How to Use Cornflour or Rice Starch for Oily Hair

Hair can look freshly washed in the morning yet develop an oily sheen before the day is over, particularly around the fringe and crown. To disguise this appearance without washing it again straight away, a small amount of cornflour or rice starch can serve as an emergency fix at the roots.

Why does hair become oily so quickly?

Oil is produced by the scalp’s sebaceous glands, where it helps protect both the skin and hair strands. For some people, however, sebum spreads quickly, especially through straight, fine hair. Heat, perspiration, hormonal changes and frequently touching the roots can also make hair look heavier.

Washing hair every day is not automatically harmful when suitable products are used. However, coloured, bleached or naturally dry hair may need extra care. In these situations, leaving longer between washes can reduce the regular exposure of the lengths to hot water, shampoo and friction during drying.

How do cornflour and rice starch absorb oil?

Cornflour and rice starch are fine powders that can soak up some of the oil on the surface of the hair. Their result is similar to that of conventional dry shampoo: roots temporarily lose their greasy shine, gain a little lift and appear looser, although the hair has not actually been cleansed.

As this method uses neither water nor lather, it can be helpful between washes and prevents coloured hair from being rinsed again immediately. That does not mean starch itself protects or preserves hair colour. It simply postpones washing, which can contribute to the gradual fading of some dyes.

How can you apply it without leaving white residue?

The key is to use the smallest possible amount and focus only on areas that are genuinely oily. Put a little starch into a clean container, then use a dry make-up brush to pat it lightly onto the roots. Allow around five minutes for the powder to absorb excess sebum.

• Section the hair into small parts before applying the powder.
• Touch the brush only to areas with an oily shine.
• Wait for roughly five minutes without adding more product.
• Massage the roots gently using your fingertips.
• Brush the hair thoroughly to remove every trace of visible excess.

On dark hair, even a small surplus is easily noticeable and can leave a greyish cast. It is therefore best to begin with almost none, repeating the process only if needed. Applying the powder at night may also make it easier to distribute, but it should be carefully brushed out before styling or arranging the hair.

Watch the video shared by the YouTube channel Isa Salustiano, which gives 4 special tips on caring for oily hair.

What precautions help prevent scalp problems?

Despite its convenience, starch is not a replacement for ordinary shampoo because it does not fully remove sweat, dead skin cells, microorganisms or built-up residue. Dermatologists warn that repeatedly using dry products without regular washing can encourage itching, flaking, irritation and blocked follicles.

Do not apply it to wounds, inflamed areas or a very sensitive scalp. It is also important not to breathe in the powder during use and to stop applying it if burning or itching develops. Anyone with severe oiliness alongside persistent dandruff, redness or hair loss should seek a dermatological assessment.

When is this trick genuinely worthwhile?

Starch works best as an occasional option to refresh the look of the roots before an appointment, after the gym or on a busy day. It is inexpensive, does not require an aerosol and can extend the visual feeling of fresh hair for a few hours, provided it is used sparingly and completely brushed out.

Treat this trick as a strategic break rather than a permanent substitute for hygiene. Start with a small amount, monitor how your scalp responds and wash your hair when build-up occurs. With this simple care, unwanted shine can be managed without turning a quick solution into another hair problem.