What is product buildup?
Product buildup is simply the progressive accumulation and layering of products in the hair and is very common. It can occur from the layering of hairsprays, gels, creams, serums and conditioners on the hair and scalp.
Additionally, if you are using a product that is not water soluble or a product that adds gloss or smooths the hair, these are likely to contain ingredients such as silicones, waxes, oils and similar chemicals. These products affix to the outer hair cuticle and instead of washing out, create layers of buildup.
Over time, these layers of product accumulation can prevent and obstruct vital moisture or protein absorbing into your hair, instead sitting on the surface of the hair strands contributing the buildup problem. It can also lead to clogged pores in the skin on the scalp, causing itchiness and inflammation.
How do I know if I have product buildup?
Some signs that product buildup may have occurred in your hair are:
Greasy scalp and dry ends – This is the most obvious sign of product residue in the hair as it causes an imbalance in sebum production. The strands are struggling to absorb moisture and the scalp is trying to remedy this by producing more sebum.
Dryness – Due to the layer of product accumulation, hair unable to absorb nutrients and moisture from any conditioners or treatments used. As a result, hair may feel dry, weak, brittle and frizzy.
Lack of shine – Buildup will make your hair look dull and lack-luster
Lack of volume – Dry and dull hair will never lift from the roots. It will feel flat and be very hard to create volume.
Tangling – Dry hair will tangle very easily and become hard to get a brush or comb through.
Breakage – Dry and unhealthy hair will eventually lead to brittleness and hair breakage.
Itchy or irritated scalp – Because your scalp may have buildup on it or producing excess sebum, scalp pores can become congested. This can lead to dandruff or an itchy, irritated and inflamed scalp.
Loss of curl pattern in curly/textured hair – If your curls are struggling to hold definition and curl pattern it could be a sign that your curls are overwhelmed with product buildup and in turn making your products ineffective.
How do I remove product buildup?
The best way to eliminate product buildup is by using a Clarifying Shampoo which will cleanse the hair and scalp of stubborn buildup.
EverEscents Organic Fresh Mint Shampoo is a fantastic clarifying shampoo with Certified Organic Peppermint oil and menthol to provide a deep cleanse of hair and scalp whilst stimulating skin cells to promote hair growth and skin cell turnover.
The Certified Organic Spearmint found in EverEscents Organic Fresh Mint range has anti-fungal and antibacterial properties, making it an effective natural treatment for mild scalp conditions and a remedy for itchiness and dryness.
The shampoo also contains Certified Organic Aloe Vera Juice which moisturises and soothes the hair and scalp while the Certified Organic Menthol cools and refreshes the scalp.
You can pair this with the EverEscents Organic Mint Conditioner or with your preferred conditioner or treatment.
How to prevent future product buildup?
The best way to banish product buildup for good is to add a regular deep cleansing treatment to your hair care routine. Product buildup does not appear overnight. It is a gradual accumulation so once a week is great to start with but just make sure you are consistent.
Eliminating products in your hair care routine that are high in silicones, oils, waxes and polymers is important to keep buildup at bay. Instead reach for water-soluble products that will wash out with ease.
And one last tip! – Try reducing the amount of product you use, sometimes less is more!