The toothbrush trick that banishes greasy hair and is perfect for those with ‘very oil-prone scalps’, according to pro
DEALING with greasy hair can be a total nightmare, especially when you have to wash it every day.
But one hair pro has shared a hack for keeping your locks cleaner for longer and it's a total game changer.
Matt Newman took to Instagram to explain how a product you might already have at home can transform your tresses.
He explained that a skin expert once told him that using salicylic face wash on your scalp "if it is very oil-prone."
In the video, which quickly went viral, the hair whizz showed himself rubbing the face wash into his scalp using a clean toothbrush to "focus the formula on the actual scalp".
He clipped his hair up into sections to evenly distribute the product, before rinsing it out thoroughly.
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After washing the product out, Matt recommended going in with a conditioner on the lengths of your hair.
So, why might salicylic face wash be good if you've got very greasy hair?
Speaking to Stylist, Jay Dharamshi founder of explained: “Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that works as an exfoliant to remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin, as well as dissolving oils that can clog the pores.
"This can also be really beneficial on the scalp, by removing oily build-up, dead skin and excess product."
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Not only that, but salicylic acid has some good exfoliating benefits that could help give your scalp a deep cleanse.
However, you don't have to use your face wash to see the benefits since some shampoos contain the ingredient.
You can also buy hair masks and treatments with salicylic acid, but in a pinch, your face wash might work too.
After sharing his tip on Instagram, other hair fans thanked him, one wrote: "Absolutely love this hack for my hair."
"Omg my friend tried this hack and it actually helped her hair," a second wrote.
And a third chimed in: "I never thought of doing this but I'll give it a try."
Hairstyles that are kind to your locks
- Loose Braids: Opt for loose, soft braids rather than tight ones to minimise tension on the scalp and reduce breakage.
- Low Ponytail: A low ponytail is less stressful on your hair compared to high, tight ponytails. Use a fabric-covered hair tie to avoid snagging.
- Messy Bun: A relaxed, messy bun can be both stylish and kind to your hair. Avoid pulling your hair too tightly and use gentle hair ties.
- Soft Waves: Embrace your natural texture or use heatless methods to create soft waves, reducing the need for damaging heat styling tools.
- Half-Up, Half-Down: This style keeps some hair pulled back while leaving the rest down, reducing the strain on your scalp.
- Headbands and Scarves: Using headbands or scarves can keep hair out of your face without causing damage, and they can be quite fashionable.
- Loose Plaits for Sleeping: Before bed, loosely plait your hair to prevent tangles and breakage overnight.
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It might seem counter-intuitive, but over-washing your hair is probably making the problem worse.
"If you start washing your hair every day, your scalp feels like it has to overproduce sebum. You end up in a vicious cycle of feeling like you need to wash your hair every day," celebrity hairstylist and Co-Founder of , Paul Percival revealed.
If you feel like you're already in too deep with your shampooing routine, try slowly decreasing the amount you wash it to get your head used to it.
Dry shampoo can be used in-between washes to prolong the life of your wash too.
Dominic Roach, who is the Creative Director of Colour at said: "Add it to your root area to absorb excess oils, sweat and impurities."
And if your scalp is especially sensitive, try spraying the product on to your hair brush before running it through your hair.
You should also avoid using too much or too many products, not only will they weight your hair down, but the build up can make your hair look super greasy.
Percival says: "Stay away from silicones and sulphates.";
"Give hair a blast of cold water once it’s washed – this will help the scalp and regulate blood flow," he added.
And if all else fails, opt for an up-do.
Of course, a lot of grease and dirt comes from your scalp, but not all of it.
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Constantly touching your hair, wearing hats, or resting sunglasses on your head can make it dirty too.
The pros suggest putting it up to avoid touching it and to keep it off your sweaty neck or oily face.
