How To Detox And Remove Buildup From Your Hair

Ever felt like your usual shampoo and conditioner suddenly decided to ‘stop working’? Does your hair feel crunchy, sticky, limp or weighed down? Don’t run out and buy new products – your hair might just need a detox. Yep, it’s not just a dieting buzz word. Even your hair needs a good detox now and then! Most hair products, especially those designed for dry, frizzy or thick hair, use heavy ingredients that can build up on your hair over time, leaving it looking less than impressive. So if you’re wondering how to remove buildup from your hair, you’ve come to the right place.

Luckily, there are easy, inexpensive ways to detox your locks at home and get cleaner, shinier hair. Here are a few ideas – you don’t need to do them all at once, just pick one or two to add to your routine:

1) Use A Clarifying Shampoo.

These will be labelled as ‘clarifying’ or ‘chelating’ and can be bought from a hair care store (it’s best to avoid supermarket brands which can have super harsh ingredients that will damage your hair). Ideally, look for one labelled ‘sulphate free’ and use it once or twice a month instead of your regular shampoo.

2) Double Cleanse.

If you have oily hair or routinely use styling products, try double cleansing your hair when you wash it. With your usual product, shampoo your scalp only, rinse, then shampoo the scalp again, this time gently smoothing the suds down through the rest of your hair. Rinse again before conditioning. This will make sure excess oil and product on your scalp are removed without over-cleansing and drying the rest of your hair.

3) Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse.

You can do this every time you shampoo, or when you feel like your hair needs an extra-good clean. Mix one to two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar (regular white vinegar works too) into a cup of cold water, and pour it through your hair at the end of your shower (close your eyes though!). Don’t rinse it out, just blot the excess water from your hair with a towel and dry your hair as usual. Apple cider vinegar will smooth your hair cuticles and remove excess build-up for shinier hair. Don’t like the scent of vinegar? Try adding a drop or two of any essential oil to the mix.

4) Filtered Water Rinse.

If your water system or shower head doesn’t have a filter, the minerals in your water can build up on your hair causing dryness, dullness, and even a greenish tint to blonde hair (some parts of Australia are known for having lots of minerals in the water – if you find your shampoo doesn’t foam up much, this could be why!) Installing a water filter for your shower head is the best fix, but it’s also an expensive option. Try filling a drink bottle or jug with filtered or bottled spring water and using it as a final rinse for your hair before exiting the shower. This will help rinse out excess minerals on your hair.

5) Carbonated Water Rinse.

This is a fun one! Mix half carbonated (fizzy) water with half tap water and again, use this as a final rinse, concentrating on the scalp. The bubbles with ensure your scalp gets extra clean, and the oxygen will encourage blood flow for healthier hair. Win win!