The scalp has numerous sebaceous glands that secrete sebum, an oily substance designed to coat the hair and scalp with a protective layer. This natural oil is meant to prevent moisture loss and act as a shield against the external environment.
Ideally, sebum should flow evenly along the hair strands, helping to keep them from drying out. However, problems arise when these glands start producing excessive amounts of sebum, leading to a thicker layer on the hair, making it appear dull, lifeless, and overly oily.
Dealing with this type of oily hair can be incredibly frustrating. You might frequently wash, dry, and style your hair, only to quickly turn flat and limp. This oily appearance can look and feel greasy, and it may even irritate your scalp.
If you are struggling with an oily scalp and oily hair, reducing the amount of oil your scalp produces could be a key step in managing the condition.
Does Oily Hair Cause Dandruff? The Answer
Why does the Scalp Become Oily?
When it comes to understanding why your scalp might become oily, there are several factors at play. Your sebaceous glands naturally produce oil to keep your hair and scalp healthy, but sometimes they can produce excess oil. Poor hair care is often the main culprit behind this, especially if you’re not shampooing regularly or taking care of your hair properly.
This neglect can lead to a massive oil build-up on the scalp. Additionally, hormonal fluctuations can send mixed signals to your scalp, causing it to produce more oil than necessary. Seasonal changes and weather fluctuations also confuse the scalp, making it another contributor to excess oil production.
Ironically, over-washing your twisty treasure can be a major cause of an oily scalp as it dries out the skin, triggering your body to increase oil production. An unhealthy diet and certain medications can further complicate things by sending the wrong signals to your scalp.
Using harsh hair products and excessive styling equipment can also cause an overly oily scalp, making it crucial to choose your products wisely.
Does Oily Scalp lead to Oily Hair?
Having an oily scalp often leads to greasy hair, but it’s essential to understand the connection. The sebaceous glands on your scalp secrete sebum, necessary for a healthy scalp and hair.
Sebum helps to moisturize the scalp and hair, balances the pH level, and protects the overall condition of your healthy hair. However, when there is excess sebum production, it can cause your hair to become greasy and even dirty, leading to clogged hair follicles and an increased risk of hair loss.
This overproduction of sebum can also contribute to an oily scalp and greasy hair, which might result in other issues like acne on your face and body. When oil builds up due to overactive sebaceous glands, it can lead to seborrhea, commonly known as oily scalp.
This not only makes your hair appear greasy but also increases the likelihood of dandruff and clogged pores on the face and body, resulting in blackheads and pimples.
What is the Association Between Oily Scalp/Hair and Dandruff?
When your scalp produces excess sebum, it becomes oily, creating a welcoming environment for various microorganisms. One such organism is a yeast called Malassezia, a common fungus that feeds on oil.
This fungus breaks down the oil into products that can react with your scalp type, disrupting the natural biome. The disruption leads to an imbalance that is typically manifested as dandruff.
The presence of excess oil on the scalp not only attracts germs but also provides fertile ground for the fungus to explode in growth. This excess activity results in red patchy skin, severe itching, and dead skin accumulating in the form of flakes—the visible signs of dandruff.
Moreover, oily scalp dandruff is often greasy and can lead to further hair care issues, including hair fall.
Managing this condition is imperative; addressing the oily scalp effectively can also help remove dandruff. The key is understanding that oily hair and dandruff often go hand in hand—one follows the other.
By taking comprehensive care of your oily scalp, you not only alleviate dandruff but also prevent potential hair care issues.
How We Can Identify Oily Dandruff?
Identifying oily dandruff involves noticing specific symptoms. The scalp will feel oily and itchy, and the flakes are often sticky and larger than typical dandruff.
These flakes may appear yellow or white, clearly distinguishing them from the usual dry, fine dandruff flakes.
How to Tackle Oily Scalp and Oily Hair?
- Washing your hair regularly can significantly control the excess oil on your scalp. This helps to clean the scalp of dirt and reset your scalp health, serving as an effective oily scalp treatment.
- Using Apple Cider Vinegar can lift all the excess junk from your hair, including oily scalp dandruff, and wash it away. Remember to dilute it and rinse thoroughly to prevent irritation.
- Adopting a healthy diet that avoids greasy foods and includes Vitamin B, vegetables, and plenty of water can help reduce sebum production and improve overall scalp health.
- Clarifying shampoos are beneficial for deep cleaning, as they remove excess oil and dirt effectively. However, use these sparingly to avoid drying out your scalp.
- Tea Tree oil is known for its anti-fungal properties, which can help manage oily dandruff. Use it diluted to avoid any harsh reactions.
- On days you want to skip wet washing, dry shampoo can help counter the oiliness in your hair without over-stripping natural oils.
- To let your scalp and hair breathe naturally, take a break from styling products and hair cosmetic products occasionally.
- Aloe Vera can be applied directly to the scalp as a homemade mask to soothe and remove excess oil, making it a great oily dandruff treatment at home.
How to Kick Out Oily Dandruff Using DIY?
Treating oily dandruff can be simple, effective, and easily done at home using quick and effective methods.
One such method is the Aloe Vera Gel Pack. Squeeze some aloe vera gel and rub it into your scalp. The cooling properties of aloe vera not only cool the scalp but also reduce inflammation at the roots, helping to calm irritation and dryness associated with dandruff.
Another excellent home remedy is Apple Cider Vinegar. Just mix two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with half a cup of water and apply it to the roots of your hair. Allow the mixture to sit for about 10 minutes, then wash off with lukewarm water. This concoction reduces inflammation and balances the pH of your hair, creating an unfriendly environment for dandruff-causing fungi.
For those who prefer using seeds, Fenugreek Paste is a great choice. Soak two tablespoons of fenugreek seeds overnight, drain the water, mash the seeds into a paste, and rub it onto your scalp. Leave it on your hair for half an hour before rinsing off with shampoo. This scalp scrubbing treatment helps to nourish and cleanse the scalp, further reducing dandruff issues.
Also read: The connection between Birth control pills and curly hair
Final Thought
Maintaining a healthy hair care routine with a good scalp shampoo can help you avoid excess oil developing on your head. If after four to six weeks there’s no improvement with these treatments, consider prescription-strength medications. An oily scalp is a recurring issue in life, but knowing you have a solution within arm’s reach lets you rest easy.
FAQs
Is Dandruff Caused by Oily or Dry Hair?
dandruff often arises when your scalp has too much oil and moisture, creating a perfect environment for Malassezia yeast to thrive. This overgrowth of yeast, coupled with an excess of natural oils, is what causes the flakes, not dry skin or hair.
How Do You Treat Oily Scalp and Dandruff?
To manage oily hair and a flaky scalp, I suggest changing your shampoo routine and using a soothing, calming mask. A clay treatment can help balance your scalp, while a lightweight conditioner keeps your lengths hydrated without weighing them down. Also, protecting your skin during color services and opting for weightless styling products can make a big difference.
Which Is Better, Oily or Dry Scalp?
An oily scalp can lead to the overgrowth of fungus like Malassezia Globosa on your skin. If left unchecked, it produces oleic acid that many people in the world are sensitive to, which can contribute to dandruff.
What Is the Root Cause of Dandruff?
Dandruff is often caused by irritated, oily skin or dry conditions on the scalp. A yeast-like fungus called Malassezia feeds on the oils found on the scalps of most adults, contributing to the problem.
Dive into the world of curls with Farah, a celebrated curly hair expert whose passion and expertise have transformed her into a beacon for those seeking to embrace their natural hair texture. With a vibrant career spanning over a decade, Farah has dedicated herself to the science and art of curly hair, making her an authoritative voice in this niche. Her deep understanding of curly hair’s unique needs and challenges allows her to craft personalized care routines and styles that not only enhance the natural beauty of curls but also promote hair health.