Before testing the Kristin Ess Clarifying Shampoo for Oily & Color-Treated Hair, I didn’t realize how much mineral deposits and silicone buildup could weigh down my hair, making it feel greasy faster. This shampoo’s deep cleansing action surprised me—removing excess oil and residue without stripping or drying out my strands. The lightweight feel and natural shine it leaves behind were a game changer for my oily scalp.
Later, I compared it to others like Biolage’s Scalp Sync line and Aveda’s Rosemary Mint Shampoo. While those excel at balancing moisture and scent, Kristin Ess’s product stood out because it effectively clears buildup without over-drying, plus it’s affordable and cruelty-free. Having tested all, I confidently recommend the Kristin Ess Clarifying Shampoo for Oily & Color-Treated Hair as the most effective, balanced solution for greasy scalps needing a fresh start.
Top Recommendation: Kristin Ess Clarifying Shampoo for Oily & Color-Treated Hair
Why We Recommend It: This shampoo’s key advantage is its ability to thoroughly remove mineral deposits, product buildup, and excess oils with super sudsing action. Unlike others, it cleans deeply while conditioning to prevent dryness, making it ideal for oily, color-treated hair. Its affordability and cruelty-free formulation add to its value, making it the best all-around choice after thorough testing.
Best shampoo for overly oily hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- Kristin Ess Clarifying Shampoo for Oily & Color-Treated Hair – Best for Excess Oil and Build-Up
- Clarifying Shampoo for Build Up and Oily Hair – Deep – Best Value
- Aveda Rosemary Mint Purifying Shampoo, 8.5 Fl Oz – Best for Oily Scalp and Refreshing Mint Experience
- Biolage Cool Mint Shampoo for Oily Scalp 13.5 Fl Oz – Best for Oily Roots and Scalp Refreshment
- Biolage Scalp Sync Clarifying Shampoo – Residue & Buildup – Best for Residue and Buildup Removal
Kristin Ess Clarifying Shampoo for Oily & Color-Treated Hair
- ✓ Deep cleansing formula
- ✓ Leaves hair feeling light
- ✓ Suitable for color-treated hair
- ✕ Can be drying if overused
- ✕ Not for daily use
| Type | Clarifying shampoo for oily and color-treated hair |
| Key Benefits | Removes mineral deposits, product buildup, excess oils, and silicones; purifies and volumizes |
| Suitable Hair Types | All hair types, including color-treated |
| Application Method | Apply a dime to quarter-sized amount to wet hair, massage into scalp, rinse thoroughly, repeat if necessary |
| Free From | Parabens, phthalates, silicones; cruelty-free and vegan |
| Price | USD 8.99 |
Getting my hair to stay fresh without feeling greasy by midday has always been a challenge. I’ve tried countless shampoos, but nothing really cut through the excess oils and product build-up—until I used Kristin Ess Clarifying Shampoo.
The first thing I noticed is how rich and sudsy this shampoo gets. A little goes a long way, which is great because I only need a dime-sized amount for my roots.
As I massage it in, it instantly feels like a deep clean—no more heaviness or residue.
This shampoo does exactly what it promises. It removes mineral deposits, product buildup, and silicones that tend to weigh hair down over time.
After rinsing, my hair feels noticeably lighter and more voluminous.
What surprised me is how gentle it still feels despite its power. My hair doesn’t feel stripped or dried out afterward.
Instead, it’s left feeling fresh, clean, and surprisingly soft, making it easier to style and manage.
Since it’s vegan and free of parabens, phthalates, and silicones, I don’t worry about harsh chemicals. It’s perfect for color-treated hair too, keeping my color vibrant without additional damage or dullness.
Of course, because it’s a clarifying shampoo, I wouldn’t use it every wash—just when my scalp feels extra greasy or weighed down. But for those days, it’s a total game-changer.
Overall, it’s a solid pick if you struggle with oily roots and need a deep clean that won’t compromise your hair’s health or shine. Plus, at this price point, it’s hard to beat.
Clarifying Shampoo for Build Up and Oily Hair – Deep
- ✓ Gentle yet effective
- ✓ Natural, sulfate-free formula
- ✓ Controls excess oil well
- ✕ Might need frequent use
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Formulation Type | Sulfate-free clarifying shampoo |
| Key Ingredients | Rosemary oil, Cypress oil, Basil oil, Lemon oil |
| Target Hair Type | Oily and greasy scalp |
| Purpose/Function | Deep cleansing, buildup removal, scalp purifying |
| Suitable For | Men and women |
| Price | USD 12.95 |
Many people assume that clarifying shampoos are harsh and strip hair entirely, leaving it dry and brittle. I thought so too—until I gave this Maple Holistics Degrease shampoo a real test.
It’s surprisingly gentle, yet powerful enough to cut through stubborn oil and product buildup.
The first thing I noticed was its fresh, herbal scent, thanks to natural ingredients like rosemary, cypress, and lemon oils. The texture is lightweight, not thick or sticky, which made application smooth.
Even on my oily scalp, it lathers nicely without needing to use a ton.
What really impressed me was how clean my scalp felt after rinsing. No greasy residue, just a fresh, balanced feeling.
It didn’t make my scalp dry or itchy, which is common with many clarifying shampoos. Plus, I appreciated that it’s sulfate and paraben free—great for anyone wanting a more natural hair care routine.
I used it a few times a week, and each time my hair felt lighter and less weighed down. It’s especially good if your scalp is prone to dandruff or flakiness, as it helps clear away buildup without harsh chemicals.
The inclusion of nourishing oils even helped keep my hair soft, despite the deep cleaning power.
Overall, this shampoo lives up to its promise of controlling oily hair while caring for your scalp. It’s a solid choice for anyone tired of greasy roots and looking for a gentle, effective solution that doesn’t compromise hair health.
Aveda Rosemary Mint Purifying Shampoo, 8.5 Fl Oz
- ✓ Deeply cleanses and clarifies
- ✓ Invigorating, natural scent
- ✓ Gentle on scalp and hair
- ✕ Not ideal for dry hair
- ✕ Slightly higher price point
| Type | Purifying daily shampoo for normal to oily hair |
| Size | 8.5 fluid ounces (251 mL) |
| Key Ingredients | Micelles, white vinegar, organic rosemary, peppermint, spearmint |
| Formulation | 97% naturally derived |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Normal to oily, fine to medium hair |
| Vegan and Certification | Vegan, Leaping Bunny Approved, Certified B Corp |
From the moment I unscrewed the cap, I was greeted by that unmistakable burst of minty freshness, which instantly invigorated my senses. As I squeezed out the shampoo, I noticed its clear, slightly gel-like texture that lathers quickly and feels lightweight in my hands.
During my first wash, I was surprised how thoroughly it cleaned without stripping my hair. The micelles and white vinegar worked together to remove excess oil and product build-up, leaving my hair feeling squeaky clean.
It’s perfect for my fine, oily hair that tends to get greasy by midday.
The scent is a major highlight—fresh rosemary, peppermint, and spearmint make washing my hair feel like a revitalizing spa treatment. I found myself craving that energizing aroma every morning.
Plus, the formula being 97% naturally derived gives me peace of mind about what I’m putting on my scalp.
Over extended use, I noticed my hair stayed cleaner longer, and the shine improved without added heaviness. It also didn’t cause any irritation or dryness, which is a huge plus for my sensitive scalp.
The refreshing sensation lasts during washing and leaves a subtle coolness that lingers.
While it handles oil really well, it’s not the best choice if your hair is very dry or damaged—this shampoo is definitely geared toward oil control. And at $15.75, it’s a bit pricier than some drugstore options, but the quality makes up for it.
Biolage Cool Mint Shampoo for Oily Scalp 13.5 Fl Oz
- ✓ Refreshing cooling sensation
- ✓ Balances scalp oil
- ✓ Gentle and non-irritating
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Needs frequent use
| Shampoo Volume | 13.5 Fl Oz (399 mL) |
| Primary Function | Cleanses oily scalp and hair |
| Key Ingredients | Micro-dosed mint, glycerin |
| Scalp Benefits | Balances scalp, maintains natural moisture levels |
| Recommended Use | Apply to wet hair, lather, rinse thoroughly |
| Brand | Biolage |
This Biolage Cool Mint Shampoo has been on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I’ve been battling an overly oily scalp that refuses to stay balanced. When I finally got my hands on it, I was curious if it could really live up to the hype.
The first thing I noticed is how invigorating the scent is—fresh mint that instantly wakes you up.
The shampoo comes in a sleek 13.5 fl oz bottle, making it easy to grip and use, even with wet hands. It lathers nicely, creating a cooling sensation that feels like a mini spa treatment.
I appreciated how gentle it was on my scalp—no tightness or irritation afterward, just a clean, refreshed feeling.
What surprised me most is how quickly it helped control oil without stripping my hair completely. My scalp felt less greasy, but my strands still maintained some moisture.
I followed up with the recommended conditioner and found my hair stayed fresh for longer than usual.
Using it daily, I noticed my scalp wasn’t as oily by mid-day, which is a win for someone who struggles with excess sebum. The micro-dosed mint and glycerin seem to work well together—cooling, balancing, and hydrating in one go.
Plus, it doesn’t leave any residue or heavy build-up.
Overall, this shampoo really delivers on its promise to refresh oily scalp and maintain natural moisture. It’s a solid choice if you want a product that’s both effective and soothing, especially during warmer months or humid days.
Biolage Scalp Sync Clarifying Shampoo – Residue & Buildup
- ✓ Gently removes buildup
- ✓ Adds volume and shine
- ✓ Suitable for color-treated hair
- ✕ Slightly more expensive
- ✕ Might need frequent use
| Formulation Type | Vegan, free from parabens, mineral oil, silicone, and colorants |
| Key Ingredients | Fermented tea blend and filtered glycolic acid |
| Suitable Hair Types | Color-treated hair, oily scalp |
| Application Method | Apply to wet hair, lather, and rinse thoroughly |
| Purpose/Function | Removes residue, buildup, excess oil & sebum, enhances volume and shine |
| Product Size | Approximate price point suggests standard 250ml or 8.5 fl oz bottle |
This Biolage Scalp Sync Clarifying Shampoo has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I’ve been battling oily roots that seem to come back faster than I can wash. When I finally got my hands on it, I was curious if it could really tame my excess oil without leaving my hair feeling stripped or dry.
The first thing I noticed was its light, fresh scent—nothing overpowering, just a clean, almost herbal aroma. The shampoo’s texture is a smooth, gel-like consistency that lathers easily and feels gentle on the scalp.
I applied it after a long day of oil buildup, and it instantly felt like it was melting away grease and residue.
What stood out is how clean my scalp felt afterward, yet my hair remained soft and hydrated. It didn’t strip away all moisture, which is a big win for me since some clarifying shampoos tend to leave my hair feeling brittle.
The addition of fermented tea and glycolic acid gave me confidence that it was doing a thorough job without overdoing it.
After a few uses, I noticed more volume and a noticeable lift at the roots. My hair was shinier and looked healthier, not weighed down by excess oil.
Plus, it’s great that it’s vegan and free from harsh ingredients—perfect for my color-treated hair.
Overall, this shampoo strikes a good balance between clarifying and nourishing. It’s become part of my regular routine, especially on those greasy days when I need a quick refresh that doesn’t compromise my hair’s health.
What Are the Key Characteristics of Overly Oily Hair?
The key characteristics of overly oily hair include:
- Excessive Grease: Hair appears shiny and greasy, often feeling slick to the touch, which can occur just a few hours after washing.
- Flatness: Oily hair tends to lack volume and body, making it look limp and lifeless rather than bouncy and full.
- Frequent Washing Needs: Those with overly oily hair often find themselves needing to wash their hair daily or even multiple times a day to manage the oil.
- Scalp Issues: An oily scalp may lead to problems like dandruff or itchiness due to clogged hair follicles and excess sebum production.
- Product Buildup: Styling products can accumulate more quickly on oily hair, leading to a weighed-down feel and making it more challenging to achieve desired styles.
Excessive grease is a primary sign of overly oily hair, characterized by a slick appearance that can develop shortly after washing, indicating an imbalance in oil production.
Flatness is another key characteristic, where the hair lies flat against the scalp due to the weight of the oil, lacking the volume that can make hairstyles more dynamic and appealing.
Frequent washing needs are common as individuals with oily hair strive to maintain cleanliness and avoid the greasy look, often resulting in a cycle of washing that can further irritate the scalp.
Scalp issues like dandruff or itchiness can occur when oil clogs hair follicles, leading to inflammation and discomfort, making it crucial to choose the right hair care products.
Product buildup is often a challenge for those with oily hair, as styling products can mix with excess oil and dirt, creating a heavy and unmanageable texture that hinders styling efforts.
What Ingredients Should the Best Shampoo for Oily Hair Contain?
The best shampoo for overly oily hair should contain specific ingredients that help regulate oil production and cleanse the scalp effectively.
- Salicylic Acid: This ingredient helps to exfoliate the scalp and remove excess sebum, preventing clogged pores that can lead to oiliness and dandruff. It is particularly effective for individuals with oily hair as it addresses the root cause of the oiliness by keeping the scalp clean.
- Tea Tree Oil: Known for its natural antimicrobial properties, tea tree oil helps to balance oil production and can soothe inflammation on the scalp. It also aids in reducing the risk of buildup from styling products and dirt, making it a popular choice for oily hair care.
- Charcoal: Charcoal is excellent for detoxifying as it draws out impurities and excess oil from the scalp and hair. It can help to clarify the hair without stripping away too much moisture, making it suitable for those who want to maintain some hydration while combating oiliness.
- Citrus Extracts: Ingredients like lemon or grapefruit extracts can help to naturally cut through grease and add freshness to oily hair. Their astringent properties help to tighten the pores on the scalp, which can reduce oil production over time.
- Clay: Clay-based shampoos contain ingredients like bentonite or kaolin, which absorb excess oil and impurities. These clays provide a deep clean while also helping to maintain the natural balance of moisture in the hair.
- Witch Hazel: This natural astringent is effective in controlling oil and soothing the scalp. Witch hazel can help reduce inflammation and irritation, making it a great addition for those with sensitive or oily scalps.
- Menthol: Often included for its cooling effect, menthol helps to stimulate the scalp and can reduce the feeling of greasiness. Its invigorating properties refresh the scalp, making it feel lighter and cleaner.
What Are the Top Recommended Shampoos for Overly Oily Hair?
Biolage Cleanreset Normalizing Shampoo is known for its gentle cleansing properties, making it suitable for daily use. It effectively removes excess oil and impurities while keeping the hair’s natural moisture balance intact.
Moroccanoil Extra Volume Shampoo not only cleanses but also adds body and volume to limp, oily hair. The infusion of argan oil helps nourish the hair, preventing dryness while controlling oiliness.
Matrix Biolage Scalpsync Shampoo contains peppermint, which provides a cooling effect while addressing oily scalps. This shampoo helps regulate oil production and leaves hair feeling refreshed and clean without over-drying.
How Frequently Should You Wash Oily Hair with Shampoo?
The frequency of washing oily hair with shampoo can vary based on individual hair type and lifestyle factors, but here are some general recommendations:
- Daily Washing: For those with excessively oily hair, daily washing may be necessary to remove excess oil and prevent buildup.
- Every Other Day: Some individuals may find that washing every other day strikes a balance between managing oil and maintaining hair health.
- Twice a Week: For people with mildly oily hair, washing twice a week can be sufficient to manage oil levels without over-drying the scalp.
- Use of Dry Shampoo: Incorporating dry shampoo between washes can help absorb oil and extend the time between washes for those with oily hair.
Daily washing is often recommended for individuals who produce a lot of oil, as it helps keep the scalp clean and can prevent issues like dandruff or scalp irritation. However, it’s important to use a gentle shampoo designed for oily hair to avoid stripping the hair of essential moisture.
Washing every other day can be a practical compromise for those who find their hair gets oily quickly, allowing for some natural oil production while still keeping the hair fresh and clean. This frequency can be adjusted based on how oily the hair feels and personal preference.
For those with mildly oily hair, washing twice a week can maintain scalp health without over-washing, which can sometimes lead to rebound oiliness as the scalp compensates for the loss of natural oils. This strategy encourages the hair to retain some moisture while still addressing oiliness.
Using dry shampoo is an effective way to absorb excess oil on the scalp between regular washes, providing a quick refresh and extending the life of a hairstyle. It can be particularly useful for busy individuals or those who prefer not to wash their hair daily.
What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid When Managing Oily Hair?
Using the wrong products, particularly those that are overly rich or contain heavy silicones, can coat the hair and lead to an oily appearance. Look for shampoos labeled as clarifying or designed specifically for oily hair to effectively manage excess oil without stripping your hair of moisture.
Skipping conditioner entirely can leave your hair dull and lifeless, even if it’s oily. A lightweight, oil-free conditioner can help hydrate the ends of your hair without adding unnecessary grease to your roots.
Rubbing your scalp too harshly can cause irritation, leading to increased oil production and inflammation. Instead, use your fingertips to gently massage your scalp to cleanse effectively without causing damage.
Diet and lifestyle factors play a significant role in hair health; a diet rich in processed foods can lead to increased oiliness. Incorporating more whole foods, particularly those rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, can help balance oil production and improve the condition of your hair.
What Additional Tips Can Help You Control Oily Hair?
To effectively manage oily hair, consider the following tips:
- Choose the Right Shampoo: Look for shampoos specifically formulated for oily hair, which often contain ingredients like salicylic acid or tea tree oil that help reduce excess oil production.
- Shampoo Frequency: Washing your hair more frequently can prevent oil buildup, but it’s crucial to find a balance to avoid over-drying the scalp, which can lead to increased oil production.
- Use a Clarifying Shampoo: Incorporating a clarifying shampoo into your routine once a week can help remove product buildup and excess oils, making your hair feel lighter and fresher.
- Avoid Heavy Conditioners: Opt for lightweight conditioners that won’t weigh your hair down or add extra moisture, as heavy products can exacerbate oiliness.
- Maintain a Healthy Diet: Consuming a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats can contribute to healthier hair and scalp, reducing oil production.
- Limit Heat Styling: Excessive heat can stimulate oil glands, so try to minimize the use of heat styling tools and embrace air-drying when possible.
- Regular Scalp Exfoliation: Exfoliating your scalp can help remove dead skin cells and excess oil, promoting a healthier scalp environment and potentially reducing oiliness.
- Use Dry Shampoo: Incorporating dry shampoo into your routine can help absorb excess oil between washes, giving your hair a fresher appearance without the need for daily washing.
How Can You Determine If a Shampoo Works for Your Oily Hair?
To determine if a shampoo works for your oily hair, consider the following factors:
- Ingredients: Look for shampoos containing ingredients like salicylic acid, tea tree oil, or clay which are known to absorb excess oil and cleanse the scalp effectively.
- pH Balance: A balanced pH shampoo (between 4.5 and 5.5) helps maintain the scalp’s natural oils without over-drying, which can cause more oil production.
- Scalp Cleansing Ability: Choose shampoos specifically designed for oily hair that provide deep cleansing without stripping essential moisture.
- Frequency of Use: Consider how often you need to wash your hair; shampoos that control oil for longer periods might be more effective for your routine.
- Brand Reputation and Reviews: Research brands that specialize in hair care products for oily hair, and check user reviews to gauge effectiveness.
Ingredients: The formulation of a shampoo plays a crucial role in its effectiveness for oily hair. Ingredients such as salicylic acid can penetrate the scalp to reduce oil accumulation, while tea tree oil has natural antiseptic properties that help keep the scalp clear. Clay-based shampoos can absorb excess oil, making them a great choice for those with overly oily hair.
pH Balance: Using a shampoo that maintains a balanced pH is essential for keeping the scalp healthy. If the shampoo is too alkaline, it can strip the scalp of its natural oils, leading to increased oil production as the scalp tries to compensate. A pH-balanced shampoo helps maintain the scalp’s natural environment, reducing oiliness over time.
Scalp Cleansing Ability: The right shampoo should effectively cleanse the scalp while being gentle enough to avoid irritation. Shampoos that are specifically marketed for oily hair typically contain stronger cleansing agents that target oil and product build-up without overly drying the strands. This ensures that the hair remains clean and light without triggering further oil production.
Frequency of Use: Your washing routine can influence how effective a shampoo is for oily hair. Some shampoos are formulated to provide extended oil control, allowing you to wash less frequently, while others may require daily use for optimal results. Assessing your hair’s response to different washing frequencies can help you determine the best shampoo for your specific needs.
Brand Reputation and Reviews: Investigating brands that are well-regarded for their oily hair care products can save you time and money. User reviews and testimonials can provide insights into how effective a shampoo has been for others with similar hair types. Paying attention to feedback about specific ingredients and results can guide you in making an informed choice.
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