Oily Hair and Medication

Woman with oily hair wearing a silky turtleneck — Photo: Irina Bg/Shutterstock

Q: I'm having problems with oily hair, and I'm hoping someone can help me out. This problem just recently started within the last month, and I'm wondering if you can tell me if there are medications that can cause this.

I have never had the problem before, and I just recently started some new meds. I would appreciate any help you can give.

A: There can be a number of reasons for an increase in oil production on the scalp resulting in oily hair. I can't possibly tell you whether the medications you are taking are responsible, as A.) I am not a medical professional and B.) I don't know what those medications are. Therefore, I don't know if there are any commonly known issues with the medications.

Oily hair can result from changes in diet, hormonal changes, environmental changes, and simply the normal changes that result from aging and maturing. While it is possible that the medication you are taking may be the cause of the sudden change in the amount of oil production in your scalp, you will need to consult your doctor to confirm it.

You can help to combat the over-production of oil by using an oily hair shampoo and conditioner formula. You can also use Witch Hazel or other astringent to help remove the excess oil from the scalp. (Use the astringent on a cotton ball or pad and swab the scalp to remove the oil.) You can even help to slow oil production by following up your regular shampooing and conditioning routine with a cool water rinse before emerging from the shower.

Using a natural bristle brush to brush the hair each night will also help to redistribute the hair's oils and will massage the scalp which can improve circulation and help to regulate oil production. Just remember that you only want to brush the hair enough to pass over the entire scalp and leave the hair smooth and tangle-free and over-brushing can actually cause damage to the hair.

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See also:

Causes and solutions for oily hair

Hair combing and brushing basics

Medications and your hair

Hair and the older woman