Skipped Wash Day? Try These Cute Hairstyle Ideas for Oily Hair

hairstyles for oily hair
Skipped Wash Day? Try These Oily Hairstyle IdeasInstagram @jastookes | @brycescarlett


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When I'm running late or, let's be real, just don't feel like doing my "everything shower"—inclusive of shaving, exfoliation, and ofc, shampoo and conditioner—the bane of my existence is WTF I'm gonna do with my hair. Listen, on day two (erm, or three, or four, or five) after wash day, even loads of dry shampoo won't fix the oil slick on top of my head. My solution? A cute hairstyle for oily hair that keeps it out of my face and tricks everyone else into thinking it's not as dirty as it really is.

Whether you're reading this because you want to wash your hair less often, it's hot and humid where you're at, or you just have a naturally oily scalp (I feel you), I've got options for everyone with every hair type and preference. From the OG slicked-back bun to fun hair accessories and braids galore, after browsing this roundup, you may want to skip wash day more often. Now, keep scrolling to find your signature hairstyle the next time your hair is feelin' a lil dirty, below.

Elevated Slick-Back

Another iteration of the slicked-back bun is this slicked-back curl updo that looks a lot more complicated than it actually is. Pull back your hair tightly, run over it with a pomade stick, and then tie it up in a ponytail. Take a smaller barrel curling wand to your ponytail, and using bobby pins, pin your hair up in small pieces, allowing the ends to hang loose.

cannes, france may 23 bella hadid attends the lamour ouf beating hearts red carpet at the 77th annual cannes film festival at palais des festivals on may 23, 2024 in cannes, france photo by victor boykogetty images
Getty Images/ Victor Boyko

Snatched Ponytail

There's nothing more chic than a snatched ponytail, IMO. It's like a slicked-back bun, but a little bit more fun. My favorite way to style this is with some fun big earrings and a pair of sunnies.

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Jeremy Moeller

Half-Up Half-Down Pony

This hairstyle takes me back to my middle school days, and the way to make the most of your half-up was to add a "Bump It" for va-va-voom volume. Chic it up in 2024 with a sleeker take on the look.

scheana shay
Amanda Edwards/Getty Images

A Thick Headbnd

Want something easy and quick for when you're running out the door that also happens to be one of the biggest trends this year? Opt for a headband look that slicks back and hides your roots.

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Jon Kopaloff/Getty Images

Bantu Knots

If you have curly or coily hair and are looking for a fun protective hairstyle that you can do on your own, consider some Bantu knots like Tracee Ellis Ross at the SAG Awards. Just FYI, if you've never tackled Bantu knots on your own, this hairstyle may take a little bit of time, so plan accordingly.

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Leon Bennett/Getty Images

Short Hair Low Pony

If you have super-short hair, it may be hard to find a style that'll keep your hair out of your face. If it's too short for a bun, consider a mini ponytail with a middle part, like Emma Chamberlain styled here.

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Daniele Venturelli / Getty Images

Sleek Topknot

Take your old-school ballet bun and cool it up a bit. Start by slicking your hair back into a super high ponytail and tie it with an elastic. Then, take your curling iron to the ponytail and bobby pin it into a bun-like shape.

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Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/Getty

Behind the Ears

Another solution for oily roots in the front is a simple behind-the-ears hair tuck. Secure each side with a bobby pin to keep them from going anywhere.

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Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images

Claw Clip

Late to your obligation and want quite possibly the easiest hairstyle for oily hair on this list? Opt for a claw clip, bonus points if it's a cute color or has a fun design.

los angeles, ca december 15 hailey bieber is seen on december 15, 2022 in los angeles, california photo by rachpootbauer griffingc images
Rachpoot/Getty

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