Start with the Right Shampoo
The foundation of any low-maintenance routine is a shampoo that supports scalp health. Look for clarifying formulas that sweep away residue without leaving hair squeaky or tight. Apple cider vinegar is a standout: it cuts through oil and product build-up while balancing the scalp’s pH, helping regulate grease production over time. Use it once or twice a week to reset; on other days, stick to gentle, sulphate-free cleansers that won’t overstimulate the scalp.
Pre-Empt Grease with Dry Shampoo
Rather than waiting until hair feels limp, apply dry shampoo before grease becomes visible. Think of it as prevention, not cure: a light mist at the roots immediately after blow-drying helps absorb excess oil as it forms. Choose ultra-fine powders that blend seamlessly - no tell-tale white cast - and massage them in with fingertips or a brush to evenly distribute. The result is extra lift and volume that buys you another day without washing.
Treat The Scalp Like Skin
Just as skin benefits from exfoliation and targeted serums, so does the scalp. A build-up of styling products, pollution and natural oils can clog follicles and accelerate greasiness. Weekly treatments with gentle acids, salicylic-infused scrubs or lightweight balancing serums keep the scalp clear, healthy and less prone to imbalance. Think of this step as the facial equivalent for your roots: essential for long-term freshness.
Invest In A Silk Bonnet
Night-time care is often overlooked, but friction against cotton pillowcases can leave hair flat, frizzy and in need of a reset. A silk hair bonnet (or pillowcase if you prefer) preserves blow-dries and natural texture by minimising roughness. It also helps distribute natural oils evenly from root to tip, preventing greasy roots with dry ends. Wake up with smoother, more polished strands that stretch another day.
Hands Off
Touching hair throughout the day may seem harmless, but it transfers oils and dirt from fingertips directly onto the strands, accelerating greasiness. The same applies to excessive brushing, which can overstimulate the scalp. Keep hands and tools away as much as possible, and use a wide-tooth comb only when necessary to detangle.
Work Around Your Fringe
For those with a fringe, it’s often the first part of the hair to look greasy. Instead of washing your entire head, simply cleanse the fringe at the sink or in the shower between full washes. It takes seconds but instantly refreshes the look, extending the lifespan of your overall style.
Dry Shampoos
K18 Biomimetic Hairscience
Airwash Dry Shampoo, £24
With translucent microbeads to soak up excess oil, hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid ensures tresses aren't stripped of hydration.
Aveda
Shampowder Dry Shampoo, £26
A soft powder-to-foam formula made for discreet refreshes, ideal between washes to absorb excess oil gently.
Drybar
Detox Dry Shampoo, £13
Exceptionally lightweight, with rice and seaweed extracts to absorb oil and neutralise odours without flattening hair.
Scalp Treatments
Grown Alchemist
Hydra-Restore Shampoo, £24
A gentle, restorative formula with botanicals that soothe and hydrate the scalp while washing.
Philip Kingsley
Moisture Balancing Combination Conditioner, £28
Helps regulate oil production without stripping, balancing scalp moisture and length care in one step.
Hair Wrap
Silke
Hair Wrap, £55
Made from 100% mulberry silk, the soft wrap encases hair to protect it whilst you slumber. Reducing breakages and friction that can lead to overnight greasy build-up.
Clarifying Shampoos
Color Wow
Color Security Shampoo, £21.50
A gentle clarifier that removes buildup and maintains vibrancy, ideal for stretching out wash days.
Ouai
Detox Shampoo, £36
A purifying formula that cleanses away excess oil and product build-up.
Olaplex
No. 4C Bond Maintenance Deep Clean Clarifying Shampoo, £28
Powered by the brand's Broad-Spectrum Clarifying System, this cleanser removes damaging impurities (AKA excess oil, product build-up, chlorine, hard water minerals, heavy metals and pollutants) from the surface of the hair without stripping or drying.
