If the products you are using don’t explicitly say they are buildup free, chances are, they can cause buildup in your locs.
Though the most common cause for buildup is from products, there is also what’s called environmental buildup, lint buildup, and biological buildup. While this may sound a little scary, in fact, it is very manageable when one is aware of its existence. Let’s have a look at product buildup and each of the common types of buildup and how to prevent them all.
Product Buildup
All of Dr Locs products are buildup free and should never cause buildup. Having said that, that means that we can help with product buildup inside of locs caused by other products, which are not made for locs, or may not unfortunately take into consideration how the ingredients used can cause product buildup. Products like gels and waxes will cause product build up in your locs.
How to Remove Product Buildup Using Dr Locs
To remove product buildup, start with Dr Locs Pre-Cleanse.The Pre-Cleanse will bring all the product buildup to the surface, which is why you need to follow up with the Yasin Shampoo to rinse out all that white stuff that comes to the surface for a secure cleanse and rinse. Users often see a grayish or white gunk if they have a lot of buildup, but this could vary by hair type.
You may need to wash three times (as recommended on the bottle) to see a change, especially if you have tons of buildup. Once the locs are buildup free you can use Dr Locs Leave-In Conditioner, alongside Dr Locs Yaya Oil for drier locs.
Environmental Buildup
Environmental buildup can happen to anyone living or working in a dusty environment. This is especially an issue when there is construction nearby. Construction work often releases a lot of dirt and debris into the air, which then makes its way over the surface of the locs. When locs aren’t covered at night, or during dusty situations, and then aren’t cleaned for a few days, the result is environmental buildup. The best way to prevent environmental buildup is to cover up locs with a silk or satin scarf.
Lint Buildup
We get the question, “Doe Dr Locs help cure Lint in your locs?” The short answer is no. As one of the most common forms of buildup in locs, environmental buildup comes from everyday living like pillowcases, clothing, and anything cloth like that accumulates lint. It by far is the HARDEST thing to get out of locs so preventative measures are key. The best way to prevent lint in locs are wearing a satin scarf at night when you’re about to go to bed, or around the house when you’re just chillin. Additionally choosing different methods to dry your locs is always great such as lint-free towels. Or as recommended by our favorite Digital Loctician, Jocelyn Renee, brushing your locs. Loc brushing is one of the many ways to prevent lint in locs. Dr Locs carries two different types of brushes. Check them out here.
Biological Buildup
Ever look at someone’s scalp and it’s pretty much white from all the flakes? Yup, that’s biological buildup. This can include dandruff, sebum and weirdly enough mildew. Curious to know if you have mildew in your locs? Read the blog to find out.
The best way to prevent biological buildup is understanding your specific hair care type and needs. In-between washes matter. Dandruff buildup in your scalp from your own body will show up if you do know the best washing remedy for your hair.
All Buildups are Not Created Equal
If you’re experiencing buildup, make sure you know what type of buildup it may be. While we at Dr Locs wish we could prevent all types of buildup, we specialize in product buildup and we know for sure that we can bring the worst product buildup to the surface and clean your locs. And remember, when in doubt, cover up those locs (which by the way, will always help your twists last longer! Let’s savor that twist shall we?)
