Did you know that the shampoo you use to wash your hair to keep your hair clean, hydrated, voluminous, and shiny can also have scalp buildup? But as we know, shampoos are supposed to get rid of the dirt, oil, and dandruff off your hair. So what exactly leads to residue buildup? We often subject our hair to different heated styling blow dry, dry shampoos, and several hair care products.
Our scalp produces natural oil from the sebaceous gland. Our hair is made up of protein, and it is very sensitive to the hair products we use. When we use products that contain harsh chemicals like parabens, silicon, bleach, oxidative hair dyes, etc., it will strip away the protein from our hair. In the long run, due to this process, our natural oils mixed with dead skin, dirt, and hair products, dry shampoo, and conditioners get mixed and create havoc on our tresses.
Now we know what causes scalp buildup. If left untreated, you might end up with flaky, itchy oil buildup irritated scalp, and ultimately it might lead to hair loss or inhibit hair growth. Let us discuss how to clean shampoo residue from your hair and different ways to clear the scalp buildup.
Use a clarifying shampoo (bi-weekly)
The major culprit in the residue buildup is due to shampoos that contain sulfates. If you think switching to a sulfate-free shampoo could help you to get rid of the scalp buildup, then the probability or chances are very low. That is why we recommend you to use a clarifying shampoo which can be used twice a week and cut down to once a week. Also, keep in mind not to overuse the clarifying shampoo because they contain a strong formula that can irritate your scalp and cause breakage and damage to your hair.
Use a chemical/physical scrub
You can exfoliate your scalp before washing your hair with a scrub; it can be a chemical or physical scrub. Physical scrub basically includes granulated salt, sugar, crushed walnut shell, or any other scrub of your choice. Alternatively, you can also use chemical scrub, which contains enzymes and as it’s to dissolve dead skin cells and exfoliate your scalp. Massage this gently onto your scalp and rinse it off.
Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar can be used as a homemade DIY shampoo, and it can help remove the residue buildup. Apple cider vinegar is the main ingredient in most clarifying shampoos. All you need to do is mix 1 tbsp of apple cider vinegar with 2 cups of cold water and apply the mixture on your scalp and massage gently, and then rinse, followed by conditioning. The end result will be a soft, smooth, and improved hair texture.
Scalp oil treatment
You can make your own DIY scalp oil for removing scalp buildup. Especially if you have a bunch of essential oils at your home, then you can make this easy-breezy DIY scalp oil. Mix 4 tbsp of grapeseed oil, jojoba oil, 2 to 3 drops of lavender oil, tea tree oil, Rosemary oil, Basil, peppermint, and any essential oil of your choice. Store it in a glass bottle and apply it on your scalp half an hour before taking a shower; you will be amazed by the result.
Final Takeaway
Clearing up your scalp is highly recommended as you don’t want any dirt and gunk sticking onto your scalp, deteriorating the health of your hair. The scalp build-up varies from person to person, and some might witness tender, thin, dull-looking hair, whereas others will notice flakiness and itchiness on their scalp. Since you know how to clean shampoo residue from the hair, say bye-bye to scalp buildup by regaining your bouncy, shiny, and healthy hair back.