No matter what’s causing it, just buildup, in general, can lead to scalp inflammation. This can cause pain, itching, and overall discomfort. Certified trichologist and founder of Advanced Trichology William Gaunitz further explains, “depending on how tight a ponytail or braids can be, it can produce inflammatory tugging that will result in scarring and traction alopecia as well as scalp pain and tenderness.” However, he points out that this reaction would only occur after “extraordinary tension over long periods of time” due to the disruption it would create in the hair cycle. If you’re pulling your hair back into a high pony, he suggests first gently backcombing your hair before brushing it back entirely. He also recommends using an elastic that relies on texture rather than tightness, such as the Spiral Hair Ties from Kitsch. (Find mbg’s other favorite breakage-free hair ties here.) “Another option is to leave the face-framing section of hair down and out of the ponytail, and gently pinning those sections of hair back with bobby pins,” he explains. For braids, you’ll want to make sure you’re being careful with how tight you’re pulling while you’re styling. As board-certified dermatologist Raechele Cochran Gathers, M.D., once told us, “Beauty should never be painful.” For more tips on braid care, check out this guide. While there are the physical exfoliant scalp scrubs that use sea salt or sugar mixed with essential oils, this may further irritate inflammation and cause even more pain. That’s where chemical exfoliants like tea tree oil and salicylic acid can come in handy. As an astringent, tea tree oil is a great ingredient to remove and prevent buildup with equally beneficial anti-inflammatory properties. As for salicylic acid, it’s a beta-hydroxy acid that removes excess oil and dead cells that can cause irritation, flaking, or dandruff. All you have to do is use the pads of your fingers to apply medium to hard pressure on your scalp and move around in circular motions. If you want to invest in tools for this, there are different scalp massagers that can be used regularly in the shower. Meanwhile, Gaunitz also recommends using a gua sha stone. (Here are the best gua sha stones on the market, if you’re interested.)
