Dr. Zeichner says using an exfoliating product that contains a hydroxy acid like salicylic or glycolic is, "the best way" to open up clogged hair follicles. He explains, "These acids dissolve connections between skin cells so they can be easily shed from the skin. In this way, they open up the pores."
Also, you can try massaging your scalp with a bit of coconut or olive oil after shampooing. You should use warm water to wash your scalp so that the pores remain open. You can also use a bit of coffee grounds because they are exfoliating and they help in making your hair grow faster.
A little amount of shampoo, baking soda and a little amount of water turns into a thick paste and apply it on the scalp and leave for 3 to 5 min and this should clear up the build up naturally.
Scalp massaging can also help you remove impurities and buildup from the scalp by helping to unclog your pores through gentle stimulation. You can also use a shampoo brush as a way to gently massage your scalp and remove any product buildup.
Try to massage your scalp using your fingertips for at least 5 minutes at a time, several times a day. Massaging your scalp every day will enhance blood circulation and can even strengthen your follicles. However, make sure you do it gently and not rub vigorously. This can cause your hair to break.
Look for a clarifying shampoo that contains salicylic acid, which helps to break down sebum plugs. Exfoliate your scalp: Just like exfoliating your skin helps remove dead skin cells and unclog pores, exfoliating your scalp can help to remove sebum plugs.
Not only does your scalp have a plethora of sweat glands, but it also has an abundance of sebaceous (oil) glands, which produce oily sebum. Have you ever scratched your scalp and noticed white, waxy buildup under your nails? That's sebum mixed with dead skin cells.
ACV is a soother, which means it can actually help prevent dirt from growing and accumulating on the scalp. It can also reduce sensitivity, balance your hair's pH levels and exfoliate your scalp, freeing it of any itchy product buildup and dead skin.
Truly dead hair follicles are almost impossible to reactivate, except with the help of medical/surgical treatment, so it's important that you take action on your dying hair follicles as soon as you're able – the earlier the better.
In addition to kickstarting your follicles through targeted scalp massages, certain topical hair-care products like serums and scalp cleansers can help prompt your follicles to get back to work. They contain ingredients that, when applied directly to your scalp, work to stimulate and nourish your follicles.
Apple Cider Vinegar keeps scalp and hair pH balanced and works to seal the hair's cuticle for increased shine. It also helps to gently exfoliate the scalp and unclog hair follicles.
In most cases, the main symptom of folliculitis is red bumps that look like pimples on your skin. These could also look like they're white-filled bumps or they could be filled with pus (pustules). Folliculitis can feel itchy and uncomfortable. Many people feel the need to scratch when they have folliculitis.
A person can often treat their scalp buildup at home by using a shampoo and conditioner most suitable for their hair. Avoiding certain products, keeping the hair clean and groomed, and moisturizing the scalp can also help. A person should talk to their doctor if they cannot get rid of the scalp buildup on their own.
Generally, he says, the range is somewhere between once a day and once a week. “If you have very fine or thin hair, you may need to wash more often, while those with thick or curly hair may need to wash less often,” says Dr Elizabeth Bahar Houshmand, a double board certified dermatologist and hair health expert.
Treatment for scalp acne
Salicylic acid: This is a common ingredient used in skin care products to fight acne. Salicylic acid helps to clear dead skin cells by breaking down the bonds between them. Glycolic acid: This acid can help exfoliate the scalp and remove dead skin cells, bacteria, and sebum.
What does a sebum plug look like? Sebum plugs usually start out white or yellowish in colour but can turn darker if the pore is open and they are exposed to air. They can occur anywhere on the body, but usually form on the face, scalp, chest and back because that is where we produce the most sebum.
To effectively treat dry scalp, use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner, avoid hot water when washing your hair, moisturize your scalp regularly with oils or scalp treatments, and consult a dermatologist if symptoms persist for personalized treatment options.