It’s no surprise that scalp buildup has a significant impact on hair health, but in some cases even sweat can affect the appearance of your hair.
When sweat dries, it leaves behind not only water but also a mixture of salts, oils, and minerals that mix with your scalp’s natural oils. Therefore, if you do not wash your hair thoroughly, it may damage your hair.
This biofilm can become a problem if it builds up too much, board certified dermatologist Dr Hari Kiran Chekri told GB News.
It creates an ideal environment for microorganisms to grow, which can lead to scalp diseases such as dandruff and folliculitis, said the trichologist and owner of Redefine Hair Transplant and Plastic Surgery Center.
Sweat buildup can cause it to thin over time
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Sweat itself does not directly cause hair loss, but its buildup can cause hair thinning over time, experts have warned.
This is because prolonged inflammation can lead to hair follicle miniaturization, a condition associated with hair thinning.
“When the balance of the scalp is disrupted, it becomes more susceptible to infections and can impede hair growth,” experts explain.
Additionally, the fungus Malassezia thrives in sweaty environments and is associated with dandruff and, in severe cases, temporary hair loss known as telogen effluvium.
Lactic acid, a byproduct of sweating, is usually harmless. However, as sweat builds up, lactic acid can change the pH of your scalp, making it more acidic than it should be.
Normally, the scalp is slightly acidic (about 5.5), which helps maintain balance. If this pH level drops too much, it can irritate your scalp and weaken your hair over time.
In fact, hair grows best in a balanced pH environment. When your scalp becomes too acidic from excess sweat, it can weaken the outer layer of your hair, known as the cuticle.
This will make your hair more likely to break. Additionally, an imbalanced scalp can make you more susceptible to infections, which can impede hair growth.
To prevent scalp problems caused by sweat, experts recommend washing your scalp regularly, especially for people who sweat frequently. That means skipping the laundry could be a mistake.
Gentle cleansing shampoos help maintain a healthy environment without stripping your natural oils.
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Washing your hair with hot water may cause the color to fade
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Dr Chekri adds: ‘You don’t need to wash your hair every day unless you sweat a lot, but it’s important to keep your scalp clean.
“Use a mild, pH-balanced shampoo to avoid stripping your scalp of its natural oils.”
Additionally, weekly scalp exfoliation can remove dead skin cells, sweat residue, and product buildup that can clog hair follicles.
For those experiencing abnormal hair loss, it’s important to consider other factors such as stress, diet, and hormonal changes, as sweat is often just one piece of a larger puzzle.
