Best Shampoo for Thin Oily Hair: Top Picks and Buying Guide

If you have thin, oily hair, you know how challenging it can be to find a shampoo that doesn’t weigh your hair down or make it look greasy. Luckily, there are many shampoos on the market that are specifically formulated for this hair type.

When looking for the best shampoo for thin oily hair, there are a few critical things to consider. First, you want a shampoo that will effectively cleanse your hair without stripping it of its natural oils. Look for shampoos that are labeled as “clarifying” or “volumizing,” as these tend to be the best options for oily hair.

Another thing to consider is the ingredients in the shampoo. Avoid shampoos that contain heavy oils or silicones, as these can weigh your hair down and make it look greasy. Instead, look for shampoos that contain ingredients like tea tree oil, peppermint, or salicylic acid, which can help to control oil production and keep your scalp healthy.

After researching and testing various shampoos on the market, we have identified the top options for those with thin, oily hair. These shampoos have been carefully selected based on their effectiveness at cleansing and volumizing hair, as well as their ability to control oil production. Keep reading to find the perfect shampoo for your hair type.

Best Shampoo for Thin Oily Hair

We know that finding the right shampoo for your hair type can be a daunting task, especially if you have thin oily hair. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. After researching and testing several shampoos, we’ve compiled a list of the best shampoos for thin oily hair. These shampoos are specially formulated to remove excess oil and dirt from your hair without weighing it down, leaving your locks looking voluminous and healthy. Check out our top picks below.

1) Neutrogena Exfoliating Healthy Scalp Clarify & Shine Shampoo

If you’re looking for a clarifying shampoo that can help with oily hair and scalp, the Neutrogena Exfoliating Healthy Scalp Clarify & Shine Shampoo may be worth a try.

Pros

• Ideal for oily hair and scalp: This clarifying shampoo helps bust through residue and build-up, leaving your hair feeling clean and refreshed.
• Refreshing Pink Grapefruit: The pink grapefruit blend acts as a natural exfoliant and adds shine to your hair.
• Gentle, Non-Medicated Shampoo: This shampoo is free from parabens, phthalates, sulfated surfactants, SLS, and SLES, making it gentle on your hair and scalp.

Cons

• Strong scent: Some users may find the grapefruit scent overpowering.
• May not work for all hair types: While designed for oily scalp and hair, it may not work as well for those with dry hair or sensitive scalp.
• May require frequent use: Depending on your hair type and level of oiliness, you may need to use this shampoo more frequently than your regular shampoo.

Overall, we found the Neutrogena Exfoliating Healthy Scalp Clarify & Shine Shampoo to be effective in removing buildup and excess oil from our hair and scalp. The refreshing pink grapefruit scent was a nice touch, although it may not be for everyone. However, if you have dry hair or a sensitive scalp, you may want to consider a gentler option.

2) Tea Tree Special Shampoo

If you’re looking for a shampoo that can deep clean and refresh your scalp, especially if you have oily hair, then Tea Tree Special Shampoo is a great option.

Pros

• The tea tree oil in the shampoo provides an invigorating aromatherapy-inspired experience.
• It’s a great shampoo for deep cleaning and refreshing the scalp.
• It’s suitable for all hair types, especially oily hair.

Cons

• The price may be a bit steep for some consumers.
• The strong scent of tea tree oil may not be everyone’s cup of tea.
• Some customers have reported that the shampoo can be drying to the hair if used too frequently.

We recently tried Tea Tree Special Shampoo and were impressed with its ability to deep clean and refresh our scalp. The tea tree oil in the shampoo provides a refreshing and invigorating experience that leaves you feeling clean and refreshed. The shampoo is suitable for all hair types, but it works especially well for those with oily hair.

One thing to keep in mind is that the price of the shampoo may be a bit steep for some consumers. Additionally, the strong scent of tea tree oil may not be everyone’s cup of tea. Some customers have also reported that the shampoo can be drying to the hair if used too frequently, so it’s important to use it in moderation.

Overall, we would recommend Tea Tree Special Shampoo to anyone looking for a deep-cleaning and refreshing shampoo that is suitable for all hair types, especially oily hair.

3) OGX Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo

We highly recommend the OGX Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo for those with thin, oily hair looking for a clarifying and soothing shampoo.

Pros

• Infused with apple cider vinegar for gentle cleansing, high shine, volume, and balance
• Soothes and clarifies the scalp while adding shine to dull hair
• Free from sulfates, parabens, and dyes, making it safe for all hair types including color-treated hair

Cons

• May not work well for those with extremely dry hair
• Some users may not like the scent
• May take a few uses to see noticeable results

We were impressed with the results of using this shampoo. Our hair felt clean and refreshed without feeling stripped of natural oils. The apple cider vinegar helped to balance our scalp and add shine to our hair. We also appreciated that it is free from harsh chemicals and safe for color-treated hair.

The shampoo lathers well and has a pleasant, fresh scent. However, some users may not like the scent, as it is a matter of personal preference. We also found that it may not work well for those with extremely dry hair, as it may further dry out the hair.

Overall, we highly recommend the OGX Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo for those with thin, oily hair looking for a gentle and effective clarifying shampoo.

4) Maple Holistics Degrease Shampoo

If you’re looking for a sulfate-free shampoo that can tackle oily hair, then Maple Holistics Degrease Shampoo is a great choice.

Pros

• This shampoo is effective at removing excess oil from the scalp and hair.
• It contains natural ingredients like rosemary oil and cypress basil that can help soothe an itchy scalp.
• The shampoo is sulfate-free, which means it’s gentle on your hair and won’t strip it of its natural oils.

Cons

• Some people may find the scent of the shampoo to be too strong.
• The shampoo may not be suitable for people with very dry hair, as it can be quite clarifying.
• The packaging could be improved – some users have reported that the bottle can be difficult to open and close.

We’ve been using Maple Holistics Degrease Shampoo for a few weeks now and have been impressed with its performance. It lathers well and leaves our hair feeling clean and refreshed. We’ve noticed that our hair stays oil-free for longer after using this shampoo, which is great for those with oily hair.

One thing to note is that the shampoo has a strong scent – it’s quite herbal and may not be to everyone’s taste. However, we didn’t find it to be overpowering once we rinsed it out.

Overall, we would recommend Maple Holistics Degrease Shampoo to anyone looking for a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo that can help combat oily hair. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a natural alternative to traditional clarifying shampoos.

5) Head & Shoulders Clinical Dandruff Shampoo

If you’re looking for a shampoo that can help you get rid of dandruff and oily hair, Head & Shoulders Clinical Dandruff Shampoo is a great option. With its prescription-strength formula, it can provide relief from severe dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis.

Pros

• Provides prescription-strength flake protection and removes oil and flakes to relieve dandruff symptoms
• Clinically proven to protect against flakes and dandruff
• Infused with refreshing citrus to soothe your scalp and hair

Cons

• Has a weird citrus smell that some might not like
• May not work for everyone
• Can be a bit expensive compared to other shampoos

We tried Head & Shoulders Clinical Dandruff Shampoo and found that it worked really well for our oily hair. It removed excess oil and flakes from our scalp, making our hair look and feel cleaner. The shampoo has a nice, refreshing citrus scent that lingers for a while after washing.

The formula is quite strong, so we recommend using it only once or twice a week, especially if you have sensitive skin. It may take a few washes to see the full results, but with regular use, it can provide up to 100% dandruff protection.

Overall, if you’re looking for a shampoo that can help you get rid of dandruff and oily hair, Head & Shoulders Clinical Dandruff Shampoo is definitely worth trying. It may not work for everyone, but it’s a great option if you’re looking for a clinically-proven, prescription-strength solution.

6) PURA D’OR Anti-Thinning Advanced Therapy Biotin Shampoo & Conditioner Hair Care Set

If you’re looking for a natural, organic, and cruelty-free shampoo and conditioner set to strengthen and thicken your hair, PURA D’OR Anti-Thinning Advanced Therapy Biotin Shampoo & Conditioner Hair Care Set is an excellent option to consider.

Pros

• The shampoo and conditioner set is made with 17 active ingredients, including biotin and DHT blockers, which help reduce hair thinning, promote hair strength and thickness with increased volume, and reduce breakage.
• The organic ingredients, such as argan oil, vitamin E oil, and tea tree oil, help moisturize the scalp to promote thicker, fuller hair in men and women.
• The shampoo and conditioner set is hypoallergenic, vegan, environmentally responsible, and cruelty-free, making it a great choice for those who want to use natural and eco-friendly products.

Cons

• The shampoo and conditioner set is more expensive than other products on the market.
• Some users may not like the scent of the shampoo and conditioner set.
• The shampoo and conditioner set may not work for everyone, and individual results may vary.

We have been using PURA D’OR Anti-Thinning Advanced Therapy Biotin Shampoo & Conditioner Hair Care Set for a few weeks now, and we are impressed with the results. Our hair feels thicker, fuller, and healthier, and we have noticed a significant reduction in hair thinning and breakage. The shampoo and conditioner set is easy to use, and it lathers well, leaving our hair feeling clean and refreshed.

The shampoo and conditioner set is safe to be used as a daily routine shampoo and conditioner, and it works great if you need hair products for dry, damaged hair and as a color treatment shampoo for women and men. It helps cleanse the scalp, improving the overall health of your hair.

Overall, we highly recommend PURA D’OR Anti-Thinning Advanced Therapy Biotin Shampoo & Conditioner Hair Care Set to anyone looking for a natural, organic, and cruelty-free shampoo and conditioner set to strengthen and thicken their hair.

7) PURA D’OR Professional Grade Biotin Anti-Hair Thinning Shampoo & Conditioner

If you’re looking for a solution to thinning hair, PURA D’OR Professional Grade Biotin Anti-Hair Thinning Shampoo & Conditioner is worth considering.

Pros

• The double concentration of 17 key active ingredients strengthens hair and minimizes breakage.
• The shampoo and conditioner set increases volume and thickness of hair, keeping it moisturized and tangle-free all day long.
• The sulfate-free formula is safe for daily use on any hair types including natural hair, colored treated or dry and damaged hair, for both men and women.

Cons

• Some users may not like the lack of lather from the shampoo.
• The scent of the shampoo may not be pleasant to all users.
• The product may not work for everyone, as individual results may vary.

We tried the PURA D’OR Professional Grade Biotin Anti-Hair Thinning Shampoo & Conditioner and found that it left our hair feeling thicker and more voluminous. The double concentration of 17 key active ingredients, including DHT blockers such as Saw Palmetto and Nettle extracts, helped to combat hair thinning. We also appreciated that the formula was sulfate-free, paraben-free, hypoallergenic, vegan, and cruelty-free.

While the lack of lather from the shampoo may take some getting used to, we found that it still effectively cleaned our hair. However, some users may not like the scent of the shampoo. Additionally, it’s important to note that individual results may vary, and the product may not work for everyone.

Overall, if you’re looking for a natural and effective solution to thinning hair, PURA D’OR Professional Grade Biotin Anti-Hair Thinning Shampoo & Conditioner is definitely worth trying.

8) Joico InnerJoi Preserve Shampoo

If you’re looking for a shampoo that will preserve the color of your hair and give it a healthy shine, Joico InnerJoi Preserve Shampoo is a great option.

Pros

• The shampoo has a pleasant raspberry and beet scent that leaves your hair smelling fresh.
• It lathers well and cleans your hair without stripping it of its natural oils.
• The shampoo is sulfate and paraben-free, making it safe for color-treated hair.

Cons

• Some users have reported that the shampoo can dry out their hair and scalp.
• It may not be suitable for those with very oily hair, as it may not be strong enough to remove all the excess oil.
• The price point is higher than some other shampoos on the market.

We’ve used Joico products before and have always been impressed with their quality, and this shampoo is no exception. The naturally-derived vegan formula is gentle on hair and helps to preserve the color, leaving it looking vibrant and healthy. The scent is lovely and not overpowering, making it a pleasure to use. We appreciate that it is sulfate and paraben-free, which is a great bonus for those who are conscious of the ingredients in their haircare products.

However, we did notice that the shampoo can be drying, especially if you use it every day. It’s best to use it every other day or as needed to avoid stripping your hair of its natural oils. Additionally, if you have very oily hair, you may find that it doesn’t clean your hair as well as you’d like. On the other hand, if you have dry or color-treated hair, this shampoo is a great option for preserving the color and adding shine.

Overall, we would recommend Joico InnerJoi Preserve Shampoo to those with color-treated or dry hair who are looking for a gentle, sulfate-free option. While it may not be suitable for those with very oily hair or those on a tight budget, it’s a great investment for those who want to keep their color looking fresh and vibrant.

9) Maple Holistics Degrease Shampoo

If you are looking for a shampoo that can help you combat oily hair and scalp, then Maple Holistics Degrease Shampoo is a great option to consider.

Pros

• This clarifying shampoo is designed to deep cleanse your hair and scalp, making it an ideal choice for people with oily hair.
• The shampoo is sulfate and paraben-free, making it a safer option for people with sensitive skin.
• The natural ingredients in this shampoo, such as rosemary oil and cypress oil, can help improve the overall health of your hair and scalp.

Cons

• Some users may find the smell of this shampoo too strong or overpowering.
• The shampoo may not work well for people with extremely dry hair.
• The product may be a bit expensive compared to other shampoos in the market.

We have used this shampoo ourselves and found it to be effective in removing excess oil from our hair and scalp. The shampoo lathers well and leaves our hair feeling clean and refreshed. We also appreciate that it is made with natural ingredients, which is a plus for those who prefer to use organic products.

One thing to note is that the shampoo may not work well for people with extremely dry hair, as it can be a bit drying. However, for those with oily hair, it can be an excellent choice to help balance the scalp’s oil production.

Overall, we would recommend Maple Holistics Degrease Shampoo to anyone looking for a high-quality clarifying shampoo that can help combat oily hair and scalp.

10) SEEN Shampoo, Fragrance Free

If you’re looking for a gentle yet effective shampoo that’s safe for sensitive skin, SEEN Shampoo, Fragrance Free might be the perfect choice for you.

Pros

• Provides a luxurious lather that rinses easily without stripping the hair or scalp
• Safe for sensitive, acne-prone, and eczema-prone skin
• Clinically proven to be non-comedogenic and non-irritating

Cons

• May not be suitable for those with extremely oily hair
• Some users may find it to be a bit pricey
• The slight scent from raw ingredients may bother some users

SEEN Shampoo, Fragrance Free is a sulfate-free shampoo that’s good for all hair types. It’s color-safe and keratin-safe, and can be used daily. This shampoo can help with frizz, smooth hair, and add shine.

This dermatologist-developed shampoo is free of fragrances, sulfates, silicones, phthalates, parabens, dyes, pore-clogging oils, formaldehyde-releasing preservatives, cocamidopropyl betaine, and gluten. It’s PETA and Leaping Bunny approved.

SEEN Shampoo, Fragrance Free is formulated to be truly fragrance-free. There are no essential oils in any SEEN products, scented or Fragrance Free, and our Fragrance Free products have no fragrance or masking fragrance.

Overall, SEEN Shampoo, Fragrance Free is a great choice for anyone looking for a gentle, non-comedogenic shampoo that’s safe for sensitive skin.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best shampoo for thin oily hair, there are several factors to consider. Here are some features you should look for to ensure you get the best product for your hair:

Ingredients

The ingredients in the shampoo are the most important factor to consider. Look for shampoos that contain natural ingredients like tea tree oil, peppermint, and eucalyptus. These ingredients help to remove excess oil from the scalp, without drying out the hair. Avoid shampoos that contain sulfates, as they can strip the hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry and brittle.

Hair Type

When choosing a shampoo, it is important to consider your hair type. If you have thin hair, look for shampoos that are specifically designed for thin hair. These shampoos will help to add volume and thickness to your hair, without weighing it down. If you have oily hair, look for shampoos that are designed for oily hair. These shampoos will help to remove excess oil from your scalp, without drying out your hair.

pH Level

The pH level of the shampoo is also an important factor to consider. Look for shampoos that have a pH level between 4.5 and 5.5. This is the ideal pH level for hair, as it helps to maintain the natural pH balance of the scalp. Shampoos with a higher pH level can cause the hair cuticles to open, leading to damage and breakage.

Packaging

The packaging of the shampoo is also important. Look for shampoos that come in a bottle with a pump dispenser. This makes it easier to dispense the shampoo, without wasting any product. Avoid shampoos that come in a jar, as it can be difficult to get the right amount of product out, and it can also be unhygienic.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best shampoo for your thin oily hair. Remember to always read the label and choose products that are specifically designed for your hair type.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top sulfate-free shampoos for managing thin, oily hair?

Sulfate-free shampoos are a great option for those with thin, oily hair. Some of the top options include the L’Oreal Paris EverPure Moisture Shampoo, the Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal + Coconut Oil Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo, and the Pureology Hydrate Sheer Shampoo.

How can men specifically find the best shampoo for their thin, oily hair?

Men can find the best shampoo for their thin, oily hair by looking for products that are specifically marketed towards men’s hair. Some great options include the Redken Brews Extra Clean Shampoo, the American Crew Daily Moisturizing Shampoo, and the Kiehl’s Since 1851 Grooming Solutions Nourishing Shampoo + Conditioner.

What shampoos do hairdressers recommend for oily hair?

Hairdressers often recommend shampoos that contain natural ingredients like tea tree oil, peppermint, and lemon. Some popular options include Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Special Shampoo, Aveda Rosemary Mint Purifying Shampoo, and Bumble and Bumble Sunday Shampoo.

Which drugstore shampoos are effective for thin, oily hair?

Drugstore shampoos can be a great option for those on a budget. Some effective options for thin, oily hair include the OGX Tea Tree Mint Shampoo, the Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo, and the Head & Shoulders Instant Oil Control Shampoo.

What are the best shampoos for an oily scalp with dry ends?

If you have an oily scalp with dry ends, you’ll want to look for a shampoo that is moisturizing but won’t weigh down your hair. Some great options include the Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Shampoo, the Moroccanoil Hydrating Shampoo, and the Klorane Shampoo with Desert Date.

Are there any shampoos that can reduce greasiness in fine hair without drying it out?

Yes, there are shampoos specifically designed to reduce greasiness in fine hair without drying it out. Some top options include the Bumble and Bumble Prêt-à-Powder Très Invisible Dry Shampoo, the R+Co Spiritualized Dry Shampoo Mist, and the Drybar Detox Dry Shampoo.