I get asked this question a lot in my DMs and comments, so I wanted to properly share my oily, flaky scalp hair routine in one place.
I don’t have a fully end-to-end routine just yet, but I’ve made a few key changes and purchases that have made a noticeable difference. For now – and for quite a while – this is exactly what I’ve been doing.
1. Understanding My Scalp Type First
Before changing anything, I had to get clear on my scalp type. I have an oily scalp that’s also prone to flakiness, so dandruff is my main concern. Knowing that made it much easier to choose products and adjust how often I wash my hair.
Read: The Very Unconventional Method I Use to Detox My Sensitive Scalp
2. Washing Less Often Made The Biggest Difference
For the longest time, I was shampooing every second day. Honestly, it did more harm than good. I’ve since cut back and now wash my hair (shampoo and conditioner) just twice a week, and that alone has really helped control my hair fall.
For shampoo, I love these:
- OUAI Detox Shampoo, $61.00
- Dercos Anti-Dandruff DS Shampoo for Normal to Oily Hair, $26.99
My top picks for conditioner:
- OUAI Medium Hair Conditioner, $59.00
- Shiseido Fino Premium Touch Hair Mask, $22.99
- MONDAY HAIRCARE Moisture Conditioner, $20.00
3. Scalp Treatments On Alternate Wash Days
I’ve started using a scalp treatment serum and a scalp scrub on alternate wash days. This has been a game changer for keeping my scalp balanced without overdoing it.
If the exact products I’m using aren’t available in your country, don’t stress. Scalp serums and scrubs are everywhere right now, and most brands have their own versions. The key is choosing something well reviewed that targets scalp health rather than just hair length.
Read: ‘I’m Very Low Maintenance, But I Swear by Using This Scalp Serum on my Winter Dandruff’
I’m currently using and love the Alpha-H Healthy Exfoliating Scalp Treatment and the OUAI Scalp & Body Scrub.
OUAI Scalp & Body Scrub, $76.00
4. Leave-In Conditioner Is Non-Negotiable For Me Now
Leave-in conditioners are officially my best friend. I genuinely didn’t realise how much of a difference they could make until I started using one consistently. My hair feels softer, shinier, and noticeably less frizzy.
I’m loving the Kérastase Nutritive 8HR Magic Night Hair Serum.
5. Frizz Serums After Leave-In Conditioner
After my leave-in, I’ve also started using frizz-control serums, and honestly – wow. Applied post leave-in, they make my hair feel incredibly soft and actually frizz free, rather than just temporarily smoothed.
I really enjoy both the MOROCCANOIL Original Oil Treatment and the Kérastase Elixir Ultime Hair Oil.
6. Heat Protectant Is Worth Investing In
If you heat style your hair often, this one matters. Investing in a good heat protectant has been essential for me, especially now that I’m trying to reduce breakage and hair fall while still styling regularly.
I’ve got plenty more tips and product thoughts to share as I keep building out my routine. If you want a deeper dive or specific product recommendations, let me know.
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