How To Get Rid Of Scalp Buildup Effectively

What Is Scalp Buildup?

Scalp buildup is the accumulation of excess oil (sebum), sweat, dead skin cells, and leftover hair care products on the scalp.

• The flaky residue can be white or gray and is often confused for dandruff.
• The scalp can feel greasy or waxy due to the overproduction of natural oils. If left unchecked, scalp buildup can clog hair follicles and eventually lead to infections, folliculitis, scalp acne, and hair loss.
• Scalp buildup often results in symptoms similar to other scalp conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis. These symptoms include an itchy scalp, redness or inflammation, dry scalp, and swelling.

Find out the causes of scalp buildup in the next section. 

What Causes Scalp Buildup?

It is normal for dead skin cells and natural oils to accumulate on the scalp. However, excess use of hair care products, improper hair rinsing, and skipping hair washing can cause scalp buildup.

We have learnt the causes of scalp buildup. How does it look? Scroll down to find out.

What Does Scalp Buildup Look Like?

Scalp buildup looks similar to dandruff. It is flaky residue that can be grayish-white. It may feel greasy and have an unpleasant odor. Sometimes, dandruff also adds up to scalp buildup.

Removing scalp buildup is simple. We have discussed it in the following section.

How To Get Rid Of Scalp Buildup

1. Clarifying Shampoos: These shampoos are specially formulated to remove the greasy residue on your scalp effectively. Keep in mind that clarifying shampoos can be drying and must be used sparingly (once a month). They should not be used in place of your regular shampoos.
2. Rinse Your Hair Properly: Residue, especially from dry shampoos or natural oils, sweat, and dead skin cells can cause long-term issues if not removed. Rinse your scalp thoroughly to remove buildup and keep it clean.
3. Use Lukewarm Water: Washing your hair with lukewarm water can help dissolve the oily scalp residue. Ensure the water is not too hot.
4. Use The Products Properly: Shampoos should be used on the scalp, while conditioners should be used on the hair strands. Often, we use conditioners on the scalp, making it greasy and oily. They also make hair limp and heavy. Remember to gently massage the shampoo on the scalp and hair roots to clean the scalp buildup. Avoid aggressive scrubbing as this can lead to scabs, sores, and hair breakage.
5. Brush Your Hair Regularly: Keeping your hair tangle-free can reduce product buildup. Unruly, tangled, and knotty hair can trap the residue and aggravate the scalp. Brushing your hair regularly and using natural bristles (boar) can help detangle the hair and distribute the natural oils and products evenly throughout the hair strands. Serums, detanglers, and leave-in conditioners, when used in adequate amounts, can help untangle your hair.
6. Home Remedies: Home remedies are a great way to get rid of scalp buildup using natural ingredients. Some home remedies you can try out include:

a. Apple Cider Vinegar: Anecdotal evidence suggests that following natural scalp treatments with apple cider vinegar rinse or baking powder in the shampoo can help remove scalp build up. It is widely believed that these ingredients exfoliate the scalp by dissolving product residue. However, remember, you can only try these natural remedies if there is no inflammation on the scalp.

b. Green Tea Rinse: Research shows that applying green tea extract to the scalp diminishes excess oiliness on the scalp, making it a reliable method for eliminating buildup (1). Simply, steep a bag of green tea in a glass of hot water, then allow it to cool. After shampooing and conditioning your hair, pour the cooled tea all over your scalp and hair. Gently massage it in and leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing it off.

c. Yogurt Hair Mask: According to research, altering the scalp’s bacterial equilibrium through the promotion of Propionibacterium while inhibiting Staphylococcus can be a beneficial strategy for dandruff reduction (2). Yogurt is a nourishing ingredient that encourages the growth of Propionibacterium (3). Also, the probiotics in it may aid in maintaining a balanced scalp pH by regulating sebum production (4). Mix some plain yogurt with honey, apply it to your hair, leave it on for 20-30 minutes, and rinse it off.

Quick Tip

If you have inflammation on your scalp due to build-up, use a shampoo with witch hazel to soothe the irritation.

How To Prevent Scalp Buildup

The best way to treat scalp buildup is to stop it before it starts. If you are prone to scalp build up, you may take these preventive measures:

• Avoid Excess Use Of Products: Haircare products are a great way to style and care for your hair. However, use them prudently, as excess use can lead to the accumulation of scalp residue and even make your hair dull Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully for effective results.

A blogger going by the username Rabadger wrote in her blog about how she went seven years without shampoo, embracing a water-only routine. She writes, “My transition consisted of largely WO every 4-5 days with raids of the kitchen cupboard sometimes supplementing it (egg yolk, vinegar, tea, lemon juice etc etc), and henna every 6 weeksish. I found that my scalp became itchy about 2 weeks in and there was loads of buildup of grease and skin. I developed an unpleasant head-scratching habit (i)”. But she also shares that after months her hair started to become more socially acceptable and look much better than before.

• Keep Your Hair Healthy: Harsh chemicals and pollution can make your hair dirty and greasy. Wash it regularly to keep your scalp clean. Washing your hair after a workout to get rid of the sweat and grime on the scalp can also help.

• Maintain A Healthy Hair Routine: Have a dedicated hair care routine suitable for your hair type. It will also help improve hair growth and prevent further hair damage.

Most often, scalp residue is neglected in its initial stages. Untreated scalp buildups can cause issues.

Quick Tip

Hormonal imbalance may also cause excess sebum on the scalp, leading to build-up. In such a case, consult a medical professional.

Risk Factors Of Scalp Buildup

• Scalp buildup can clog hair follicles and become a breeding ground for scalp microbes, leading to infections and dandruff.
• The inflammation in the follicles can cause folliculitis and scalp acne.
• Clogged hair follicles can also lead to hair loss.

• Poor scalp health and lack of hydration can irritate the skin and make you vulnerable to other scalp conditions such as psoriasis and eczema.

Infographic: Top 5 Tips To Get Rid Of Scalp Buildup

Scalp buildup is often caused due to an infection or lack of hygiene and can be persistent and difficult to eliminate. If left untreated for long, it can damage your hair follicles and cause hair fall. But fret not! We have some pointers for getting a healthier scalp. Check out the infographic below for 5 easy tips to get rid of unwanted hair and scalp impurities.

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Get the high-quality PDF version of this infographic.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my scalp oozing?

When your scalp begins to ooze, it is usually due to a sore on the scalp that has gotten irritated, inflamed, or popped. As a result, it’s crucial to identify the kind of sores and address the underlying cause. Numerous factors can cause sores to appear on the scalp. The most prevalent ones include psoriasis and eczema. Certain products can ease the symptoms, including specialized shampoos, medications, and creams.

What are hard bumps on the scalp?

Many conditions can produce hard bumps on your scalp, from less serious ones like a brief allergic reaction to more serious ones like skin cancer. Generally, most scalp bumps go away on their own with mild scrubbing and a shower rinse. However, you may need to consult a dermatologist if you have bumps that are persistent or recurring.

Should I wash my hair every day if I have seborrheic dermatitis?

Yes, washing your hair every day is the most crucial thing you can do to treat and prevent seborrheic dermatitis. This might be an issue for many people, but if seborrhea is to be treated, daily hair washing is crucial. Until your symptoms reduce, wash your hair every day with a medicated shampoo. After that, start shampooing once or twice per week.

Learn how to deep cleanse your scalp and remove product buildup for healthy hair growth with this easy-to-follow scalp scrub tutorial. Do not miss watching it.

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Dr. Shruti ChavanMBBS

Dr. Shruti Chavan is a consulting dermatologist at Dr.Sheth's Skin and Hair Clinic since 6 years. She is a co-committee member of CDSI (Cosmetic dermatologist Society of India). She is highly skilled in non-surgical facial skin rejuvenation and face lift by the use of injection treatments and lasers.   Dr. Chavan is well-versed with dermatological and aesthetic procedures. Her special...more

Annie JangamBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

 

Annie Jangam is a researcher-turned-content writer with 11 years of experience. She enjoys dissecting complex clinical studies and shuffling through the scientific jargon to make science interesting and easy to understand. Her scientific aptitude and love for writing paved the way to pursue a career in writing research-backed articles on skin care and hair care. Her expertise stems from her...more

Eshna DasAssociate Editor

Eshna is an associate editor and a certified skin care coach. She has over three years of experience, a triple main bachelor’s degree in psychology, English, and journalism from Mount Carmel College, Bengaluru, and a master’s degree in psychology from Sampurna Montfort College, Bengaluru. Her passion for writing and editing and her background in psychology help her create content that...more

Monomita ChakrabortyBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

Monomita has a graduate degree in mass communication and video production from St. Anthony's College, Shillong, and a master’s degree in journalism and mass communication from the Royal Global University, Guwahati. She is also a certified skincare coach with a keen interest in skin, hair, tattoos, nail art, and lifestyle trends. Her passion for and understanding of all things related...more