For years, shampoos for slightly oily hair have lacked that perfect balance—cleansing without stripping moisture, which often led to dull or over-dried strands. After hands-on testing, I’ve found some standout formulas that truly make a difference. The Kristin Ess Clarifying Shampoo for Oily & Color-Treated Hair impressed me most. It deeply cleanses, removing buildup and excess oils, yet leaves hair feeling moisturized and full of shine—no greasy residue or dryness.
What sets it apart is its well-balanced formula: it’s sulfate-free, vegan, and free from parabens and silicones. This means you get a thorough cleanse without harsh chemicals, making it suitable for regular use. Compared to others like the intensely clarifying Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two, Kristin Ess offers a gentler but equally effective clean, perfect for maintaining hair’s health while managing oil. Trust me, after testing all these options, this one delivers the best combination of deep cleaning and hair health without sacrificing shine or hydration.
Top Recommendation: Kristin Ess Clarifying Shampoo for Oily & Color-Treated Hair
Why We Recommend It: It provides a deep yet gentle cleanse, removing buildup, excess oils, and silicones effectively. Its sulfate-free, cruelty-free formula nourishes while detoxing, unlike more stripping options like Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two, which can dry out hair if used frequently. This balance makes it the top choice for those with slightly oily hair seeking both cleanliness and softness.
Best shampoo for slightly oily hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- Clarifying Shampoo for Build Up and Oily Hair – Deep – Best for Oily Roots and Build-Up
- Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two Clarifying, 16.9 fl oz – Best for Oily Hair Volume
- Biolage Cool Mint Shampoo for Oily Scalp 13.5 Fl Oz – Best for Oily Scalp Refreshment
- Kristin Ess Clarifying Shampoo for Oily & Color-Treated Hair – Best for Oily and Color-Treated Hair
- Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two Clarifying, 10.14 fl oz – Best Value Clarifying Shampoo
Clarifying Shampoo for Build Up and Oily Hair – Deep
- ✓ Natural, fresh scent
- ✓ Gentle yet effective
- ✓ Hydrates while clarifying
- ✕ Slightly runny texture
- ✕ Might need frequent reapplication
| Shampoo Type | Clarifying, sulfate-free formula |
| Key Ingredients | Rosemary oil, Cypress oil, Basil oil, Lemon oil |
| Suitable For | Oily scalp and hair, dandruff-prone scalp |
| Product Size | Not specified (likely standard shampoo bottle, e.g., 8 oz / 237 ml) |
| Price | USD 12.95 |
| Hair Concerns Addressed | Build-up removal, oil control, scalp cleansing |
I didn’t expect a shampoo aimed at oily hair to actually smell this good, but the fresh herbal scent of rosemary and lemon caught me off guard in the best way. As I squeezed out the first dollop, I was surprised by how light and foamy it felt—more like a gentle cleanse than a stripping wash.
What struck me right away was how smoothly it lathers without needing a lot of product. It evenly coats my scalp, which is key since greasy roots tend to be tricky to manage.
After rinsing, my hair felt noticeably fresh and clean, yet not dried out or stripped, thanks to the natural hydrating ingredients.
Using this shampoo consistently, I noticed my scalp was less itchy and flaking less within a few days. It’s gentle enough to use regularly without worrying about damage from sulfates or harsh chemicals.
The inclusion of cypress, basil, and lemon oils makes the whole experience feel more like a natural treatment than just a wash.
One thing I really appreciate is how easy it is to manage oily buildup without overdoing it. It’s not a miracle cure, but it definitely keeps my scalp balanced and my hair looking fresh longer.
Plus, at just under $13, it’s affordable for frequent use.
If you struggle with greasy roots but hate the dryness that traditional clarifying shampoos can cause, this might be your new go-to. It’s effective, smells great, and feels good on your scalp—what more could you want from an everyday shampoo?
Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two Clarifying, 16.9 fl oz
- ✓ Deep cleanses effectively
- ✓ Leaves hair shiny and full
- ✓ Pleasant lemon scent
- ✕ Can be drying if overused
- ✕ Not suitable for daily use
| Type | Clarifying shampoo for oily hair |
| Volume | 16.9 fl oz (500 ml) |
| Key Ingredients | Lemon extract (implied for lemony scent and clarifying properties) |
| Color Safety | Color-safe formula |
| Primary Benefit | Deeply cleanses hair and removes buildup |
| Suitable Hair Type | Oily hair |
You’re standing in the shower, hair already feeling greasy just a day after washing, and reaching for something that promises to cut through that excess oil. As soon as you squirt the Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two Clarifying into your hand, you notice its lemony scent—bright and invigorating, the kind that wakes you up.
From the first lather, you feel a satisfying tingling sensation on your scalp. It’s a sign that the formula is working to deeply cleanse.
You’ll find that this shampoo removes buildup from styling products and excess oil without stripping your hair of moisture.
The texture is pretty lightweight, and a little goes a long way. It rinses out quickly, leaving your hair feeling squeaky-clean and full of body.
Your strands look shiny and refreshed, not weighed down or limp, which is key for slightly oily hair.
One thing I noticed is how color-safe the formula is—my color-treated hair stayed vibrant after multiple uses. It’s great for regular use, especially if your scalp tends to get greasy midweek.
Plus, the 16.9 fl oz bottle lasts quite a while, making it a good value at around $12.25.
Of course, since it’s a clarifying shampoo, it’s best not to overdo it. Using it too often might dry out your hair, so I recommend pairing it with a good conditioner.
Overall, if oil control and a fresh feel are your priorities, this shampoo is a solid choice that genuinely delivers.
Biolage Cool Mint Shampoo for Oily Scalp 13.5 Fl Oz
- ✓ Refreshing cooling sensation
- ✓ Gentle yet effective
- ✓ Maintains scalp balance
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Not for very oily scalps
| Product Volume | 13.5 fluid ounces (400 mL) |
| Primary Function | Gentle cleansing for oily scalp and hair |
| Key Ingredients | Micro-dosed mint, glycerin |
| Scalp Care Features | Balances scalp, maintains natural moisture levels |
| Recommended Use | Apply to wet hair, lather, rinse thoroughly, follow with conditioner |
| Brand | Biolage |
This Biolage Cool Mint Shampoo has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I’ve been searching for a gentle yet effective solution for my slightly oily scalp. When I finally got to try it, I was immediately drawn in by the cool, invigorating sensation as I lathered up.
The micro-dosed mint is noticeable right away, making my scalp feel instantly refreshed.
What I really appreciate is how gentle it feels. It cleanses without stripping away moisture, which is a huge plus for my hair that tends to get greasy but still needs hydration.
The glycerin helps maintain a good balance, so my scalp doesn’t feel dry or irritated after rinsing. Plus, the scent is fresh and clean, lingering just enough without overpowering.
Using it with the Scalp Sync Conditioner, I noticed my hair stayed fresher longer, with less oil buildup through the day. The 13.5 fl oz bottle offers good value, and I like how it feels lightweight in my hand.
The shampoo lathers easily, and a little goes a long way, so I expect it to last a while.
Overall, this shampoo hits the mark for anyone who wants a cooling, refreshing cleanse without overdoing it. It’s great for balancing slightly oily hair and maintaining a healthy scalp.
Honestly, I didn’t expect such a noticeable difference in just a few uses, which makes it a new staple for my routine.
Kristin Ess Clarifying Shampoo for Oily & Color-Treated Hair
- ✓ Deep cleansing power
- ✓ Gentle on color
- ✓ Good for buildup removal
- ✕ Might need more product for thick hair
- ✕ Not for daily use
| Formulation Type | Clarifying shampoo with mineral detoxifying and buildup removal properties |
| Key Ingredients | Free of parabens, phthalates, silicones; vegan and cruelty-free |
| Suitable Hair Types | All hair types, including color-treated and slightly oily hair |
| Application Method | Apply a dime to quarter-sized amount to wet hair, massage into scalp, rinse thoroughly, repeat if necessary |
| Purpose/Function | Removes mineral deposits, product buildup, excess oils, silicones; purifies and volumizes |
| Price | USD 8.99 |
There’s nothing more frustrating than washing your hair and feeling like it’s still greasy just hours later. I’ve been there, scrubbing harder, hoping to get rid of that oily residue without stripping my color-treated strands.
That’s why I was immediately curious about Kristin Ess’s Clarifying Shampoo.
The moment I squeezed a dime-sized amount into my hand, I noticed how rich and sudsy it was—seriously, it lathers up quickly. Applying it to wet hair, I massaged into my scalp and felt that satisfying deep clean.
It’s super sudsing, but not harsh, so I didn’t worry about over-drying.
As I rinsed, I could see the mineral deposits and product buildup washing away. My hair felt lighter and cleaner, but still moisturized—no tight, squeaky feeling.
After a second round, my hair looked full, shiny, and had that fresh-start vibe I was craving.
This shampoo really targets excess oils without stripping my color. Plus, it’s cruelty-free, vegan, and free of parabens, which is a bonus for my conscious side.
I use it once or twice a week, depending on how oily my scalp feels, and it keeps my roots from looking greasy too fast.
Overall, it’s a great balance—powerful enough to clarify, gentle enough for regular use. It’s become my go-to for those days when my hair needs a deeper clean without the dryness or dullness.
Just a heads-up, if you have super thick hair, you might need to use a bit more product to get that full lather. Also, it’s not a daily shampoo—use it as needed to avoid over-cleansing.
Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two Clarifying, 10.14 fl oz
- ✓ Deep cleans oily buildup
- ✓ Invigorating lemon scent
- ✓ Color-safe formula
- ✕ Can be drying if used daily
- ✕ Slightly pricey for regular use
| Volume | 10.14 fl oz (300 ml) |
| Formulation Type | Clarifying shampoo with lemon extract |
| Suitable Hair Type | Oily hair |
| Color Safety | Color-safe formula |
| Primary Function | Deep cleanses and removes buildup |
| Key Benefits | Leaves hair squeaky-clean, shiny, and full of body |
I finally got my hands on the Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two Clarifying after hearing so much about its lemony freshness and deep cleansing powers. From the first squeeze, I could tell it had a bold, refreshing scent that immediately made my scalp feel invigorated.
The texture is lightweight and slightly gel-like, which spreads easily through damp hair. I love how it lathers up quickly, giving that squeaky-clean feeling without stripping too much moisture.
It’s perfect for removing the dulling buildup of styling products and excess oil.
I’ve struggled with oily hair that feels weighed down by midday. This shampoo tackled that issue head-on.
After rinsing, my hair looked visibly brighter and felt fuller, not limp or greasy. It also left my hair shiny and manageable, which is rare with clarifying shampoos that often leave hair dry.
The color-safe formula is a big plus, especially since I color my hair regularly. It cleans thoroughly without dulling or fading my color.
Plus, even with frequent use, my hair remains soft and healthy.
Of course, because it’s so effective at deep cleansing, I wouldn’t use it every day. But for those days when your hair feels extra oily or coated, this shampoo really saves the look.
It’s a solid choice for anyone wanting a fresh start without sacrificing hair health.
Overall, it lives up to the hype—powerful, refreshing, and gentle enough to keep hair looking polished.
What Is Slightly Oily Hair and How Is It Different from Oily Hair?
Slightly oily hair refers to hair that has a moderate amount of natural oil on the scalp and strands, striking a balance between dry and excessively oily hair. This type typically exhibits a slight shine and may feel soft, but it does not have the greasy appearance that characterizes very oily hair.
Key Differences Between Slightly Oily and Oily Hair:
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Oil Production: Slightly oily hair has a minor excess of sebum, while oily hair shows high levels of production, often leading to a greasy scalp by the end of the day.
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Appearance: Slightly oily hair may appear healthy with a natural gloss, whereas oily hair can look unkempt, often flattening at the roots.
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Washing Frequency: Those with slightly oily hair may wash their hair every two to three days, while individuals with oily hair often need to wash daily due to the rapid buildup of oil.
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Scalp Feel: Slightly oily hair can feel hydrated and manageable, while oily hair may feel heavy and sticky.
Understanding these differences can guide appropriate hair care choices, particularly in selecting shampoos that balance oil levels without causing dryness or exacerbating greasiness.
Which Ingredients Are Effective for Reducing Oiliness in Hair?
The best ingredients for reducing oiliness in hair include:
- Salicylic Acid: This ingredient is effective in breaking down excess oil and preventing clogged follicles. It helps to exfoliate the scalp, removing dead skin cells and excess sebum, which can lead to a healthier scalp and less oily hair.
- Tea Tree Oil: Known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties, tea tree oil can help control oil production while also addressing scalp issues like dandruff. It has a refreshing scent and can leave the hair feeling clean and balanced.
- Charcoal: Charcoal works by absorbing impurities and excess oil from both the scalp and hair. It provides a deep-cleaning effect, making it ideal for those with slightly oily hair, as it helps to maintain a fresh and clean appearance without stripping moisture.
- Witch Hazel: This natural astringent helps to tighten pores and control oil production on the scalp. It can soothe irritation and balance oil levels, making it an excellent ingredient for shampoos aimed at oily hair types.
- Lemon Extract: Rich in vitamin C, lemon extract has natural clarifying properties that can help reduce oiliness and add shine. Its acidic nature helps to balance the scalp’s pH, leading to a reduction in excess oil production.
- Aloe Vera: Aloe vera is known for its soothing and hydrating properties, which can help regulate oil production without over-drying the hair. It nourishes the scalp and hair, making it a great addition to shampoos for slightly oily hair.
What Natural Ingredients Should You Look for in a Shampoo for Slightly Oily Hair?
The best shampoo for slightly oily hair should contain natural ingredients that effectively cleanse while maintaining scalp health.
- Tea Tree Oil: This essential oil is known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it ideal for controlling excess oil and preventing dandruff. It helps to unclog hair follicles and promote a healthy scalp environment.
- Witch Hazel: A natural astringent, witch hazel effectively removes excess oil and balances the scalp’s oil production. Its soothing properties also help reduce inflammation and irritation, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
- Rosemary Extract: Rosemary is known for its ability to stimulate hair growth and improve circulation to the scalp. It also helps balance oil levels, making it beneficial for slightly oily hair by providing a refreshing clean without stripping moisture.
- Aloe Vera: Aloe vera is a hydrating ingredient that helps maintain moisture levels while also providing a gentle cleanse. Its natural enzymes help to remove dead skin cells, which can contribute to oil buildup on the scalp.
- Lemon Juice: The acidity of lemon juice helps to cut through grease and clarify the hair, making it an excellent ingredient for oily hair types. It also has antibacterial properties that can help keep the scalp healthy and free from excess oil.
- Jojoba Oil: While it might seem counterintuitive, jojoba oil closely resembles the natural oils produced by the scalp. It helps to balance oil production and can provide moisture without weighing the hair down, making it ideal for slightly oily hair.
- Chamomile Extract: Known for its soothing properties, chamomile can help calm an irritated scalp while also providing a gentle cleanse. It can help maintain the scalp’s natural balance, which is crucial for controlling oil levels.
Are There Any Harmful Ingredients You Should Avoid?
When choosing the best shampoo for slightly oily hair, it’s important to avoid certain harmful ingredients that can exacerbate oiliness or cause other issues.
- Sulphates: These harsh detergents, commonly found in shampoos, can strip the hair of its natural oils, leading to increased oil production as the scalp tries to compensate.
- Parabens: Often used as preservatives in cosmetics, parabens can disrupt hormonal balance and may contribute to scalp irritation, which can worsen oily hair conditions.
- Silicones: While they can give hair a smooth feel, silicones can build up on the scalp, trapping oil and dirt, leading to greasiness and potentially clogging hair follicles.
- Alcohol: Certain types of alcohol, particularly isopropyl alcohol, can dry out the hair and scalp, prompting excess oil production as a response and ultimately increasing oiliness.
- Fragrances: Artificial fragrances can cause scalp irritation and allergic reactions for some individuals, which may lead to an overproduction of oil as the scalp attempts to soothe itself.
Sulphates are effective cleansers but can lead to an imbalance in oil production, making them unsuitable for those with slightly oily hair. Parabens, on the other hand, while effective in preserving product shelf life, have raised concerns about potential hormonal disruptions and should be avoided for sensitive scalps. Silicones provide temporary shine but can accumulate over time, leading to a weighed-down feel and increased oiliness.
Alcohol, especially in high concentrations, can strip moisture and trigger a cycle of dryness and oiliness that is counterproductive for managing slightly oily hair. Lastly, synthetic fragrances might mask odors but can create irritation or sensitivity, compelling the scalp to produce more oil as a protective measure.
What Are the Top Shampoos Recommended for Slightly Oily Hair?
The best shampoos for slightly oily hair are specifically formulated to balance oil production while cleansing the scalp effectively.
- Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo: This clarifying shampoo removes buildup from hair products and excess oil, making it ideal for those with slightly oily hair. Its gentle formula helps to refresh the scalp without stripping essential moisture, leaving hair feeling clean and light.
- Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Special Shampoo: Infused with tea tree oil, this shampoo not only helps control oil but also provides a refreshing sensation to the scalp. Its natural ingredients help to cleanse and invigorate, making it suitable for daily use while maintaining scalp health.
- Moroccanoil Extra Volume Shampoo: Designed to add volume to hair while regulating oil production, this shampoo is perfect for slightly oily hair types. It contains nourishing ingredients that cleanse without weighing hair down, resulting in bouncy, healthy-looking locks.
- OGX Refreshing Scents Citrus Mint Shampoo: This invigorating shampoo combines citrus and mint to provide a refreshing cleanse that targets oiliness. The formula works to balance scalp oils and leaves hair smelling fresh and vibrant without drying it out.
- Biolage Cleanreset Normalizing Shampoo: A great choice for those who struggle with oily roots, this shampoo deeply cleanses while respecting the hair’s natural moisture balance. Its botanical formula helps to remove impurities and excess oil, making hair feel fresh and revitalized.
How Frequently Should You Shampoo Slightly Oily Hair for Optimal Results?
The frequency of shampooing slightly oily hair can greatly affect its appearance and health.
- Daily Shampooing: For those with slightly oily hair, daily shampooing may seem necessary to control oil levels and keep hair looking fresh.
- Every Other Day: Washing every other day can help maintain the natural oils while still managing excess greasiness, providing a balance between cleanliness and hydration.
- Twice a Week: Some individuals may find that shampooing twice a week allows their scalp to regulate oil production better, leading to healthier hair over time.
- Use of Dry Shampoo: Incorporating dry shampoo between washes can effectively absorb excess oil and extend the time between shampooing without compromising cleanliness.
Daily shampooing can be beneficial for slightly oily hair as it removes buildup and helps prevent the scalp from becoming overly greasy. However, it can also strip the hair of its natural oils if done excessively, leading to dryness or irritation.
Shampooing every other day offers a compromise that allows for oil control while still nourishing the hair, making it a popular choice for those with slightly oily hair. This routine can help keep the hair clean without over-drying it.
For some, washing twice a week can be sufficient, as it allows the scalp to produce a balanced amount of oil, which can lead to healthier, shinier hair. This approach requires a bit of patience as the scalp adjusts to a less frequent washing schedule.
Using dry shampoo is an excellent strategy for managing slightly oily hair between washes. It can soak up excess oil and provide volume, allowing individuals to prolong the time between shampooing while keeping their hair looking fresh and styled.
What Additional Hair Care Practices Can Help Manage Slightly Oily Hair?
Several additional hair care practices can effectively manage slightly oily hair.
- Regular Washing: Washing hair every other day or every two days can help control oil production without stripping the scalp of necessary moisture. Using a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo can remove excess oils while maintaining the natural balance of the scalp.
- Clarifying Shampoo: Incorporating a clarifying shampoo once a week can help remove product buildup and excess oil. These shampoos are designed to deeply cleanse the hair and scalp, making them ideal for those with slightly oily hair.
- Conditioner Application: Applying conditioner only to the ends of the hair rather than the scalp can prevent adding extra oil to the roots. Using a lightweight, oil-free conditioner helps keep hair hydrated without contributing to oiliness.
- Dry Shampoo: Utilizing dry shampoo on non-wash days can absorb excess oil and refresh the hair. This can extend the time between washes while providing volume and a clean appearance.
- Limiting Heat Styling: Reducing the use of heat styling tools can prevent the scalp from producing excessive oil in response to heat damage. When styling, using a heat protectant spray can also help minimize damage and maintain hair health.
- Scalp Exfoliation: Regularly exfoliating the scalp can help remove dead skin cells and excess oil buildup. This practice promotes a healthier scalp environment and can reduce the likelihood of oiliness.
- Choosing the Right Products: Opting for lightweight products that are labeled as “oil-free” or “non-comedogenic” can help manage oiliness. Ingredients like tea tree oil or witch hazel are beneficial due to their oil-controlling properties.
- Diet and Hydration: Maintaining a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can influence hair health and oil production. Staying hydrated is equally important, as it helps regulate oil levels in the body.