Using hairspray can give your hair the perfect hold, keeping your style in place all day long. However, frequent use of it can lead to hairspray buildup on the scalp and strands, leaving your hair feeling heavy, sticky, and lifeless. Over time, this buildup can also make your hair look dull and prevent moisture or natural oils from nourishing it properly. Learning how to remove hairspray buildup from hair is essential to maintain clean, shiny, and healthy locks without stripping away your hair’s natural balance.
Understanding Hairspray Buildup
Hairspray buildup happens when residue from styling products like hairsprays, gels, or serums accumulates on the hair shaft and scalp. Most hairsprays contain polymers and alcohol that coat the hair to keep it firm and styled. While this can be beneficial for a temporary look, the polymers can cling to strands even after regular washing. Over time, this residue prevents moisture from entering the hair and makes it more prone to dryness and breakage.
Signs that you might have hairspray buildup include
- Hair feeling rough, waxy, or sticky even after washing.
- Dullness or lack of natural shine.
- Dry or itchy scalp due to clogged pores.
- Hair appearing flat or greasy soon after styling.
Once you recognize these symptoms, it’s time to deep clean your hair and scalp using effective methods that remove buildup without causing damage.
How to Remove Hairspray Buildup from Hair
There are several ways to get rid of hairspray buildup safely. Depending on the products you have at home, you can choose between natural remedies or specialized clarifying treatments. Below are some tried and tested methods to make your hair feel clean and refreshed again.
1. Use a Clarifying Shampoo
Clarifying shampoos are specifically designed to deep clean and remove product buildup, including residue from hairspray. They contain stronger cleansing agents than regular shampoos, which help break down the sticky polymers that cling to your hair. To use a clarifying shampoo effectively
- Wet your hair thoroughly with warm water to open the cuticles.
- Apply the clarifying shampoo evenly and massage it into your scalp and hair for at least 2-3 minutes.
- Rinse well and follow with a moisturizing conditioner to restore hydration.
- Use once a week or once every two weeks to avoid over-drying your hair.
Clarifying shampoos are great for regular maintenance, especially if you use styling products often.
2. Try Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse
Apple cider vinegar is a natural and affordable way to remove hairspray buildup from hair. Its mild acidity helps dissolve residue and restore the scalp’s natural pH balance. It also leaves your hair soft and shiny without harsh chemicals. Here’s how to make and use an apple cider vinegar rinse
- Mix one part apple cider vinegar with two parts water.
- After shampooing, pour the mixture over your hair and scalp.
- Massage gently and let it sit for about 2-3 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly with cool water and condition as usual.
Doing this once a week can help maintain a clean scalp and prevent buildup from returning. If the vinegar smell is strong, don’t worry it fades once your hair dries.
3. Baking Soda Cleanse
Baking soda is another effective way to remove hairspray buildup, thanks to its natural cleansing properties. It works by breaking down oils and residues that regular shampoo might miss. However, it’s important to use baking soda sparingly since it can be drying if overused.
To use baking soda safely
- Mix one tablespoon of baking soda with a small amount of your regular shampoo.
- Massage the mixture into wet hair for one minute, focusing on the roots and scalp.
- Rinse thoroughly with warm water and apply conditioner afterward.
This method should only be done once every two weeks to avoid stripping away too much natural oil from the hair.
4. Lemon Juice Rinse
Lemon juice is another natural cleanser that helps break down hairspray buildup. It’s rich in citric acid, which cuts through residue and adds shine. To make a simple lemon rinse
- Combine two tablespoons of fresh lemon juice with one cup of warm water.
- After shampooing, pour the solution over your hair.
- Let it sit for a couple of minutes before rinsing well.
Be careful not to use lemon juice too frequently if you have color-treated hair, as it can slightly lighten the shade over time.
5. Deep Conditioning After Cleansing
After removing buildup, your hair may feel dry or slightly rough. This happens because clarifying and cleansing treatments open up the hair cuticle to remove residue. To restore softness and manageability, always follow up with a deep conditioner or a nourishing hair mask.
- Apply a hydrating mask rich in natural oils or proteins.
- Leave it on for at least 10-15 minutes before rinsing.
- Use a wide-tooth comb to evenly distribute the product.
This helps seal the cuticle again and brings back the natural shine of your hair.
Preventing Future Hairspray Buildup
Once your hair is clean and fresh, you’ll want to prevent the buildup from returning. With a few small changes to your hair care routine, you can keep your scalp and strands free of residue.
Tips to Prevent Product Buildup
- Use less hairsprayTry using only as much as you need to hold your style. A light mist is often enough.
- Choose lightweight formulasLook for water-based or alcohol-free hairsprays that don’t leave a sticky residue.
- Rinse thoroughly after washingMake sure no shampoo or conditioner remains on your scalp.
- Alternate between shampoosUse a clarifying shampoo occasionally alongside your regular gentle shampoo.
- Brush your hair regularlyThis helps distribute natural oils evenly and prevents product from clumping near the roots.
By following these steps, you’ll not only reduce buildup but also promote a healthier scalp environment where your hair can grow stronger and shinier.
Natural Alternatives to Hairspray
If you often struggle with buildup, switching to lighter or natural styling alternatives can help. Natural sprays made with aloe vera, sugar water, or rose water offer gentle hold without heavy residue. You can even make your own DIY hairspray at home using simple ingredients that are safer for your hair and easier to wash out.
These options won’t harden your hair as much as conventional sprays, but they keep frizz under control and add subtle hold for everyday styling.
Homemade Hairspray Recipe
- Mix one cup of distilled water with two tablespoons of sugar.
- Add a few drops of essential oil for fragrance.
- Pour into a spray bottle and shake well before use.
This homemade version is gentle, natural, and won’t cause the buildup that commercial products often leave behind.
Knowing how to remove hairspray buildup from hair is key to keeping your locks healthy, shiny, and manageable. Whether you use a clarifying shampoo, apple cider vinegar rinse, baking soda cleanse, or natural lemon rinse, consistency and gentle care are what make the difference. Following each cleanse with proper conditioning helps restore softness and moisture, ensuring your hair remains vibrant and strong. By balancing product use with regular deep cleaning, you can enjoy perfectly styled hair without the dullness or heaviness of buildup ever again.