Waking up with perfectly styled hair might be a fantasy—especially in humid climates like Singapore, where oily roots are practically a given. On those in-between wash days, deciding whether to shampoo or stretch it another day can feel more complex than calculus. But here’s the good news: with the right approach, greasy hair isn’t a beauty burden—it’s a styling opportunity.
Celebrity makeup artist and hairstylist Rolana Lim shares her expert hair health tips for turning limp, oily strands into polished, intentional looks. Her secret? Smart product placement. “Instead of dousing your whole head in dry shampoo, concentrate on the crown to lift volume,” she says. Then, to avoid a chalky finish, she smooths shine-enhancing oil or mist—like Gisou’s Honey Infused Hair Oil—through the mid-lengths and ends. Her go-to combo? Living Proof’s Perfect Hair Day Dry Shampoo and Gisou’s oil for a clean, revived finish.
Here are five low-maintenance yet stylish hairstyles that transform greasy hair into a chic, wearable look:
Elevated Slicked-Back Bun
A timeless favorite of supermodels, the slicked-back bun is ideal for taming unruly, oily hair. Lim recommends brushing your hair into a tight high ponytail, twisting it into a bun, and securing it with pins. “Use a boar bristle brush and styling gel for a clean, smooth finish,” she adds. The result? Sleek, polished, and powerful.
Half-Up, Half-Down Bun
This playful option is perfect for shoulder-length hair. It disguises oily roots while keeping the rest of your hair down and breezy. “Tie the top half into a small knot and let the rest fall naturally,” says Lim. To tame flyaways, she suggests R+Co’s Dart Pomade Stick or spraying hairspray onto your fingertips for precise control.
Sleek Pony Braid
This style turns greasy hair’s texture into an advantage. “A low ponytail braided tightly from the base looks effortlessly cool,” says Lim. It’s simple, clean, and perfect for active days. Add a light mist of hairspray for a “snatched” effect that keeps everything in place.
Twist Updo
Great for concealing oily roots while keeping things romantic and retro. Take small sections from the front, twist them toward the back, and pin them in place. Let a few strands fall loose around your face for a soft, effortless look. This is one of those styles that works from beach day to dinner date.
Half-Up, Half-Down Ponytail
For those who want to keep hair out of their face without committing to a full updo, this easy style offers the best of both worlds. “Pull back the top half into a ponytail,” says Lim. “Add volume underneath for extra lift, or let your natural texture show.” It’s polished, simple, and ideal for workdays or casual weekends.
Hair Health Advice for Greasy Days:
Don’t over-wash: Stripping your scalp can lead to even more oil production.
Avoid touching your hair too often—this transfers oil from your fingers.
Use dry shampoo sparingly and only where needed.
Incorporate scalp care into your routine to balance oil production over time.
Effortless Style, Even on Oily Hair Days
Greasy hair doesn’t have to mean bad hair days. With these smart styling solutions and hair health advice, you can turn oily roots into the foundation of chic, controlled hairstyles. Whether you’re heading to the office or brunching with friends, these looks are proof that sometimes, second (or third) day hair really does style best.
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