One of the banes of someone with oily hair’s existence is definitely sebum. When your scalp produces too much sebum, it may seep down into your hair, making it seem greasy. This slick, greasy appearance isn’t the most flattering. Hence, having a good shampoo is key. With that, Beauty Insider is listing out the best sebum controlling shampoos on the market that will keep your tresses clean and healthy!

What Is Sebum?

Sebum is your body’s natural oil, which seeps out via the pores on your skin and scalp. It is important for reducing moisture loss from the skin and also has antibacterial qualities. Sebaceous glands are found throughout the body, although they are concentrated on the scalp, face, and upper torso.

When sebaceous glands, which are positioned under the skin’s surface, dissolve, sebum is produced. Glycerides, fatty acids, squalene, and cholesterol make up the oil, which is a complex combination of lipids. Though sebum is necessary, it may cause issues if the body produces too much of it.

Causes Of Sebum Buildup On Scalp

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Diet

Foods with a high glycaemic index, such as white bread and white rice; known to stimulate the release of certain growth factors, which can cause sebum production. Overproduction of sebum can also be caused by an unhealthy and inadequate diet.

Hygiene

In order to avoid sebum accumulation on the scalp, you must follow strict cleanliness practices. Many individuals feel that shampooing your hair frequently harms it. However, persons who have an oily scalp as a result of excessive sebum production should wash their hair often with moderate shampoos.

When you wash your hair with harsh chemicals on a daily basis, you remove all of the natural oils from your scalp, which is necessary for maintaining the structure of your hair. It may cause hair to become more brittle and tough. Shampooing frequency should be determined by the greasiness of the scalp.

Hormones

The cells of the sebaceous gland and the cells of the hair follicles around it convert the hormone testosterone; it’s mostly a male hormone but is also found in females in smaller amounts into an active version, Dihydrotestosterone. This causes the sebaceous cells to expand, resulting in an excess of sebum production and a build-up on the scalp.

Can Sebum Production Be Controlled?

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Sebum production differs from person to person, depending on the activity of the sebaceous glands. The amount of sebum produced on your scalp and the strength of your hair are both affected by what you consume. You must eat a nutritious diet rich in vitamin and protein-rich foods as well as antioxidants. Foods having a high glycaemic index should be avoided at all costs.

This helps to keep your hair strong and healthy, preventing hair loss. Washing your hair with suitable sebum controlling shampoos on a frequent basis minimises sebum build-up on the scalp. Pay greater attention to the shampoos, conditioners, serums, and gels you use on your hair. They might include harsh chemicals that deplete your scalp’s natural oils.

The Best Sebum Controlling Shampoos In Malaysia 2023

1. DTOX Therapy Shampoo Lavender

DTOX Therapy Shampoo Lavender is without a doubt one of the most popular sebum controlling shampoos. Developed with innovative technology, it contains natural ingredients including essential oils, without any chemical composition. This detoxifying shampoo works magically to regulate hair oil production, preventing the buildup of excess sebum. With its impeccable formulation, it banishes oily scalp woes that cause hair to flatten and clump together, transforming it into a full, voluminous dream. 

But that’s not all. Its game-changing formula packs a punch by soothing scalp itchiness, controlling dandruff, and reducing hair loss. The lavender scent imparts a relaxing aroma, transforming your hair care routine into a wondrous pampering session. With such top-notch formulation and efficacy, this shampoo is perfect for people who are unable or prefer not to wash their hair every day.

Why we love it:

  • Suitable for oily scalp 
  • High in essential oils
  • Free from silicone, paraben, and fragrance 
  • Regulates oil production 

Price: RM155.00

Where to buy: D’COEUR’s official website

2. RAE Professional Detoxify Shampoo

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The RAE Professional Detoxify Shampoo helps revitalise and condition your hair and scalp. For excess sebum production and scalp refreshment, use this balancing and rebalancing solution. For all hair types and oily scalps, a daily wash is recommended. It deeply cleanses the scalp and leaves your hair lustrous and full-bodied.

Why we love it:

  • Detoxifies the scalps effectively
  • Controls oil production in the long run

Price: RM69.00

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3. Iraltone Sebum Normalising Shampoo

With potent antioxidant and purifying action, Iraltone Sebum Normalizing Shampoo helps manage and regulate oil production and secretion on the scalp and hair, lowering sebum production and removing pollutants build-up. This specially formulated mixture helps to restore healthy hair and scalp conditions. Its topical solutions combine unique and scientifically backed components to provide complete and effective therapy for a variety of issues.

Why we love it:

  • Formula designed for oily hair
  • Balances and neutralises sebum production

Price: RM171.00

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4. Sachajuan Scalp Shampoo

Sachajuan Scalp Shampoo nourishes your scalp while washing your hair, reducing dryness and stiffness. Wheat protein strengthens each hair follicle while salicylic acid loosens dry skin and makes it simpler to remove. Piroctone Olamine and Climbazole are included in this mixture, which helps to eradicate dandruff and soothe sensitive scalps. It leaves hair looking nourished and healthy, and it’s mild enough to use on colour-treated hair.

Why we love it:

  • Contains rosemary oil, menthol, ginger extract and salicylic acid
  • Safe for colour-treated hair

Price: RM140.00

Where to buy: Shopee

5. Melix Summer Rain Shampoo

Melix Summer Rain Shampoo is an award-winning product of the Beauty Insider Malaysia Beauty and Wellness Awards 2022 for Best Scalp Treatment (Oily Scalp) and Bloggers’ Choice. It boasts a medley of papaya extract, tilia tomentosa bud, mango extract, honey, pineapple and rosewood oil to cleanse the hair from impurities and regulate sebum production. What sets it apart from other similar products is that it does not cause excessive dryness and retains the natural oils. With its gentle formulation, it is suitable for daily use. Thanks to its peppermint, it delivers a cooling sensation that will make your hair feel instantly refreshed. 

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Why we love it:

  • Balances sebum production
  • Eliminates unpleasant hair odour 
  • Gentle formulation

Price: RM120.00

Where to buy: Melix’s official website 

6. Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal + Coconut Oil Micro-Exfoliating Scalp Scrub Shampoo

BRIOGEO’s Scalp Revival Charcoal + Coconut Oil Micro-Exfoliating Scalp Scrub Shampoo is a sulphate-free scalp exfoliator that removes impurities and debris. This shampoo aids in the absorption of essential vitamins and minerals for long-term hair health, as well as balances scalp moisture for oily or dry scalps. Additionally, binchotan charcoal and plant-based exfoliants remove build-up, pollutants, dead skin, and excess oil from the scalp and hair follicles. Soothe and refresh with peppermint, spearmint, tea tree, and coconut oils.

Why we love it:

  • Replenishes and hydrates the scalp
  • Provides essential vitamins and nutrients

Price: RM210.00

Where to buy: Sephora

7. Kristin Ess Scalp Purifying Micellar Shampoo

The KRISTIN ESS Scalp Purifying Micellar Shampoo gently removes impurities while preserving the natural hydration of your scalp. You may use it on the thinnest, finest hair or the thickest, curliest hair and receive the same flawless results. It maintains natural hydration while reducing dryness and frizziness. Because of its excellent sebum management, this is a favourite among folks with oily hair.

Why we love it:

  • Safe for chemically-treated hair
  • Balances scalp moisture

Price: RM69.00

Where to buy: Watsons

Have you tried any of these sebum controlling shampoos? Make sure to follow Beauty Insider on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates.