Why does my hair feel waxy after shampoo

Yet one major problem that I've always had with my hair, no matter how diligently I wash it, is how my hair feels sticky, waxy, and greasy after washing.

Finally, I decided to bear no more of it and take recommendations from someone who knows what's actually happening and why my hair feels sticky all the time. 

My hairstylist helped me understand all the factors that were responsible for my hair feeling waxy all the time and also provided several suggestions to overcome them.

If you’re one of those who are suffering from waxy hair and need to get rid of waxy buildup on scalp, then you’ve landed at the correct place.

Scroll down to know how to make each one of your hair washes last for more days without having waxy hair after washing.

Table of Contents

• Causes of Waxy Hair
• How to Combat Your Greasy Hair
• A perfect shampoo and conditioner pack
• Opt for a lightweight keratin shampoo
• Focus on your diet

Causes of Waxy Hair

You might be committing several mistakes unintentionally that could be adding up to that waxy buildup on scalp and waxy hair after washing. Check some of the major mistakes that are unexpectedly increasing the chances of your hair getting greasy and sticky.

• Excess washing of your hair: We often think that overwashing our hair will remove the greasiness, but in reality, it leads to enhancement of oil in our scalp.
  
  As per dermatologist Dr. Joshua Zeichner, MD, Our scalp produces natural oils and minerals essential for its health, which might be stripped away with excess use of harsh shampoos and conditioners. This, in turn, can put the sebaceous glands into overdrive, leading to greasy, weighed-down hair. So, this could be one of the answers to why does my hair feel greasy after washing it.

• Rinsing with hot water: There's nothing more satisfying than indulging in a hot shower, especially in winters, yet this might be a significant cause of waxy buildup on scalp and hair.
  
  When hot water touches your scalp, it leads to dehydration which might be the biggest reason for the waxy buildup of oil in your scalp. 

• An unhealthy diet: We’ve all heard it time and again and are completely aware of the fact that whatever we eat reflects on our skin. Excess consumption of oily food makes our skin prone to acne and other issues.
  
  Similarly, unhealthy food choices can lead to a waxy buildup of oil on your scalp, and waxy buildup on hair as well. As per celebrity stylist, Chad Wood, whenever you eat junk food, you’ll be able to see it on both your face as well as your scalp. 

• Choice of conditioner: An incorrect choice of conditioner can not only add to hair feeling waxy after washing, but it can also cause significant damage. Understand your hair type and then make your choice of a conditioner.
  
  If your hair is not textured or damaged, then opting for a lightweight conditioner might be a good option for you. Such a product will seal moisture in your strands and provide it with easy breathability as well. 

• Hair accessories: Be very particular about your hair accessories and their fabric, as their wrong use could also be an answer to the question: "Why does my hair feel waxy?"
  
  Try and choose smooth fabrics such as silk and satin for hair ties as these do not absorb excess oil. 

• Incorrectly washing your hair: Sometimes you might be washing your hair in an apt routine, but the way of washing it might be completely off, thus being the reason your hair feels greasy after washing.
  
  As per Millie Morales, celebrity hairstylist, ‘The way you wash your hair has a lot to do with the way it behaves.’ She advises making use of your fingers to gently massage your scalp while shampooing your hair.
  
  Also, the conditioner should be washed out really well so that it doesn't affect the pH of your hair, leading to greasy and waxy hair after washing.

How to Combat Your Greasy Hair

Here are a few easy tips for when your hair feels waxy and greasy after washing, so as to stop your tresses from constantly feeling super oily and weighed down.

A perfect shampoo and conditioner pack

Though it seems a bit tricky, finding the perfect combination of an effective shampoo and conditioner isn't all that difficult. You just need to find an ideal balance of products that are neither too creamy/heavy nor too bland.

One such combination pack that serves this purpose is formulated by WOW Skin Science, the apple cider vinegar shampoo and avocado/coconut oil conditioner pack. The combo pack provides hydration and intense nourishment to your hair, ensuring balanced care of your scalp. 

Apple cider vinegar shampoo works amazingly well on your locks, keeping them hydrated, ensuring enhanced hair growth, and providing strength to your hair follicles.

Similarly, the conditioner is a smooth formula that keeps your hair moisturized and shiny without any trace of oil or greasiness. 

Try this combination product to maintain an ideal balance of oil in your scalp and keep away waxy buildup on your hair.

Opt for a lightweight keratin shampoo

Your go-to hair products should be free of harsh chemicals, sulfates, parabens, and other hazardous agents to ensure the protection of your scalp. It’s always recommended to opt for a shampoo that effectively removes waxy buildup in your scalp without stripping it of its natural oils.

One such detoxifying shampoo is the WOW Skin Science activated charcoal and keratin shampoo that works to purify and fortify each of your hair strands with its soothing natural ingredients. 

The deep cleanser is a powerful blend of botanical ingredients such as jojoba oil, argan oil, sweet almond oil, and aloe vera extract. All of these work together to intensely nourish your scalp with an essential dose of moisture that’ll ensure that your hair doesn't feel greasy anymore.

Focus on your diet

The best way to keep your body glowing from the outside is to start by focussing on within.

As per an expert celebrity stylist, Kristen Shaw, you should consult a doctor or nutritionist and get an apt diet for enhanced nourishment of your body as well as scalp.

She also says some foods, such as dairy products, might be a significant cause of clogged-up pores in your scalp leading to waxy buildup on hair.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Excessive chemical processing and damage caused to your hair can make your hair become sticky or gummy. 

Several factors could be causing your hair to feel sticky even after you’ve washed it, such as build-up product residue, dandruff, using dry shampoo, using the wrong conditioner, etc.

Scalp buildup is the accumulation of excess sebum on your scalp, along with sweat, dirt, dead skin cells, and chemical hair products. 

How do I get the waxy feeling out of my hair?

Why does my hair feel like there is a film on it?