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Why Does My Hair Hurt When It’s Dirty?

Notice A Painful Scalp in Between Wash Days? The Reason Why May Surprise You…

It’s true: Your hair wash routine—or lack thereof—can cause your scalp to hurt. But the reasons why are more nuanced than you think.

Here’s Why Your Scalp Hurts When It’s Dirty:

If your scalp feels sore when your hair is dirty, it’s likely due to a buildup of oil, sweat and hair products that lead to inflammation.

Here’s a breakdown of how different factors can lead to a tender scalp between wash days:

  • Oil and Product Buildup: Excess oil and styling products can clog hair follicles, leading to inflammation and discomfort.
  • Scalp Tension: When hair gets greasy, it can become heavier, pulling on the roots and causing tenderness.
  • Bacteria and Yeast Growth: A dirty scalp creates the perfect environment for bacteria and yeast to thrive, leading to mild inflammation or irritation.
  • Increased Sensitivity: When your hair is dirty, you might go longer without brushing or massaging your scalp, leading to poor circulation and tenderness.
  • Tight Hairstyles: If unwashed hair means you’ve been wearing your hair up for a long time, then let it down, the change in tension can make your scalp feel sore.

Here’s a guide to an ideal wash routine based on your hair type:

  • If you are wearing a protective hairstyle (like braids, twists or wigs): Wash every 14 days
  • If you have an oily scalp and fine hair: Wash hair every 1 to 2 days
  • If you have a normal scalp and medium hair: Wash hair every 2 to 4 days
  • If you have a dry scalp, curly or coily hair: Wash hair every 4 to 7 days
  • If you have coily or kinky hair: Wash hair every 7 to 10 days
  • If you have seborrheic dermatitis (which causes scaly patches, inflamed skin and stubborn dandruff): Wash your hair 3 to 4 times per week with an anti-dandruff shampoo

We’re going to bust the myth that you can “train your scalp” to not get oily: Keep in mind prolonged non-washing does NOT cause the scalp to produce less oil. It is also important not to overly wash hair, as this can irritate and dry the scalp, while also potentially causing breakage and damage of the hair shaft.

Here’s How to Treat Irritated Scalps:

We’ve all managed to go a little too long without washing before and have been left with a particularly tender scalp. If this sounds like you, here are a few ways to treat and soothe excess buildup and irritation:

  • First, cleanse the scalp with a pH balanced clarifying shampoo.
    • This helps remove damaging impurities and dulling deposits including hard water, metal ions, minerals, pollutants and product buildup. Formulated with willow bark extract, this color-safe shampoo clarifies the hair without leaving it feeling dry or stripped.
  • Then, apply a deeply hydrating hair mask.
    • Use a wide tooth comb to distribute and remove tangles in the shower. This will help with detangling those knots that we all rip through after we take the towel off.
  • Apply a leave-in conditioner after the shower.
    • Either let your hair air dry or gently dry it.
    • DO NOT go to bed with wet hair!!! This causes a breeding ground for bacteria that can make your head smell bad, cause dermatitis and or dandruff.

If you have any questions or concerns feel free to bring them up at your next hair appointment! If you’re unsure of the right products to use, Mane Street only carries pH balanced product that will ensure better hair days. Our educated stylists will recommend the best products for your hair type so you don’t have to do the guess work.

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