Hair Pollution: 5 Easy Solutions, Plus 10 Strand-Saving Products

Pollution is all around us, and it’s infiltrated how our hair looks, feels, and grows. Fret not; we’re breaking down our 10 products you need for a hair detox and ways you can minimize future hair pollution.

By Leann Garofolo

Update Date: 15 Jun 2022

No matter how many greens we eat, how often we hit pilates, or how vigilant we are about our skincare routines, the unfortunate truth is that invisible air pollutants can still do a number on our physical health. While we're well-versed in the ways pollution affects the world around us, we shouldn't overlook the harm it can do to our scalp's skin and hair.

In the spirit of trying not to sound so doom and gloom, we're happy to say that hair pollution isn't the end-all, be-all for healthy locks. We asked William Gaunitz, FWTS, certified trichologist and founder of Advanced Trichology, to weigh in on how pollution affects our hair and what we can do to outsmart it. Read on to learn what to look out for, and then discover 10 of our best hair detox and cleansing treatments that will treat and reverse the grime.

What causes hair pollution?

If you're a self-proclaimed city enthusiast like I am, you probably don't have to be reminded that a truly fresh gulp of air is hard to come by. Vehicle exhaust, smog, greenhouse gasses, and allergens in the air are just a few common contributors to hair pollution, especially if you work in an urban area or live near a working factory. And these tiny molecules of soot, dirt, pollen, and other grime (often referred to as particulate matter) buildup on the hair and within follicles. Over time, this accumulation can damage hair's internal protein structure, causing locks to look and feel different and more difficult to manage.

Besides airborne pollutants, our shower water can sneakily take a toll on our tresses, as well. Not only can the minerals and heavy metals found in areas with hard water dry out strands, but they can also chemically react with hair dye and result in faded or brassy color.

How does pollution affect hair?

When the body is exposed to ongoing pollution, poor air quality, or airborne allergens, Dr. Gaunitz explains that it triggers inflammation within the body that manifests as various scalp conditions.

“This inflammation can have a direct impact on how your hair is growing and create accelerated shedding, scalp inflammation, a flareup of psoriasis or seborrheic dermatitis, and dandruff.”

You may also notice that your scalp is greasy or oily, which can occur when impurities block hair follicles. Some research has also linked pollution to premature graying.

Does pollution cause baldness?

Some research suggests there could be a correlation between hair loss and pollution. A 2019 study revealed that the proteins required to fuel hair growth became less active when hair cells came into contact with air pollution. Though this doesn't directly lead to balding, it could slow hair growth and weaken hair follicles, so hair sheds faster. As always, it's essential to consult your doctor to determine whether other underlying conditions may be causing your hair loss.

Does pollution cause dandruff?

“Pollution can certainly increase your propensity for dandruff due to increasing the level of scalp inflammation,” says Dr. Gaunitz. “Dandruff is caused by an underlying yeast overgrowth, but when the body is impacted by external factors like pollution, it can cause a flareup and an overreaction of inflammation that leads to dandruff.”

Does dust affect your hair?

Dust and debris can also affect hair by coating strands, so they look dull and lackluster. Looking for the right detox hair products is key to removing this grit.

How do you treat hair pollution?

Luckily, there are plenty of ways you can combat the effects of pollution to restore a beautiful mane. Here are some ideas to get you started.

Cover up.

The most obvious way to protect your hair against airborne pollutants is to take cover when you go outside. Cute hats, or wrapping hair in a lightweight scarf, are chic and functional ways to shield your scalp from contaminants lurking in the air.

Try an antibacterial shampoo.

“If you are dealing with dermatitis or dandruff caused by allergens or pollution, you should be using a shampoo that contains tea tree oil or neem oil,” says Dr. Gaunitz. “These two oils are extremely antifungal and anti-microbial and will support the reduction of yeast or fungus on the scalp that is causing excessive inflammation.”

Exfoliate the scalp.

Clearing away buildup accumulated on the scalp is crucial to overcoming hair pollution, and that's where a weekly scalp exfoliant comes into play. These scrubs help slough off particulate matter, dead skin cells, and oil that can clog follicles and lead to growth stalls, hair shedding, and more.

Lighten up your styling products.

Surprisingly, tacky stylers such as pomades and pastes can actually attract more grime to the surface of your hair. If you know you’ll be in an environment with more particulate matter floating around, choose lightweight serums and lotions to tame and style your hair.

Be gentle.

Since pollution comprises the hair's structural integrity, it's crucial to be gentle on your tresses. Choose wide-toothed combs when brushing, apply strengthening leave-ins, limit hot tool styling when possible, and opt for low-manipulation or protective hairstyles on days you'll be spending time outside or visiting a more urban area.

Caring for hair plagued by pollution may be easier said than done, so we rounded up 10 of our best products that can help. Whether you’re looking for a much-needed hair detox scrub or a good clarifying shampoo, we’ve got your back!

Our 10 Best Products to Overcome Hair Pollution

Scrub Energisant Deep Cleaning Fusio Dose Scrub

An energizing sea salt scalp scrub to remove impurities.

Specifique Argile Équilibrante Cleansing Clay

A purifying cleansing clay for oily hair and roots.

Blondage High Bright Pre-Treatment

A pre-shampoo treatment powered by Vitamin C and chelating agents to prep and clarify hair for a brighter blonde instantly.

Blondage High Bright Shampoo

A blonde brightening shampoo and conditioner system to maintain salon-quality blonde between salon visits.

Blondage High Bright Conditioner

A lightweight conditioner with Vitamin C that helps condition brighter and lighter blonde hair between salon visits.

Metal Detox Shampoo + Mask Duo

A two-step system designed to detoxify and neutralize metals trapped inside the hair fiber.

Hair Cleansing Cream Clarifying Shampoo

A clarifying, shine-boosting shampoo.

Urban Moisture Hydro-Nourishing Conditioner for Dry Hair

A lightweight, moisturizing conditioner for dry hair.

Serum Chroma Thermique Blow Dry Primer

Frizz-reducing blow dry heat protectant for color-treated hair.