How To Clean Your Scalp

Chances are you already know how to clean your hair. But how exactly should you clean your scalp? There is conflicting information online concerning how to do it correctly - and that’s why we’re here. In this article, we’ll tell you exactly how to cleanse your scalp. 

There are several techniques you can use to clean your scalp, from massaging it thoroughly with shampoo to using a specialized scalp scrub. The scalp cleansing method you should use depends on just how dirty your scalp is.

This is How You Should Clean Your Scalp

Cleaning your scalp isn’t rocket science by any stretch. In fact, it’s so easy that anyone can do it. Here’s what you need to do to clean your scalp:

1. Wet your hair down in the shower. Make sure that your entire scalp is wet.

2. Dispense some clarifying shampoo into your hands and apply it to your roots.

3. Using the pads of your fingers, work the shampoo into your scalp using small circular motions. You can also use a scalp cleansing brush for extra exfoliation.

4. Rinse the shampoo out and check your scalp in the mirror to see if there’s any more buildup.

5. If so, repeat steps 2-4.

How to Get Rid of Scalp Build Up?

If you have severe buildup on your scalp, it could take more than a deep cleansing session to get your scalp clean. In this case, you’ll need a specialized scalp scrub formulated to lift away even the most stubborn dirt, oils, and buildup. You’ll apply it to your scalp using circular motions after shampooing. Rinse it out after a couple of minutes.

What Is the Build Up on My Scalp?

If you look in the mirror and see buildup on your scalp, you’re right to wonder what’s going on. This buildup can be one of a few things, including:

• Sebum buildup. Sebum buildup occurs when the oil your scalp naturally produces (sebum) is not washed away regularly.

• Product buildup. Most of us use hair products on our hair to moisturize or style it. More often than not, these products settle on our scalps. This is not usually a problem if you have good scalp washing habits. But when your scalp is not cleansed thoroughly or on a regular basis, you’ll notice a film of buildup on the surface of your scalp.

• Dry scalp. When your scalp is perpetually dry, your scalp may flake. These flakes often look like buildup.

• Dandruff is a skin condition that results in scalp scales, flakes, and buildup.

After reading the above list, you may have an idea of which issue you may be dealing with. But if you don’t, you should reach out to a professional for a consultation and diagnosis.

Why Do I Have Dandruff?

Dandruff is caused by seborrheic dermatitis, which is a skin condition characterized by red skin, irritation, and scales on the scalp. Experts believe that a fungus called malassezia plays a role in the development of dandruff.

The condition seems to strike at random in some cases, but the following often contribute to it:

• Excessive scalp friction from overbrushing.

• Overwashing the scalp.

• Not washing the scalp often enough.

Note: Washing your scalp alone will not be enough to get rid of buildup from dandruff. You’ll need a medicated shampoo to get rid of it.

Now you know how to wash your scalp, how to get rid of buildup, and more. We trust that the information in this article will help you to keep your scalp clean and healthy.

Author: Andrea Reyes

Andrea is a mother, wife, writer, and natural hair enthusiast of 15 years. Currently on her natural hair journey, she’s been trying countless products and techniques to understand and embrace her natural hair. She is the creator of NaturallyTextured.com, a new website featuring informative articles that share tips, tricks, and techniques aimed to help others learn to love their hair through proper hair care. She writes with the hope of making hair care easier to understand and implement.