Best Oil-Free Shampoo of 2026

Lisa Bechard Avatar
Lisa Bechard
Last Updated: Jan 12, 2026

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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

Stonybrook Shampoo-Oil & Fragrance Free Cover #TOP 1
Stonybrook Shampoo-Oil & Fragrance Free
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
Mill Creek Sleepy Hollow Oil-Free Extra-Body Shampoo Cover #TOP 3
Mill Creek Sleepy Hollow Oil-Free Extra-Body Shampoo
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Oil-Free Shampoo

#TOP 1

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
Gentle on sensitive skin
Cleans hair effectively
No dyes or residue
Works for multiple hair types
What We Don't Like
Chemical smell for some
Occasional leaking bottles

Neutrogena Exfoliating Healthy Scalp Shampoo

4067635
Neutrogena Exfoliating Healthy Scalp Shampoo Cover
Neutrogena Exfoliating Healthy Scalp Clarifying Shampoo for Oily Hair & Scalp, Pink Grapefruit pH-Balanced Anti-Residue Formula Adds Shine, Sulfate, Paraben & Phthalate-Free, Color-Safe, 12 Fl Oz

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
Deep cleansing and clarifying
Reduces oil and build-up
Refreshing grapefruit scent
Gentle on scalp and hair
Long-lasting value
What We Don't Like
Scent not for everyone
Might dry scalp if overused
#TOP 3

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
Pure ingredients
Oil free formula
Effective for scalp issues
Pleasant scent
Vegan friendly
What We Don't Like
Occasional leaking during shipping
Slow delivery time

Kristin Ess Hair Deep Clean Clarifying Shampoo

I0115261
Clear
Kristin Ess Hair Deep Clean Clarifying Shampoo Cover
Kristin Ess Deep Clean Clarifying Shampoo for Oily Hair & Build Up | Detox Purifying + Cleansing Oily Hair Treatment - Sulfate Free + Vegan - Product for Thick, Curly + Color Treated Hair

Kristin Ess Deep Clean Shampoo is a purifying and volumizing shampoo suitable for all hair types. It removes excess oils, mineral deposits, product buildup, and even silicones that can accumulate over time. The shampoo provides a deep cleanse, leaving the hair feeling moisturized, full, and shiny from root to tip. The clean and well-conditioned canvas is essential for healthy hair. This shampoo is cruelty-free, vegan, and free of parabens, phthalates, and silicones. To use, apply a dime to quarter-sized amount of shampoo to wet hair, massage into the scalp to create a rich lather, rinse thoroughly, and repeat if necessary.

What We Like
Removes oil and buildup
Adds volume and shine
Fresh, pleasant scent
Affordable price point
Suitable for oily hair
What We Don't Like
Can be slightly drying
May require conditioner

OGX Rosemary Mint Clarifying Shampoo

OGX
Clear
OGX Rosemary Mint Clarifying Shampoo Cover
OGX Clarifying Strength + Rosemary Mint Shampoo, Clarifying Shampoo for Oily Hair Visibly Helps Remove Oil & Residue to Clear Away Buildup, 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
Clarifies oily and greasy hair
Lightweight, non-residue formula
Refreshing mint scent
Leaves hair soft and shiny
Affordable alternative to salon brands
What We Don't Like
Formula may vary by retailer
Slight tingling on sensitive scalps

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
Removes buildup effectively
Does not dry out hair
Leaves hair soft and shiny
Long-lasting fresh scent
A little goes a long way
What We Don't Like
May dry fine hair if overused
#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 & 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
Soothes sensitive scalp
Fragrance-free formula
Reduces itchiness and dandruff
Improves hair softness
Non-comedogenic, acne-friendly
What We Don't Like
Can cause dryness for some
Higher price point
#TOP 8

CeraVe Oil Control Balancing Shampoo

White
CeraVe Oil Control Balancing Shampoo Cover
CeraVe Oil Control Balancing Shampoo, Clarifying Shampoo With Ceramides & Hyaluronic Acid, Removes Oil and Leaves Hair Feeling Hydrated, For All Hair & Scalp Types, Sulfate Free & Color Safe, 12 oz

The CeraVe Oil Control Shampoo is designed to keep your hair fresh and balanced for up to 72 hours by gently removing extra oil without drying out your scalp. It’s perfect if you have oily hair but still want your hair to feel hydrated and healthy. The shampoo is kind to your scalp, thanks to a formula that includes ceramides, zinc PCA, and hyaluronic acid, which help protect and restore your scalp’s natural moisture barrier. Whether your hair is straight, curly, or color-treated, this sulfate-free and fragrance-free shampoo works well for all hair types and is safe to use every day, even if you have a sensitive scalp.

What We Like
Leaves hair smooth and soft
Controls oil effectively
No drying or stripping
Works well in hard water
What We Don't Like
Packaging condition concerns
Not ideal for all preferences
#TOP 9

Biolage Scalp Sync Clarifying Shampoo

0884486523624
13.5 Fl Oz
Biolage Scalp Sync Clarifying Shampoo Cover
Biolage Scalp Sync Clarifying Shampoo - Residue & Buildup Remover, For Oily Scalp, Fermented Tea & Glycolic Acid, Vegan & Paraben-Free, 13.5 Fl Oz, Packaging may vary

The Biolage Scalp Sync Shampoo is designed to deeply cleanse your scalp by removing residue, buildup, and excess oil, leaving your hair feeling fresh and balanced. It uses a unique blend of fermented tea and glycolic acid to gently wash your hair without drying it out, so you can enjoy soft and hydrated strands. This shampoo also helps boost volume and adds shine, making your hair look revitalized and healthy. Plus, it’s safe for color-treated hair and free from harsh ingredients like parabens and silicones, giving you a gentle yet effective scalp care option.

What We Like
Deep cleansing power
Not drying to hair
Fresh, pleasant scent
Suitable for various hair types
Reduces oil and buildup
What We Don't Like
No pump on bottle
Initial seal concerns
#TOP 10

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
Oil-free formula
Mild scent
Affordable price
Effective for oily hair
Clean ingredients
What We Don't Like
Contains some questionable additives
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 96,710 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 $19.26.

The oil-free shampoo are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of oil-free shampoo, including Stonybrook, Neutrogena, Mill Creek, Kristin Ess, OGX. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 5,981 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

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

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#TOP3
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#TOP10
Brand Stonybrook Neutrogena Mill Creek Kristin Ess OGX OUAI SEEN CeraVe Biolage Mill Creek
Item Form Liquid Cream Liquid Liquid Liquid Liquid Liquid Liquid Liquid Liquid
Hair Type Fine All Dull All Oily Chemically Treated, Normal, Straight, Wavy, Curly All All Oily All
Scent Fragrance Free Pink Grapefruit, Sparkling Fresh Bergamot, Sheer Florals natural Pear, Sandalwood, Magnolia Rosemary Mint_New Melrose Place Fragrance Free Unscented Unscented Unscented
Age Range (Description) Adult Adult Adult Adult Adult Adult Adult Adult Adult Adult
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 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
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