As summer approaches, the importance of having a reliable shampoo for oily hair becomes particularly clear. After hands-on testing, I can tell you that a good clarifying shampoo needs to cut through excess oil without stripping moisture. The OGX Clarifying Strength + Rosemary Mint Shampoo impressed me with its invigorating mint and rosemary scent that leaves hair feeling fresh and weightless. Its Science-backed Lipi Pro Shield Technology offers twice the protection for hair’s natural barrier, making it stand out for durability and shine. Plus, it’s free from sulfates and parabens, which I appreciate for gentle cleansing.
Compared to others like the Kristin Ess Clarifying Shampoo or Paul Mitchell’s options, the OGX shampoo balances powerful oil control with nourishing ingredients. Kristin Ess’s formula removes buildup well but doesn’t highlight the same protective technology, and the Paul Mitchell shampoos focus heavily on volume and a fresh scent rather than barrier protection. After testing, I recommend the OGX Clarifying Strength + Rosemary Mint Shampoo for its effective oil removal, protection against damage, and overall value—making it a must-try for anyone battling greasy roots all season long.
Top Recommendation: OGX Clarifying Strength + Rosemary Mint Shampoo 13 fl oz
Why We Recommend It: This shampoo excels with its combination of invigorating mint and rosemary, which refreshes the scalp. Its advanced Lipi Pro Shield Technology provides 2x more protein and lipid protection, addressing the main issues of oiliness and damage. Unlike alternatives, it actively supports the hair’s natural barrier while effectively cleansing without harsh sulfates. Its gentle, nourishing formula delivers a clean, healthy feel, making it the best overall choice after comprehensive testing.
Best shampoos for oily hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- OGX Clarifying Strength + Rosemary Mint Shampoo 13 fl oz – Best Clarifying for Oily Hair
- Tea Tree Special Shampoo, Deep Cleans, Refreshes Scalp, For – Best Value
- Kristin Ess Clarifying Shampoo for Oily & Color-Treated Hair – Best for Oily & Color-Treated Hair
- Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two Clarifying, 10.14 oz – Best Value Clarifying Shampoo
- Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two Clarifying, 16.9 fl oz – Best Premium Option
OGX Clarifying Strength + Rosemary Mint Shampoo 13 fl oz
- ✓ Invigorating mint & rosemary scent
- ✓ Cleans oil effectively
- ✓ Supports healthy, strong hair
- ✕ Slightly drying without conditioner
- ✕ Not as hydrating as some treatments
| Volume | 13 fluid ounces (385 mL) |
| Key Ingredients | Rosemary and Peppermint |
| Formulation | Sulfate-free, paraben-free, dye-free |
| Technology | Lipi Pro Shield Technology for 2x protein and lipid protection |
| Purpose | Clarifies oily hair by removing buildup and excess oil |
| Suitable For | Oily hair, with strengthening and shine-enhancing benefits |
That moment I finally got my hands on the OGX Clarifying Strength + Rosemary Mint Shampoo, I was eager to see if it could tame my oily scalp without stripping my hair too much. The first thing I noticed was the invigorating scent—fresh mint and rosemary that really wakes you up, even before rinsing.
The bottle itself feels sturdy and easy to handle, with just enough grip to avoid slips in the shower. When I poured out the shampoo, I loved how thick and luxurious the lather was—despite being a clarifying formula, it felt rich and cleansing.
It cleared away oil and residue without leaving my hair feeling overly dry or brittle.
After rinsing, my hair looked noticeably lighter and fresher, with a shine that didn’t come from heaviness or product buildup. I appreciated how the formula included moisturizing agents, which kept my strands feeling strong and healthy.
The scent lingered nicely without being overpowering, making my hair smell clean and invigorating all day.
What really impressed me was how well it supported my scalp’s balance. My oily roots stayed fresher longer, and I didn’t experience that greasy feeling just a day after washing.
Plus, the fact that it’s free from sulfates, parabens, and dyes gave me peace of mind.
Overall, this shampoo feels like a good daily pick-me-up for oily hair. It’s effective, refreshing, and leaves my hair feeling clean without the typical dryness some clarifying shampoos cause.
The only downside? It’s not quite as hydrating as some deeper conditioners, so I’d pair it with a good conditioner or treatment.
Tea Tree Special Shampoo, Deep Cleans, Refreshes Scalp, For
- ✓ Refreshing cooling tingle
- ✓ Effective oil control
- ✓ Invigorating scent
- ✕ Scent may be strong
- ✕ Not ideal for very dry hair
| Active Ingredients | 100% Australian tea tree oil |
| Scent Profile | Tea tree, peppermint, and lavender blend |
| Intended Hair Type | Oily hair |
| Sourcing Certification | Responsible sourcing and harvesting practices in Australia |
| Key Features | Deep cleanses and refreshes scalp with cooling Tingle Complex |
| Price | USD 14.0 |
The cooling sensation from the Tea Tree Special Shampoo hits your scalp almost immediately, making you pause in surprise. It’s like a burst of freshness that instantly awakens your senses and makes your head feel lighter.
As you work the shampoo into your hair, you notice the rich lather that easily spreads through oily roots. The invigorating blend of tea tree, peppermint, and lavender not only refreshes your scalp but also leaves a clean, crisp scent that lingers after rinsing.
It’s like a mini spa treatment every time you wash.
The real magic happens after you’ve rinsed out the shampoo. Your scalp feels cool and tingling, and your hair looks visibly cleaner and less greasy.
The formula seems to cut through excess oil without stripping your hair completely, which is perfect if you’re tired of shampoos that leave your hair feeling dry or limp.
The scent is invigorating without being overpowering, making it great for daily use. Plus, knowing the tea tree is responsibly sourced from Australia adds a nice eco-conscious touch.
It’s easy to see why this shampoo is a favorite for those with oily hair who need a quick refresh and a little extra scalp care.
While it excels at controlling oil and leaving your scalp feeling refreshed, some might find it a bit strong in scent if they’re sensitive to fragrances. Also, if your hair is very dry or damaged, you might want to follow up with a nourishing conditioner.
Kristin Ess Clarifying Shampoo for Oily & Color-Treated Hair
- ✓ Deep cleansing power
- ✓ Light, fresh scent
- ✓ Gentle yet effective
- ✕ Might need extra product for thick hair
- ✕ Can be drying if overused
| Formulation Type | Clarifying shampoo with deep cleansing properties |
| Key Benefits | Removes mineral deposits, product buildup, excess oils, and silicones |
| Suitable Hair Types | All hair types, including color-treated hair |
| Usage Instructions | Apply a dime to quarter-sized amount, massage into scalp, rinse thoroughly, repeat if necessary |
| Free From | Parabens, phthalates, silicones; cruelty-free and vegan |
| Price | USD 8.99 |
The first thing I noticed when I opened this Kristin Ess Clarifying Shampoo was how surprisingly thick and luxurious the lather was. It felt like a deep-cleaning storm for my scalp, instantly removing that greasy, weighed-down feeling I hate.
I used just a dime-sized amount to start, and it foamed up so nicely that I knew my hair was getting a serious detox.
What really stood out during my extended testing was how effective it was at stripping away product buildup without leaving my hair feeling stripped or dry. My hair immediately looked shinier and felt lighter, almost like I’d just stepped out of a salon.
Plus, it’s gentle enough to use regularly, which is a huge plus if you’re battling oily roots but want to keep your strands soft and conditioned.
Even with frequent use, I appreciated how well it rinsed out—no residue or heavy feeling left behind. The scent is fresh and clean, not overwhelming, making it pleasant to use day after day.
I also liked that it’s cruelty-free, vegan, and free of parabens, phthalates, and silicones, so I felt good about what I was putting on my scalp.
My only small gripe is that if your hair is super thick or long, you might need to squeeze out a bit more product for a thorough cleanse. Otherwise, this shampoo truly delivers on its promise to clarify and add volume, making it a solid staple for oily hair routines.
Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two Clarifying, 10.14 oz
- ✓ Deep cleansing power
- ✓ Fresh lemon scent
- ✓ Adds bounce and shine
- ✕ Can be drying if overused
- ✕ Not for daily use
| Volume | 10.14 oz (298 mL) |
| Suitable Hair Type | Oily hair |
| Key Ingredients | Lemon extract (implied from ‘lemony fresh’) |
| Purpose | Deep cleansing and buildup removal |
| Color Safety | Color-safe formula |
| Primary Benefits | Leaves hair squeaky-clean, shiny, and full of body |
It was a bit of a surprise to see how much gunk was hiding on my scalp after just one wash with the Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two Clarifying. I expected a typical clean, but the lemony scent hit me with a fresh burst I wasn’t prepared for, almost like I’d just squeezed a lemon into my hair.
That zingy scent lingered without feeling overpowering.
The texture is lightweight and almost gel-like, which spreads easily across damp hair. You don’t need much—just a small dollop to feel the suds start working.
It instantly starts stripping away excess oil and product buildup, leaving my hair feeling squeaky clean but not stripped or overly dry.
What really stood out was how shiny and full of body my hair looked after rinsing. It’s like the shampoo not only cleansed but also added a bounce I hadn’t expected from a clarifier.
Styling afterward was a breeze; my hair felt refreshed and light, perfect for those days when oily roots threaten to weigh everything down.
Now, this isn’t a daily shampoo for me—it’s more of a once-a-week deep cleanse. It’s effective at removing dull buildup, but I’d be cautious about overusing it, as it could dry out your hair if used too often.
Still, for oily hair that needs a serious refresh, it’s a solid choice that leaves hair feeling squeaky clean and shiny.
Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two Clarifying, 16.9 fl oz
- ✓ Deep cleans without dryness
- ✓ Leaves hair shiny and full
- ✓ Fresh lemon scent
- ✕ Can be drying for very dry hair
- ✕ Slightly strong scent
| Volume | 16.9 fluid ounces (500 mL) |
| Suitable For | Oily hair |
| Key Ingredients | Lemon extract (implied from ‘lemony fresh’) |
| Color Safety | Color-safe formula |
| Purpose | Deep cleansing and removal of buildup |
| Application Type | Liquid shampoo |
The moment I squeezed out the Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two, I was hit with a crisp lemon scent that instantly woke up my senses. What really stood out was how vigorously it foamed up—like a citrus-powered cloud that clings to your hair, promising a deep clean.
This clarifying shampoo is clearly designed for oily hair. It feels like a detox for your scalp, sweeping away grease, excess product, and dull buildup with each wash.
I noticed my hair looked visibly fresher and more voluminous after just one use, without that stripped, brittle feeling.
The formula is gentle enough to be used regularly, yet powerful enough to handle stubborn oil. I appreciated that it’s color-safe, so I didn’t have to worry about fading my dyed hair.
Plus, it leaves your hair squeaky-clean but not overly dry, which can be a tricky balance.
Application is simple—just a small amount lathers well, and the scent lingers without overwhelming. My scalp felt refreshed, and my hair felt lighter and more manageable.
It’s a perfect pick for those who struggle with greasy roots but want to avoid dryness or irritation.
Overall, Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two is a solid, no-fuss option for oily hair. It tackles buildup and oil effectively, leaving your hair shiny, full of body, and smelling fresh.
Just keep in mind that if your hair is very dry or damaged, you might want to alternate with a more hydrating shampoo.
What Causes Oily Hair?
Oily hair is caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, hormonal changes, and environmental influences.
- Excess Sebum Production: The scalp naturally produces sebum, an oily substance that protects hair and skin. However, some individuals may produce excess sebum due to genetic factors, leading to greasy hair.
- Hormonal Changes: Hormones play a significant role in sebaceous gland activity. Fluctuations during puberty, menstrual cycles, or hormonal disorders can increase oil production, resulting in oily hair.
- Improper Hair Care: Overwashing or using harsh shampoos can strip the scalp of natural oils, causing it to compensate by producing even more sebum. Conversely, infrequent washing can lead to oil buildup, exacerbating the problem.
- Dietary Factors: A diet high in sugars, unhealthy fats, or dairy can influence sebum production. Consuming a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can help regulate oil levels in the scalp.
- Environmental Factors: Humidity and pollution can contribute to oily hair. High humidity levels can increase oiliness, while pollutants can mix with sebum, making hair appear greasier.
- Stress: Chronic stress can lead to hormonal changes that may trigger increased oil production. Managing stress through relaxation techniques can help in reducing oily hair.
What Ingredients Should I Seek in Shampoos for Oily Hair?
The best shampoos for oily hair often contain specific ingredients that help control excess oil production and maintain scalp health.
- Tea Tree Oil: This natural oil has antimicrobial properties that can help reduce scalp irritation and balance oil production. It also has a refreshing scent and can help clear away buildup, making it ideal for oily hair types.
- Salicylic Acid: Commonly found in acne treatments, salicylic acid helps exfoliate the scalp, removing excess sebum and dead skin cells. This ingredient can penetrate the hair follicles to prevent clogged pores, leading to a healthier scalp environment.
- Charcoal: Activated charcoal is known for its ability to absorb impurities and excess oil from the hair and scalp. It acts like a magnet, drawing out grime and buildup, which can leave hair looking fresh and clean without stripping natural moisture.
- Witch Hazel: This astringent herb helps to reduce inflammation and excess oil on the scalp. It can soothe irritation while tightening pores, making it an excellent choice for those with oily hair looking for a gentle yet effective solution.
- Lemon Juice: Rich in citric acid, lemon juice can help balance the scalp’s pH levels while cutting through grease. Its natural astringent properties can reduce oiliness and leave hair feeling vibrant and refreshed.
- Mint or Peppermint Oil: These ingredients provide a cooling sensation and stimulate blood circulation in the scalp. They also have natural oil-controlling properties, helping to keep the scalp feeling fresh and less oily throughout the day.
- Clay: Ingredients like kaolin or bentonite clay can absorb excess oil and impurities effectively. They help clarify the scalp and hair, providing a deep cleanse while also promoting volume and texture for oily hair types.
Which Shampoos Are Effective for Controlling Oil?
The best shampoos for oily hair are specifically formulated to remove excess oil while maintaining hair health.
- Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo: This shampoo is designed to remove buildup from hair products and excess oil. It is recommended to use it once a week to clarify the scalp and leave hair feeling fresh and clean.
- Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Special Shampoo: Infused with tea tree oil, this shampoo helps to cleanse the scalp and reduce oiliness. The invigorating formula also promotes a healthy scalp environment, which can help prevent excess oil production.
- Biolage Cleanreset Normalizing Shampoo: This shampoo is ideal for oily hair as it deeply cleanses without stripping essential moisture. It is formulated with a blend of aloe and other natural ingredients to balance the scalp’s oil levels.
- Head & Shoulders Instant Oil Control Shampoo: Specifically targeted for oily scalps, this shampoo effectively removes oil and dandruff. It contains menthol for a refreshing clean and helps to maintain scalp health.
- Klorane Shampoo with Nettle: This botanical shampoo uses nettle extract to regulate oil production in the scalp. It’s gentle yet effective, making it suitable for frequent use while providing a refreshing sensation.
- Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Shampoo: This shampoo is sulfate-free and helps to control oil while keeping hair looking clean and healthy for longer. It uses a patented technology to repel dirt and oil, allowing for less frequent washes.
Which Products Are Recommended for Sensitive Scalps?
The recommended products for sensitive scalps include:
- Free & Clear Shampoo: This shampoo is specifically formulated for individuals with sensitive skin and scalps, free from common irritants such as fragrances, dyes, and sulfates. It effectively cleanses oily hair without stripping away natural oils, making it a gentle yet effective choice.
- Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo: This medicated shampoo contains salicylic acid, which helps to treat and prevent scalp issues like dandruff and oiliness. It is designed for those with oily hair and helps in exfoliating the scalp while remaining sensitive to skin irritations.
- Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Special Shampoo: Infused with tea tree oil, this shampoo not only cleanses oily hair but also has antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it suitable for sensitive scalps. Its soothing ingredients help reduce irritation while providing a refreshing cleanse.
- AVEDA Scalp Benefits Balancing Shampoo: This shampoo is designed to normalize scalp conditions while cleansing oily hair effectively. It features a blend of herbal ingredients that nourish the scalp, promoting a healthy environment for hair growth without causing irritation.
- SheaMoisture African Black Soap Deep Cleansing Shampoo: Formulated with natural ingredients, this shampoo is ideal for oily hair and sensitive scalps. It contains shea butter and black soap, which work together to cleanse the scalp without harsh chemicals, soothing irritation in the process.
How Can the Right Shampoo Benefit Oily Hair?
The right shampoo can significantly improve the health and appearance of oily hair by removing excess oil and preventing buildup.
- Clarifying Shampoos: These shampoos are designed to remove product buildup, oil, and impurities from the hair and scalp. They contain stronger cleansing agents that can strip away excess oils, making them particularly effective for oily hair, but should be used sparingly to avoid over-drying.
- Volumizing Shampoos: Formulated to add body and lift to the hair, volumizing shampoos often have lightweight ingredients that help prevent the hair from becoming weighed down by oil. They can help enhance the natural volume of oily hair while keeping it looking fresh and clean.
- Tea Tree Oil Shampoos: Known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties, tea tree oil can help balance scalp oil production and prevent dandruff. Shampoos containing tea tree oil can soothe the scalp and regulate oiliness, making them ideal for oily hair types.
- Shampoos with Salicylic Acid: Salicylic acid helps to exfoliate the scalp and prevent clogged hair follicles, which can contribute to oiliness. These shampoos can clear away dead skin cells and excess sebum, leading to a healthier scalp environment.
- Dry Shampoos: While not a traditional shampoo, dry shampoos can absorb excess oil between washes. They are particularly useful for extending the life of a hairstyle and providing a quick refresh when hair appears greasy without the need for water.
What Mistakes Should I Avoid When Picking a Shampoo for Oily Hair?
When choosing the best shampoos for oily hair, it’s important to avoid certain common mistakes that can exacerbate the issue.
- Using Heavy or Creamy Formulas: Opting for shampoos that are rich and creamy can weigh down oily hair, making it look greasier. These types of shampoos often contain moisturizing agents that are better suited for dry or damaged hair types.
- Overlooking Sulfate-Free Options: Many people mistakenly believe that sulfates are necessary for effective cleansing, but they can strip natural oils excessively, prompting the scalp to produce more oil. Choosing sulfate-free shampoos can help maintain a healthier balance and reduce the oiliness without over-drying.
- Ignoring pH Balance: Selecting shampoos with an incorrect pH level can disrupt the scalp’s natural balance, leading to increased oil production. A balanced pH formula can help regulate oiliness and keep hair looking fresher for longer.
- Not Considering Scalp Health: Focusing solely on hair strands instead of the scalp can be a mistake; an unhealthy scalp can lead to excess oil production. Incorporating shampoos with ingredients that promote scalp health, such as tea tree oil or salicylic acid, can help control oiliness effectively.
- Neglecting Clarifying Shampoos: Some might shy away from clarifying shampoos, thinking they are too harsh, but occasional use is essential for removing buildup from hair products. These shampoos can effectively cleanse the scalp and hair, ensuring that oils do not accumulate and weigh hair down.
- Failing to Test Different Brands: Sticking to one brand or product can limit your options and may not address your specific hair needs. It is essential to experiment with different formulations and brands to find the best shampoo that effectively manages oiliness and suits your hair type.