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."
Take colder showers.
Hot water can cause inflammation, drying out your scalp and closing off the roots. You don't have to shower in uncomfortably cold temperatures, but opting for lukewarm water rather than hot water can help open your hair's pores.
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.
Essentially, mix 1 part baking soda and 3 parts water and apply it to your scalp and hair. Let it sit for a minute before you rinse with either warm water or a mix of 1 part apple cider vinegar and 4 parts water. I recommend using some bowls or cups to mix this and bring them into the shower with you.
A regular exfoliation will help lift away build up. Try using a pre-wash scalp brush, and your fingertips (but not your nails) to massage in your shampoo. This will further help to physically remove any lingering build up. A clarifying shampoo two or three times a month can work wonders.
Additionally, both Ruggeri and Hill mention that ACV can support hair growth by removing product buildup, especially from commonly used items like dry shampoo. “ACV unblocks follicles in the scalp so that strands have freedom to thrive,” Ruggeri says.
Exfoliate: Use chemical exfoliants, such as glycolic acid or salicylic acid rather than physical exfoliants, to gently dissolve dead skin cells.
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.
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.
Bacteria, yeast, or mites can also get into the pores and cause a reaction. Factors that can cause scalp acne include: dead skin cells or oil clogging the follicles. a buildup of products, such as hair gels, leave-in treatments, or hairspray.
using an exfoliator on the scalp to break up the buildup. selecting a shampoo and conditioner that work for the person's hair type. washing the hair regularly — typically daily for oily hair and every few days for drier hair. using blow dry lotions, as they can condition the scalp without adding oil.
Summary. Baking soda as part of your hair care routine might allow you to replace commercial shampoos. People report that baking soda dissolved in water can remove excess oil and buildup in hair, restore pH levels, treat dryness and dandruff, and lighten dyed hair.
Washing your scalp with warm water is the first step in removing sebum clogs from your head. After that, use a gentle shampoo and massage your scalp with your fingertips. This aids in the removal of all hardened and dried sebum from the scalp. Sebum build-up occurs on the scalp rather than on the hair strands.
Oil, dirt & debris: When oil from your sebaceous glands, dirt, and dead skin cells get trapped inside a pore, it can lead to clogging. “Secret sources of debris can include your phone, pillowcase, hands, and anything else that regularly touches your face,” reminds Bailey.
Regarding cleansing, jojoba oil's unique structure offers some notable benefits. Its waxy nature effectively dissolves sebum and impurities that have hardened and lodged within pores. As a result, it can unclog pores and remove dirt and makeup, making it an excellent choice for an affordable cleansing oil.
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a popular home remedy. It's often added to foods,1 and some people also apply it to their skin, scalp, or hair. It's known to have antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral actions,2 and it may also offer benefits for scalp flaking or thinning hair.