Myths About Oily Sticky Dandruff, Debunked By A Dermatologist
Choosing a shampoo that removes buildup, regulates sebum production, and supports long-term scalp health can make the difference between short-term freshness and lasting relief.
Oily sticky dandruff can be tricky, as it is not always easy to spot, but you can definitely feel it. It leaves the scalp with a constant greasy feel that often returns within a day of washing. Unlike loose, dry flakes that shed easily, oily sticky dandruff clings to the scalp and hair, making it feel clogged and heavy. Many people notice it most when they scratch their scalp; you can often feel a layer of excess sebum mixed with product buildup under your fingertips. This isn’t about poor hygiene but is usually the result of an imbalance in how much oil your scalp produces. The issue arises when an oily scalp combines with dandruff triggered by fungi called Malassezia globosa. A persistently oily scalp can be a key indicator, especially when oily sticky dandruff clumps remain stuck to the scalp or cling to your nails after scratching.
Dr. Amit Bhasin, Director at Prive Luxe Skin and Wellness Clinic, Gurugram, shares all you need to know:
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Myth 1: “Just wash more often and it’ll go away."
Washing more often with a regular shampoo might provide temporary relief, but it rarely fixes the problem. Most shampoos only remove surface oil; they don’t clear the deeper layers of buildup that keep your scalp feeling clumpy. Oily sticky dandruff needs a targeted routine—a shampoo that deep-cleans, draws out impurities, and resets your scalp. Ingredients like oxygenated charcoal absorb trapped oil and grime, while Piroctone Olamine helps control dandruff-causing microbes. Together, they not only give you that “just-cleaned" feeling but also detoxify your scalp at a deeper level.
Myth 2: “It’s harmless, so I can ignore it."
A greasy scalp with ongoing buildup can cause discomfort, dullness, and over time, impact hair health. The goal is not to strip away all oil but to deep-cleanse and detoxify in a way that restores balance. This helps maintain a healthier scalp, which is the foundation for stronger, better-looking hair.
Myth 3: “It only happens in summer or monsoon."
Yes, heat and humidity can worsen the condition, but in reality, a sebum imbalance and product buildup can happen any time of year. Even in cooler months, if the scalp’s natural balance is disrupted, oil and dead skin can accumulate, leading to that greasy scalp feel. Weather may influence the condition, but it’s not the sole cause. That’s why targeted care and regular deep-cleansing with oxygenated charcoal are important year-round to detoxify and maintain a healthier scalp, no matter the season.
The truth is, oily sticky dandruff isn’t about washing more, it’s about washing correctly. Choosing a shampoo that removes buildup, regulates sebum production, and supports long-term scalp health can make the difference between short-term freshness and lasting relief.
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