Does an Oily Scalp Cause Hair Loss?

Hair loss is a fairly common issue nowadays. Pollution, stress, chemicals, unhealthy lifestyle can all indirectly lead to hair loss. Another lesser-known culprit of hair loss can be an overly oily scalp.

An abnormally oily scalp attracts more dirt leading to dandruff, itching, and other scalp issues. But before we venture into the solution of an oily scalp, let us understand the major causes behind it.

Seborrheic Dermatitis ^1,2

Like the rest of our body, the outer layer of our scalp contains an oil-producing gland called the sebaceous gland. The oil (or the sebum) produced through these glands lubricate and moisturize our skin and hair.

While sebum production is necessary for hydrating the hair, excess production can be harmful. Seborrheic dermatitis is a fungal condition that causes excess sebum production by the sebaceous gland. It is often accompanied by itching, irritation, and red patches on the skin.

It is a common skin condition and has been associated with hair loss.

Hormonal Imbalance ³

Oily scalps can also be associated with hormonal imbalance. Stress, medications, birth control pills are some of the things that affect hormone levels, which in turn affect the oiliness of your hair.

Pollution ⁴

Continuous exposure to pollution has a damaging effect on your scalp. Pollution causes faster exfoliation of the outer layer of the scalp exposing the sensitive inner layers. Prolonged exposure of the sensitive layer to pollution can lead to dandruff, irritation, oily scalp, and thinning of hair.

An unhealthy diet and lack of personal hygiene are the underrated causes of many scalp issues. Your hair needs its dose of nutrition which excessive oily, spicy, and junk foods cannot provide. Similarly, lack of personal hygiene, dirty pillow covers or bed sheets, unwashed hair tools can all lead to greasy hair.

Several observations have found that conditions like seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff resulting from poor scalp health are closely associated with hair loss. Excessive oil production can cause inflammation of the scalp along with irritation and itchiness. Repeated and aggressive scratching of the scalp can damage the hair follicle resulting in hair fall.

Besides, increased oil production can also cause the Malassezia yeast to grow. Malassezia is a type of yeast naturally found on the skin of human beings. Excess Malassezia, if left untreated, can further exacerbate scalp issues and compromise hair quality and growth.

Maintaining Hair Hygiene

The first step one should take towards healthy hair is maintaining proper hair hygiene. Wash your hair regularly to prevent excess oil build-up on the scalp. Take time to gently massage your scalp and rinse well so that no product is left behind.

Not just your scalp but other hair tools should also be regularly cleaned. Avoid applying conditioner to your scalp. If you have to use some conditioner, then restrict it to the tips of your tresses.

Aloe vera is one of the best natural solutions for oily hair. Research has found it to be beneficial in the treatment of conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis. Its usefulness may be derived from its anti-inflammatory properties preventing skin flare-ups.

Use a few tablespoons of aloe vera gel to gently massage your hair. Try this twice a week for a few weeks and see the result.

Dandruff build-ups are common in oily scalps, and getting rid of them becomes essential for healthy hair. Lemongrass essential oil can prove to be an effective cleanser for dandruff, soothing your itchy scalp.

A 2015 study concluded that the application of hair tonic containing essential oil twice a day significantly reduced dandruff after just one week.

Add 2-3 drops of lemongrass essential oil to your regular hair or shampoo and massage daily for best results.

Probiotics are not only good for your body but your scalp as well. A study conducted with 66 volunteers who had moderate dandruff concluded that daily intake of probiotic supplements significantly decreased dandruff flare-ups and scalp greasiness.

However, still more evidence is required to gauge the degree of effectiveness of probiotics in treating an oily scalp.

A little oil is essential for healthy hair, but excess secretion can be a problem. Try the above natural methods to balance out the oil production in your scalp.

However, for chronic conditions or severe symptoms, you should seek medical advice from a dermatologist.