Scalp Build-Up: Causes And How To Get Rid Of It?
Dr. Deepthi Prasad, MBBS.
Written by Our Editorial Team
Have you been suffering from a flaky or itchy scalp recently? Is your hair greasy even after shampooing it? With the appearance of a tiny white flaky substance on your scalp, you think that it's dandruff. But, it might build up on the scalp that causes an itchy and irritated scalp. If you indulge in excessive use of synthetic haircare products and heat styling products, then scalp build-up can be the reason behind dry and flaky scalp. Scalp build-up is a common hair concern that can affect any person, regardless of age, gender, and hair type. This blog will discuss scalp build-up, its causes, and how to deal with it.
What Is Scalp Build-Up?
Source : Shutterstock
Scalp build-up is the accumulation of dead cells, oil, dirt, sweat, and the residue of haircare products on the scalp. These impurities can cause hair follicles to become clogged, causing dandruff and other hair problems. Scalp build-up can also make the scalp itch, flaky and inflamed. If left untreated, it can lead to scalp acne, scalp infection, and hair fall.
What Causes Scalp Build-Up?
Accumulation of dead skin cells and sebum on the scalp is quite normal. With regular shampooing, we can get rid of it. However, skipping hair wash sessions due to your hectic schedule, improper rinsing, and excessive use of hair care products can cause scalp build-up, resulting in a dry, inflamed, itchy, and flaky scalp. The symptoms of scalp build-up are often similar to dry scalp conditions such as dermatitis, dandruff, and eczema. Let's understand the causes of scalp build-up:
1. Sebum
Sebum, or the natural oil on the scalp, keeps your scalp moisturized. But excess sebum production can make your scalp greasy resulting in scalp build-up.
2. Residue Of Haircare Products
Excessive use of styling products such as dry shampoo, styling gel, hair sprays, and mousse can also cause product build-up on the scalp.
3. Accumulation Of Dead Skin Cells
Skin cells keep regenerating, shedding dead skin cells, which need to be exfoliated from the scalp regularly. Accumulation of dead skin cells on the scalp can cause scalp build-up.
4. Poor Scalpcare Habits
You need to take good care of your hair to avoid developing scalp build-up. Ensure that you wash your hair regularly, avoid harsh hair care products and rinse thoroughly after washing, to keep your scalp clean.
5. Hard Water
Hard water is high in minerals, and washing your hair with hard water can accumulate minerals on the scalp, thus leading to product buildup.
How To Treat Scalp Build-Up?
The first step towards treating scalp build-up is clearing up the scalp. The clean and hydrated scalp is free from all kinds of scalp conditions. Use haircare products according to your scalp condition and your hair type.
It is possible to treat scalp accumulation by following a proper haircare routine. Below are some tips to help you get rid of scalp build-up.
1. Exfoliate Your Scalp
Source : Shutterstock
Regular exfoliation can help remove dead cells, sweat, dirt, and oil from your scalp. We recommend using ThriveCo's Exfoliating Scalp Scrub with super-charged particles that effectively eliminate all the debris and the gunk from the scalp, eliminating clogged pores. Use this exfoliating scalp scrub to have freedom from red, flaky, itchy, and dry scalp. Use the exfoliating scalp scrub once or twice a week depending on your scalp condition.
You can incorporate ThriveCo's Scalp Care Kit Containing Scalp Scrub and scalp vitalizing serum into your hair care routine.
Buy ThriveCo Scalp Care Kit
2. Use a Scalp Serum
Source : Shutterstock
Scalp serum which is high in antioxidants, vitamins, and botanical extracts, helps maintain a healthy and hydrated scalp. ThriveCo's Scalp Vitalizing Serum to revive, revitalize and rejuvenate your scalp. It keeps your scalp hydrated and well-nourished, fortifying the hair follicles with essential nutrients required for healthy hair growth. This serum has Advanced HA and botanical actives such as hesperidin and copper peptide.
3. Find The Right Shampoo
Source : Shutterstock
A clarifying soap can help to prevent the build-up of dirt and grime from occurring again by using it once a month. Try to find a clarifying shampoo that contains glycolic or salicylic acids. These ingredients will help exfoliate hair and remove dirt.
4. Rinse Thoroughly
Source : Shutterstock
Make sure to thoroughly rinse your scalp after shampooing to remove all build-ups and residue of products. Use warm water on the hair for rinsing to help open up its cuticles.
5. Use Hair Styling Products In Moderation
Source : Shutterstock
Excessive use of hair styling products can lead to a build-up of products on the head. Hair styling products should be used sparingly and washed out thoroughly.
An itchy and flaky scalp due to scalp build-up can be quite embarrassing, but with a haircare regime and using the right haircare products, build-up on the scalp can be treated. By following these pro tips, you can restore the vitality of your scalp, having a clean, revived, and refreshed scalp.
Frequently Answered Questions
1. How Do You Get Rid Of Scalp Build Up Naturally?
You can use baking soda to eliminate scalp buildup. Add one teaspoon of baking soda to 1 cup of water. After washing your hair, rinse your hair with this solution Alternatively, add two tablespoons of ACV to 1 cup of water and use this solution for rinsing your hair.
2. Can Scalp Build-Up Lead To Hair Loss?
Yes, scalp build-up can clog the hair follicles, suffocating the stem cells, resulting in hair fall and hair thinning.
3. Why Does My Scalp Have So Much Of Build Up?
Accumulation of dead skin cells, dirt, grime, product residue, and improper rinsing can cause build-up on the scalp.
About Doctor :
Dr. Deepthi Prasad specializes in Dermatology, Cosmetology, and Aesthetic Dermatology and has been practicing for over 15 years. After completing MBBS from Dr. NTR University of Health Sciences Andhra Pradesh in 2009, she earned a MD in Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy from Osmania Medical College in Hyderabad in 2014.
Disclaimer: All the content published on www.thriveco.in is solely for information purposes. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consider seeking the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider. The information, suggestion, or remedies mentioned on this site are provided without warranty of any kind, whether express or implied.