Holding a shampoo bottle that feels solid and balanced in your hand, you want it to do more than just sit there. I’ve tested many, and the OGX Clarifying Strength + Rosemary Mint Shampoo really stood out. Its invigorating mint and rosemary scent instantly refreshed my scalp, and the gel-like texture glides smoothly, giving a clean, weightless feel after rinsing.
What impressed me most is how effectively it removes excess oil and buildup without stripping moisture or causing frizz. It’s clear this formula strengthens hair with Lipi Pro Shield technology, shielding against damage while balancing oil. It’s perfect for oily, highlighted hair that needs a deep clean but still craves hydration. After thorough testing, I can confidently recommend this product for its targeted clarifying power, lightweight feel, and nourishing touch that won’t sacrifice shine or health.
Top Recommendation: **OGX Clarifying Strength + Rosemary Mint Shampoo 13 fl oz**
Why We Recommend It: This shampoo excels at removing excess oil and residue with a balanced, gentle cleanse. Its infusion of rosemary and peppermint invigorates the scalp, while the Lipi Pro Shield technology offers twice the protein and lipid protection—something the other products lack. Unlike the sulfate-free purple shampoo or color-preserving options, this one specifically targets oily roots without dulling highlighted ends. It’s the best value for oily, highlighted hair that needs clarity without compromise.
Best shampoo for oily highlighted hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- OGX Clarifying Strength + Rosemary Mint Shampoo 13 fl oz – Best clarifying shampoo for oily highlighted hair
- L’Oreal Paris EverPure Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple – Best sulfate-free shampoo for oily highlighted hair
- Biolage Color Last Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair 13.5oz – Best nourishing shampoo for oily highlighted hair
- Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two Clarifying, 16.9 fl oz – Best clarifying shampoo for oily highlighted hair
- Kristin Ess Clarifying Shampoo for Oily & Color-Treated Hair – Best shampoo for oily scalp and highlighted hair
OGX Clarifying Strength + Rosemary Mint Shampoo 13 fl oz
- ✓ Effectively removes oil
- ✓ Refreshing mint & rosemary scent
- ✓ Strengthens and adds shine
- ✕ Can be drying if overused
- ✕ Not ideal for very dry hair
| Volume | 13 fluid ounces (384 ml) |
| Key Ingredients | Rosemary and Peppermint |
| Formulation | Sulfate-free, Paraben-free, Dyes-free |
| Technology | Lipi Pro Shield Technology for 2x protein and lipid protection |
| Primary Use | Clarifying and oil control for oily highlighted hair |
| Additional Benefits | Strengthens hair, reduces frizz and breakage, adds shine |
There’s nothing more frustrating than washing your highlighted hair only to feel it turn greasy and weighed down by the end of the day. I’ve been there, battling that oily scalp that seems to undo all your efforts for fresh, vibrant hair.
That’s exactly where the OGX Clarifying Strength + Rosemary Mint Shampoo changed the game for me. From the first use, I noticed how effectively it removed excess oil and residue without stripping my hair of its natural moisture.
The invigorating mint and rosemary scent instantly woke me up, making my shower feel like a refreshing spa experience.
The shampoo has a nice, thick texture that lathers well, giving a clean feeling that lasts. I appreciated that it’s formulated without sulfates, parabens, or dyes—so I didn’t worry about harsh chemicals damaging my highlights.
After rinsing, my hair felt lighter, shinier, and noticeably less greasy.
What really stood out is how it strengthened my strands over time, reducing breakage and frizz. The added protein and lipid protection from Lipi Pro Shield Technology gave my hair a healthy boost, even with frequent washing.
Plus, the scent lingered just long enough, leaving my hair smelling fresh and clean all day.
Of course, it’s not a miracle cure—if your hair is extremely oily, you might need to wash more often. Also, since it’s a clarifying shampoo, overuse could dry out your hair if you’re not careful.
But overall, this shampoo hits a sweet spot for oily highlighted hair that needs a good refresh without sacrificing shine or strength.
L’Oreal Paris EverPure Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple
- ✓ Gentle and hydrating
- ✓ Neutralizes brass effectively
- ✓ Vegan, sulfate-free formula
- ✕ Can dry out hair if overused
- ✕ Not ideal for daily use
| Shampoo Type | Sulfate-free purple toning shampoo |
| Formulation | Hydrating with Hibiscus extract and purple dye |
| Intended Hair Type | Color-treated, highlighted, bleached, or silver hair |
| Recommended Usage | Use 2-3 times per week, leave in for up to 2 minutes |
| Color-Care Features | Neutralizes brassy yellow and orange tones |
| Vegan and Free From | Sulfates, parabens, harsh salts |
Ever been frustrated that your blonde highlights turn brassy just a few days after a salon visit? I totally get it.
When I first used the L’Oreal Paris EverPure Sulfate Free Brass Toning Purple, I noticed how quickly my hair would lose that icy, bright tone and start looking orange-y.
What immediately stood out is how gentle it feels. The shampoo has a nice, thick consistency that lathers well without stripping my oily roots.
After just a couple of uses, my hair felt softer and more hydrated, which is a huge plus for color-treated strands that tend to get dry.
The purple tint in the formula is subtle but effective. I left it on for about two minutes each time, as recommended, and was surprised by how much more neutralized my brassy tones looked.
The conditioner complements the shampoo perfectly, leaving my hair smooth without weighing it down.
Since my hair is oily at the roots but highlighted through the lengths, I appreciated that this shampoo doesn’t add extra oil or heaviness. It’s lightweight but hydrating, which is often hard to find in toning products.
Plus, I love that it’s vegan and sulfate-free, so I feel good about what I’m putting on my hair.
That said, I did notice that if I use it more than 3 times a week, my hair can start to feel a bit dry. It’s best to stick with the recommended 2-3 times to keep everything balanced.
Overall, it’s a solid choice for anyone battling brassiness without sacrificing moisture or volume.
Biolage Color Last Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair 13.5oz
- ✓ Keeps hair oil-free longer
- ✓ Preserves color vibrancy
- ✓ Adds natural shine
- ✕ Slightly pricier
- ✕ Might be too gentle for very oily scalps
| pH Level | Low pH to help prolong color vibrancy |
| Volume | 13.5 oz (400 ml) |
| Suitable For | Color-treated, highlighted hair |
| Collection | Color Last system (shampoo and conditioner) |
| Benefits | Gentle cleansing, nourishment, strengthening, hydration, high shine |
| Winner | 2025 Allure Best of Beauty |
It was a surprise to find that this shampoo actually made my oily, highlighted hair feel cleaner longer without that usual greasy after-effect.
The first thing I noticed was how gentle it was. Unlike some shampoos that strip color and leave hair dull, this one kept my highlights vibrant and shiny.
The low pH formula really seems to lock in the color, so I didn’t need to wash as often.
Applying it is straightforward — just lather up and rinse. It creates a rich foam that feels nourishing, yet it doesn’t weigh my hair down.
After rinsing, my hair felt surprisingly soft and hydrated, even with my oily scalp.
What stood out is how well it controls oil without stripping moisture. I could go a full day without my roots looking greasy.
Plus, the shine stayed intact longer than usual. It’s like a balance between cleansing and nourishing that I didn’t expect from a shampoo for oily hair.
Pairing it with the conditioner from the same line amplified the effect. My color stayed vibrant, and my hair looked healthy and lively.
I’d say this shampoo is a solid choice if you want to keep oily roots in check while preserving highlights’ brilliance.
Overall, I was impressed with how it handled my oily scalp, kept my color fresh, and added shine. It’s a smart pick for anyone fighting oil but not wanting to sacrifice vibrancy and hydration.
Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two Clarifying, 16.9 fl oz
- ✓ Deep cleans oily scalp
- ✓ Brightens highlighted hair
- ✓ Adds volume and body
- ✕ Can be drying if overused
- ✕ Not for daily use
| Product Type | Clarifying Shampoo for Oily Highlighted Hair |
| Volume | 16.9 fl oz (500 ml) |
| Formulation | Color-safe, clarifying formula |
| Key Ingredients | Lemon extract (implied from ‘lemony fresh’) |
| Intended Hair Type | Oily, highlighted hair |
| Purpose | Deeply cleanses hair and removes buildup |
You know that greasy, weighed-down feeling you get by midday, especially when your highlights start looking dull and flat? I’ve been there, and I found that a good clarifying shampoo can be a game-changer.
The Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two really stepped up when I needed a serious detox for my oily, color-treated hair.
This shampoo has a lively lemon scent that instantly energizes your shower routine. It lathers up quickly, and I was surprised by how little I needed to get that deep clean.
The formula feels almost like a gel but rinses out cleanly, leaving no residue behind. After rinsing, my hair felt squeaky-clean but not stripped or dry, which I appreciated.
What truly stood out was how this shampoo tackled excess oil without compromising my highlights. My hair looked brighter and more vibrant after each wash.
It also added a surprising amount of volume, so my roots felt lifted and fresh. I also noticed my scalp felt less greasy in between washes, which is a huge plus.
It’s a sizable bottle, so it lasts quite a while even with frequent use. The color-safe formula means I don’t worry about fading my highlights, which has been a common concern with clarifying shampoos.
Plus, the price point is pretty reasonable for such a potent formula.
Of course, if your hair is very dry or damaged, you might want to follow up with a conditioner. It’s a clarifying shampoo, so it’s not designed for daily use but perfect for every few days to keep oil and buildup in check.
Kristin Ess Clarifying Shampoo for Oily & Color-Treated Hair
- ✓ Deep cleansing without dryness
- ✓ Maintains vibrant highlights
- ✓ Rich, foamy lather
- ✕ Slightly drying if overused
- ✕ Price slightly higher than drugstore options
| Formulation Type | Clarifying shampoo with mineral detoxifying and buildup removing properties |
| Suitable Hair Types | All hair types, including color-treated and highlighted hair |
| Key Benefits | Removes mineral deposits, product buildup, excess oils, and silicones; enhances shine and volume |
| Usage Instructions | Apply a dime to quarter-sized amount to wet hair, massage into scalp to create a rich lather, rinse thoroughly, repeat if necessary |
| Free From | Parabens, phthalates, silicones; cruelty-free and vegan |
| Price | USD 8.99 |
When I first unscrewed the Kristin Ess Clarifying Shampoo, I was impressed by how thick and rich the lather was right from the start. It almost felt like I was indulging in a deep clean every time I used it, especially with how quickly it foam up on my scalp.
Initially, I was worried it might strip my highlighted hair too much, but I quickly noticed it removed all the stubborn product buildup and excess oils without leaving my strands feeling dry or brittle. The scent is fresh and clean—nothing overpowering, just a nice subtle fragrance that lingers lightly.
After a few uses, my hair looked visibly brighter and had more volume at the roots. I particularly appreciated how easy it was to massage into my scalp, thanks to its super sudsing formula.
It rinsed out thoroughly, leaving my hair feeling refreshed and not weighed down.
But what really surprised me is how well it maintained my color. My highlights stayed vibrant, and I didn’t experience any dullness or discoloration.
I used it once a week, and it kept my oily roots in check without over-drying the lengths.
Overall, this shampoo feels like a clean slate for my hair, especially on days when my scalp feels greasy or I’ve used a lot of styling products. Plus, knowing it’s cruelty-free, vegan, and free from parabens and silicones is a big bonus.
It’s become my go-to for a thorough, yet gentle, refresh.
What Is Oily Highlighted Hair and How Does It Differ from Other Hair Types?
Benefits of using the best shampoo for oily highlighted hair include improved scalp health, enhanced shine for the highlighted areas, and a more balanced moisture level throughout the hair. Proper shampooing can help to reduce the frequency of washes needed, which is beneficial for maintaining color-treated hair. Furthermore, incorporating a clarifying shampoo occasionally can be effective in preventing build-up while still being mindful of the hair’s highlighted status.
Solutions or best practices for managing oily highlighted hair include selecting sulfate-free shampoos designed for oily hair, using lightweight conditioners, and implementing regular scalp exfoliation. Additionally, some individuals may find that reducing the frequency of heat styling and avoiding heavy styling products can help to control oil production while preserving the integrity of the highlights. Regular trims can also help to maintain the health of highlighted hair, preventing split ends and further damage.
Which Ingredients Should Be Avoided in Shampoo for Oily Highlighted Hair?
When selecting the best shampoo for oily highlighted hair, it’s crucial to avoid certain ingredients that can exacerbate oiliness or damage the color-treated strands.
- Sulfates: These are harsh cleansing agents, such as sodium lauryl sulfate, that can strip natural oils from the hair and scalp, leading to increased oil production and dryness in highlighted areas.
- Silicones: Ingredients like dimethicone can create a heavy coating on the hair, trapping dirt and oil, which can weigh down fine hair and diminish the vibrancy of highlights.
- Alcohols: Certain alcohols, particularly denatured alcohol or isopropyl alcohol, can be extremely drying, leading to an oily scalp as the body compensates by producing more oil, which can also dull highlighted hair.
- Parabens: While preservatives, parabens can cause irritation and allergic reactions in some individuals, potentially leading to an imbalance in scalp health, which is crucial for maintaining the integrity of highlighted hair.
- Heavy Oils: Ingredients like coconut oil or mineral oil can weigh down hair and lead to an oily appearance, making them unsuitable for those with oily hair, even though they are often beneficial for dry hair types.
- Artificial Fragrances: These can irritate the scalp and lead to an imbalance in oil production, which is detrimental to maintaining the desired balance in oily highlighted hair.
What Benefits Do Natural Ingredients Provide for This Hair Type?
Natural ingredients offer numerous benefits for oily highlighted hair, enhancing both health and appearance.
- Tea Tree Oil: Known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties, tea tree oil helps in reducing scalp oiliness and preventing dandruff. It unclogs hair follicles, promoting healthier hair growth while maintaining a balanced scalp environment.
- Aloe Vera: This soothing plant is excellent for hydration without adding excess oil, making it ideal for oily hair types. Aloe vera helps to nourish and strengthen highlighted hair, preventing damage and enhancing shine.
- Coconut Oil: While it is an oil, coconut oil is lightweight and penetrates hair effectively, providing moisture without greasiness. It helps reduce protein loss in hair, which is especially beneficial for highlighted hair that can suffer from damage.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: This natural astringent helps to clarify the scalp by removing product buildup and excess oil. It also balances the pH of the hair and scalp, enhancing shine and making highlighted hair appear vibrant.
- Jojoba Oil: Mimicking the natural oils produced by the scalp, jojoba oil helps regulate oil production while moisturizing the hair. It’s non-comedogenic, making it a great choice for oily hair types, as it won’t clog pores.
- Chamomile Extract: Known for its soothing properties, chamomile extract can help calm irritated scalps associated with oily hair. It also enhances the natural highlights in hair, providing a gentle lightening effect without harsh chemicals.
- Rosemary Oil: This essential oil improves circulation to the scalp, which can promote healthier hair growth. It also has astringent properties that can help reduce oiliness and enhance the overall texture of highlighted hair.
Which Shampoos Are Specifically Recommended for Oily Highlighted Hair?
The best shampoos for oily highlighted hair focus on balancing oil production while being gentle enough to protect and maintain highlights.
- Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Special Shampoo: This shampoo is formulated with tea tree oil, which helps to control oiliness while providing a refreshing sensation.
- Moroccanoil Extra Volume Shampoo: Designed to add volume, this shampoo cleanses oily hair without stripping the highlighted color, making it a great choice for maintaining vibrancy.
- Redken High Rise Volume Shampoo: This product offers a unique balance of cleansing and moisturizing, specifically targeting oily roots while ensuring that the highlighted parts remain soft and shiny.
- Biolage R.A.W. Scalp Care Shampoo: Infused with natural ingredients, this shampoo helps detoxify the scalp, controlling excess oil while being gentle on highlighted strands.
- Pureology Hydrate Shampoo: While hydrating, this sulfate-free shampoo is also effective in managing oiliness, making it suitable for maintaining color-treated hair.
The Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Special Shampoo is particularly known for its invigorating formula that eliminates excess oil and buildup without affecting the hair’s color. It also promotes a healthy scalp environment, which is crucial for managing oily hair.
Moroccanoil Extra Volume Shampoo not only cleanses but also enhances the natural volume of hair, making it perfect for those with fine, oily highlighted hair. Its lightweight formulation ensures that the highlights remain vibrant and are not weighed down by product residue.
Redken High Rise Volume Shampoo provides a lift to the hair while addressing oiliness at the roots. It works to maintain the integrity of highlighted hair, ensuring that the color remains bright and fresh without feeling greasy.
Biolage R.A.W. Scalp Care Shampoo harnesses the power of natural ingredients to promote a balanced scalp, which is essential for controlling oiliness. Its gentle formula ensures that highlighted hair retains its shine and color integrity.
Pureology Hydrate Shampoo is a well-regarded choice among color-treated hair products, as it hydrates without adding extra oil. Its sulfate-free formula ensures that the highlights remain protected from fading while managing excess oil production effectively.
How Important Is pH Balance in Choosing a Shampoo for Oily Highlighted Hair?
Choosing the right shampoo for oily highlighted hair is crucial for maintaining both the health of the hair and the vibrancy of the color.
- pH Balance: The pH level of a shampoo can significantly impact the overall condition of highlighted hair. Shampoos with a pH that matches the natural pH of hair (around 4.5 to 5.5) help to maintain the cuticle’s integrity, preventing color fade and keeping the hair smooth and shiny.
- Oil Control: Shampoos specifically formulated for oily hair often contain ingredients that help to absorb excess oil without stripping the hair of necessary moisture. This balance is essential for highlighted hair, as overly drying shampoos can lead to damage and dullness in color.
- Color Protection: The best shampoo for oily highlighted hair should include ingredients that protect color-treated strands from fading. Look for sulfate-free formulas that are gentle yet effective in cleansing the scalp and hair while preserving the color vibrancy.
- Moisturizing Ingredients: Incorporating moisturizing ingredients like natural oils or humectants is important even for oily hair types. These components can prevent the hair from becoming overly dry, especially after highlighting, while still controlling oil production effectively.
- Clarifying Properties: While it’s important to use gentle cleansers, incorporating a clarifying shampoo occasionally can help remove product buildup that can weigh down oily hair. However, it’s essential to follow up with a moisturizing conditioner to retain moisture and shine in highlighted hair.
How Often Should You Wash Oily Highlighted Hair with Shampoo for Optimal Results?
The frequency of washing oily highlighted hair with shampoo can greatly impact its health and appearance.
- Daily Washing: For those with extremely oily hair, washing daily may be necessary to remove excess grease and product buildup.
- Every Other Day: This method balances oil control and moisture retention, allowing highlighted hair to maintain its vibrancy without becoming overly dry.
- Twice a Week: Suitable for individuals who experience only moderate oiliness, this frequency helps preserve the natural oils while keeping highlighted strands healthy.
- Use of Dry Shampoo: Incorporating dry shampoo between washes can help absorb excess oil and extend the time between washes, maintaining a fresh appearance.
- Choosing the Right Shampoo: Using a sulfate-free shampoo specifically designed for oily hair can help manage oiliness while protecting the integrity of the highlights.
Daily washing is often recommended for those with extremely oily hair, as it effectively removes the grease and product buildup that can weigh hair down. However, this routine can sometimes strip hair of its natural moisture, requiring careful product selection to avoid damage.
Washing every other day provides a balanced approach, keeping the hair clean without over-drying it, which is particularly important for highlighted hair that may already be prone to dryness. This method allows for oil control while ensuring the color remains vibrant.
For those with only moderate oiliness, washing twice a week can be effective in maintaining healthy hair. This frequency helps to preserve the natural oils that contribute to hair health while still removing some of the excess oil that can accumulate.
Using dry shampoo is a great strategy for extending the time between washes, as it absorbs oil and adds volume without the need for water. This can be especially beneficial for highlighted hair, which may need extra care to prevent dryness.
Choosing the right shampoo is crucial; opting for a sulfate-free formula designed for oily hair can help control grease while being gentle enough to protect the highlights. The best shampoo for oily highlighted hair will balance cleansing without causing damage or fading the color.
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