Product build-up

Residue from styling products, oils, some silicones, dry shampoo and hard-water minerals can leave hair limp and the scalp itchy. The British Association of Dermatologists notes that not washing when needed can let product build up, which may irritate the scalp and make seborrhoeic dermatitis (dandruff) worse — while washing too often can dry it. An occasional clarifying wash is the usual fix.

Common signs

• Hair that looks dull or coated, feels waxy or stiff, or takes ages to dry
• Products that seem to stop working
• An itchy or tight scalp, especially under heavy styles

What usually helps

• Use a clarifying shampoo every so often — not every wash — and condition the lengths afterwards.
• After heavy product use, shampoo twice: the first wash loosens residue, the second cleans.
• Massage the scalp with your fingertips; a soft silicone scalp brush is optional, but skip it on sore or inflamed skin.
• Use less product, and choose lighter formulas if hair keeps feeling coated.

Washing: Wash when you notice build-up or oiliness, and rinse every product out thoroughly.

Build your routine with this concern →

Read the full guides

• Product build-up: clarifying your hair and scalpHeavy styling products, oils, silicones, dry shampoo and hard water can leave a film on the hair and scalp. Signs to look for, how to clarify without stripping, and why…
• How often should you wash your hair?There's no single right answer. Dermatologists say wash according to how oily your scalp gets and your hair type — from daily for an oily scalp to every week or two for…
• Oily scalp and greasy roots: what to tryA greasy scalp is usually a cosmetic nuisance rather than a medical problem. Washing as often as you need, choosing the right shampoo and keeping conditioner off the roo…

Ingredients worth knowing

• Sulfates (SLS and SLES) Evidence: CosmeticThe main cleansing and foaming detergents in most shampoos
• Silicones Evidence: CosmeticSmoothing, detangling and shine in conditioners, serums and heat protectants
• Oils (coconut, argan, olive, mineral) Evidence: CosmeticPre-wash treatments, shine and softness — and descaling in some medicines

Not medical advice. This guide is general information from the sources listed, not a diagnosis or a substitute for a pharmacist, GP or dermatologist. If you are worried, or symptoms are severe or not improving, get advice. Read our health information policy.

Sources

1. British Association of Dermatologists – Caring for Afro-textured hair bad.org.uk
2. NHS – Dandruff nhs.uk