Best Oil-Free Shampoo of 2025

Lisa Bechard Avatar
Lisa Bechard
Last Updated: Jan 17, 2025

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Oil-free shampoo is a great option for those who struggle with oily hair. This type of shampoo is specially formulated to cleanse the scalp and hair without leaving any oily residue behind. Unlike traditional shampoos that can strip the hair of its natural oils, oil-free shampoos help to balance the scalp's natural oils and leave hair feeling clean and refreshed. They are also ideal for those with sensitive skin or allergies, as they are free from harsh chemicals and fragrances. With a variety of options available on the market, oil-free shampoo is a must-try for anyone looking to improve their hair's health and appearance.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Mill Creek Sleepy Hollow Oil-Free Extra-Body Shampoo Cover #TOP 1
Mill Creek Sleepy Hollow Oil-Free Extra-Body Shampoo
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Neutrogena Exfoliating Healthy Scalp Shampoo Cover #TOP 2
Neutrogena Exfoliating Healthy Scalp Shampoo
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Stonybrook Shampoo-Oil & Fragrance Free Cover #TOP 3
Stonybrook Shampoo-Oil & Fragrance Free
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Oil-Free Shampoo

#TOP 1

Mill Creek Sleepy Hollow Oil-Free Extra-Body Shampoo

1 Count (Pack of 1)
Mill Creek Sleepy Hollow Oil-Free Extra-Body Shampoo Cover
Mill Creek Sleepy Hollow Oil-Free Extra-Body Shampoo - 16 fl. oz./ 480ml

Mill Creek Sleepy Hollow Oil-Free Extra-Body Shampoo is a natural shampoo, recommended for fine, listless hair. It increases volume and body without any oil or animal byproducts. Customers have praised this shampoo for helping to clear up oily scalps and for its clean feeling and pleasant scent. However, some customers have reported that the bottle arrived dirty and sticky.

What We Like
Effective for seborrheic dermatitis
Clarifying without over-stripping
Good for natural hair
Oil-free formula
Vegan options available
What We Don't Like
Shipping delays noted
Packaging issues reported

Neutrogena Exfoliating Healthy Scalp Shampoo

4067635
Neutrogena Exfoliating Healthy Scalp Shampoo Cover
Neutrogena Exfoliating Healthy Scalp Clarify & Shine Shampoo for Oily Hair and Scalp, Anti-Residue Shampoo with Pink Grapefruit, pH-Balanced, Paraben & Phthalate-Free, Color-Safe, 12oz

Neutrogena Exfoliating Healthy Scalp Clarify & Shine Shampoo is designed to clarify and exfoliate oily hair and scalp. It contains pink grapefruit and is pH-balanced, paraben and phthalate-free, and color-safe. This shampoo is perfect for those who want to achieve a healthy scalp and shiny hair.

What We Like
Effective for oily hair
Leaves hair clean and shiny
Pleasant, fresh scent
Good value for money
Improves scalp health
What We Don't Like
Strong grapefruit smell
Not for those disliking citrus
#TOP 3

Stonybrook Shampoo-Oil & Fragrance Free

518900090
Stonybrook Shampoo-Oil & Fragrance Free Cover
Shampoo-Oil & Fragrance Free - 16 oz.

Stonybrook Shampoo-Oil & Fragrance Free is a liquid shampoo designed for fine hair. It is fragrance free and uses natural ingredients. Customers have found it to be gentle on the scalp and hair, and it lathers well and rinses away cleanly. However, it has a strange chemical smell and is more expensive than other shampoos.

What We Like
Fragrance-free formula
Effective cleansing
Gentle on hair
Affordable pricing
Natural ingredients
What We Don't Like
Not truly unscented
Runny consistency
#TOP 4

Mill Creek Sleepy Hollow Oil-Free Shampoo

79526007206
1 Count (Pack of 1)
Mill Creek Sleepy Hollow Oil-Free Shampoo Cover
Mill Creek Sleepy Hollow Oil-Free Shampoo - 16 fl. oz./ 480 ml

Mill Creek Sleepy Hollow Oil-Free Shampoo is a gentle cleanser that is suitable for all hair types. It is free of animal by-products and animal testing, and helps to protect and repair skin from environmental damage. Customers have reported that it is effective in reducing oily hair and skin breakouts, and that it has a mild, pleasant smell. However, some customers have noted that it contains Quaternium-15, a formaldehyde releaser, and the potentially hazardous "fragrance" ingredient.

What We Like
Mild scent
Oil-free formula
Affordable price
Prevents hair sticking
Good for oily hair
What We Don't Like
Contains Quaternium-15
Includes "fragrance"

OGX Rosemary Mint Clarifying Shampoo

OGX
OGX Rosemary Mint Clarifying Shampoo Cover
OGX Clarifying Strength + Rosemary Mint Shampoo, Clarifying Shampoo Visibly Helps Remove Oil & Residue to Clear Away Buildup from Oily Hair, Sulfate-Free Surfactants, 13 fl. oz

OGX Clarifying Shampoo is designed to help you achieve cleaner, healthier hair. This shampoo effectively removes excess oil and buildup, giving your hair a fresh start. Infused with rosemary and peppermint, it not only clarifies but also refreshes your scalp, leaving a pleasant scent. The improved formula protects your hair from damage, reducing frizz and breakage while adding shine. Additionally, the innovative Lipi Pro Shield Technology offers enhanced protection for your hair's natural proteins and lipids, ensuring your strands remain strong and vibrant. For optimal results, pair this shampoo with the complete OGX Rosemary Mint hair care line.

What We Like
Effective clarifying ability
Pleasant scent
Leaves hair clean and shiny
Good for oily hair
Quality ingredients
What We Don't Like
Not as clean feeling as others
Uncertain about new formula

OUAI Detox Shampoo: A Clarifying Cleanse for Super Clean, Soft and Refreshed Locks

3430
Clear
OUAI Detox Shampoo: A Clarifying Cleanse for Super Clean, Soft and Refreshed Locks Cover
OUAI Detox Shampoo - Clarifying Shampoo for Build Up, Dirt, Oil, Product and Hard Water - Apple Cider Vinegar & Keratin for Clean, Refreshed Hair - Sulfate-Free Hair Care (10 oz)

OUAI Detox Shampoo is a concentrated shampoo that effectively removes dirt, oil, product, and hard water buildup from your hair. This clarifying treatment is recommended for use 1-2 times a week to get rid of overworked tresses. The shampoo contains apple cider vinegar that nourishes, strengthens, and conditions your hair. It is suitable for all hair types, including straight, wavy, curly, and coily. OUAI Detox Shampoo is cruelty-free, sulfate-free, and paraben-free, making it a good choice for those who want to use products that are good for the planet.

What We Like
Effectively removes product buildup
Leaves hair soft and shiny
Refreshing scent, not overpowering
Works well for various hair types
Moisturizes without oiliness
What We Don't Like
Pricey for some customers
Requires more product for lathering
#TOP 7

SEEN Fragrance-Free Shampoo: Gentle and Effective

10101020101
8.6 Fl. Oz
SEEN Fragrance-Free Shampoo: Gentle and Effective Cover
SEEN Shampoo, Fragrance Free - Non-Comedogenic & Sulfate-Free Hair Shampoo- Dermatologist-Developed - Safe for Sensitive, Eczema & Acne Prone Skin

SEEN Fragrance-Free Shampoo is a dermatologist-developed, non-comedogenic, and sulfate-free shampoo that provides luxurious lather without leaving the hair or scalp feeling stripped. It is safe for sensitive, acne-prone, and eczema-prone skin. This shampoo is formulated without fragrances, sulfates, silicones, phthalates, parabens, dyes, pore-clogging oils, formaldehyde-releasing preservatives, cocamidopropyl betaine, and gluten. It is color-safe and keratin-safe, and can be used daily. The key ingredients, hemisqualane and bisabolol, provide color and heat protection, reduce frizz, keep hair looking and feeling smooth, and offer natural skin-soothing benefits.

What We Like
Gentle on sensitive skin
Fragrance-free formula
Effective for oily hair
Improves scalp health
Good for fine hair
What We Don't Like
Pricey compared to others
May irritate very sensitive scalps

Sulfate Free Lemon Sage Clarifying Shampoo

MH-Degrease-Shampoo-2
8 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Sulfate Free Lemon Sage Clarifying Shampoo Cover
Sulfate Free Shampoo for Oily Hair - Lemon Sage Clarifying Shampoo for Build Up and Oily Scalp Care with Rosemary Essential Oil - Deep Cleansing Rosemary Shampoo for Greasy Hair and Product Build Up

Maple Holistics sulfate-free shampoo is a great choice for those with oily hair. Its natural ingredients, including tea tree essential oil and rosemary oil, provide deep cleansing and clarifying scalp treatment for shiny and vibrant looking hair. This shampoo is also great for those who suffer from dandruff, as it contains gentler and more hydrating natural ingredients. The lemon sage formula features cleansing botanical extracts, plant-based keratin, and rosemary essential oil for hair care. The shampoo also has a refreshing clean scent of lemon sage and tea tree oils. It is paraben-free and suitable for both men and women.

What We Like
Effective for oily hair
Natural ingredients
Long-lasting bottle
Good scent options
Increases hair volume
What We Don't Like
Small bottle size
May require more product

Herbal Essences Rose Hips Smooth Shampoo

bgrhns-155
ROSE
Herbal Essences Rose Hips Smooth Shampoo Cover
Herbal Essences Rose Hips Shampoo - Smooth, Shiny Hair with Vitamin E & Jojoba, Safe for Color Treated Hair, Floral Scent, Cruelty-Free, Dermatologist-Tested, 29.2 Fl Oz

Herbal Essences Rose Hips Smooth Shampoo is a luxurious liquid shampoo that cleanses and conditions hair for a smooth, shiny finish. It is infused with vitamin E, rose hips, and jojoba extract, and has a luscious floral bouquet with rose pedal top notes. Customers love the scent, value for money, and the fact that it genuinely works to smooth hair without frying it.

What We Like
Excellent lather
Pleasant floral scent
Good for color-treated hair
Cruelty-free brand
Large bottle offers great value
What We Don't Like
May leave a pink residue

SheaMoisture Intensive Hydration Shampoo

764302231042
gold
SheaMoisture Intensive Hydration Shampoo Cover
SheaMoisture Intensive Hydration Shampoo for Dry, Damaged Hair Manuka Honey and Mafura Oil Sulfate-Free 13 oz

SheaMoisture Intensive Hydration Shampoo is a sulfate-free shampoo formulated with Manuka Honey, Mafura Oil, and Fair Trade Shea Butter to cleanse and hydrate dry, damaged hair. Customers have reported that it leaves their hair feeling soft and manageable, with minimal static and improved condition. However, some have noted that it can leave a residue feeling and can be difficult to rinse out.

What We Like
Hydrating for dry hair
Soft and shiny results
Great scent
Effective for various hair types
Good value for money
What We Don't Like
Cap may break easily
Not great for fine hair
Buying Guide Image

Everything You Need to Know About Oil-Free Shampoo

What is Oil-Free Shampoo?

Oil-free shampoo is a type of hair care product that is specifically designed to remove excess oil from the hair and scalp without stripping away natural oils that are essential for healthy, nourished hair. This type of shampoo is a great option for those with oily hair, as it can help to keep hair looking clean and fresh for longer periods of time.

Why Choose Oil-Free Shampoo?

There are several reasons why someone might choose to use oil-free shampoo. For one, it can help to reduce the amount of oil on the scalp, which can help to prevent the buildup of dandruff and other scalp conditions. Additionally, using an oil-free shampoo can help to prevent the hair from becoming greasy and weighed down, which can make it difficult to style and manage.

Furthermore, oil-free shampoo can be a good choice for those with sensitive scalp conditions, such as psoriasis or eczema. Because these shampoos do not contain harsh ingredients that can irritate the scalp, they can be a gentler option for those with sensitive skin.

How to Choose the Right Oil-Free Shampoo

When it comes to choosing an oil-free shampoo, there are a few key factors to consider. Here are some tips to help you find the right product for your hair and scalp.

First and foremost, it's important to read the label and ingredient list carefully. Look for shampoos that are free of sulfates, parabens, and other harsh chemicals that can strip the hair of its natural oils and cause irritation.

It's also a good idea to choose a shampoo that is specifically designed for oily hair. This will ensure that the product contains the right balance of cleansing agents and moisturizing ingredients to effectively remove excess oil without drying out the hair.

Additionally, consider the type of hair you have. If you have fine, thin hair, look for a lightweight, volumizing shampoo that won't weigh down your strands. If you have thicker, curly hair, opt for a moisturizing shampoo that will help to tame frizz and flyaways.

Lastly, don't be afraid to experiment and try out different products until you find one that works well for your hair. What works for one person may not work for another, so it's important to find a shampoo that is tailored to your individual hair type and needs.

Conclusion

Oil-free shampoo can be a great option for those with oily hair, as it can help to keep hair looking clean and fresh for longer periods of time. By choosing a product that is free of sulfates, parabens, and other harsh chemicals, and is tailored to your individual hair type and needs, you can find the perfect oil-free shampoo for your hair.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why is my hair greasy after 1 day?

If you wash your hair too frequently, it can lead to an overproduction of natural oils. This excess sebum production can cause your hair to become greasy after just one day or even a few hours after washing.

2. How do I stop my hair from being oily?

To prevent oily hair, you can try a few strategies. Firstly, consider washing your hair more often, possibly every other day or even daily. Secondly, choose the right shampoo for your hair type. Make sure to rinse your hair thoroughly to remove any soap residue. Lastly, you can also use a good dry shampoo to help absorb excess oil between washes.

3. Why does my hair get so oily so fast?

The sebaceous glands on our scalp produce oil to protect it. When we wash our hair frequently, we stimulate these glands, leading to more oil production. This can make the hair greasier, not cleaner. Additionally, extreme temperatures, such as very hot or cold, can also stimulate the sebaceous glands and contribute to faster oil buildup.

Editor's Notes

During our oil-free shampoo research, we found 48 oil-free shampoo products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 122,049 customer reviews through our big data system to write the oil-free shampoo list. We found that most customers choose oil-free shampoo with an average price of $13.85.

The oil-free shampoo are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of oil-free shampoo, including Mill Creek, Neutrogena, Stonybrook, OGX, OUAI. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 291 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Lisa Bechard Avatar

Lisa Bechard is a skin therapist with 12 years of working experience in the beauty industry and also an experienced beauty writer who has expertise in skincare, medical aesthetics and cosmetic surgery, and wellness. Her writing skills are excellent and all her content is very persuasive and insightful.

Oil-Free Shampoo Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Mill Creek Neutrogena Stonybrook Mill Creek OGX OUAI SEEN Maple Holistics Herbal Essences SheaMoisture
Item Form Liquid Cream Liquid Liquid Liquid Liquid Liquid Liquid Liquid Liquid
Hair Type Dull Aging Fine All Oily Chemically Treated, Normal, Straight, Wavy, Curly All Curly, Safe for Color Treated hair, Dry hair shampoo, Oily hair shampoo Oily, Fine, Straight Dry
Age Range (Description) Adult Adult Adult Adult Adult Adult Adult All Adult Adult
Scent natural Pink Grapefruit, Sparkling Fresh Bergamot, Sheer Florals Fragrance Free - Rosemary Melrose Place Fragrance Free Lemon Unscented Honey
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.9
Where to Buy