Can't find a good shampoo to use for dry or greasy hair? I can fix that.
I don't get it. One day, it's Sahara Desert-dry; the next, it’s greasier than a slice of late-night pizza. And don’t even get me started on the random bouts of thinning—like, excuse me, where do you think you're going, strands?!
After years of playing trial-and-error with several bottles in the haircare aisle, I’ve finally settled on two shampoos that help dry or greasy locks: California Naturals and Nioxin Shampoo 2. Two wildly different shampoos, each playing a crucial role, and both worthy of a spot in your shower. Let’s break it down.
California Naturals: The Quench Queen
Best for: Dry, thirsty hair that needs some serious love.
If your hair craves moisture but hates the heavy, greasy residue that some hydrating shampoos leave behind, California Naturals is your new best friend. It’s a shampoo and conditioner combo, so it simplifies your routine while still giving your strands the hydration they need.
Why I love it:
- Thick and creamy texture that actually coats and nourishes your hair (none of that watery nonsense).
- Natural ingredients that don’t feel like they’re secretly plotting against my scalp.
- THE SMELL. It smells SO GOOD.
Although I don't go for this every time I wash my hair, I do use it when my ends are screaming for some moisture. I have a greasy scalp and if I use this all over, I'll be washing my hair again after 12 hours.
If your hair leans on the dry, brittle side, this is the equivalent of handing it a big, refreshing glass of water.
NOTE: It doesn't lather UNTIL you start massaging it out to rinse!
Nioxin Shampoo 2: The Scalp Savior
Best for: Thinning hair, oily scalps, and anyone who’s ever used the phrase "why does my hair feel dirty already?!"
Now, when my roots decide to go full grease-factory mode, or I’m feeling extra paranoid about hair thinning, Nioxin Shampoo 2 comes to the rescue. This one’s specially designed for hair that’s on the finer or thinning side—but even if that’s not your main concern, its scalp-refreshing abilities are chef’s kiss.
Why I love it:
- Deep-cleansing power without stripping your hair dry (a rare balance to find).
- Invigorating tingly feeling that makes you feel like your scalp just got a spa treatment.
- Lightweight finish that keeps your hair feeling fresh longer—aka, fewer wash days.
Nioxin 2 is the MVP when I need my roots to feel ultra-clean but don’t want my ends to turn into straw. It’s great if you’re dealing with buildup, grease, or the dreaded "flat hair by 3 PM" situation. Bonus: the minty sensation makes it feel like it’s doing something, which is always satisfying.
Why I Rotate Between These Two
Listen, no single shampoo can be all things, all the time. Hair has moods, and different products cater to different needs. I use California Naturals when my hair is feeling dry (but I use this sparingly), and Nioxin 2 when my scalp needs a deep clean and a wake-up call. It’s all about balance, boo boo.
Pro Tip: If you’re not ready to commit to both, consider using one as a weekly "reset" while sticking to your regular shampoo most days. It’s like giving your hair a little vacation before it gets back to work!