The 11 Best Conditioners for Oily Hair, According to Editors and Experts

While there are many factors that cause an oily scalp (i.e. genetics, stress and styling habits), there are simple ways to manage it—starting with finding the right products. Now, it’s easy to pick up the first bottle you see in the bath aisles, but keep in mind that some contain harsh ingredients like sulfates and silicones that can make the problem worse. Luckily, my team has already covered the best shampoos for oily hair, so let’s focus on conditioner now. Whether you’re looking for the best-smelling formula like Briogeo Superfoods Control & Balancing Conditioner or interested in our best overall like Paul Mitchell Special Tea Tree Conditioner, I compiled the 11 best conditioners for oily hair. 

• Philip B. is a scalp expert, celebrity hairstylist and founder of Philip B. Haircare. He has over 30 years of experience, having launched his first product—the Rejuvenating Oil Treatment—in 1992. He has worked with celebrities like Sharon Stone, Gwyneth Paltrow and Sandra Bullock.
• Rogério Cavalcante is a hairstylist and the owner of The Second Floor Salon in Soho. He has 17 years of experience, collaborating with brands such as L’Oréal Paris and working with publications such as Vogue and Elle Magazine.
• Dr. Hardik Doshi is a board-certified surgeon and hair restoration specialist at Ample.  He specializes in hair loss and hair restoration, performing state-of-the-art hair transplants for his patients. His medical background includes Columbia Medical Center, Weill Cornell Medical Center and New York Presbyterian Hospital. 

I asked PureWow editors to share their favorite conditioners that tackle their oily hair. I also chatted with hairstylists and scalp experts, who provided product recommendations they use continuously on their clients. From there, I did a deeper dive into each product’s key ingredients, scent notes and reviews. The main goal was to find conditioners that control oil production, strengthen strands and prevent greasy hair. Keep reading to find out which ones made the cut. 

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• Lightweight Formulas: The experts say lightweight and oil-free formulas are key to minimizing your search. Philip B. adds, “You want to avoid conditioners with heavy oils, silicones or butters, which can weigh down the hair and contribute to greasiness.” 
• Ingredients: When searching for a conditioner for oily hair, you want to look for ingredients like clay, apple cider vinegar, tea tree oil and peppermint oil, which can cut through grease and build-ups without drying out the ends.
• Hair types: Take your hair type and texture into consideration. For some hair types like straight, fine or thin hair, washing your hair frequently may be the solution to combating oily locks. According to Philip B, you should consider washing your hair daily to keep it from looking greasy, flat and lifeless. As for thicker, coarser hair, continue to wash your 1-2 twice a week and stick with clarifying shampoos and a nourishing conditioner.

I asked the experts to share common reasons for dealing with oily hair and here’s what they told me:

• Genetics: The experts say genetics can play a huge role in oily hair. You can’t necessarily change this, but you can maintain it with a few helpful tips. (Don’t worry, I’ll get to that in a bit.)
• Hormonal changes: “Androgens such as testosterone are known to increase the secretion of oil in the body which explains why individuals often experience hair during puberty and hormonal stages like pregnancy and menopause. Women could also develop hair changes due to certain health conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) that disrupt hormonal balance leading to excessive oil production on the scalp,” explains Dr. Doshi. 
• Diet: Processed foods, sugars and fats are just a few culprits that can increase oil production. Dr. Doshi notes, “The food you consume can impact your body and scalp health. Also not getting enough nutrients in your diet can produce an excess amount of oil to compensate for the deficiency.” 
• Stress: Studies show your stress levels can disrupt your hormones and potentially result in an increased oil production.  
• Environmental Factors: High levels of humidity, pollution and heat can be a huge factor in producing more oil. 
• Improper Haircare Routine: Experts say heavy, oil-based products can contribute to oil build up, so consider finding lightweight products that won’t weigh down your locks and lead to excess oil production. Also overwashing can also contribute to oily strands. As Cavalcante shares, “Overwashing your hair can strip away natural oils, causing your scalp to produce even more oil to compensate.”