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Q: Why do I still have greasy hair after washing it?
I have always had gorgeous, soft, and healthy hair. However about a month ago, I started to have greasy hair even after washing. Now, it’s gotten so bad that I can’t straighten it and I can’t wear it down because it is so greasy. I am using a regular commercial shampoo and conditioner, but I read that it causes buildup, is that true? I don’t use any hair products, just shampoo and conditioner.
A: Unfortunately, it is true that regular commercial shampoos and conditioners cause buildup. This buildup can weigh down your hair and make it unmanageable. We recommend using shampoos specifically made for your hair type and preferably one without parabens, sulfates or other harsh chemicals.
However if a good quality hair shampoo alone does not help you get rid of greasy hair you might suffer from a condition called seborrheic dermatitis.
Seborrheic (seb-o-REE-ik) dermatitis is a common skin condition that mainly affects your scalp. It causes scaly patches, red skin and stubborn dandruff. Seborrheic dermatitis can also affect oily areas of the body, such as the face, upper chest and back. Source: Mayo Clinic
According to research, dermatitis is caused by yeast overgrowth. The yeast fungus, Malassezia, which is naturally present on human skin, flourishes on oily skin. When the fungus grows too fast it disturbs the cell renewal and causes scales, redness and even more oil.
In some cases dermatitis does not get a chance to fully develop and might cause non-scaly residue. So even if you don’t have dandruff you might still suffer from dermatitis.
Seborrheic dermatitis can also be caused by things such as: change in hormones, diet, stress, and weather.
How To Get Rid of Greasy Hair and Dermatitis
There are a couple of steps involved in getting rid of greasy hair and dermatitis.
1. Stop washing your hair every day – Washing your hair too frequently strips your hair from its natural oils, which causes your scalp to overcompensate for the oil loss. It is a vicious cycle of over-shampooing and overproducing.
2. Avoid shampoos with harsh chemicals – Like mentioned before, shampoo’s with harsh chemicals, cause residue buildup and should be avoided. Residue will irritate your scalp and stimulate oil production.
Our Recommendation: One of the best natural shampoos for dermatitis is Sage by Maple Holistics. We love Maple Holistics, because not only are their products free of sulfate, parabens and other chemicals, they also offer a 100% Money Back Guarantee. So, just give it a try and if you are not satisfied simply return it.
3. Apply a Apple Cider Vinegar mixture – Apple Cider Vinegar has anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help get rid of dermatitis. Simply mix one part of ACV and one part of water together and apply directly to your scalp three times a week. Let it sit for 15 minutes and then wash it out with a mild shampoo.
4. Rinse you hair thoroughly to avoid residue – Residue in your hair can also be caused by not rinsing your hair thoroughly after shampooing.
If you follow these four steps, you should be grease and dermatitis free in no time.
Have you ever experienced greasy hair after washing? What worked for you?
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