22 Greasy Hair Hairstyles Ideas
Let’s be real—greasy hair happens to the best of us. Maybe you overslept, maybe your dry shampoo ran out, or maybe your scalp just decided to produce enough oil to fry a basket of fries.
\Been there, done that, got the oily T-shirt. The good news? Greasy hair doesn’t mean you have to hide under a hat (unless that’s your vibe, no judgment).
I’ve personally had mornings where I stared at my shiny roots thinking, “Well, guess I’m not leaving the house.”
But after experimenting with a bunch of hairstyles, I realized greasy hair can actually work in your favor—it gives grip, sleekness, and sometimes a more polished look without trying too hard.
So, if your scalp is misbehaving today, I’ve got you covered. Here are 22 greasy hair hairstyles ideas that will make your day 100x easier.
1. The Sleek Low Bun
Greasy hair? Perfect. The natural oils act like free styling gel. Just comb it back, twist it into a bun, and you instantly look chic.
Honestly, it screams “effortlessly elegant.”
2. High Ponytail with Attitude
Pull your hair up into a high ponytail and embrace that glossy look.
Add a scrunchie for a little retro flair, or wrap a strand of hair around the base for a cleaner finish.
3. The Messy Top Knot
Grease actually helps a messy bun stay in place. Twist your hair on top of your head, secure with a hair tie, and let a few strands fall out.
Boom—casual but intentional.
4. Braided Crown
Ever noticed how braids slip out less when your hair isn’t squeaky clean? Use that to your advantage.
A crown braid makes you look like you tried way harder than you did.
5. Slicked-Back Ponytail
Instead of fighting grease, lean into it. Use it to nail that sleek, shiny runway-style ponytail.
It’s giving “model off-duty,” even if you’re just running errands.
6. Side Braid
A classic side braid looks softer and more relaxed with a bit of shine. Plus, it keeps your hair contained if you’re on day three (or four, I won’t tell) of no wash.
7. Double Dutch Braids
This style thrives with a little grit in your hair. Part it down the middle and braid both sides. It’s sporty, cute, and keeps everything under control.
8. Space Buns
Two buns = double the fun. Greasy hair adds grip, which makes space buns easier to shape and keep in place.
Perfect for festivals, errands, or just a “don’t care” day.
9. Half-Up Bun
Can’t decide between a bun and leaving your hair down? Do both. Tie the top half into a bun, and let the rest flow.
It hides the greasiest part (the roots) while looking stylish.
10. Slicked-Back Headband Look
Throw on a chunky headband, slick back your greasy strands, and you’ve got instant “cool girl” vibes.
It’s a lifesaver when your scalp feels heavy.
11. Loose Low Ponytail
A relaxed ponytail with a middle part is soft, easy, and perfect for day-old hair.
Pull out a few strands around your face for that “effortless” touch.
12. Fishtail Braid
Grease = braid bestie. A fishtail braid looks more defined and stays put longer on oily hair.
Wear it to brunch and no one will guess you skipped a wash.
13. French Twist
This one sounds fancy but is actually easy. Twist your hair up, secure with bobby pins, and let the grease work as natural hold.
Add a clip for extra flair.
14. Claw Clip Twist
When in doubt, grab a claw clip. Twist your hair up, clamp it down, and boom—you’re polished in 10 seconds.
Grease helps the clip stay in place, FYI.
15. Braided Ponytail
Upgrade your regular ponytail by braiding it. It’s sleek at the top, detailed at the bottom, and distracts from any oily shine.
16. Slick Low Pigtails
Yes, pigtails are back. Part your hair in the middle, slick it down, and tie two low pigtails. It’s playful but trendy (and hides grease like a champ).
17. Halo Braid
Similar to the crown braid, but softer. Wrap your braid around your head, pin it in place, and suddenly you look like you belong in a Pinterest board.
18. Wet Look Waves
Here’s a trick: apply a bit of mousse or gel and pretend the grease is intentional. Scrunch your hair into waves, and voilà—the “wet look” hairstyle.
19. Slicked Back with Bobby Pins
Part your hair to the side, slick it back, and stack some pretty bobby pins. It’s minimal effort with maximum style payoff.
20. Twisted Low Bun
Divide your hair into two sections, twist each, and wrap into a bun. It looks chic, stays secure, and works wonders for greasy strands.
21. Boxer Braids into Bun
Start with boxer braids, then twist the ends into little buns. It keeps everything neat and doubles as a cute, active look.
22. Scarf or Bandana Wrap
When all else fails, accessorize. Tie a scarf or bandana over your crown, and no one will know what’s going on underneath. Bonus: it adds instant personality.
Tips to Style Greasy Hair Like a Pro
Okay, so we’ve covered the hairstyles, but let’s talk about making them last (because nobody wants to redo a bun three times in a day).
- Dry shampoo is still your BFF. Even if you’re styling greasy hair, a quick spray at the roots adds volume.
- Accessories hide everything. Scarves, headbands, and clips can turn a “meh” day into a “wow” day.
- Play with texture. Braids, twists, and buns look better with grip—aka grease.
- Embrace the shine. Sometimes, the sleek look is trendier than fighting for matte roots.
Final Thoughts
Greasy hair doesn’t have to mean bad hair days. Honestly, it’s just a built-in styling product you didn’t have to buy (thanks, biology). From sleek buns to playful braids and everything in between, these 22 greasy hair hairstyles ideas prove you can rock second-day (or third, or fourth) hair without stress.
So next time your roots start looking suspiciously shiny, don’t panic. Just pick a hairstyle from this list, grab your hair tie, and strut out the door like you planned it all along. Because IMO, confidence is the best hairstyle accessory you can wear. 🙂
