Oily vs Dry Scalp: Causes & Solutions

A healthy scalp is the foundation for beautiful hair, but finding balance isn’t always easy. Many people struggle with the difference between an oily vs dry scalp, and sometimes even experience both at once. At T Scalp Therapy & Spa in Fountain Valley, we help clients identify what their scalp truly needs so they can achieve lasting comfort and hair vitality.

Here’s how to recognize the difference between an oily and dry scalp, what causes each, and the best solutions for restoring balance.

Understanding Oily vs. Dry Scalp

• Oily Scalp: Overactive sebaceous glands produce too much sebum, leaving hair greasy soon after washing.

• Dry Scalp: Lack of natural oils leads to flakiness, itchiness, and irritation.

Both conditions can cause discomfort and affect hair health if not addressed properly.

→ 7 Signs Your Scalp Needs a Detox

Oily Scalp Causes & Solutions

• Over-washing or using harsh shampoos

• Hormonal changes

• Stress and lifestyle factors

• Heavy styling products that block follicles

Solutions:

• Gentle cleansing to rebalance oil production

• Professional detox treatments

• Scalp-friendly brushes to improve circulation

→ Best Home Practices for Scalp Care Between Treatments

Dry Scalp Causes & Solutions

• Cold or dry weather

• Harsh hair products with sulfates or alcohol

• Lack of hydration and nutrition

• Stress that reduces scalp barrier function

Solutions:

• Hydrating rituals and scalp massages

• Use gentle, moisture-rich shampoos and conditioners

• Schedule a scalp detox once a week to remove buildup and restore balance

• Focus on drinking water and adding nutrient-rich foods to your diet

→ Best Foods for Hair & Scalp Health

When It’s Both: Combination Scalp

It’s possible to experience oily roots with dryness or flakiness at the same time. This often happens when hair care routines are too harsh in some areas and too rich in others.

Treatment Tips:

• Use a gentle shampoo that balances oil without over-drying.

• Apply conditioner only to mid-lengths and ends, not directly on the scalp.

• Incorporate a weekly scalp detox to remove buildup while restoring hydration.

• Book professional treatments that both exfoliate and nourish for a balanced reset.

→ Oily vs. Dry Scalp: Causes & Solutions” blog + “Step-by-Step: The T Scalp Signature Ritual

Transformative results: Before and after deep cleaning an oily scalp for refreshed, voluminous hair.

Professional Care at T Scalp Therapy & Spa

Our Signature Scalp Detox and advanced therapies are designed to restore balance. By addressing your scalp’s unique needs, we create the right environment for healthier scalp, shinier, fuller hair.

→ T Scalp Therapy & Spa's Relaxation Ritual: Calm, Balance, Restore, Glow

→ Renewal Ritual with Keravive Hydrafacials at T Scalp Therapy & Spa

Every scalp is unique — the key is understanding what yours needs to thrive. Whether you’re dealing with an oily vs dry scalp, a personalized scalp detox treatment can restore balance and improve hair health

✨ Ready to restore your balance?

Begin Your Ritual