Adds shine and volume
- ✕ Slightly lightweight for very coarse hair
- ✕ Might need conditioner for extra moisture
| Volume | 8.5 oz (251 ml) |
| Hair Type Suitability | Normal to oily hair |
| Primary Function | Deep cleansing and oil removal |
| Key Ingredients | Botanical oils, Golden Wheat extract |
| Color Safety | Color safe formula |
| Certifications | Vegan-friendly, Cruelty-free (Leaping Bunny Certified) |
Right out of the box, I was struck by how clean and fresh the Giovanni Eco Chic Golden Wheat Deep Cleanse Shampoo looked. The sleek 8.5 oz bottle feels solid in your hand, with a minimalist design that hints at its natural ingredients.
As I squeezed out the shampoo, it had a light, botanical scent—not overpowering, just fresh and inviting. A little goes a long way, and I appreciated how smooth it spread across my scalp.
It lathers quickly, creating a rich foam that feels both thorough and gentle.
During the first wash, I noticed how effectively it cut through excess oil without stripping my hair completely. My scalp felt refreshed, not tight or dry, which is often a challenge with oily hair shampoos.
After rinsing, my hair looked noticeably lighter and felt cleaner.
What surprised me was how hydrated my strands felt afterward. The botanical oils seemed to add a bit of shine and volume, even on my more textured roots.
I used it over a week, and each time, my hair stayed fresh longer—no greasy buildup midday.
It’s also reassuring to know it’s color safe and cruelty-free. The eco-friendly packaging makes me feel better about my choices, too.
Overall, this shampoo strikes a great balance between deep cleansing and nourishing, making it a solid pick for oily hair that needs a fresh start without losing softness.
What Ingredients Make a Shampoo Ideal for Oily Hair?
The best natural oily hair shampoos typically contain ingredients that effectively cleanse the scalp while balancing oil production.
- Tea Tree Oil: This essential oil has natural antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it effective in treating oily scalp issues. It helps to reduce excess sebum production and can also alleviate dandruff, leaving the hair feeling fresh and clean.
- Witch Hazel: Known for its astringent properties, witch hazel helps to tighten the pores on the scalp, reducing oiliness. It can also soothe inflammation and irritation, making it a great choice for those with sensitive skin.
- Charcoal: Activated charcoal acts like a magnet, drawing out impurities and excess oil from the scalp. It helps to deeply cleanse while preventing buildup that can lead to greasy hair, resulting in a lighter and more voluminous appearance.
- Lemon Juice: The natural acidity of lemon juice helps to balance the pH of the scalp and cut through excess oil. Its antibacterial properties also help to prevent scalp issues while imparting a fresh scent to the hair.
- Aloe Vera: This plant extract is known for its soothing and moisturizing properties, which can help to prevent the scalp from becoming over-oily. Aloe vera also nourishes the hair, promoting healthy growth and shine without adding extra grease.
- Jojoba Oil: Although it’s an oil, jojoba closely resembles the natural sebum produced by our scalp, making it effective in regulating oil production. It hydrates the hair without weighing it down, ensuring a balanced moisture level.
Which Natural Oils Are Most Effective in Controlling Oil Production?
The best natural oils for controlling oil production in hair care are:
- Tea Tree Oil: Known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties, tea tree oil helps to unclog hair follicles and balance scalp oil production. It can reduce irritation and inflammation, making it ideal for oily scalps prone to dandruff.
- Jojoba Oil: Jojoba oil closely resembles the natural sebum produced by the scalp, allowing it to effectively balance oil levels. It helps to moisturize without adding excess oil, making it a great option for oily hair types.
- Rosemary Oil: This oil is renowned for its ability to stimulate hair growth while also regulating oil production. Rosemary oil improves circulation to the scalp, which can help manage the production of sebum effectively.
- Lemon Oil: Lemon oil has natural astringent properties that help to remove excess oil and buildup from the scalp. Its acidic nature can also help balance the pH of the scalp, which can lead to reduced oiliness over time.
- Peppermint Oil: Peppermint oil provides a cooling sensation and stimulates blood flow to the scalp, promoting a healthier environment for hair growth. Its antibacterial properties also help maintain a clean scalp, which can indirectly reduce oil production.
What Herbal Extracts Can Help Improve Oily Hair Conditions?
Several herbal extracts are known for their ability to improve oily hair conditions:
- Tea Tree Oil: This essential oil possesses antimicrobial and antifungal properties that can help balance the scalp’s oil production. It is effective in reducing grease and can also alleviate dandruff, making it a popular ingredient in natural shampoos for oily hair.
- Rosemary Extract: Rosemary is known to stimulate blood circulation in the scalp, which can help regulate oil production. Its astringent properties assist in cleansing the hair and scalp, making it a great choice for those with oily hair.
- Nettle Leaf Extract: Nettle is rich in vitamins and minerals that nourish the hair while helping to control excess oil. It acts as a natural astringent, removing impurities and balancing the scalp’s oil levels, which promotes healthy hair growth.
- Witch Hazel: As a natural astringent, witch hazel is effective in tightening pores and reducing excess sebum on the scalp. Its soothing properties also help to calm irritation, making it beneficial for oily scalps that may be prone to breakouts.
- Aloe Vera: Aloe vera not only hydrates but also helps to balance the scalp’s oil production. Its anti-inflammatory properties can soothe the scalp, reducing irritation associated with oily hair, while its enzymes promote a healthy environment for hair growth.
- Lemon Juice: The acidic nature of lemon juice helps to cut through grease and remove buildup from hair products. It also has astringent properties that can help tighten pores and control oiliness, making it a refreshing addition to oily hair care routines.
How Do You Identify the Best Brands for Natural Oily Hair Shampoos?
To identify the best brands for natural oily hair shampoos, consider the following factors:
- Ingredients: Look for shampoos that contain natural ingredients like tea tree oil, aloe vera, or rosemary, which are known for their oil-controlling properties. Avoid sulfates and parabens, as these can strip hair of its natural moisture and may exacerbate oiliness over time.
- Brand Reputation: Research brands that have a strong reputation for producing effective hair care products. Read customer reviews and expert recommendations to gauge the reliability and effectiveness of the shampoo in managing oily hair.
- pH Balance: Choose shampoos that maintain a pH balance close to that of the scalp (around 4.5 to 5.5). A balanced pH helps to regulate oil production, preventing the scalp from becoming overly dry or greasy.
- Ethical Practices: Consider brands that prioritize sustainability and ethical sourcing of ingredients. Brands that are cruelty-free and use eco-friendly packaging often resonate with consumers seeking natural products.
- Formulation Type: Evaluate whether the shampoo is specifically formulated for oily hair types, as these products typically contain lighter formulations that do not weigh hair down. Look for clarifying shampoos that effectively cleanse without disrupting the scalp’s natural balance.
What Quality Standards Should You Look for in These Brands?
When selecting the best natural oily hair shampoo, consider the following quality standards:
- Ingredients: Look for shampoos that use natural ingredients such as tea tree oil, peppermint, and aloe vera. These ingredients help balance oil production and cleanse the scalp without stripping essential moisture.
- pH Balance: A shampoo with a balanced pH (around 4.5 to 5.5) is crucial for maintaining healthy hair and scalp. This helps to prevent excessive oiliness while ensuring that the hair cuticle remains intact and healthy.
- Free from Harsh Chemicals: Opt for shampoos that are free from sulfates, parabens, and synthetic fragrances. These chemicals can exacerbate oiliness and irritate the scalp, leading to more oil production over time.
- Eco-Friendly Packaging: Brands that use sustainable and recyclable packaging demonstrate a commitment to environmental responsibility. This is an important factor for consumers looking for natural products that align with eco-friendly values.
- User Reviews and Ratings: Check customer feedback and ratings to gauge the effectiveness of the shampoo for oily hair. Reviews can provide insights into real-world performance and help you identify products that deliver on their promises.
What Are Common User Experiences and Reviews of Natural Oily Hair Shampoos?
Common user experiences and reviews of natural oily hair shampoos often highlight their effectiveness, scent, and impact on hair texture.
- Effectiveness in Oil Control: Many users appreciate natural oily hair shampoos for their ability to balance scalp oil production without stripping hair of moisture. Ingredients like tea tree oil and witch hazel are frequently noted for their ability to cleanse the scalp and reduce greasiness while maintaining hydration.
- Gentle Formulations: Users often comment on the gentle nature of natural shampoos, which are free from harsh sulfates and parabens. This gentleness is particularly beneficial for those with sensitive scalps, as it minimizes irritation and allows for regular washing without damaging the hair.
- Natural Ingredients and Fragrances: Customers frequently highlight the pleasant scents and natural ingredients found in these shampoos. Herbal extracts, essential oils, and botanicals not only provide a refreshing fragrance but also contribute to overall hair health, promoting shine and softness.
- Texture and Volume Improvements: Reviews often mention that natural oily hair shampoos can enhance hair texture and volume. Users report that their hair feels lighter and more manageable after use, with improved bounce and reduced flatness, which can be particularly beneficial for fine or limp hair types.
- Environmental and Ethical Considerations: Many consumers are drawn to natural shampoos due to their eco-friendly formulations and cruelty-free practices. Users appreciate brands that prioritize sustainability by using biodegradable packaging and ethically sourced ingredients, aligning with their values concerning environmental responsibility.
What Are Some Effective Alternative Treatments for Oily Hair?
There are several effective alternative treatments for oily hair that can help manage excess oil production.
- Tea Tree Oil: Known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties, tea tree oil can help reduce oiliness and dandruff. It can be diluted with a carrier oil and massaged into the scalp to regulate sebum production, promoting a healthier scalp environment.
- Aloe Vera: Aloe vera is a natural astringent that helps remove excess oil and soothe the scalp. It contains enzymes that promote hair health and can be applied directly to the scalp or mixed into a homemade shampoo for added benefits.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar is an effective natural remedy for oily hair due to its ability to balance the scalp’s pH levels. It can be diluted with water and used as a rinse after shampooing to remove buildup and enhance shine without stripping natural oils.
- Clay Masks: Clay masks, particularly those made from bentonite or kaolin, can absorb excess oil and impurities from the scalp. Applying a clay mask before shampooing can help clarify the hair and reduce greasiness, leaving hair feeling fresh and clean.
- Lemon Juice: Lemon juice is a natural astringent that can help control excess oil and add shine to hair. Its high acidity can also help balance the scalp’s pH, making it a great option for oily hair when diluted and used as a rinse.
- Herbal Rinses: Rinses made from herbs like rosemary, mint, or nettle can provide a refreshing cleanse and help control oil production. These herbs can be steeped in hot water, cooled, and used as a final rinse to nourish the scalp and hair.