What causes loc buildup? How to avoid/get rid of it? by Morgan Rameau

What Causes Loc Buildup?

Buildup in locs can be caused by a variety of factors, including sweat, oil, dirt, product

buildup, particulate matter, and dead skin cells. Locs are particularly prone to buildup due to

the ability of these substances to become tightly trapped within strands. When these substances

accumulate, they can lead to a heavy, coated feeling on the hair and scalp. Buildup can also make it

difficult to maintain and style locs, and it can even lead to hair breakage and damage over time.

To avoid buildup in locs, it’s essential to maintain a regular hair care routine that includes

shampooing, conditioning, and water-soluble styling products. You should avoid using heavy

products, like beeswax, mineral oil/paraffin wax/petroleum, silicones, and or heavy gels, as

these can be difficult to wash out and subsequently contribute to buildup.

If you do notice buildup in your locs, there are several methods you can use to get rid

of it. One option is to use a clarifying shampoo to deeply cleanse your hair and remove buildup.

You can also try using a mixture of baking soda and apple cider vinegar to gently exfoliate your

scalp and remove any dead skin cells or excess oil. Detoxifying locs periodically can also

remove the excess product for lighter, healthier locs without the need to cut them. If buildup

remains, contact your local loctitian for guidance on how to proceed.

Here are some products that can help get rid of buildup:

Malibu C Un-Do Goo Shampoo: This vegan and cruelty-free shampoo clarifies the hair to remove

heavy styling products that may get caught within locs.

Alodia Black Soap Wash: This natural and organic hair wash deeply cleanses hair and

scalp to remove heavy products and oils.

EcoSlay TerraSol Detox Bomb: This detoxifying cleanser leverages plant-based

ingredients to surface up buildup and impurities from your locs while restoring balance to your scalp.

Shampoo your locs regularly; use products appropriate for your hair, scalp, and long-term goals;

and speak with your licensed cosmetologist at Thrive Hair Bar about your loc routine to make

sure you’re getting ahead of loc buildup before it begins.