(StatePoint) When it comes to your skin and hair care routine, it can be all too easy to forget the scalp. After time though, this neglect can take a toll on the health of your hair, according to experts.

“Think of your scalp as an extension of your skin from your face. If you put too much product on your face, your skin cannot breathe. The same is true for the scalp and hair follicles. Taking proper care of your scalp is important in preventing follicles from clogging and also avoids hair getting weighed down from too much product buildup,” says Dr. Rocio Rivera, Ph.D.

The Problem

Scalp buildup is caused by a number of factors, many of which are unfortunately beyond your control or simply caused by your everyday routine. These include environmental factors, dead skin cells that don’t shed quickly enough, sweat, sebum and hair care products.

Over time, scalp buildup can cause issues like itching, shedding and clogged follicles, ultimately compromising healthy hair growth and your comfort.

The Solution

While you’re not about to ditch your sweat session or your favorite hair care products, that doesn’t mean you’re doomed to live with scalp buildup.

One important thing to consider is the frequency you shampoo your hair. While the right frequency will vary per head of hair, you can experiment until you strike the right balance for you. Be sure to always rinse shampoo out of your hair thoroughly with cool water during each wash.

You may also want to incorporate a detox solution into your routine in order to deeply purify and cleanse the scalp of dirt, product buildup and oil, without stripping hair.

To do so, consider new solutions like the EverPure Scalp Care + Detox system from L’Oréal Paris, which is recommended for twice a week use. Containing menthol and neem leaf extract, it leaves the scalp feeling fresh for 24 hours, and leaves hair healthy-looking, bouncy and soft. If you have color-treated hair, this can be an especially worthy option to consider, as this sulfate-free, paraben-free solution is color safe.

“A sulfate-free shampoo is a great option to prevent scalp discomfort. The new system from L’Oréal Paris is quite effective and affordable. The products cleanse and relieve the scalp of excess dirt, product buildup, flakes and oils without stripping the hair. Plus, it’s been validated by hair colorists, so it is safe on your color-treated hair too,” says Dr. Rivera.

Finally, for ultimate scalp and hair health, try adopting a diet that includes nutrients like omega 3 fatty acids and biotin.

Don’t let life take its toll on your scalp. By counteracting the effects of buildup, you can help restore the health of your scalp and locks.

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