Tackle Oily Scalp Issues with Redken Amino-Mint Cooling Shampoo

TL;DR:

• An oily scalp is a skin condition — the scalp is overproducing sebum. The fix is at the scalp, not the lengths
• Redken Amino-Mint combines a 7% Amino Acid Strength Complex with peppermint and salicylic acid to deep-cleanse and rebalance the scalp
• It's also colour-safe — the acidic pH seals the cuticle and prevents fade
• Cape Town and Durban's humidity accelerates oiliness — a scalp-specific shampoo makes a bigger difference here than in drier climates
• Available at Partners Hair online and in-salon, free delivery over R390

Oily roots that reappear within a day of washing, flat hair that lacks volume, a scalp that feels heavy and congested — these are the signs of a scalp that needs a different approach. Redken Amino-Mint was built specifically for this. Here's how it works and who it suits.

Meet the experts:
Royston and Warren at Cavendish Square — Judy, head trainer — Lewis, owner — Jackie at Gardens Centre — Debbie and Nikí at V&A Waterfront — Danny and Charlene at Canal Walk — Lynette, Samantha and Dominique at Constantia Village

01 — What Causes an Oily Scalp

The scalp naturally produces sebum to protect and moisturise the hair. Overproduction — triggered by hormones, genetics, heat, stress, over-washing or the wrong products — leaves roots flat and greasy faster than they should be. Ironically, washing too often can worsen the cycle: stripping the scalp triggers more sebum production as it tries to compensate.

"The most common mistake is washing more frequently when the scalp gets oily," says Judy, head trainer. "That strips the scalp, the scalp overcompensates, and the oiliness comes back faster. The goal is to rebalance the scalp so sebum production normalises, not strip it repeatedly."

02 — What Redken Amino-Mint Does

Redken Amino-Mint Cooling Shampoo works at several levels simultaneously. The 7% Amino Acid Strength Complex fortifies the hair while cleansing. Salicylic acid gently exfoliates the scalp to remove oil and buildup. Peppermint and menthol provide the cooling sensation and stimulate the scalp. Chelating agents remove hard water mineral deposits — particularly relevant in areas with hard water.

"The cooling sensation is immediate and intense," says Royston at Cavendish. "Clients notice it on the first wash. But what matters long-term is that it rebalances the scalp without stripping the lengths — the amino acids protect the hair while the exfoliating ingredients address the scalp."

03 — How to Use It for Best Results

Apply to thoroughly wet hair and massage specifically into the scalp — not the lengths. Leave for one to two minutes to let the salicylic acid and mint work. Rinse thoroughly. Apply conditioner or a treatment mask to mid-lengths and ends only — the scalp doesn't need conditioning product. Use two to four times a week. Most Partners Hair clients in Cape Town use it as their regular shampoo.

"The application technique matters," says Charlene at Canal Walk. "Massage it into the scalp and leave it to work — don't rinse immediately. The active ingredients need contact time to be effective. Rinse after a minute or two and you get a significantly better result."

04 — Safe for Colour-Treated Hair

A common concern is whether a scalp-specific shampoo is safe for coloured hair. Redken Amino-Mint is formulated at an acidic pH of 5.0 to 5.6, which actually helps lock in colour rather than stripping it. The shampoo is safe for colour-treated, chemically processed and bleached hair. Apply it at the roots and scalp; use a colour-safe conditioner on the lengths.

05 — Cape Town and Durban: Why Scalp Care Matters More Here

Coastal humidity in Cape Town and Durban accelerates sebum production as the body works harder to regulate temperature in warm, humid conditions. The result: oily roots return faster than they would in cooler, drier climates. Hard water in some areas adds mineral buildup on top of the oiliness. A scalp-specific shampoo with chelating agents — which bind and remove minerals — is more impactful in these environments than a standard shampoo.

"Cape Town's climate is genuinely challenging for oily scalps," says Lewis. "The summer humidity here specifically accelerates sebum production. A shampoo built for this does more than a general formula would."

06 — Who Should Use Redken Amino-Mint

Redken Amino-Mint suits oily or combination scalps, anyone in humid or polluted urban areas, colour-treated hair needing scalp rebalancing, clients after braids or extensions where buildup accumulates, and anyone wanting volume and lighter-feeling roots. It does not suit very dry or sensitive scalps, or scalps with active irritation, where a gentler formula like Kérastase Spécifique Bain Vital Dermo-Calm is more appropriate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Redken Amino-Mint a clarifying shampoo?

It's a scalp-rebalancing shampoo with clarifying properties — it deep-cleanses and removes buildup while remaining gentle enough for daily use. Stronger clarifying shampoos are harsher and are used monthly; Amino-Mint is designed for regular use two to four times a week.

How soon will I notice a difference?

Most clients notice roots staying cleaner for longer within the first two to three washes. Scalp oiliness typically reduces measurably within four weeks of consistent use.

Can I use it every day?

Two to four times a week is the recommended frequency. Daily use isn't necessary and for some scalps can over-strip. Most Cape Town clients use it as their primary shampoo at that frequency.

Redken Amino-Mint vs Nioxin?

Amino-Mint focuses on scalp rebalancing and oiliness for normal to oily scalps. Nioxin is specifically formulated for thinning hair and scalp health in the context of hair loss. Different concerns, different products.

Where can I buy Redken Amino-Mint in Cape Town?

At all Partners Hair salon locations and online at partnershair.co.za with free delivery on orders over R390. All Redken products at Partners Hair are authenticated and sourced from official South African distributors.

Shop Redken and scalp care at Partners Hair, or find your nearest salon for a scalp assessment. Free delivery on orders over R390.