Hair has more importance than we think in our beauty routine. It is a calling card that says more about us than we realize. A well-cared-for, healthy-looking and clean mane are some of the keys to showing off spectacular hair. But for those of us with oily hair, we must pay special attention to the products we use.
Since I was little, I have oily hair, and it is a point that has come to affect my self-esteem because, combined with a lack of volume, I think my mane lacks charm and is very difficult to manage. Along with the tendency to tangle and frizz, we have the roots’ appearance, which, if it is very hot or I have a busy day, end up matted and looking greasy. Therefore, the shampoos I use in my routine are very important, and the solid format is increasingly seductive to me.
Characteristics of Oily Hair
To better understand what happens in oily hair, we consulted Carolina Robla, founder and director of the Natural Cosmetic Lab and of the solid cosmetics brand Natural Carol. For the professional, “oily hair is characterized by an excess production of sebum on the scalp, which generates certain visible and sensory traits.” These would be “the shiny or weighed-down look shortly after washing”, “the need for frequent washes”, which can become daily, or the lack of volume “since the excess oil makes the hair fall and look stuck to the roots.” Another major problem of this hair (and which I suffer) is “the tendency to dirty quickly, trapping dust or environmental residues”, combined with “in some cases, a stronger odor on the scalp due to the buildup of sebum.” Finally, there would be a “greater propensity for greasy dandruff.”
Among the main reasons why oiliness occurs in hair, Robla highlights “genetic factors such as natural sebum production, hormonal changes such as puberty, menstruation and pregnancy” or “stress or a poor diet high in sugars and fats.” But we’re not only talking about factors inherent to the person when it comes to having oily hair; it can also be produced, in the expert’s words, by “the use of unsuitable products such as highly moisturizing shampoos or with silicones”, in addition to “washing too frequently or with very hot shampoo that stimulates more sebum”.
Solid Shampoos
Solid shampoos, and solid cosmetics in general, have become a great ally in the beauty routine, and they are a more sustainable format. Carolina Robla explains that “solids usually do away with silicones, harsh sulfates and chemical preservatives,” with the bar lasting about “the equivalent of 500 ml of liquid shampoo.” Other features to highlight are that they “use fewer plastic containers and have a smaller transport footprint” and that they are very “easy to carry on travels, as they are not counted as liquids at airports.”
If we talk about application, at first it may seem more difficult than we think, but once we get used to it it is very simple. The founder and director of Natural Carol recommends “wetting the hair and scalp thoroughly with lukewarm water because it helps open the pores and facilitates foam.” Secondly, we would moisten the bar and we have two application methods, “directly on the hair, gently rubbing the bar at the roots and scalp with circular motions” or in the hands “rubbing until foam forms and distributing it over the scalp.” Then we would only have to massage with “the fingertips to remove excess oil or residues and rinse with plenty of water until no foam residues remain”.
Storage and Other Tips
How can we store our solid products without degrading them? For Robla it is important to “keep it dry between uses” with a soap dish with holes or draining or “avoid leaving it on flat and damp surfaces (like the edge of the shower)”. The expert also recommends “air-drying it before storing” and if the shower is very humid, “take it out and place it in a dry place”. If we travel with it, the professional recommends using “a metal tin, bamboo box or cork bag” and as a tip she suggests “putting a piece of sponge or cotton to absorb the remaining moisture”. Finally, she warns against exposing it to the sun.
As for other recommendations, Carolina Robla mentions washing, with the ideal being “every two or three days or using a natural dry shampoo between washes”. She also considers “performing a gentle, non-aggressive massage” since this stimulates the oil and “rinse with lukewarm or cold water because very hot water dries the scalp and this responds by producing more oil”. Finally, the professional would complement the routine with a solid conditioner, avoiding “silicone-containing products” and brushing the hair before going to sleep.
Two Solid Shampoos for My Oily Hair
In my search for shampoos that reduce the greasy look of my hair I have found in solid cosmetics a great ally. A practical format, that I can easily take on trips, and with which I have achieved a looser-looking mane. Additionally, another major advantage I have discovered with its use is that I have extended the time between washes.
Champú Sólido Cabello Graso de Natural Carol.
Natural Carol
The Spanish vegan and cruelty-free cosmetic brand offers a range of solid shampoos addressing different needs. The Solid Shampoo for Oily Hair is a great discovery for my hair because it extends the time between washes and has purifying properties, leaving a mane with a soft and shiny look. It costs 11.90 euros
Pros:
– Its formula combines phytoactive ingredients such as white clay and spirulina that reduce excess oil, without leaving the mane looking dry, dull, or lifeless.
– If you are transitioning to solid cosmetics, this shampoo is a great option because it is easy to apply and foams upon contact with water.
– I like it because after drying the mane is loose, light and not weighed down.
Cons:
– It is available in highly selective retailers, so the best way to purchase it is through the brand’s website.
