Oily hair and the flat, greasy look that so regularly accompanies it is not something you simply have to settle for. A carefully chosen haircut can make a world of difference. In this guide, we’ll explore the top hairstyles for men with oily hair, plus provide some practical styling tips and grooming products to help you stay fresh, sharp and confident all day long.
Understanding Oily Hair: Causes and Challenges
Oily hair is typically the result of overactive sebaceous glands, which produce sebum - the natural oil that keeps your scalp and hair moisturised. While some oil is essential, too much of it can lead to hair that looks greasy, flat, or unwashed, even shortly after showering.
Common causes of oily hair in men include:
- Genetics: Oily hair often runs in families.
- Lifestyle and diet: High-stress levels, hormonal changes, and diets rich in fatty or fried foods can contribute to excess oil.
- Over-washing or harsh shampoos: Ironically, washing hair too often or using products that strip away natural oils can trigger the scalp to produce even more oil.
- Product build-up: Heavy styling products can trap oil, weigh hair down, and lead to greasy roots.
The biggest challenge? Managing excess oil while maintaining a stylish look. Luckily, some hairstyles and grooming routines are perfectly suited to keeping oily hair in check.
Best Hairstyles for Men’s Oily Hair: Top Choices to Try
If you're struggling with managing oily hair, the solution might be as simple as a trip to the barber. There are certain looks that are naturally better hairstyles for oily hair, as they’re easier to style, hold their shape longer, and require fewer products. Let’s take a look at the top hairstyles for oily hair:
The Buzz Cut: Low Maintenance, High Impact
The buzz cut is one of the most popular and practical hairstyles for oily hair. Short and tidy, this low-maintenance cut doesn’t give oil much room to accumulate, meaning your hair will look fresher for longer. The clean lines and minimalist appeal make it ideal for men who want confidence and simplicity. Pair the buzz cut with regular washing using a lightweight, gentle shampoo like the Uppercut Deluxe Strength & Restore Shampoo, which cleanses without over-drying the scalp.
The Crew Cut: A Classic Choice for Oily Hair
Another timeless winner, the crew cut features short sides with a slightly longer top, which helps distribute oil more evenly and reduces visible greasiness. It’s structured, easy to manage, and doesn’t require much product. This makes it ideal for men who want an office-ready look that stays clean throughout the day.
Textured Styles: Adding Volume Without Extra Oil
If you’ve got longer hair and want to avoid flat, greasy roots, textured hairstyles are a smart solution. A layered cut adds volume and movement, helping to disguise oil build-up while reducing the need for heavy styling products. These easy hairstyles for oily hair look effortless, casual and work well with light hold products like Uppercut Deluxe Styling Powder for a natural, matte finish.
Styling Tips for Men with Oily Hair
When it comes to styling oily hair, less is more. Avoid overloading your hair with thick products and opt for lightweight, oil-controlling formulas that offer hold without build-up.
Use Dry Shampoo to Absorb Excess Oil
Dry shampoo is a game changer for men with oily hair. It works by absorbing oil at the roots and adding texture without water. Spray into the root area of your hair in the morning or between washes to instantly refresh your hair.
Look for a matte-finish option that doesn't leave a white cast. For example, Uppercut Deluxe Styling Powder not only absorbs oil but also adds volume and grip.
Avoid Heavy Styling Products
Pomades, waxes, and gels can make oily hair look even greasier, especially when applied to the roots. Instead, choose products with a light hold and matte finish to reduce shine and keep hair looking cleaner for longer. Avoid alcohol-heavy sprays or oil-based formulas that can clog pores and weigh hair down.
Hair Care Routine for Oily Hair: Keeping It Fresh and Healthy
Creating the right hair care routine for oily hair is essential to maintaining a balanced scalp and preventing grease overload. Here’s how to keep your hair clean and healthy without triggering more oil production:
Wash Hair Regularly, But Not Too Often
It might be tempting to wash your hair daily, but over-washing can strip away natural oils and cause your scalp to overcompensate by producing more oil. Instead, aim to wash your hair every other day, or as needed depending on your lifestyle and hair type.
Choose the Right Shampoo for Oily Hair
Use a shampoo specifically formulated for oily hair. Look for clarifying or balancing shampoos that remove excess oil without irritating the scalp. Avoid ultra-moisturising or ‘hydrating’ shampoos, as these may leave behind residue that contributes to oil build-up.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Styling Oily Hair
If you have oily hair, avoiding a few key mistakes can make a major difference in how your hair looks and feels throughout the day:
- Using too much product: Heavy products can trap oil and make your hair look greasier faster.
- Touching your hair frequently: The oil from your hands transfers to your hair, compounding the problem.
- Choosing the wrong hairstyle: Longer, flatter styles can make oil more noticeable. Opt for shorter, textured cuts that help lift the roots.
- Not washing your hairbrush: Brushes and combs collect oil and product residue, which gets transferred back to clean hair.
- Skipping regular trims: Split ends and damaged hair can hold more oil and make hair appear messier.
Look Sharp and Feel Confident with the Right Hairstyle
Oily hair might be a challenge, but it doesn’t have to control your look. With the right haircut, routine, and styling products, you can keep your hair looking fresh, clean, and under control. Whether you go for a bold buzz cut, a timeless crew cut, or a layered textured style, the key is to find what works for your lifestyle and level of maintenance. And when you’ve got Uppercut Deluxe in your grooming arsenal, maintaining sharp, oil-free styles becomes that much easier.
