It’s no surprise that a build-up on the scalp has significant effects on hair health, but sometimes even sweat can impact the appearance of tresses.
When perspiration dries, it leaves behind more than just water, creating a mixture of salt, oils, and minerals that mix with the scalp’s natural sebum. That’s why failing to wash your hair enough could be a damaging hair mistake.
This biofilm can become problematic when it accumulates excessively, certified skin specialist Dr Hari Kiran Chekuri told GB News.
The trichologist and owner of Redefine Hair Transplant & Plastic Surgery Centre noted that it creates an ideal environment for microorganisms to flourish, potentially leading to scalp conditions such as dandruff or folliculitis.
A build-up of sweat can contribute to thinning over time
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While sweat itself doesn’t directly cause hair loss, its accumulation can contribute to thinning over time, the expert warned.
This is because prolonged inflammation may result in follicular miniaturization, a condition associated with hair thinning.
“An imbalanced scalp can become more vulnerable to infections, which can mess with hair growth,” the expert explained.
Additionally, the fungus Malassezia thrives in sweaty environments and has been linked to dandruff and, in severe cases, temporary hair loss known as telogen effluvium.
Lactic acid, a byproduct of sweating, is usually harmless. But when sweat builds up, lactic acid can change the pH of your scalp, making it more acidic than it should be.
Normally, your scalp is slightly acidic (around 5.5), which helps keep things in balance. If this pH level drops too much, it can irritate your scalp and weaken your hair over time.
Hair actually grows best in a balanced pH environment. If the scalp gets too acidic from excess sweat, it can weaken the outer layer of the hair, known as the cuticle.
This makes your hair more prone to breakage. Plus, an imbalanced scalp can become more vulnerable to infections, which can mess with hair growth.
To prevent sweat-related scalp issues, experts recommend regular washing, particularly for those who perspire frequently. This means skipping washes could be a mistake.
Gentle cleansing shampoos help maintain a healthy environment without stripping natural oils.
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Dr Chekuri added: “You don’t have to wash your hair daily unless you’re really sweaty, but it’s important to keep the scalp clean.
“Use a gentle, pH-balanced shampoo to avoid stripping your scalp’s natural oils.”
Additionally, weekly scalp exfoliation can remove dead skin cells, sweat residue, and product build-up that may clog follicles.
For those experiencing unusual hair loss, it’s important to consider other factors such as stress, diet, or hormonal changes, as sweat is often just one piece of a larger puzzle.
