While running your hands through your hair, did you experience your scalp becoming greasy or flaky? If yes, this could be a result of sebum build-up.
Some of the factors, like dead skin cells, oil, hair products and sweat can lead to sebum build-up and further cause multiple issues on the scalp. But, don’t worry, there are certain remedies, like using effective shampoo and conditioner, exfoliating the scalp, lifestyle adjustments that can cure and prevent future sebum accumulation.
Before delving into the ways to treat sebum buildup on the scalp, let’s first understand this hair issue in detail.
What is Sebum buildup?
When your body’s natural oils accumulate on your scalp, it leads to sebum build-up. The exact causes of sebum buildup are still unknown. However, certain factors like not using the right hair care products for your hair and scalp type, imbalance in hormones, poor scalp hygiene, etc., can cause sebum accumulation. Let’s explore these factors that may contribute to excessive sebum production and how they can be resolved.
How sebum accumulation can occur?
- Imbalance in hormones
Sebum production can be increased by pituitary and thyroid production imbalances. According to a study, it was found that our sebaceous glands react to the thyroid hormone within the hypothyroid range, contributing to rising sebum production.
- Poor scalp hygiene
Another factor that can lead to sebum build-up on your scalp, is the result of how often your hair is washed and which hair care products like shampoo and conditioner or hair masks, etc., are used. Washing your hair too frequently can increase sebum deposits and impede your hair’s natural growth process.
- Microorganisms
The composition of sebum can be altered as the accumulation of fungi and bacteria can irritate your scalp.
- Digestive Issues
Intestinal and liver problems can change the chemical makeup of sebum, thus making it ineffective in safeguarding the scalp, skin and hair.
- Metabolic Disorders
Consuming a diet high in saturated fats is not considered ideal for a healthy lifestyle. It can affect one’s digestive system, metabolic processes and increase sebum accumulation.
Hence, to reduce the effects of sebum build-up on your scalp, here’s what you can do:
How to lessen sebum production on the scalp?
1. Regular Shampooing & Brushing
If you have extremely greasy hair, shampooing and conditioning your hair at least twice or thrice a week is recommended. Using a gentle and hydrating shampoo and conditioner such as the Avon Advance Techniques 2-in-1 Anti-Dandruff Shampoo & Conditioner from leading beauty and skincare brand Avon, can soothe scalp irritation and prevent sebum build-up. Blessed with the goodness of both shampoo and conditioner, this hair care essential has anti-fungal properties, which control dandruff and deeply condition your hair, leaving them soft and silky.
However, before using any hair care products, make sure to use lukewarm water and avoid hot water as it can irritate your scalp and dry it up, leading to flaky skin. Besides, shampooing and conditioning, brushing your hair on a regular basis is also recommended. It has the potential to boost hair growth by raising the blood flow in your scalp. Moreover, brushing hair also spreads sebum along the entire strand, thus promoting hair health and shine.
2. Exfoliate Your Scalp
Just like cleansing your hair is necessary, exfoliating your scalp is also essential. The use of a scalp exfoliator once or twice a week can keep your scalp clean. It will remove the dead skin cells from your scalp and stimulate healthy hair growth.
After exfoliation, your hair also requires optimum nourishment. For this, you can try using a hair mask or massaging your hair (champi) with hair oil. With their hydrating properties and multi-benefits, they replenish your scalp completely, preventing any formation of excessive sebum.
3. Rinse hair with apple cider vinegar
Applying apple cider vinegar to your hair can treat sebum deposits. It has anti-fungal and anti-bacterial qualities, which can eliminate dandruff-causing yeast on the scalp. Just shampoo and rinse your hair as usual and then use the vinegar solution over your scalp and leave it there for two minutes. Once done, wash it thoroughly.
Keeping your scalp and hair clear by following the above-mentioned hair care tips, can help you attain gorgeous results. So, don’t forget to add these tips to your hair routine!