GREASY strands can get the best of us, but some of us are much more prone to it than others. How come some of us can go days without washing our hair and still have it look fresh and clean, while others have issues combating grease mere hours after stepping out of the shower? It turns out that hair is notoriously fickle, and there is a full list of issues that can contribute to the greasy oil-slick feel. Julien Farel, owner of the Julien Farel Restore Salon and Spa at NYC’s Regency Hotel, has some tips to offer. “Greasy hair is the result of overactive sebaceous glands, which are producing too much sebum. Our natural nourishing oil benefits the hair by keeping it hydrated and healthy, but too much oil can cause the hair to look dirty and greasy,” he says. “Greasy hair looks neglected, and the result is a poorly managed beauty regime or a natural process.” However, greasy hair doesn’t always mean dirty hair. Farel says there’s a huge list of issues that can lead to greasy strands. Think hereditary traits, unhealthy eating habits, medications, improper hair care, the changing of seasons, hormonal fluctuations and extended periods of stress. Good news: There are a few ways to address greasy tresses. According to Farel, one culprit that may lead to greasy hair is how much you’re shampooing. “When it comes to oily hair care, you could pursue a policy of ‘more is more.’ When it comes to shampooing, however, this is rarely effective,” he says. “Using a good clarifying shampoo once every two weeks will do a far better job of deep cleaning and stripping away a buildup of scalp oil. In between, try to use a mild shampoo once every two or three days. Where possible, skip the washing altogether and instead use a dry shampoo.” Farel also suggests avoiding substances like oil, silicone and even conditioners altogether until your grease issue is resolved. Instead of using these grease boosters, Farel recommends using apple cider vinegar rinses, which can help restore the scalp’s pH and therefore control oil production, and making some conscious dietary changes. “Adding vitamin B-rich foods, especially B-2 and B-6, to your diet, is believed to help moderate your sebum production,” he says. Fussing with your hair throughout the day, according to Farel, can also lead to increased greasiness. “Refrain from over-brushing, as this will only distribute the sebum all through your hair from the roots to their ends,” he says. However, if your hair is particularly knotty, Farel says to use a wide-toothed comb to get rid of knots. If you’re a hair-toucher, Farel advises wearing your hair in a low bun “to look chic while removing all temptation to mindlessly play with it.” Farel also suggests avoiding all sticky styling products such as mousse, paste, hairspray and wax.(SD-Agencies) | 