We’ve all been there—waking up to hair that feels less than fresh, with no time for a full wash and blow-dry. Greasy hair can throw a wrench into your morning routine and your confidence. But what if we told you that oily roots don’t have to ruin your day, or your style? Far from it! With the right techniques and a little creativity, you can transform a hair dilemma into a fashion statement.
This guide is your ultimate resource for turning greasy hair days into good hair days. We’ll explore over 29 chic, practical, and utterly stylish hairstyles that not only conceal oily roots but embrace them, giving you a polished, intentional look. From elegant updos to playful braids and smart accessory tricks, get ready to master the art of looking fabulous, even when your hair needs a wash.
The Art of Concealment- Chic Updos for Greasy Hair
Updos are your best friend on a greasy hair day. They lift the hair away from your scalp, making oily roots less noticeable while creating a sophisticated silhouette.
1. The High Messy Bun
A classic for a reason, the messy bun thrives on slightly greasy hair, which adds texture and hold. Gather your hair into a high ponytail, twist it loosely, and coil it around the base. Secure with bobby pins, allowing a few face-framing pieces to escape for a soft, effortless look.
Styling Tips For extra volume, gently backcomb the ponytail before twisting. A textured spray can add grip and absorb oil.
2. The Sleek Low Bun
When you want a more refined look, the sleek low bun is perfect. Greasy hair helps achieve that coveted polished, almost wet-look finish without needing extra product. Part your hair as desired (middle or side), brush it back tightly, and coil it into a neat bun at the nape of your neck. Use a strong hold hairspray to tame flyaways.
Styling Tips A fine-tooth comb is essential for a smooth finish. Consider a small amount of hair oil on the lengths for extra shine, avoiding the roots.
3. The Twisted Low Bun
Similar to the sleek low bun but with a twist (literally!). Part your hair, gather it into a low ponytail, then twist the ponytail tightly before coiling it into a bun. This adds a beautiful, intricate detail that elevates the simple bun.
Styling Tips Experiment with two twisted sections meeting in the middle for a more complex look.
4. The French Twist
An iconic and elegant choice, the French twist is surprisingly effective for concealing greasy roots. Sweep all your hair to one side, secure with bobby pins vertically up the back, then roll the hair upwards and inwards, securing it with more pins. The smooth, upward-sweeping motion hides any oiliness at the scalp.
Styling Tips Use a paddle brush to smooth hair before twisting. Finish with a strong-hold hairspray.
5. The Chignon
A variation of the low bun, the chignon often involves more intricate pinning and shaping, creating a sophisticated knot at the nape of the neck. It’s perfect for formal occasions when your hair isn’t cooperating.
Styling Tips A hair donut can help create a fuller, more structured chignon. Accessorize with delicate hairpins.
6. The High Ponytail
A high ponytail can be incredibly chic and youthful. The height draws attention away from the roots, and slightly greasy hair can provide the perfect amount of grip for a sleek base. Secure tightly at the crown of your head.
Styling Tips Wrap a section of hair around the elastic for a polished finish. A texturizing spray on the ponytail can add volume.
7. The Bubble Ponytail
This playful style involves segmenting a high or low ponytail with multiple elastic bands, creating ‘bubbles’ of hair. It’s a fun, trendy way to disguise less-than-fresh strands.
Styling Tips Gently tug at each ‘bubble’ to create more volume and a softer look.
8. The Knotted Ponytail
Instead of a standard elastic, tie your ponytail into a knot (or several knots) and secure with bobby pins. This adds an unexpected, stylish detail.
Styling Tips Works best with longer hair. Use a clear elastic at the base before knotting for extra security.
Braided Beauties- Intricate Styles to Mask Oily Roots
Braids are a lifesaver for greasy hair. The intricate weaving naturally hides oiliness and creates beautiful texture.
9. The Crown Braid
A truly regal look, the crown braid wraps around your head, effectively concealing all your roots. Braid two French or Dutch braids starting from behind your ears, bringing them over the top of your head and pinning them together. Slightly greasy hair provides better grip for braiding.
Styling Tips Gently pull at the braid sections to make them appear thicker and softer.
10. French Braids
Two classic French braids (or Dutch braids for a more raised effect) running down each side of your head are perfect for keeping hair off your face and hiding roots. They’re practical, sporty, and stylish.
Styling Tips Start braiding tightly at the hairline to maximize root coverage. Add a touch of dry shampoo to roots before braiding for better hold.
11. Fishtail Braid
A fishtail braid, whether a single one down your back or two pigtail styles, offers a unique texture that distracts from oiliness. It looks intricate but is surprisingly simple to master.
Styling Tips Loosen the braid gently once finished for a softer, more voluminous look. This style works well with slightly dirty hair for added grip.
12. Braided Ponytail
Start with a high or low ponytail, then braid the ponytail itself. This adds texture and interest, perfect for a casual yet put-together vibe.
Styling Tips A three-strand braid, fishtail, or even a four-strand braid can be used here.
13. Braided Headband
Take a small section of hair from behind one ear, braid it, and then sweep it across your forehead like a headband, pinning it behind the other ear. This creates a pretty detail while covering the hairline.
Styling Tips Secure with bobby pins matching your hair color for a seamless look.
14. Side Braid
A simple yet effective side braid can draw attention to the side of your head and away from your oily part. French braid or regular braid, pull it over one shoulder.
Styling Tips Add a ribbon woven into the braid for a touch of color.
Half-Up Wonders- Effortless Elegance
Half-up styles are fantastic for those who want their hair down but need to tackle greasy roots. They lift the top section, creating volume and a fresh look.
15. Half-Up Top Knot
This trendy style keeps the top section of your hair off your face and neatly tucked away in a small bun, while the rest flows freely. It’s chic, casual, and perfect for masking oily roots.
Styling Tips Use a small elastic and a few bobby pins. Tease the section you’re knotting for extra volume.
16. Half-Up Braids
Braid two small sections from the front of your hair and bring them back to meet at the crown, securing with an elastic or bobby pins. This creates a beautiful detail and lifts hair from the roots.
Styling Tips Try small French braids or simple twists for varied looks.
17. Half-Up Ponytail
Gather the top section of your hair into a sleek or slightly messy ponytail at the back of your head. This instantly refreshes your look by pulling the greasiest parts away from your face.
Styling Tips For added volume, backcomb the roots of the section you’re pulling up before securing.
18. The Waterfall Braid Half-Up
A beautiful, intricate braid that flows horizontally around your head, allowing strands to fall through like a waterfall. It’s an elegant way to manage less-than-fresh hair.
Styling Tips This style works well with wavy or slightly textured hair.
Accessorize with Flair- Elevating Your Look
Accessories are your secret weapon for greasy hair days. They distract, decorate, and do a fantastic job of covering up.
19. Headscarves and Bandanas
A vibrant headscarf or a chic bandana can completely transform your look while covering your hairline and roots. Tie it as a headband, a full head wrap, or woven into a braid.
Styling Tips Choose silk or satin scarves for a luxurious feel. Experiment with different colors and patterns to match your outfit.
20. Wide Headbands
A wide fabric headband is perfect for pushing back your front hair and covering the greasiest part of your scalp. Opt for velvet, padded, or embellished headbands for a fashionable statement.
Styling Tips Pair with a low ponytail or bun for a sophisticated touch.
21. Hair Clips and Barrettes
Statement hair clips or barrettes can hold back greasy fringe or side sections while adding a touch of sparkle or style. Use them to pin back sections of hair near your temples.
Styling Tips Layer multiple smaller clips or use one large, ornate barrette for impact.
22. Hats and Beanies
When all else fails, a stylish hat is your ultimate disguise. From a chic fedora to a cozy beanie or a trendy baseball cap, hats are a fashion-forward solution.
Styling Tips Ensure the hat fits comfortably without flattening your hair too much. Pair with a low bun or braid if your hair is long.
23. Scrunchies
An oversized scrunchie can add volume and a touch of retro charm to a ponytail or bun, making it look more intentional and less like a quick fix.
Styling Tips Choose velvet or satin scrunchies for a luxurious feel. Opt for a vibrant color to make a statement.
Sleek and Polished- When Greasy Hair Works for You
Sometimes, greasy hair isn’t a problem, it’s an asset! Embrace the natural oils for these high-fashion, sleek looks.
24. The Wet Look
Channel runway chic with a deliberately ‘wet’ look. This style uses the natural oils in your hair, often enhanced with gel or serum, to create a slick, glossy finish. Brush all hair back from your face or create a deep side part.
Styling Tips Use a strong hold gel for a true wet look. Perfect for evening events or a bold fashion statement.
25. Slicked-Back Hair
Similar to the wet look, but less extreme. This style involves brushing your hair back smoothly from your face, creating a clean, sophisticated profile. Greasy roots help achieve this sleekness without much product.
Styling Tips A fine-tooth comb and a touch of hairspray will keep every strand in place.
26. Deep Side Part with Volume
A deep side part can instantly add drama and volume to the cleaner side of your hair, drawing attention away from any oiliness on the other side. Use a teasing comb to lift the roots on the fuller side.
Styling Tips Secure the flatter side behind your ear with a bobby pin or a decorative clip.
Quick Fixes and Everyday Styles
For those days when you need a fast solution without much fuss.
27. Dry Shampoo Refresh
While not a hairstyle, a quick application of dry shampoo is the ultimate greasy hair hack. Spray at the roots, let it sit for a minute, then massage in and brush through. This absorbs oil and adds volume.
Styling Tips Apply before bed for maximum oil absorption overnight. Don’t overdo it to avoid a powdery residue.
28. The Zig-Zag Part
Changing your part can instantly make greasy roots less obvious. A zig-zag part breaks up the hair at the scalp, making oiliness less concentrated and visible.
Styling Tips Use the end of a rat-tail comb to create a quick zig-zag part.
29. Volume at the Crown
Teasing the hair at the crown can lift it away from the scalp, creating volume that masks oiliness. Combine with a half-up style or simply leave down.
Styling Tips Use a strong-hold hairspray after teasing to keep the volume in place.
30. The Low Pigtails
Playful and practical, low pigtails can be styled sleekly or with a slight wave, keeping hair neatly contained and away from the face.
Styling Tips Secure with statement scrunchies for a youthful vibe.
Key Takeaways for Greasy Hair Styling
- Embrace Texture Greasy hair often has more grip, making it ideal for braids and updos.
- Strategic Placement Focus on styles that lift hair away from the scalp or cover the root area.
- Accessorize Smartly Headbands, scarves, and hats are your best friends.
- Dry Shampoo is Gold A quick spray can buy you hours of freshness.
- Don’t Over-Brush Excessive brushing can distribute oils further down the hair shaft.
Greasy Hair Styling- Dos and Don’ts
Dos
- Do use dry shampoo sparingly Apply to roots, wait a minute, then massage and brush.
- Do experiment with different parts A deep side part or zig-zag part can hide oiliness.
- Do try updos and braids They are excellent for concealing roots.
- Do use hair accessories Headbands, scarves, and clips are stylish solutions.
- Do embrace sleek styles Sometimes, oily hair is perfect for a polished, slicked-back look.
Don’ts
- Don’t touch your hair constantly This transfers oils from your fingers to your scalp.
- Don’t over-brush your hair It can spread oils from roots to ends.
- Don’t use heavy conditioning treatments near your scalp Focus conditioner on mid-lengths and ends.
- Don’t rely solely on hairspray While good for hold, it doesn’t absorb oil.
- Don’t wash your hair everyday This can strip natural oils, prompting your scalp to produce more.
Accessorizing Your Greasy Hair Hairstyle
Accessories aren’t just for hiding—they’re for enhancing! A well-chosen accessory can elevate any greasy hair hairstyle from a quick fix to a deliberate style choice.
- For Buns & Ponytails Add silk scrunchies, decorative hair ties, or an elegant barrette at the base.
- For Braids Weave in thin ribbons, delicate chains, or small pearl pins.
- For Down Styles (with deep part or volume)Â Use statement clips or jeweled barrettes to pin back one side.
- For Any Style Headbands and scarves are versatile. A padded headband adds volume and a touch of luxury, while a printed silk scarf brings color and bohemian flair.
Conclusion
Greasy hair days are no match for a creative spirit and a few clever styling tricks. With over 29 fantastic hairstyles at your fingertips, you can confidently tackle any morning, transforming what might have been a frustrating hair day into an opportunity to showcase a fresh, stylish look. From elegant updos that command attention to playful braids that add texture and charm, and the strategic use of accessories, you now have a full arsenal to keep your hair looking fabulous, no matter what. So go ahead, experiment, have fun, and embrace the versatility of your hair—even on those in-between wash days!
