We’ve all been there—waking up to hair that’s less than fresh, with that telltale oily sheen that makes you want to reach for the dry shampoo immediately.
But what if I told you that greasy hair doesn’t have to ruin your day? In fact, it can be your secret weapon for achieving some of the most stunning, trendy hairstyles that work perfectly with medium-length hair.
This comprehensive guide on 33 Trendy Greasy Hair Hairstyles for Medium Hair will transform the way you think about second-day (or third-day!) hair.
Whether you’re dealing with naturally oily roots, skipped a wash day, or simply want to embrace that sleek, lived-in texture, you’ll discover an array of gorgeous styles that not only disguise greasiness but actually benefit from it.
From elegant updos and sophisticated braids to casual waves and chic ponytails, these hairstyles will help you look polished and put-together without spending hours in front of the mirror.
Get ready to turn your hair struggle into your style advantage with these creative, easy-to-achieve looks that celebrate texture, movement, and effortless beauty.
Contents
- 1 1. Sleek Low Bun
- 2 2. Textured Top Knot
- 3 3. Side-Swept Ponytail
- 4 4. Dutch Braid Crown
- 5 5. Half-Up Twisted Bun
- 6 6. Slicked-Back High Ponytail
- 7 7. Messy French Twist
- 8 8. Braided Ponytail
- 9 9. Low Twisted Ponytail
- 10 10. Pulled-Back with Statement Clip
- 11 11. Bubble Ponytail
- 12 12. Faux Bob Tuck
- 13 13. Side Braid Accent
- 14 14. Low Chignon
- 15 15. Twisted Half-Up Style
- 16 16. Sock Bun
- 17 17. Braided Headband Style
- 18 18. Slicked Side Part
- 19 19. Loose Braided Updo
- 20 20. High Bun with Wrapped Base
- 21 21. Textured Low Ponytail with Volume
- 22 22. Twisted Low Bun
- 23 23. Half-Up Space Buns
- 24 24. Braided Side Swept Style
- 25 25. Top Knot with Loose Pieces
- 26 26. Criss-Cross Ponytail
- 27 27. Pinned Back Waves
- 28 28. Low Ponytail with Wrapped Section
- 29 29. Twisted Crown Braid
- 30 30. Sleek Middle Part with Tucked Sides
- 31 31. Voluminous Half-Up Ponytail
- 32 32. Double Dutch Braids
- 33 33. Messy Low Side Bun
- 34 Styling Tips for Greasy Hair
- 35 Hair Care Tips to Manage Oil Production
- 36 Best Products for Styling Greasy Hair
- 37 Face Shape Considerations
- 38 Common Mistakes to Avoid
- 39 Transitioning Between Styles Throughout the Day
- 40 Seasonal Considerations
- 41 Professional vs. Casual Styling
- 42 Conclusion
1. Sleek Low Bun

The sleek low bun is a timeless classic that actually thrives on slightly greasy hair, as the natural oils help create that polished, salon-worthy finish without needing excessive styling products.
This elegant style works beautifully for both professional settings and evening events, giving you a sophisticated look in minutes.
- The natural oils in greasy hair act as a built-in styling serum, making it easier to achieve that coveted glossy, sleek appearance without flyaways.
- Simply brush your medium-length hair straight back, gathering it at the nape of your neck, and twist it into a neat bun secured with bobby pins or a hair tie.
- For extra polish, apply a small amount of hair gel or pomade to smooth down any baby hairs or frizz around your hairline.
- This style works exceptionally well for oval, heart-shaped, and square face shapes, as it draws attention to your facial features and neck.
- You can dress it up with decorative pins, a silk scarf, or leave it minimalist for a clean, modern aesthetic.
2. Textured Top Knot

The textured top knot embraces the natural greasiness of your hair to create a deliberately undone, effortlessly chic look that’s perfect for casual outings or creative work environments.
This style celebrates volume and texture while keeping hair off your face and neck.
- Greasy hair provides the perfect foundation for this messy-on-purpose style, as the oils add weight and definition to the textured pieces.
- Flip your head upside down and gather your hair into a high ponytail, then twist it loosely around the base and secure with bobby pins, leaving some pieces free for that lived-in effect.
- Pull out a few face-framing strands to soften the look and add dimension.
- The top knot works particularly well for round and oval face shapes, as the height elongates the face.
- This versatile style transitions seamlessly from yoga class to brunch with friends.
3. Side-Swept Ponytail

A side-swept ponytail brings asymmetry and interest to your look while the natural oils in greasy hair help achieve a smooth, polished finish that holds throughout the day.
This flirty, feminine style adds instant glamour to medium-length hair.
- Position your ponytail at either the left or right side of your head, just behind and slightly below your ear for optimal placement.
- The greasiness actually helps prevent the ponytail from slipping and maintains its position without constant adjustment.
- Wrap a small section of hair around the elastic to conceal it and create a more refined appearance.
- This style flatters heart-shaped and diamond face shapes by creating balance and drawing attention to your best features.
- Add volume at the crown by gently teasing before securing the ponytail for extra dimension.
4. Dutch Braid Crown

The Dutch braid crown is a romantic, bohemian style that cleverly disguises greasy roots while creating a stunning focal point that works for everything from music festivals to weddings.
The natural oils actually make braiding easier and help the braid maintain its shape longer.
- Start by parting your hair down the middle and creating a Dutch braid (reverse French braid) on each side, beginning at the temple and working toward the back.
- The oils in greasy hair provide grip, making it easier to keep sections separated and preventing pieces from slipping out of the braid.
- Once both braids reach the back of your head, secure them together with bobby pins, creating a crown effect across the top.
- Gently pull on the outer edges of the braids to make them appear fuller and more textured.
- This style beautifully complements all face shapes and adds an ethereal, feminine touch to any outfit.
5. Half-Up Twisted Bun

The half-up twisted bun combines the best of both worlds—keeping hair out of your face while showcasing your medium-length locks. Greasy hair adds the perfect amount of texture and hold to make this style stay put without excessive products.
- Take the top section of your hair from your temples back, twist it loosely, and secure it into a small bun at the crown of your head.
- The natural oils help define the twist and prevent the bun from unraveling throughout the day.
- Leave the bottom half of your hair down, allowing the natural texture and slight greasiness to create piece-y, defined strands.
- This style works exceptionally well for square and rectangular face shapes, softening angular features.
- You can vary the size of the bun and the tightness of the twist to suit different occasions and personal preferences.
6. Slicked-Back High Ponytail

The slicked-back high ponytail is a statement style that channels confidence and sophistication, and greasy hair is actually your ally in achieving that ultra-sleek, wet-look finish that’s been dominating runways.
This bold style showcases your facial features and creates a lifted, youthful appearance.
- Apply gel or mousse to your greasy hair and use a fine-tooth comb to brush everything straight back, ensuring a completely smooth surface without any bumps or texture.
- Secure the ponytail at the crown of your head with a strong elastic, making sure it’s positioned high enough to create that dramatic, elevated effect.
- The natural oils combined with styling products create a high-shine, almost patent-leather finish that looks intentionally styled.
- This style particularly flatters oval and heart-shaped faces by emphasizing bone structure and creating length.
- Consider wrapping a section of hair around the elastic or adding a sleek hair accessory for extra polish.
7. Messy French Twist

The messy French twist offers an elevated, sophisticated look that actually benefits from the texture and piecey-ness that greasy hair naturally provides.
This updated classic works beautifully for special occasions while maintaining an effortlessly chic vibe.
- Gather your hair to one side at the nape of your neck, then twist upward along the back of your head, tucking the ends into the twist.
- The oils in your hair help individual pieces stay separated and defined, creating that coveted “undone” texture.
- Secure with bobby pins along the twist, allowing some pieces to fall free strategically for a romantic, lived-in appearance.
- Pull out a few face-framing tendrils to soften the style and add movement.
- This versatile updo complements all face shapes and can be adjusted for both formal and casual settings.
8. Braided Ponytail

The braided ponytail adds visual interest and texture to a classic style, and greasy hair provides the perfect grip needed to create intricate braids that won’t slip or unravel.
This sporty-chic look transitions easily from gym to street style.
- Create a standard ponytail at your desired height, then divide it into sections and braid one or multiple braids depending on your preference.
- The natural oils help maintain braid definition and prevent frizz, keeping your style looking fresh longer.
- You can opt for a single thick braid, multiple smaller braids, or even a fishtail braid for added complexity.
- This style works particularly well for active lifestyles, as it keeps hair secure during workouts or outdoor activities.
- Add elastics at intervals down the braid for a bubble effect, or leave it simple for a cleaner look.
9. Low Twisted Ponytail

The low twisted ponytail offers an understated elegance that’s perfect for professional environments or polished casual looks, with greasy hair providing the control needed to achieve smooth twists.
This refined style appears more complex than it actually is to create.
- Divide your hair into two sections and create a low ponytail, then split the ponytail into two parts and twist them around each other.
- The natural oils prevent the twists from becoming fluffy or losing definition, maintaining a sleek, rope-like appearance.
- Secure the end with a clear elastic and gently pull on the twists to add width and volume.
- This style flatters all face shapes and adds subtle interest without being too attention-grabbing.
- The low placement keeps the focus professional while still showing you’ve put thought into your appearance.
10. Pulled-Back with Statement Clip

Using a statement hair clip to pull back greasy hair is perhaps the simplest yet most effective styling solution, as the natural oils help the hair stay in place without slipping from the clip.
This trendy approach has taken social media by storm and requires minimal effort for maximum impact.
- Take a section of hair from one or both sides of your head and secure it back with a decorative clip, barrette, or claw clip.
- The greasiness actually helps the clip grip better, preventing it from sliding out throughout the day.
- This style allows you to showcase both your hair and a beautiful accessory while disguising oily roots.
- You can position clips at various locations—side, back, or asymmetrically—to create different looks.
- The simplicity of this style makes it perfect for busy mornings when you want to look put-together in seconds.
11. Bubble Ponytail

The bubble ponytail is a playful, Instagram-worthy style that uses the weight of greasy hair to create perfectly defined bubbles that maintain their shape throughout the day.
This fun, youthful look adds dimension and volume to medium-length hair.
- Create a ponytail and place elastics at regular intervals down its length, then gently pull each section outward to create bubble shapes.
- The natural oils add weight that helps the bubbles stay rounded and defined without deflating.
- You can create as many or as few bubbles as your hair length allows, adjusting the spacing to suit your preference.
- This style works beautifully for all face shapes and adds a whimsical touch to casual outfits.
- Consider using clear elastics for a seamless look or colored ones for extra personality.
12. Faux Bob Tuck

The faux bob tuck creates the illusion of shorter hair while keeping your medium length intact, and greasy hair actually helps achieve the sleek finish that makes this illusion convincing.
This clever styling trick offers versatility without commitment.
- Curl or wave your hair, then tuck the ends under and secure them at the nape with bobby pins, creating the appearance of a chin-length or shoulder-length bob.
- The oils in your hair help the tucked portion stay smooth and hidden, preventing the pins from showing.
- This style allows you to experiment with shorter lengths without actually cutting your hair.
- The faux bob works particularly well for round and square face shapes, creating the illusion of length.
- You can adjust the positioning to create different bob lengths depending on your mood and outfit.
13. Side Braid Accent

Adding a side braid accent to otherwise down hair is a simple way to add interest while strategically covering greasy areas near your face and temples.
The natural oils make braiding easier and help the braid maintain its structure beautifully.
- Create a small to medium braid starting from your temple on one side, incorporating hair as you work back toward your ear.
- The greasiness provides grip that keeps the braid tight and prevents pieces from escaping.
- You can leave the braid as an accent piece or incorporate it into a half-up style or ponytail.
- This versatile technique works with any face shape and adds a boho-chic element to your look.
- The braid draws attention away from oily roots while adding dimension and texture.
14. Low Chignon

The low chignon is an elegant, ballet-inspired style that benefits enormously from the natural oils in greasy hair, which help create that sleek, polished look synonymous with sophistication.
This timeless updo works for both formal events and elevated everyday wear.
- Gather your hair into a low ponytail, then twist it into a coil and wrap it into a bun shape at the nape of your neck.
- The natural oils eliminate the need for excessive smoothing products, allowing you to achieve a clean, refined appearance effortlessly.
- Secure with bobby pins in an X-pattern for maximum hold, and use a light hairspray if needed.
- This style flatters all face shapes and is particularly stunning for special occasions or professional settings.
- You can adjust the tightness of the chignon—sleek and tight for formal events or slightly loose for a softer appearance.
15. Twisted Half-Up Style

The twisted half-up style combines simplicity with elegance, using the natural texture of greasy hair to create defined twists that frame your face beautifully.
This romantic look is perfect for date nights or any occasion where you want to look effortlessly put-together.
- Take sections of hair from both temples, twist them back toward the crown, and secure them together with bobby pins or a decorative clip.
- The oils in your hair help maintain the twist definition and prevent them from unraveling throughout the evening.
- This style keeps hair away from your face while allowing the rest to flow naturally down your back.
- Face-framing pieces can be left out to soften the look and complement your facial structure.
- The twisted half-up works beautifully for heart-shaped and oval faces, adding width at the appropriate points.
16. Sock Bun

The sock bun creates a perfectly round, voluminous bun that’s ideal for disguising greasy roots while making a bold style statement.
The natural oils actually help smooth the hair around the sock form, creating a polished, salon-quality finish.
- Cut the toe off a clean sock, roll it into a donut shape, and slide it onto your ponytail, then wrap your hair around it and secure with bobby pins.
- Greasy hair wraps more smoothly around the sock form, eliminating gaps and creating a seamless, professional appearance.
- This style works at any height—high for drama, mid-level for versatility, or low for sophistication.
- The fullness of the sock bun makes it ideal for those with medium-thickness hair who want to create the illusion of more volume.
- Choose a sock color that matches your hair color for the best results.
17. Braided Headband Style

The braided headband style uses your own hair to create a crown-like accent that strategically covers the greasiest part—your roots and hairline—while looking intentionally stylish.
This bohemian look is both practical and beautiful.
- Create a small braid on each side of your head starting from behind your ear, then bring them across the top of your head like a headband and secure with bobby pins.
- The natural oils provide the grip needed to keep the braids in place and prevent them from loosening throughout the day.
- The rest of your hair can be worn down, in waves, or in a low ponytail or bun.
- This style adds a romantic, festival-ready vibe while cleverly disguising oily roots.
- You can adjust the thickness of the braids depending on how much coverage you want across your hairline.
18. Slicked Side Part

The slicked side part is a Hollywood-glamour style that transforms greasy hair into a deliberate fashion statement with an ultra-glossy, wet-look finish.
This bold, confident style has been seen on countless red carpets and fashion runways.
- Create a deep side part and use a comb to slick your hair over to one side, applying gel or pomade to enhance the wet look.
- The natural oils in greasy hair blend with styling products to create that coveted high-shine, plastered-down effect.
- Tuck one side behind your ear to showcase your face and create asymmetry.
- This dramatic style works best for oval, heart-shaped, and diamond face shapes, creating striking angles.
- The slicked side part exudes confidence and works beautifully for evening events or fashion-forward occasions.
19. Loose Braided Updo

The loose braided updo combines multiple braids into one cohesive, romantic style that looks complex but benefits from the grip and texture that greasy hair naturally provides.
This elegant option works beautifully for weddings, proms, or any special occasion.
- Create two or three loose braids from different sections of your hair and wrap them together at the back of your head, securing with bobby pins.
- The natural oils help the braids maintain their structure while preventing flyaways that could disrupt the polished appearance.
- Gently pull on the braids to loosen them further, creating a soft, voluminous effect.
- Leave a few wispy pieces out around your face for a softer, more romantic finish.
- This style complements all face shapes and can be customized with flowers, pins, or other accessories.
20. High Bun with Wrapped Base

The high bun with wrapped base adds sophistication to a classic style, and greasy hair helps achieve the smooth, clean lines that make this look so polished.
The wrapped base conceals the elastic while creating visual interest.
- Create a high ponytail and twist it into a bun, then take a small section from the ponytail and wrap it around the base to hide the elastic.
- The natural oils make it easier to smooth the section that wraps around the base, creating a seamless, professional finish.
- This style adds height and elegance, making it perfect for both professional settings and evening events.
- The high placement elongates the neck and draws attention upward, flattering most face shapes.
- Secure the wrapped section with bobby pins that match your hair color for an invisible hold.
21. Textured Low Ponytail with Volume

The textured low ponytail with volume combines the ease of a ponytail with added dimension and interest, using the natural weight of greasy hair to create piece-y definition. This effortlessly cool style bridges the gap between casual and polished.
- Tease the crown section of your hair before gathering it into a low ponytail, creating lift and volume at the top.
- The oils in your hair help maintain the teased volume without it falling flat throughout the day.
- Leave the ponytail itself textured rather than smooth, embracing the piece-y, lived-in appearance that greasy hair naturally creates.
- Pull out a few strategic face-framing pieces to soften the overall look.
- This style works beautifully for all face shapes and adds a modern, editorial feel to your appearance.
22. Twisted Low Bun

The twisted low bun offers a refined alternative to the standard bun, with the twists adding visual interest and the natural oils providing the sleekness needed for a polished finish. This sophisticated style works for virtually any occasion.
- Divide your hair into two sections, twist each section individually, then wrap them together into a low bun at the nape of your neck.
- The greasiness helps the twists stay defined and smooth, preventing frizz and maintaining the elegant rope-like appearance.
- Secure with bobby pins arranged in a star pattern for maximum hold.
- This style beautifully showcases the neck and shoulders, making it ideal for wearing with statement earrings or necklaces.
- The twisted texture adds complexity without requiring advanced styling skills.
23. Half-Up Space Buns

Half-up space buns bring a playful, youthful energy to medium-length greasy hair, and the natural oils actually help create that sleek, defined look that makes this style so trendy.
This fun option has remained popular across social media platforms.
- Section off the top half of your hair and divide it into two parts, creating a small bun on each side of your head.
- The greasiness allows you to create tight, smooth buns without flyaways, giving them that polished, intentional appearance.
- Leave the bottom section down, either straight, wavy, or curly depending on your preference.
- This style works particularly well for round and heart-shaped faces, adding width at the crown.
- You can adjust the size and position of the buns to suit your personal style—higher for more drama, lower for a subtler look.
24. Braided Side Swept Style

The braided side swept style combines the elegance of a braid with the romance of asymmetry, and greasy hair provides the perfect texture for creating a braid that holds its shape beautifully.
This red-carpet-worthy look turns heads while being surprisingly simple to achieve.
- Create a deep side part and gather all your hair to one side, then braid it loosely down over your shoulder.
- The natural oils help each section of the braid stay separated and defined, creating visual interest and texture.
- Gently pull on the outer edges of the braid to make it appear fuller and more voluminous.
- This style draws attention to one side of your face and works beautifully for oval, square, and rectangular face shapes.
- Add small flowers, pins, or ribbons woven into the braid for special occasions.
25. Top Knot with Loose Pieces

The top knot with loose pieces strikes the perfect balance between polished and effortless, using the natural texture of greasy hair to create intentionally messy pieces that frame your face.
This Instagram-favorite style has become a modern classic.
- Gather your hair into a high ponytail and twist it into a knot at the crown, leaving some pieces loose around your face and neck.
- The oils help the loose pieces maintain their piece-y, defined texture rather than appearing frizzy or unkempt.
- This style keeps hair off your neck while still looking soft and approachable rather than severe.
- The height elongates the face, making it ideal for round and square face shapes.
- Adjust how many pieces you leave out based on how relaxed or polished you want the final look to be.
26. Criss-Cross Ponytail

The criss-cross ponytail adds geometric interest to a basic style, and the grip provided by greasy hair ensures the criss-crossed sections stay in place without constant readjustment.
This modern, fashion-forward look requires minimal time but delivers maximum impact.
- Create a ponytail and divide a small section from the underside, splitting it into two pieces that you criss-cross over the elastic, securing each with bobby pins.
- The natural oils help the criss-crossed sections lie flat and smooth against the ponytail base, creating clean, defined lines.
- This detail transforms a simple ponytail into something special without requiring advanced skills.
- The style works at any height—high for a sporty look or low for something more refined.
- You can enhance the criss-cross with contrasting bobby pins or small decorative pins for added visual interest.
27. Pinned Back Waves

Pinned back waves strategically hide greasy roots while showcasing beautiful wave texture in your medium-length hair, creating a look that’s both romantic and practical.
The natural oils actually enhance wave definition and shine.
- Use decorative bobby pins or clips to pin back the front sections of your hair on one or both sides.
- The greasiness at the roots is concealed while the waves in the rest of your hair take center stage.
- This style allows you to show off any natural or styled wave pattern while keeping hair away from your face.
- Strategic pinning creates volume and lift where needed most—at the crown and temples.
- This versatile look transitions easily from day to night with minimal adjustment.
28. Low Ponytail with Wrapped Section

The low ponytail with wrapped section adds sophistication to a simple style, and greasy hair makes it easier to create the smooth, sleek section that wraps around the base.
This polished detail elevates an everyday look into something special.
- Create a low ponytail and take a small section from underneath, wrapping it around the elastic to conceal it completely.
- The natural oils help the wrapped section lie smooth and flat, creating a seamless, professional appearance.
- Secure the end of the wrapped section with a bobby pin tucked underneath where it won’t be visible.
- This simple detail makes the ponytail look more intentional and put-together.
- The low placement keeps the style appropriate for professional environments while still showing style awareness.
29. Twisted Crown Braid

The twisted crown braid creates a halo effect that’s both romantic and practical, using the grip of greasy hair to keep the twists secure throughout the day.
This ethereal style works beautifully for special occasions or when you want to feel extra feminine.
- Take sections from both sides of your head, twist them back toward the crown, and continue twisting as you work around the back of your head, creating a crown effect.
- The natural oils provide hold that keeps the twists tight and defined without needing excessive bobby pins.
- This style hides greasy roots under the twisted crown while creating a stunning focal point.
- You can leave the remaining hair down, in a ponytail, or tucked into a low bun depending on the occasion.
- The crown braid flatters all face shapes and adds a whimsical, princess-like quality.
30. Sleek Middle Part with Tucked Sides

The sleek middle part with tucked sides creates a modern, minimalist look that embraces the natural oils for a high-shine, editorial finish.
This simple yet striking style has been seen on countless fashion runways and celebrity events.
- Create a precise center part and slick your hair straight down, tucking both sides behind your ears.
- The greasiness enhances the wet-look effect, creating that coveted glossy, just-stepped-out-of-the-shower appearance.
- This style showcases your facial features and bone structure while requiring minimal effort.
- Use a small amount of gel or pomade to enhance the sleek effect and keep hair tucked securely.
- This look works particularly well for oval and heart-shaped faces, emphasizing symmetry.
31. Voluminous Half-Up Ponytail

The voluminous half-up ponytail combines height at the crown with the casual ease of a ponytail, and greasy hair helps maintain the teased volume without falling flat.
This style adds drama and dimension to medium-length hair.
- Tease the crown section generously before gathering the top half into a ponytail, creating significant lift and volume.
- The natural oils help the teased section hold its structure throughout the day without requiring excessive hairspray.
- The bottom section remains down, flowing naturally and adding length.
- This style creates the illusion of more hair and works beautifully for fine or medium-thickness hair.
- The volume at the crown elongates the face, making it ideal for round and square face shapes.
32. Double Dutch Braids

Double Dutch braids are a sporty, youthful style that keeps all your hair secure and looks intentionally cool, with greasy hair providing the grip needed to create tight, long-lasting braids.
This athletic-chic look has crossed over from the gym to street style.
- Part your hair down the middle and create a Dutch braid (reverse French braid) on each side, working from the hairline to the nape of your neck.
- The natural oils prevent sections from slipping and help maintain braid definition throughout even the most active day.
- Secure each braid at the end with a clear or colored elastic depending on your preference.
- This style keeps hair completely off your face and neck, making it ideal for workouts, hot weather, or long days.
- Double Dutch braids work for all face shapes and have become increasingly popular across all age groups.
33. Messy Low Side Bun

The messy low side bun brings together casual elegance and effortless style, with the natural texture of greasy hair creating that perfectly imperfect, lived-in appearance.
This romantic, bohemian look is ideal for those who want to look polished without appearing overly styled.
- Gather your hair to one side at the nape of your neck and twist it loosely into a bun, securing with bobby pins while deliberately leaving some pieces free.
- The oils in your hair help create separation and definition in the messy pieces, preventing them from looking frizzy or unkempt.
- Pull out a few face-framing tendrils and allow some pieces to fall naturally from the bun for that deliberately undone effect.
- This style works beautifully for oval, heart-shaped, and diamond face shapes, creating asymmetry and visual interest.
- The low side placement keeps the style soft and approachable while still looking thoughtfully styled.
- Add small flowers, decorative pins, or a delicate hair accessory to dress it up for special occasions.
Styling Tips for Greasy Hair
Understanding how to work with greasy hair rather than against it can completely transform your styling routine and open up a world of hairstyling possibilities you may have never considered before.
- Embrace the texture: Greasy hair has natural hold and definition that can actually make styling easier and longer-lasting than freshly washed hair.
- Use dry shampoo strategically: Apply dry shampoo to roots the night before to absorb excess oil while maintaining the beneficial styling properties.
- Choose the right accessories: Hair ties, bobby pins, and clips grip better on slightly oily hair, making styles more secure.
- Work with your hair’s natural movement: Greasy hair often reveals your natural texture and wave patterns that can be enhanced rather than fought against.
- Consider your hair type: Fine hair shows greasiness faster but also benefits more from the added weight and texture, while thicker hair can go longer between washes.
- Focus on root concealment: Many of these styles strategically hide the greasiest areas (roots and hairline) while showcasing the better-textured mid-lengths and ends.
Hair Care Tips to Manage Oil Production
While these hairstyles help you look fabulous with greasy hair, understanding how to manage oil production can help you feel more confident and extend time between washes effectively.
- Temperature matters: Rinse hair with cool water at the end of washing to close cuticles and reduce oil production.
- Scalp health is key: A healthy scalp produces the right amount of oil, so consider scalp treatments or massages.
- Product placement: Avoid applying styling products directly to roots, which can make greasiness worse.
- Pillowcase hygiene: Change pillowcases regularly to prevent transferring oils and bacteria back to your hair.
- Touch less: Constantly touching your hair transfers oils from your hands to your strands.
Best Products for Styling Greasy Hair
Having the right products in your arsenal makes styling greasy hair significantly easier and helps you achieve professional-looking results at home.
- Dry shampoo: Essential for absorbing excess oil at roots while adding texture and volume to the rest of your hair.
- Texturizing spray: Enhances the piece-y, defined look that greasy hair naturally creates and adds grip for updos.
- Light-hold gel or pomade: Works with natural oils to create sleek, polished styles without adding too much additional weight.
- Bobby pins and clear elastics: These practical tools are crucial for securing the many updos and half-up styles that work best with greasy hair.
- Finishing spray: A light mist sets styles in place without making hair stiff or adding greasiness.
- Hair accessories: Decorative clips, barrettes, headbands, and scrunchies not only secure styles but also draw attention away from oily roots.
- Volumizing powder: Applied at roots, it absorbs oil while creating lift and texture for styles that require height.
Face Shape Considerations
Choosing hairstyles that complement your face shape ensures you look your absolute best, and many of these greasy hair styles can be adapted to flatter different facial structures.
- Experiment with placement: Moving buns, ponytails, and knots higher or lower can dramatically change how they complement your features.
- Use face-framing pieces strategically: Pulling out specific tendrils can soften features and create balance.
- Consider your best features: Choose styles that draw attention to your eyes, cheekbones, or other features you love.
- Don’t be afraid to break rules: These are guidelines, not rigid requirements—personal style and confidence matter most.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with greasy hair working in your favor, certain mistakes can undermine your styling efforts and make your hair appear unkempt rather than intentionally styled.
- Over-touching your hair: Constantly running your fingers through your hair transfers more oils and disrupts your style.
- Using too much product: Greasy hair already has natural oils, so adding heavy products creates an overly greasy appearance.
- Brushing excessively: While some brushing distributes oils beneficially, too much makes hair look greasier and flatter.
- Ignoring the back: Many people focus on the front and sides but neglect the back, where greasiness can be equally visible.
- Choosing the wrong style for the occasion: Some greasy hair styles work better for casual settings, while others suit professional or formal environments.
- Skipping accessories: Hair accessories can elevate a simple greasy-hair style and make it look more intentional.
- Not securing styles properly: Greasy hair can be slippery, so ensure you use enough bobby pins or strong enough elastics.
- Giving up too quickly: Some styles require practice, and what doesn’t work the first time might become your signature look with repetition.
Transitioning Between Styles Throughout the Day
One of the advantages of working with greasy hair is the ability to easily transition between different looks as your day progresses from work to evening plans.
- Start conservative: Begin with a sleek low bun or ponytail for professional settings, which can be easily transformed later.
- Add accessories for evening: Transform a simple daytime ponytail into an evening look by adding statement clips or wrapping sections around the base.
- Adjust height and tightness: A tight, high ponytail for the gym can be loosened and lowered for a casual dinner afterward.
- Incorporate braids: Add braids to a simple down style to make it more interesting for evening events.
- Use the “fluff and pin” method: Styles that have settled throughout the day can be revived by gently pulling on sections and adding strategic pins.
- Layer styles: Start with hair down, pull some back in the afternoon, then finish with a full updo for evening—all without washing.
Seasonal Considerations
Different seasons present unique challenges and opportunities for styling greasy hair, and adapting your approach can help you look your best year-round.
- Summer: Greasy hair is more common in hot weather due to increased sweating, making updos and off-the-neck styles particularly practical.
- Winter: Hats and static electricity affect greasy hair differently, so styles that tuck easily under beanies or that benefit from hat hair work well.
- Spring: Humidity can make greasy hair more pronounced, so embrace slicked-back styles that work with moisture rather than fighting it.
- Fall: Cooler weather often means you can extend time between washes more easily, making this ideal for experimenting with multi-day hairstyles.
- Humidity management: In humid climates, greasy hair actually can help weigh down frizz and create smoother styles.
- Cold weather protection: Updos and buns protect ends from harsh winter weather while keeping greasy roots hidden under hats.
Professional vs. Casual Styling
Understanding which greasy hair styles work best in different settings helps you navigate various social and professional situations with confidence.
Professional Environments:
- Sleek low buns and chignons project polish and competence.
- Neat ponytails with wrapped bases look intentional and appropriate.
- Subtle braided accents add interest without being distracting.
- Avoid overly messy or very high styles that might appear too casual.
Casual Settings:
- Messy buns and textured ponytails embrace a relaxed, approachable vibe.
- Space buns and bubble ponytails show personality and creativity.
- Loose, bohemian braids work beautifully for weekend activities.
- Face-framing pieces and deliberately undone elements look effortlessly cool.
Formal Events:
- Sophisticated updos like French twists and braided updos suit special occasions.
- Slicked-back styles with high shine create dramatic, fashion-forward looks.
- Intricate braided crowns and twisted styles appear elegant and romantic.
- Add accessories like decorative pins, flowers, or jeweled clips for extra glamour.
Conclusion
Throughout this comprehensive guide on 33 Trendy Greasy Hair Hairstyles for Medium Hair, we’ve discovered that what many consider a hair “problem” can actually be transformed into a styling advantage.
Greasy hair offers unique benefits—natural hold, enhanced texture, longer-lasting styles, and a glossy finish that many people try to achieve with expensive products.
From elegant updos like the sleek low bun and twisted crown braid to casual styles like the textured top knot and messy side bun, you now have an extensive repertoire of looks that not only work with greasy hair but actually benefit from it.
Whether you’re heading to the office, meeting friends for brunch, working out at the gym, or attending a special event, there’s a style in this collection that will help you look polished, confident, and effortlessly chic.
Remember that the key to successfully styling greasy hair lies in working with your hair’s natural texture rather than against it, choosing styles that strategically conceal oily roots while showcasing your medium length, and embracing the grip and definition that natural oils provide.
With these 33 versatile options at your fingertips, you’ll never again feel limited by second or third-day hair.
Instead, you’ll look forward to the styling possibilities that greasy hair creates, saving time, reducing heat damage from daily washing, and always having a go-to look that makes you feel beautiful and confident.