8 DIY Ways To Treat Oily Scalp

An oily scalp is a common hair concern that occurs when the sebaceous glands on the scalp produce excess sebum, a natural oil that helps protect and moisturize the hair and skin. While sebum is essential for maintaining a healthy scalp, excessive production can make hair appear greasy, flat, and difficult to manage. Factors such as genetics, hormonal changes, stress, humid weather, poor hair care habits, and the use of unsuitable hair products can contribute to an oily scalp. In some cases, excess oil may also lead to dandruff, itching, and product buildup. Fortunately, with proper hair care and simple DIY remedies, it is possible to control excess oil, maintain scalp health, and keep hair looking fresh and clean for longer.

An oily scalp can make your hair look greasy, limp, and unclean shortly after washing. Excess oil production may be caused by genetics, hormonal changes, stress, humid weather, or the use of unsuitable hair products. Fortunately, several simple DIY remedies can help control scalp oil and keep your hair feeling fresh for longer.

# Aloe Vera Scalp Mask

Aloe vera helps remove excess oil, soothes the scalp, and promotes a healthy scalp environment.

How to use:

Extract fresh aloe vera gel from a leaf.
Apply it directly to your scalp.
Leave it on for 20–30 minutes.
Rinse with a mild shampoo.

Frequency: 2–3 times a week.

# Lemon Juice Rinse

Lemon contains natural acids that help cut through excess oil and remove buildup.

How to use:

Mix 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice with 1 cup of water.
Pour it over your scalp after shampooing.
Leave for 2–3 minutes and rinse with cool water.

Note: Avoid using lemon on irritated or wounded skin.

# Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse

Apple cider vinegar can help remove product residue and excess oil from the scalp.

How to use:

Mix 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with 1 cup of water.
Use it as a final rinse after shampooing.
Rinse lightly with water if desired.

Frequency: Once or twice weekly.

# Multani Mitti (Fuller's Earth) Hair Pack

Multani mitti absorbs excess oil and leaves the scalp feeling refreshed.

How to use:

Mix 3 tablespoons of multani mitti with enough rose water to make a paste.
Apply to the scalp.
Leave for 20 minutes.
Wash off with a mild shampoo.

# Green Tea Scalp Treatment

Green tea contains antioxidants that may help reduce scalp oiliness.

How to use:

Brew 2 green tea bags in 1 cup of water.
Let it cool completely.
Apply to the scalp and hair.
Leave for 15–20 minutes before rinsing.

# Neem Hair Rinse

Neem has cleansing properties that can help keep the scalp fresh.

How to use:

Boil a handful of neem leaves in 2 cups of water.
Cool and strain the mixture.
Use it as a final hair rinse after shampooing.

# Tea Tree Oil Scalp Treatment

Tea tree oil may help reduce scalp oil and buildup.

How to use:

Add 2–3 drops of tea tree essential oil to 1 tablespoon of coconut or jojoba oil.
Massage gently into the scalp.
Leave for 30 minutes before washing.

Important: Always dilute essential oils before applying them to the skin.

# Yogurt and Honey Hair Mask

Yogurt helps cleanse the scalp, while honey provides light hydration without making hair greasy.

How to use:

Mix ½ cup plain yogurt with 1 tablespoon honey.
Apply to the scalp and hair.
Leave for 20 minutes.
Rinse thoroughly and shampoo.