this post was submitted on 22 Feb 2025
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That's very likely not a thing. The natural oil production (sebum) is primarily influenced by genetics and hormones.
Some people experience less oiliness over time, but this is likely due to changes in distribution, absorption, and perception, rather than a true shift in sebum gland function.
Frequent washing with harsh shampoos can temporarily increase oiliness due to compensatory production.
However, studies suggest this is a short-term effect rather than a long-term change in sebum gland activity.
Absolutely, using shampoo or not, proper scalp hygiene is important, too much sebum creates bacteria friendly environments, which can lead to infections.
As you said, the increase in oiliness is compounded upon daily use of shampoo. Using it frequently will eventually strip all of the oils out (if you've got long hair - People with shorter hair shouldn't have an issue).
There are certainly times where I use it, but it's very rare, it normally fucks my shit up for a good week.
As a short term effect, not a long term change in sebum production, the sebum glands are most likely primarily genetically and hormonally controlled.
I also said
I know what you're saying, but it could be interpreted as that the glands on your scalp just stop producing altogether, which is not true and if it happens likely presents a serious medical issue.
I briefly touched on the distribution of oil in your hair - if you brush long hair thoroughly and frequently you distribute the oil from the glands to the tips, which gives the perception of less oilier hair and is in fact, very healthy. Oil in short hairs obviously distributes faster and more easily from the glands to the tips, so a more frequent use of shampoo doesn't impact healthy hair as much.
Like I said, proper scalp hygiene can accommodate a wide range of hair washing habits. But if you forego that you'll get nasty issues.
Edits: formatting
Didn't mean to imply any impairment in sebum production, other than the increase to accommodate for the dryness. (Which can result in overly oily hair when you stop shampooing, which is a feedback loop your wallet really doesn't need to accommodate for).
For what its worth, my haircare routine consists entirely of warm water and a bit of a scrub.
People are genuinely amazed when I tell them I don't use shampoo or conditioner lol.