15 Best Cosmetologist-Approved Hair Conditioners For Oily Hair (2024)
Keep frizz away from oily tresses and improve their texture without any hassle.
Lindsay Loo is a cosmetologist who has spent 10 years behind the chair in a storied salon in Chelsea. She is a certified Wella Master Color Expert and also has experience backstage at New York Fashion Week. She has a private studio and loves to make her clients feel amazing and welcomed.
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Experience: 2 yearsOyendrila holds a master's degree in English Literature from the University Of Calcutta, West Bengal, and is a certified skin care coach. As a beauty and lifestyle writer with two years of experience, she writes about everything that the modern woman needs to know about grooming and self-care.
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Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Experience: 7 yearsAnjali is an associate editor at StyleCraze. She specializes in hairstyles and hair and skin care and has written over 200 articles in these domains. She has 7 years of experience, and her philosophy about hair and skin care is simple: if you love and care for it, it will be healthy.
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There is a myth that people with oily hair shouldn’t use conditioners, but this is not true. They, in fact, need the best conditioners for oily hair to control the scalp’s excess oil production while ensuring your tresses are smooth and silky. It also promotes hair growth while tackling frizz effectively. If you can’t wait to add an anti-residue conditioner like this to your hair care routine, read on as we’ve listed the 15 best conditioners for oily-haired folks. We’re sure these will solve all your oily hair woes.
Before checking the products, let us take a look at factors contributing to excess oil in your hair and scalp.
In This Article
What Are The Different Causes Of Oily Hair And Scalp
- Washing Your Hair Frequently: Scrubbing your hair or washing it too often can produce more oil in your scalp as your sebaceous glands keep your scalp hydrated.
- Hygiene Issues: If you do not wash your hair properly, sleep in dirty places, and do not wash your pillow covers, you might experience sticky and oily scalp issues.
- Stress: Mental and physical stress can often lead to an oily scalp. Stress can also lead to an increase in unhealthy food consumption, including a high intake of oily and spicy foods, which can ultimately cause excess oil in your scalp and hair.
- Hormonal Imbalances: Irregular periods, pregnancy, or other hormonal changes can be the reason for an overly oily scalp.
15 Best Hair Conditioners Will Save Your Oily Hair
1. Best Weightless Formula:Rahua Voluminous Conditioner
The Rahua Voluminous Conditioner is a nourishing conditioner. It is rich yet weightless. It leaves hair lustrous, silky, and voluminous. The conditioner is formulated with soothing lavender and uplifting eucalyptus that helps yo achieve fuller hair. These ingredients offer a great aromatherapy experience. The conditioner is also ideal for color-treated hair. It is made with plant-powered ingredients that are sustainably sourced from the Amazon rainforest. Check out this review detailing a tester’s experience to learn more about the product.
Pros
- Weightless
- Provides volume to the hair
- Made with plant-based ingredients
- Also ideal for color-treated hair
Cons
- None
Quick Tip2. Best UV Protection:Truss Equilibrium Conditioner
The Truss Equilibrium Conditioner has an oil-balancing formula that helps eliminate excess oil from the hair and scalp. The conditioner also helps in hydrating dry hair ends to keep your hair healthy and moisturized. Removing oil from hair and scalp will also reduce the appearance of oil around the hairline. The conditioner is lightweight and moisturizing. It deeply moisturizes and protects the hair shaft to restore softness. It is formulated with amino acids and proteins. These ingredients target chemical damage and split ends and restore broken cuticles. It also aids in smoothening hair cuticles. The advanced formula of the conditioner also protects your hair from UV rays. It also helps repair extremely oily and smelly hair.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Moisturizing
- Repairs split ends
- Protects hair from UV rays
- Restores broken hair cuticles
Cons
- None
Quick tip3. Best Color-Safe Formula:GK Hair Keratin Conditioner
The GKHair Keratin Conditioner is formulated with natural seed oils and plant extracts. These ingredients help in hydrating hair and leave them nourished and conditioned. The conditioner also contains keratin protein, which protects hair from damage. It also protects hair from environmental aggressors. The conditioner is formulated without any harsh chemicals like parabens or sulfates. It is also ideal for color-treated hair. Reviewers recommend this conditioner to tame extremely frizzy hair while providing proper moisturization.
Pros
- Nourishes hair
- Provides environmental protection
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Ideal for color-treated hair
Cons
- Faulty packaging
| Rahua Voluminous Conditioner Best Weightless Formula | Truss Equilibrium Conditioner Best UV Protection | GK Hair Keratin Conditioner Best Color-Safe Formula | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hair Type | Fine | Oily, Color-and-chemically-treated-hair, Curly, Textured, Straight | All, Oily, Curly, Thin, Damaged |
| Dimensions | 1.63 x 2.75 x 6 inches | - | 3 x 3 x 11.7 inches |
| Weight | 9.3 Ounces. | - | 2.3 Pounds |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 15 | 59 | 50 |
| Price | $38 | $29.99 | $48.2 |
4. Best For Scalp Cleansing:Just Nutritive Natural Oily Hair Conditioner
The Just Nutritive Hair Conditioner is a clarifying, sulfate-free shampoo. It deeply cleanses the hair and scalp. It makes lifeless hair appear shiny, bouncy, and fuller-looking. The conditioner is formulated with lemongrass, tea tree, and basil. These ingredients provide antibacterial properties and purify the hair roots. The conditioner helps restore scalp balance. It offers a refreshing natural lemon citrus scent. It is formulated without parabens, dyes, and silicones.
Pros
- Deeply cleanses scalp and hair
- Restores scalp balance
- Purifies hair roots
- Paraben-free
- Dye-free
- Silicone-free
Cons
- None
Pro Tip5. Best For Itchy Scalp:Yes To Scalp Relief Conditioner
The Yes To Scalp Relief Conditioner is formulated with tea tree and sage oils. These ingredients soothe and calm your dry, itchy scalp. The dermatologist-tested conditioner also contains sweet potato extract and kukui seed oil. These ingredients add moisture and softness to the scalp. The conditioner is clinically proven to soothe dry, itchy scalp in 8 days. It is great for moisture retention. It contains no parabens or silicones.
Pros
- Dermatologist-tested
- Soothes and calms dry scalp
- Moisturizes scalp
- Soothes dry scalp in 8 days
- Paraben-free
- Silicone-free
Cons
- None
"The conditioner has a pleasant scent and also offers relief for an itchy scalp. The product seem beneficial for managing dry scalp, which shouldn't be mistaken for dandruff. This conditioner softens and hydrates even very dry hair, and offers a soothing effect on irritated scalps. The ease of use and the ability to effectively reduce scalp discomfort for several days make it worth it."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The extensive 167 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are vouching for this product.
6. Best pH-Balanced Formula:ecoLove Organic Conditioner
The ecoLove Organic Conditioner is made without sulfates, parabens, or petrochemicals. It is formulated with 95% natural ingredients. The conditioner is enriched with essential oils, organic herbs and plant extracts, and 26 minerals from the dead sea. The conditioner is ideal for normal to oily hair. It helps in scalp-balancing the pH levels and reduces oil production. It is ideal for curly, wavy, and straight hair. Several reviewers have raved that the product moisturizes the scalp and leaves your hair feeling soft and detangled. The conditioner also reduces the environmental impact on hair.
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Moisturizes hair
- Balances scalp pH
- Reduces oil production
- Reduces environmental damage
Cons
- Contains alcohol
7. Best For Cuticle Strengthening:Tru Moroccan Oil Conditioner
The Tru Moroccan Oil Conditioner is a vegan conditioner that is free from parabens and sulfates. The conditioner is formulated with natural plant-based ingredients that pamper your hair. The conditioner repairs damaged hair and nourishes it. It helps restore hair softness and imparts healthy shine. The Moroccan oil in the conditioner controls oil on the scalp by balancing the sebaceous glands. It moisturizes hair while strengthening and restructuring its shafts and cuticles. Using the conditioner allows one to comb and style their hair easily.
Pros
- Vegan
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Moisturizing
- Nourishing
- Strengthens hair shafts and cuticles
- Restores hair shine
- Ideal for colored-hair
Cons
- None
8. Best For Frizzy Hair: Garnier Whole Blends Smoothing Leave-In Conditioner
The Garnier Whole Blends Smoothing Leave-In Conditioner is enriched with the goodness of cocoa butter and coconut oil to deliver deep hydration and make your hair incredibly smooth. It has anti-frizz formation and controls it for a good 24 hours! This everyday, gentle on the scalp formula prevents hair damage to give you utterly smooth, luminous locks. The sweet smell of cocoa butter, vanilla, and coconut oil lends a warm and alluring fragrance to your locks.
Pros
- Hydrating formula
- Long-lasting smoothness
- Adds shine
- Paraben-free
- Phthalates-free
- DMDM-hydantoin free
- Mineral oil-free
Cons
- May not be suitable for sensitive skin.
9. Best Multitasking:OUAI Leave-In Conditioner
The ability of the OUAI Leave-In Conditioner to go the extra mile makes it an exceptional and must-have product for greasy hair. This multitasking mist works to detangle, condition, combat frizz, and smooth split ends. Also, this leave-in conditioner protects tresses from both UV and heat damage up to 450°F. The nourishing formula uses amino acids, tamarind seed extract, and vitamin E to smoothen, protect, and add a gorgeous shine to the mane. This heat-protectant conditioner has a floral scent that imparts freshness to the hair with its Italian lemon, rose, violet, white musk, and bergamot. It leaves hair shiny and thicker. This hydrating conditioner is suitable for all hair types and makes hair manageable.
Pros
- Tames frizz and flyaways
- Protects against heat damage
- Helps with styling
- Protects from UV damage
- Adds shine
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Phthalate-free
- Cruelty-free
- Color-safe
Cons
- None
"Following a perm, my hair was brittle, but this leave-in conditioner brought back the strength in my strands. The scent comes off slightly strong, but not to an unpleasant degree, adding just another dash of salon-fresh feeling. It sprays easily, making my tresses manageable and shiny without feeling oily, even several days afterward."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product is so liked by shoppers that it has gained over 980 great reviews on Amazon.
10. Best For Hair Hydration:L’Oreal Paris Clay Rebalancing Conditioner
The L’Oreal Paris Clay Rebalancing Conditioner purifies the roots and hydrates the hair. The conditioner is formulated without any silicones. It leaves the hair looking beautiful and fresh. It is clinically-tested to hydrate the hair. Several reviewers recommend this conditioner to anyone having trouble managing oily and damaged hair.
Pros
- Moisturizing
- Silicone-free
- Clinically-tested to hydrate hair
Cons
- None
11. Best Non-Greasy Formula:Desert Essence Conditioner
The Desert Essence Conditioner is formulated with ingredients that are perfect for oil-prone scalp and hair. The conditioner is infused with a zesty fragrance of lemon. It purifies and nurtures hair. The conditioner is lightweight and non-greasy. It helps balance the scalp pH. The conditioner leaves the hair bouncy, soft, and manageable while helping you achieve a healthy scalp. This video review detailing a tester’s experience will help you understand more about the product.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Balances scalp pH
- Moisturizing
- Great fragrance
Cons
- None
12. Best For Detangling:Drybar Detox Dry Conditioner
The Drybar Detox Dry Conditioner will leave your hair soft and silky. The detoxifying conditioner has an innovative dry formula that hydrates, smoothens, and detangles hair. It contains argan oil that delivers lightweight hydration to the hair. The conditioner also contains mango butter that restores moisture and nourishes dry ends.
Pros
- Hydrating
- Detangles hair
- Lightweight
- Dry formula
Cons
- None
13. Best Hypoallergenic Formula:Christina Moss Naturals Hair Conditioner
The Christina Moss Naturals Hair Conditioner is vegan and environmentally-friendly. It gently and thoroughly conditions and nourishes the hair. It is safe for color-treated hair. The conditioner is formulated without any harsh chemicals like parabens or sulfates. It doesn’t contain any synthetic fragrances. The conditioner is hypoallergenic and safe for children. Several reviewers recommend this product to repair and smoothen your hair.
Pros
- Moisturizing
- Vegan
- Environmentally-friendly
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Hypoallergenic
- No synthetic fragrances
- Safe for children too
Cons
- Contains alcohol
14. Best For Split Ends:OGX Hydrating TeaTree Mint Conditioner
The OGX Hydrating TeaTree Mint Conditioner helps hydrate and nourish hair. Its formula helps smoothen hair and reduces the appearance of split ends. The conditioner is great for all kinds of hair – including wavy, curly, and straight. The conditioner’s ability to nourish, rejuvenate, and detangle the hair has made it a favorite among reviewers.
Pros
- Moisturizing
- Reduces split ends
- Ideal for all hair types
- Detangles hair
Cons
- May cause allergic reactions
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 677 Amazon acclaimed reviews, this product is sure to find a place in everyone’s shopping bag.
15. Best For Hair Texture Improvement:Pola Form Conditioner
The Pola Form Conditioner is ideal for those who want a soft and natural finish. The product provides a soft texture to hair. It is silicone-free and adapts to the scalp and hair. The conditioner leaves the hair fluffy and smooth, making it an excellent choice for regular use.
Pros
- Provides soft, natural finish
- Silicone-free
- Leaves hair fluffy
Cons
- None
Now, let us know more about the various factors to consider when purchasing the best hair conditioners for oily hair.
What To Look For In A Hair Conditioner For Oily Hair (Buying Guide)
Ingredients:
Conditioners with apple cider vinegar, coconut, or neem clean dirt, grime, and other impurities while banishing excess oil from your tresses. Always look for nourishing ingredients that help reduce oiliness while offering maximum nourishment to your hair and protecting it from environmental stressors.
Formula: The best conditioners for oily hair are lightweight formulas that do not weigh your hair down. The product should not strip the natural moisture of your hair. Choose formulas that are best for balancing, volumizing, and strengthening, as these conditioners are effective at sebum regulation and oil regulation, and promote healthy hair growth. However, remember to conduct a patch test to check for skin sensitivity.
Shine: Controlling your scalp oil does not mean the conditioner should completely turn your tresses into dull locks. Conditioners with argan oil often keep your hair well-protected and add luster without adding excess oil to your tresses.
Long-Lasting Effect: Oily hair often needs too much cleansing. However, choose a conditioner that can keep your tresses sebum- and oil-free without shampooing five days a week.
Now that you know the factors while choosing the best hair conditioners for oily hair, let us look at the significant practices that can help in oil-control.
Tips For Controlling Excess Oil
- Wash Your Hair Less Often: As discussed before, your tresses might be accumulating excess oil due to overwashing. Since frequent washing strips the natural oils of your scalp, the sebaceous glands may produce more oil to rehydrate it.
- Shampoo Your Roots: Shampooing your hair properly can eliminate excess oil, dirt, and grime. Even if you shampoo your hair once a week, make sure that you are catering to the roots of your tresses and rinse well after application.
- Avoid Hot Styling tools: While straighteners and curlers can make your tresses look glamorous, they often tend to make them too greasy, sticky, and oily. It is better to use these heat styling tools as little as possible.
- Clean Your Comb And Hair Brush: It is recommended that you clean your comb and hair brushes almost regularly to get rid of gunk, residue, and buildup. Do not use dirty brushes and combs on your clean hair without washing them thoroughly.
Infographic: Ingredients To Look For And Avoid In Hair Conditioners For Oily Hair
Just like any other hair type, oily hair needs conditioners to keep it smooth and frizz-free. However, you must be mindful of what goes into your products to ensure they do not weigh down your tresses and increase oil production. Check out the infographic below for ingredients you need to look for and avoid in hair conditioners for oily hair.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
People with oily hair need hair conditioners that can tackle excess oil and manage frizz without breaking hair strands. There are some revitalizing hair conditioners with nourishing ingredients that can leave your hair silky, residue-free, and voluminous if used properly. It is important to use conditioners that are lightweight so that it does not unnecessarily weigh your hair down. For example, the Rahua Voluminous Conditioner adds extra volume and body to the hair and is ideal for color-treated hair, while the ecoLove Organic Conditioner is formulated with 95% natural ingredients including 26 minerals from the Dead Sea that balance the skin’s pH levels and reduce excess oil production. Further, the OUAI Leave-In Conditioner protects tresses from both UV and heat damage up to 450°F. Lindsay Loo, a cosmetologist, says, “While it might seem crazy to think shampooing less would help, it actually does. This helps to train your sebaceous glands to produce less. Try to get down to 1-3 days a week and don’t be afraid to shampoo twice on the days you cleanse. Shampoo, rinse, repeat.” There are many conditioners that are apt for color-treated hair and help prolong longevity. However, everybody with oily hair should look out for hair conditioners that also tend to restore broken hair cuticles and nourish the locks skilfully.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it necessary to condition oily hair?
Yes, conditioning oily hair enhances the way it looks and feels. It also makes your hair bouncy, which is difficult to achieve with mere shampooing.
How often must I condition my oily hair?
You must condition your oily hair every time you shampoo your hair.
Is argan oil conditioner good for oily hair?
Yes, argan oil is good for oily hair as It will hydrate dry, brittle hair without adding greasiness or weight to oily hair. However, never use argan oil directly on your scalp if you have oily hair.
Why is my hair oily, but my scalp is dry?
If your hair is straight, the sebum can flow down the length of your hair, leaving your scalp dry and the strands oily. In addition, your scalp’s pores may have accumulated too much dirt and product residue due to these clogged pores pushing sebum down the length of your hair.
How can I moisturize my scalp without it getting greasy?
Here are some ways to moisturize the scalp without making it greasy:
• Wet your hair to make it less oil-absorbing and apply the oil to your scalp using a cotton ball. Let it get absorbed for a little while.
• To remove the oil from your hair, shampoo it soon after. Your shampoo should contain astringents like tea tree oil, citrus oil, rosemary, or chamomile.
• Reduce the amount of hair style products you use. This helps prevent a buildup of product residues that weigh down your hair and cause greasiness.
Should I use shampoo or conditioner first for oily hair?
For oily hair, use a conditioner before shampooing, as the conditioner acts as a shield for the hair, while shampoo removes the natural oils from the scalp and strands.
How long should I leave the conditioner in my hair?
Leave it on for 5-10 minutes for the best results.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author of this article, Oyendrila Kanjilal, is passionate about hair care and styling. She understands the hair’s needs and has an in-depth knowledge of various hair care products. The list of best hair conditioners for oily hair is a compilation based on extensive research, and she has read many customer reviews online from many trusted platforms. These conditioners perfectly fit your hair care regimen and promote hair growth while tackling frizz effectively.
Read full bio of Lindsay Loo
Read full bio of Oyendrila Kanjilal
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Read full bio of Anjali Sayee
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