What should you know about solution for oily scalp?

Oil is produced by glands around hair follicles. Heat, sweat, hormones, hair products, and infrequent cleansing can make the scalp feel greasy. Oiliness with yellowish flakes, itch, or redness can occur with dandruff or seborrhoeic dermatitis; oil alone does not establish either condition.

Wash according to how quickly the scalp becomes oily, using fingertips rather than nails and rinsing thoroughly. Apply conditioner mainly to the lengths if the roots become heavy. Limit heavy oils, waxes, and leave-in products near the scalp, and clean brushes regularly. If flakes or irritation continue, a clinician or pharmacist can recommend [Medicated Shampoo Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/medicated-shampoo-therapy/) and explain how to use it safely. Related information is available for [Dandruff](/conditions/dandruff/) and [Seborrheic Dermatitis](/conditions/seborrheic-dermatitis/).

Seek medical advice if oiliness is accompanied by persistent itch, marked redness, painful spots, crusting, scaling beyond the scalp, or patchy hair loss. Arrange review when a careful washing routine and recommended treatment do not help, because the diagnosis may need checking and another scalp problem may be present.

How often should I wash my scalp? Do my flakes or redness fit dandruff or seborrhoeic dermatitis? Which ingredients should I avoid, and how long should I try a medicated shampoo before returning?