If you are finding dead skin flakes on your shoulder and hair, you might consider it dandruff, but it is something else. In medical terms, it is known as “Seborrheic Dermatitis”. Such a condition causes your scalp’s skin to flake.
There can be other conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and white waxy scalp buildup as well. All of these conditions will have different causes and different treatments. Flaking can be caused by
- Skin cells
- Haircare products
- Oils
- Sweat
- Or a combination of all the above-given substances.
Causes of White Waxy Buildup on Scalp
There can be different causes for scalp buildup, but before treatment, you must know with which type you are dealing with? After knowing the scalp condition you will be able to know the best treatment. You will have all the necessary information that will help you to prevent flake buildup in the future. Two main causes of scalp buildup can be
- Natural Buildup
- Product Buildup
Both causes are described in detail.
Natural Buildup
There can be several factors for the natural buildup on the scalp such as:
Your scalp produces sweat that can be the main cause of natural buildup. Excessive sweetening can be an issue with some people. If you remain active or at work then you might also sweat more than most of the people. This sweaty scalp can give unpleasant odor and greasy hair.
A waxy oil known as sebum is produced from beneath the skin. In some people, it is produced in more quantity than the others. Sebum is a good thing in protecting your skin from infection and also keeping it moist. The excess of sebum can result in the buildup on the scalp.
Cells that are covering your body are constantly re-growing and dying. Died cells are supposed to shed because there will be new ones that will replace the old ones. With some people, it is a problem that cells don’t grow quickly so it will result in a buildup on the scalp. As a result, it will cause some flakes to fall from your scalp.
Product Buildup
There will be some residues of the hair products that we normally use. These can also be the cause of a buildup on the scalp. Some hair products contain waxy substances and might stick to your hair and will not go away even on rinsing your hair. Some examples are:
- Conditioners
- Shampoos
- Gels, foams, and styling creams.
How to Get Rid Of White Waxy Buildup on Scalp?
If you are facing the issue of scalp buildup, then there are lots of things that you can try at home to reduce flakiness and odor. Some best possible options can be:
The first and easiest thing is the selection of shampoo and conditioner. But be wise and select shampoo according to your hair type. There will be different shampoos and conditioners for dry, damaged, oily, and medicated ones.
The best home remedy to deal with scalp buildup is thorough and regular washing. Again it will depend on your hair type. You might want to wash it daily or after a few days. Follow the procedure and wash your hair gently. Focus on the scalp and use conditioner on the ends.
No scientific research has proven that apple cider can reduce scalp buildup. However, it can help to kill bacteria. Some doctors suggest that rinsing your hair with apple cider vinegar and water can help to kill bacteria.
Brush your hair regularly to prevent your hair from tangling. To keep your hair tangle-free bristle brush can do the job nicely for you. It can help to significantly reduce scalp buildup. While brushing, be gentle otherwise you will damage your hair.
You might be familiar with exfoliating your arms, legs, and skin. The fact is you can exfoliate your scalp as well. If it is done once a week it can help to reduce scalp buildup. It is recommended for those people who are healthy and don’t have scalp infections.
According to research lemongrass oil can be an effective treatment for a white waxy buildup on the scalp. It can be the best treatment to deal with dandruff buildup.
Is it possible to prevent scalp buildup?
The best possible thing you can do is to stop buildup before the start of it. You can take below-given preventive measures to avoid scalp buildup.
Haircare products can be good at styling your hair and keeping your hair in good condition. But if these tools are used in excess these can result in scalp buildup. So, the best thing you can do is avoid excessive use of such products.
Never let your hair dry. If you are using a hair Straightener they contain chemicals they will dry your hair. So stay away from such products.
During a workout, there will be lots of sweat on your scalp. When you will allow it to sit in, it will result in scalp buildup. So the best thing you can do is wash out your hair regularly after each workout.
If you are not noticing scalp buildup, still keep brushing and washing your hair regularly. It will not allow the white waxy buildup on the scalp. Use a shampoo and conditioner that works best according to your hair type.
Conclusion
The white waxy buildup is not good by any means. It will ruin your personality. There can be lots of preventive actions. Still, if you are a victim of scalp buildup you can get rid of it by taking corrective actions. Follow the above-given practices to get rid of scalp buildup. Before treatment, knows the cause of flake and then move forward.