If you’re dealing with scalp buildup, you’re certainly not alone. Here, we investigate everything you need to know about the issue: why it happens, what it looks like, and—here’s the kicker—how to get rid of it ASAP. And no matter which type of buildup you have, too much of it can lead to scalp inflammation, resulting in flakes, itching, sometimes even tenderness or pain. “When you have product, dirt, and oil building up around your follicle opening—which is where your hair grows out of—buildup around that starts to slowly suffocate your hair root, and it causes inflammation,” trained trichologist and hairstylist Shab Reslan once told us about the condition. No matter which type you choose (here are 11 for your browsing pleasure), you’d apply them in sections pre-shampoo, massaging them into the skin and rinsing out thoroughly under the spray. Mix 3 to 4 Tbsp. grapeseed oil, 1 to 2 drops rosemary oil, 1 to 2 drops lavender oil, 1 to 2 drops tea tree oil, 1 drop peppermint oil, 1 to 2 drops basil oil, and 2 to 3 drops sweet orange oil in a glass jar until well combined. Apply it to the scalp in sections, massage it in with your fingertips, then shampoo right after. The rinse-out is important, as you want to remove all the lingering residue, lest you exacerbate the buildup. (See here for the full recipe and benefits.) While you can find a number of apple cider vinegar hair products on the market (it’s a common ingredient in the previously mentioned clarifying shampoos), you can also DIY your way to buildup-free locks: Simply combine ½ tablespoon of apple cider vinegar and 1 cup of cold water, then mix it together to form your solution. Application differs from person to person (some use it after shampooing, post-conditioner, or in place of shampoo—see here for how to use it depending on your hair type). Regardless, let it sit for up to five minutes before rinsing it out. But, alas, it doesn’t work for everyone. While helpful for some, witch hazel can actually cause increased inflammation and flakes for some dry- and sensitive-skinned folk. Know your limits here.
