Have you ever scratched your scalp to relieve an itch to then be greeted with a fingernail of waxy residue? We've got the answers and solutions to help you get a squeaky clean scalp in no time. 

What is that waxy residue on the scalp? 

The reside you find on your scalp comes from the natural oils produced in the sebaceous gland of the scalp. It is also a lovely combination of dead skin cells and product build-up. Harsh weather extremes that can accelerate these factors too. 

Why do I still get scalp residue after washing my hair?

There's a host of reasons why you're still getting scalp build-up. Here are a few factors that we think could be sabotaging your squeaky clean scalp efforts.

• You're not cleansing your scalp thoroughly
• You're not targeting your scalp effectively 
• You're not using a scalp massager 
• You're not using a clarifying cleanser
• You're not pre-shampooing your scalp 
• You're applying conditioner directly onto the roots, right near the scalp
• You're not cleansing your scalp as often as you should

We can feel the nods in all directions. At least one of these has got you thinking, "YUP! That's me." And that's fine! We're here to help, not mock. 

How can I rid scalp build-up once and for all? 

Let's get one thing straight. We will never be able to completely get rid of scalp build-up, and that's not a terrible thing. Our scalp can often benefit from build-up as it protects and lubricates the scalp. However, leaving it too long will block the pores and can result in deeper scalp issues. 

So, just remember to cleanse your scalp effectively and follow a routine and you will be right as rain. And if you're still experiencing excessive scalp build-up, no matter what you do, go to the GP and try and get an appointment with a dermatologist or a trichologist. 

Here are some of our tips to start implementing to help rid excessive build-up. 

1) Pre-Shampoo your scalp

Our Coconut Mint Scalp Refresh Pre-Shampoo Oil helps melt away excessive build-up and dislodge stubborn flakes. It also helps with dissolving hardened sebum on the scalp (that can be relatively hard to get rid of). 

Apply it before cleansing. Divide your hair into sections. Apply a few drops of the oil into your palms or onto your scalp, then massage it into your scalp using your fingers. Place a shower cap on and leave on for 5-10 minutes.

2) Clarify your scalp

After pre-pooing try using a clarifying cleanser. Clarifiers are great for gently cutting through grease, excessive build-up, dandruff and flakes. While it works hard to cleanse, it also balances the scalp and soothes itchiness. 

In a small bowl, mix 2-3 tbsp of the clay wash powder with 6 tbsp of warm water to freshly activate the treatment. Apply to hair and roots, and let sit on hair for 10-15 minutes under a shower cap. Then rinse out thoroughly with warm water and be amazed!

Tip: For best results apply on damp, already detangled hair and apply to twisted sections. Cover shoulders with a towel.

Note: The Clay Wash is not suitable for colour-treated hair.

3) Double-cleanse? Is it a thing?

Double-cleansing is HUGE in the skincare space, but for hair, not so much. We tend to not want to strip our hair too much of its moisture, but we can deter this by double-cleansing cleverly. 

If your scalp still feels like it could do with a little more cleansing, even after pre-pooing and clarifying, you could cleanse your scalp once more using the Coconut Mint Scalp Refresh Shampoo. Only target the scalp and use a scalp massager to further help lift dirt, flakes, build-up and grease from the scalp. Once you have worked the shampoo into the scalp with the scalp massager, leave it on for 1-2 minutes and rinse thoroughly. 

4) Condition your hair NOT your scalp (we've got something else for your scalp) 

If you've double-cleansed you will need to do take a different approach, but if you found that your scalp was as clean as a whistle, you can condition for the normal duration or simply choose not to (if you just used the Coconut Mint Scalp Refresh Pre-Shampoo Oil and Coconut Mint Curl Refresh Clay Wash). This is because our Coconut Mint Curl Refresh Clay Wash is a 2-in-1 cleanser and conditioner.

Conditioning after cleansing once (optional)

After cleansing, apply Coconut Mint Curl Refresh Conditioner to the hair with a focus on the ends. Place on a shower cap and leave for 10-15 minutes, then rinse out thoroughly with water.

Conditioning after cleansing twice (must-do!)

After cleansing apply the Rose Water Molasses Moisture Mask to your hair with a focus on the ends. A little goes a long way. Place a shower cap and leave on for 15-20 minutes, then rinse out thoroughly with water and style as usual. Use every 4-6 weeks for an intensive moisture treatment.

5) Nourish and hydrate your scalp without excess product

Use our soothing Coconut Mint Scalp Refresh Mist for use during the week and whenever the scalp feels, dry, flaky or itchy. Create small parts in your hair. Spray directly on areas of the scalp that need relief from dryness, itchiness and flakiness. Use it as often as needed during the week.

This lightweight mist will deter excessive product-build up because of its lightweight, liquidised texture and weightless, yet potent botanicals. 

6) How to style without build-up

When styling your hair with scalp build-up in mind, it's important to remember to only use lightweight products and ensure that you apply the products with a focus on the ends and not so much the roots. Luckily, all of our products are super lightweight, however, our Sweet Hibiscus Twist & Braid Cream is on the heavier side. 

7) Washday tips to note

• Always use a scalp massager to help rid stubborn buildup
• Try adding Apple Cider Vinegar to your clay wash (start with less and add more to be kind to your scalp). You may dilute it with water

We really hope that you can take some of our findings away today to give your scalp the best TLC. How else do you care for your scalp and rid of excessive build-up? We're intrigued to hear how you battle build-up! Drop a note in the comments below, let's talk!

Naturally Yours, 
The Team at Flora & Curl