How to Remove Buildup from Styling Products

There’s so much to the essence of moisture, it’s a science really. At face value, the mind thinks more is better. Have you seen the memes that make fun of how we often ignore the instructions telling us to use a dime size amount and end up pouring a half a cup, lol. Yea we’ve done that too. Over the years, here at Moisture Love, we’ve invested a lot of time, money and effort into Research & Development. Our products, alongside the vision of our founder & a few consultants, were all formulated by black women chemists! One is even a neuroscientist that develops nanos for Georgia Tech! We’ve taken all of this knowledge and research and integrated it into what we call the science of moisture, and created our own Hydralure Technology. As you read this guide, you’ll learn a bit more about the signs to recognize product buildup, why it happens, and then what to do to fix it!

Table of Contents

• Identifying Product Buildup 
• Why it happens?
• How to fix it
• Frequently Asked Questions

Identifying Product Buildup

Not all of us have access to the microscopes and personal lab equipment to access our hair. But there are a few simple ways to access your hair at home. 

1. Dull Hair: A noticeable reduction in shine and vibrancy, usually means it’s a bit smothered. 

2. Itchy Scalp: Persistent irritation that doesn’t go away with regular washing, can be a result of the products caking on your scalp.

3. Greasy or Heavy Feel: Hair that looks greasy or feels weighed down despite washing. If it won’t hold a curl or a style. It could also mean you need a trim, but buildup can be a culprit. 

4. Increased Breakage: Hair that breaks more easily when brushed or styled. It needs some oxygen to the inner layers. 

Why it happens

Every year, Moisture Love Executives attend at least one cosmetic symposium or conference to learn about the latest advancements in ingredient technology. One of our favorites is in Cosmetics in New York! 

One year we had the privilege of participating in a live lab challenge, and were given a set of ingredients and asked to make a product on the spot. The choices were between an ingredient that would make a light hydrating spray, and one that would make a heavy cream. Of course we leaned toward the heavy cream because heavy somehow equals more moisture, right? Wrong!

The team that made the light spray had the product tested to show how it penetrated the hair shaft and because it had a lower molecular weight, it was able to get deeper into the hair. Mind you when first sprayed on, the hair did not feel immediately soft like the heavy cream made it feel, however over time - the heavy cream product faded away and the hair was drying out whereas the spray product felt softer longer. What we learned is that regular use of heavy or high molecular weight products, don’t always have the same lasting effect. 

We took that lesson and incorporated it into our formulation process, hence our Moisture & style cream with a low pH penetrate deeply. 

Buildup happens when we as consumers put on too many products too often in too large of quantities, and are not properly washing the hair to get it back to its original baseline. This is why cleansing is so important. 

The Importance of Regular Cleansing - How to fix product buildup

Why Cleanse Regularly?

Regular cleansing helps to remove oils, dead skin cells, and product residues. It’s essential for:

• Maintaining Scalp Health: Preventing dandruff and infections.
• Promoting Hair Growth: Ensuring hair follicles aren’t clogged.
• Enhancing Hair Appearance: Keeping hair shiny and voluminous.

Clarifying Shampoos

Clarifying shampoos are formulated to deep-clean the hair and scalp, removing buildup more effectively than regular shampoos. They contain stronger detergents designed for occasional use. While we don’t have one yet, (it’s coming soon in the fall) we do have our Hydrating Shampoo that cleanses by removing dirt, debris, and outer layers of build-up. While we shy away from home remedies, we know you might not have a fan favorite yet, so you could possibly try some of these remedies. 

Baking Soda

Baking soda is an excellent natural exfoliant that can help break down buildup.

• Method:
• Mix: Combine one tablespoon of baking soda with two tablespoons of water to form a paste.
• Apply: Massage the mixture into your scalp, then work it through your hair.
• Rinse: Rinse thoroughly until the water runs clear.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar helps to balance the scalp’s pH and removes residue effectively.

• Method:
• Dilute: Mix one part apple cider vinegar with two parts water.
• Apply: Pour the mixture over your hair after shampooing.
• Leave-in: Let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing out completely.

The thing to keep in mind with these home remedies is pH. Vinegar can be very acidic, and baking soda can be very well basic - no pun intended. You want the pH to range between 4-6 so that your hair stays in a good healthy place. Regardless of what you do, be careful because over-cleansing can strip your hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness and damage. It’s important to find a balance that works for your hair type and lifestyle. And tap in a professional stylist if you’re not sure. 

A hydrating shampoo can still get the job done too, you may just need to wash 2 or 3 times. A great hack using the Moisture Love Hydration Shampoo is to apply to your dry hair. This way it works as a pre-treatment and starts lifting the dirt and build up from the hair and scalp. Try it and let us know how it works out!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Regular Shampoo to Remove Buildup?

While regular shampoos can cleanse your hair, they may not be strong enough to remove significant buildup. Clarifying shampoos or natural remedies like baking soda and apple cider vinegar are more effective.

How Often Should I Use a Clarifying Shampoo?

Use a clarifying shampoo about once a month or as needed, depending on your product usage and scalp condition. Overuse can lead to dryness and irritation.

Are There Any Risks with Using Natural Remedies?

Natural remedies are generally safe, but always perform a patch test to ensure you don’t have any adverse reactions. Also, avoid overuse to prevent dryness.

Conclusion

All products can leave buildup, even the ones with low molecular weight like sprays. The key is not to avoid heavy creams, gels or stylers, but to consider how you use them and maintain a regular cleansing schedule. Removing buildup from styling products is crucial for maintaining healthy, vibrant hair, and a balanced scalp. By incorporating the right shampoos and following product instructions you can effectively eliminate unwanted residues and maintain the health of your hair. Moisture Love offers a range of products designed to keep your hair clean and moisturized. Stay tuned for new products on the horizon, and tell us in the comments how you manage preventing product build up. Ready to say goodbye to build up? Explore our collection of products to keep your hair and scalp in peak condition!