Most of you already know that your leading issue with winter hair is dryness. But often, some experience greasy scalps, which seems like an odd issue but not unheard of. Some of the major factors that can contribute to a greasy scalp in the winter have less to do with the climate itself and more to do about your hair care habits. To compensate for surface dryness, your scalp is continually producing oil to keep your hair follicles nourished and hydrated. But the practice of not washing your hair often during this season leads to oil and grime buildup, leading to greasiness. This is also accompanied by having your head covered by woollen beanies and hats, which can trap oil and dirt on your mane and end up in a sticky mess by the end of the day.
Now, we do not recommend locking away your hats or washing your hair every single day, but there are other ways to deal with a greasy scalp during the winters. Here are a few of them…
- 01. Use more than one shampoo
- 02. Be gentle with your mane
- 03. Invest in a dry shampoo
- 04. Watch what you eat
- 05. Check your everyday products
01. Use more than one shampoo

Treat your scalp like your skin and optimise the routine by making it a bit more dynamic. First off, switch to a mild formula that gently cleanses your hair without stripping the natural oils from your scalp. Then, use an oil-control and detoxifying formula to get rid of the build-up. Focus on applying the product on just your scalp and follow up with the conditioner for your ends.
BB picks: Love Beauty & Planet Tea Tree And Vetiver Aroma Radical Refresher Shampoo + Conditioner Combo
02. Be gentle with your mane

There are several ways you can stress out your already dry and sensitive scalp in winter, disrupting the microbiome and causing greasiness. Daily styling, putting your hair into winter accessories, hairstyles that tug on the scalp too much or even touching it out of habit. Make sure to limit the amount of stress you put your scalp through and keep your routine simple during the harsh colder months.
03. Invest in a dry shampoo

Washing your hair 2-3 times a week can give good results for those with normal scalps. But if your scalp is on the oilier side, you might need a helping hand. Invest in a good dry shampoo to use in-between washes to avoid a slick, weighed down mane. Dry shampoo will also keep the temptation of over-washing your hair away and irritating it even further.
BB picks: Dove Fresh & Floral Dry Shampoo
04. Watch what you eat

You are what you eat. If your diet is loaded with processed sugar, trans fats and sodium limits, it can lead to visible oiliness on your scalp. Make sure to eat a balanced diet and include good fats (Omega-3 fatty acids) which help regulate oil production on your skin and scalp.
05. Check your everyday products

Your everyday products can be contributing to the greasiness on your scalp. Yes, really. For instance, shampoos labelled as ‘shine-boosting’ are often made with silicones, which can coat your hair and clog pores. To avoid this, simplify your hair care routine and stay away from nasty ingredients.
Written by Sumona Bose on Dec 22, 2020
Sumona Bose is a writer, skincare junkie and a self-professed makeup connoisseur. Equipped with a Master's degree in Fashion Management and over 3 years of experience writing in the beauty and fashion space, her passion for learning new things has no bounds. Working closely with dermatologists, beauty excerpts, makeup artists and hairstylists, she brings you the best of all things beauty. From trending skincare ingredients to makeup looks that help you slay, she manages to bring something new (and vital!) to our readers every single time. Her hobbies include home workouts, watching foreign films and binge-watching makeover shows!