What is hair buildup? How to recognize and remove it

Do you feel like your hair no longer responds to products? Does your hair feel heavy, lifeless, or greasy quickly?

 

Then you might be experiencing buildup.

 

In this blog, you'll discover:

• What buildup is
• How to recognize it
• What causes it
• How to remove it
• What you can do to prevent it

What is buildup?

Buildup is an accumulation of:

• Product residue
• Oils
• Minerals from water
• Silicones (if you use them)
• Sebum

 

This layer can accumulate on your hair and scalp.

 

As a result:

• Moisture is absorbed less effectively
• Products respond less effectively
• Your hair becomes heavy

 

Who is more prone to buildup?

Especially people with low porosity can experience buildup faster.

 

👉 Also read: What is hair porosity?

 

Because with low porosity, the hair cuticles are tightly closed, products are absorbed less effectively.

 

Also, if you:

• Use a lot of styling products
• Regularly use oils
• Have hard water

 

you can get buildup faster.

How do you recognize buildup?

Your hair:

• Feels heavy
• Gets greasy faster
• Loses volume
• Frizzes more than usual
• No longer responds well to styling

 

Sometimes buildup can also cause itching.

How do you remove buildup?

The best way to remove buildup is with a clarifying shampoo. This cleanses more thoroughly than a regular CG shampoo.

 

👉 Also read: Why a clarifying shampoo is indispensable in the CG Method.

 

Don't use this with every wash, but when you notice that your hair is out of balance.

 

What does buildup have to do with protein?

Sometimes it seems like your hair needs more protein, while it's actually buildup.

Therefore, it's important to first look at:

• Your porosity
• Your product usage
• Your washing routine

 

👉 Are you in doubt? Also read our blog about protein and hair care.

 

How do you prevent buildup?

• Don't use too much oil
• Use light products for low porosity
• Cleanse regularly
• Alternate products

 

Do you feel like your hair is out of balance? Then it might be wise to review your entire hair profile.

👉 Also read: How do I determine my hair properties?

 

Not sure what your hair needs?

Sometimes it seems like buildup, sometimes protein deficiency, and sometimes just the wrong product choice.

With our hair test, you'll discover:

• Your porosity
• Your curl type
• Which routine suits your hair

 

👉 Discover your hair profile

 

Frequently asked questions about buildup

What is buildup in your hair?

Buildup is an accumulation of product residue and minerals that cause your hair to respond less effectively to care.

How often should you use a clarifying shampoo?

Only when you notice that your hair feels heavy or lifeless. Usually once every few weeks.

Can buildup cause frizz?

Yes. When moisture is not properly absorbed, your hair can become drier and frizzier.