How To Remove Scalp Buildup, According To Dermatologists - Byrdie

While it's an annoying problem that feels difficult to remedy, scalp buildup can affect all of us—and it might be caused by something fairly innocent, like too much dry shampoo. Scalp buildup could also be caused by environmental factors or even excess oil in the scalp. Whatever the contributing factor, rest assured that it can be remedied.

It's often easy to see (and feel) scalp buildup when it occurs, but removing it isn't always that simple. If you have ever had the experience of washing your hair, but still not feeling like it's fully clean, scalp buildup was likely the culprit. Once formed, scalp buildup won't always wash away with your normal shampoo—especially if you are using one without sulfates. Understanding how scalp buildup can cause more serious damage than a bad hair day, we turned to three dermatologists for their expert opinion on how to remove scalp buildup. Read on to learn our experts' advice for removing scalp buildup.

Meet the Experts

• Dr. Julie Karen is a board-certified dermatologist and the co-founder of CompleteSkinMD in NYC.
• Dr. Iris Rubin is a Harvard-trained, board-certified dermatologist and the founder of SEEN Haircare.
• Dr. Azadeh Shirazi is a board-certified dermatologist based in La Jolla, CA and the founder of AziMD Skincare.

What Causes Scalp Buildup?

While the sources of scalp buildup can be both natural (scalp oil production and normal skin cell shedding) and environmental (hair products, airborne pollution, pollen, and tobacco), the consequences are the same. The covering of the scalp by hair creates a unique skin surface microenvironment that facilitates microbial growth, leading to a unique microbiome. These microbes use components of the buildup as food sources which fuel their metabolic activity, enhancing their impact on the underlying skin. This can lead to conditions such as dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis, and potentially even hair loss.

What Is Scalp Buildup?

Scalp buildup is the accumulation of “dirt” on hair and scalp from multiple origins, including sebum (oil) production, skin cells, hair products, airborne pollution, pollen, and even tobacco smoke. This buildup can impact the appearance and health of the scalp and hair.