What causes oily hair?
Mar 24, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
Long-term late-night stays and high mental stress can interfere with the endocrine system, stimulate sebaceous gland secretion, and lead to oily hair. It is recommended to adjust the daily routine, ensure 7-8 hours of sleep per night, and relieve stress through exercise, listening to music, and other methods. Pay attention to keeping the hair well-ventilated in daily life and avoid wearing hats for extended periods. High levels of androgens, genetic factors, and others can cause excessive oil secretion from the scalp sebaceous glands, making the hair prone to becoming oily.
Oily hair may be caused by unhealthy lifestyle habits, excessive sebum gland secretion, overuse of hair products, endocrine disorders, or seborrheic dermatitis. Appropriate treatments can be selected based on specific situations. If bodily discomfort occurs, it is recommended to visit a hospital promptly and follow medical advice for treatment.
1. Unhealthy lifestyle habits: Long-term late nights and high mental stress can disrupt the endocrine system and stimulate sebaceous glands to secrete more oil, leading to oily hair. It is recommended to adjust your sleep schedule, ensure 7-8 hours of sleep each night, and relieve stress through exercise, listening to music, etc. Pay attention to keeping your hair ventilated and avoid wearing hats for extended periods.
2. Excessive sebaceous gland secretion: High levels of androgens and genetic factors may cause excessive oil secretion by the sebaceous glands on the scalp, making the hair prone to becoming oily. Choose a mild anti-dandruff shampoo with moderate cleansing power, such as products containing salicylic acid or Sapindus mukorossi extract, and wash your hair every 2-3 days to avoid over-cleansing and damaging the scalp. It is recommended to reduce the intake of high-fat and high-sugar foods such as fried foods and cakes, and consume more vegetables and fruits.
3. Overuse of hair products: Frequent use of styling products like hair sprays and mousse can leave residue that blocks hair follicles, affecting oil discharge and making hair oily. It is recommended to reduce the frequency of using hair products. If styling is necessary, choose lightweight products and ensure thorough hair washing afterward.
4. Endocrine disorders: Long-term irregular eating habits and life stress can lead to endocrine disorders and hormonal imbalances, causing abnormal increases in scalp oil secretion. Patients can follow medical advice to use medications like Xiaoyao Pills, Wuji Baifeng Pills, or Oryzanol Tablets to regulate the endocrine system and alleviate oily hair conditions.
5. Seborrheic dermatitis: Hyperactive sebaceous gland secretion and excessive reproduction of Malassezia fungi can cause inflammation, resulting in an oily and itchy scalp accompanied by redness and flaking. It is recommended to use medications like ketoconazole shampoo, selenium sulfide shampoo, or vitamin B6 tablets under a doctor's guidance to improve symptoms.
It is recommended to maintain good personal hygiene habits and wash your hair regularly. Avoid using overly oily hair products and keep the scalp clean.
References:
[1] Li Yanhua. "Oily Hair: What's the Problem?" Rural New Technology, 2021, (08): 66-67.
[2] Yao Songling, Li Sha, Chen Xiaoyan, et al. "Efficacy and Safety of Scalp Oil-Control Balanced Acid in Treating Scalp Seborrheic Dermatitis." Journal of Dermatological and Venereal Diseases, 2024, 31(06): 397-401.
