Hair product buildup can be caused by too much hair product use or inadequate cleansing. The buildup prevents hair’s natural oils and nutrients from reaching hair strands, resulting in hair that is dull, greasy, limp or dry. Other contributions to build up on your scalp include environmental pollution, hard water, regular use of shampoos and other hair styling gels, sprays, chlorine, etc. If build up is left on the scalp, it can create an environment for mould or produce an unpleasant smell emanating from the scalp.
To maintain those shiny locks and remove the buildup, try these natural scalp clarifiers:
APPLE CIDER VINEGAR
ACV has an ingredient called acetic acid, which is what breaks down any build up on your hair and scalp; it kills bacteria and finally, balances the hair’s pH level to give you more shine and to bring out colour.
How to use: Measure one tbsp ACV to 1 cup water. You can add this directly to your scalp or add it to a spray bottle for easy application. Gently scrub the scalp and rinse.
BAKING SODA
Baking soda removes excessive product build up and impurities by absorbing oils and is therefore ideal when used as a dry shampoo to remove sebum, the oily substance the skin secretes to keep skin and hair moisturized.
How to use: Add 1 tbsp to water (or conditioner, or regular shampoo if you use it) but concentrate use of the concoction on the scalp. You can add it to a spray or squeeze bottle for direct application to the scalp; rub the scalp in a circular motion to clarify scalp. Follow up with a vinegar rinse to normalize the pH and close the cuticles of the hair.
ROSEMARY AND THYME
Both rosemary and thyme are excellent clarifiers. Another added benefit is that both herbs are well known to nourish the hair follicle and stimulate hair growth.
How to use: Simply place 4-5 tablespoons of dried leaf thyme or dried rosemary in 10 oz. of distilled water. Bring mixture to boil and simmer for 10-15 minutes. Strain herbs from liquid. Add another cup of distilled water. Use this mixture on wet hair immediately after shampooing.
BENTONITE CLAY
Bentonite clay gently draws out oils, dirt, dead skin cells and product build-up as well as nourishes the follicles. You can use this treatment as often as you like and your clay mixture can be as simple or as complicated as you like!
How to use: Use a plastic spoon to mix bentonite clay, apple cider vinegar, and liquid (water, infused herbal water, aloe vera juice or gel) in a plastic bowl. Apply this on the scalp and hair and massage for sometime. Let it sit for 5 minutes and wash off. You may follow up with a mild shampoo and conditioner.
ADDITIONAL TIPS:
- Another recipe with baking soda involves mixing two tablespoons of baking soda and three drops of lemon juice in a quarter cup of shampoo and use this homemade clarifying shampoo once every four to six weeks.
- Citric acid rinse comprised of 1 tablespoon of citric acid crystals can be blended into 4 oz. of boiling hot water. Once crystals are completely dissolved add 2-3 cups of cool water and use to rinse hair.
- Boil 1-2 cups of water and add 4-8 tbsps of dried thyme. Steep for 10-15 minutes, strain, cool and cover hair and scalp with the solution. Do not shampoo or rinse after. Proceed with deep conditioner and/or moisture routine.