Do you ever notice a not-so-great smell coming from your scalp? It’s not necessarily a bad smell, it just smells like–an unwashed, dirty head. If you’ve ever caught a waft of your own scalp or scratched your head and could smell your scalp on your fingers, a scalp scrub can save you from your stinky head woes.
A scalp scrub is a type of exfoliating treatment for the scalp. It typically involves using a gentle scrub or shampoo/conditioner that contains small exfoliating crystal particles, such as sugar or salt, to help remove dead skin cells and excess oil from the scalp. The scrub is usually massaged into the scalp in a circular motion and then rinsed off with water.
Benefits of Using a Scalp Scrub
There are many reasons why you should be regularly using a scalp scrub. It’s not only for the sake of the appearance and smell of your hair, but also for the health benefits as well.
Some of the main benefits of using a scalp scrub include:
Exfoliates the Skin on Your Head
Just like the rest of your skin, your scalp needs to be exfoliated from time to time in order to remove dead skin cells and buildup. If you don’t exfoliate your scalp, you can end up with dandruff, an itchy scalp, or even hair loss. A good scalp scrub will leave your head feeling refreshed and invigorated.
Cleanses
A scalp scrub can help to remove excess oil, dirt, and impurities from the scalp, which can prevent clogged pores and promote healthy hair growth. If you use a lot of styling products, it can also get rid of left-over buildup so that your hair can continue to look and feel its best. A cleaner scalp is the first step to getting rid of any unpleasant odors.
Increases Circulation
When you use a scalp scrub, you are essentially giving yourself a mini-massage. This helps to increase circulation in the area, which can promote hair growth. Not to mention, it feels pretty darn good!
Help with Dandruff
If you suffer from dandruff, a good scalp scrub can be a godsend. The massaging action of the scrub will help to loosen up any flakes while the exfoliating action will help to remove them. Just be sure to follow up with a good conditioner or dandruff shampoo afterwards.
Increased Hair Shine and Softness
A scalp scrub can help to remove buildup from the scalp, which can make hair look shinier and more vibrant. Most scrubs are also enriched with nourishing ingredients that can make your hair soft, silky, and easier to manage.
How Often Should You Use a Scalp Scrub?
How often you should use a scalp scrub depends on your hair type and scalp condition. In general, it is recommended to use a scalp scrub once a week or every two weeks.
If you have an oily scalp or use a lot of hair styling products, you may need to use a scalp scrub more frequently, such as twice a week. On the other hand, if you have a dry or sensitive scalp, using a scalp scrub too often can irritate your scalp and cause more problems.
How Do I Choose The Right Scalp Scrub?
The best way to choose a scalp scrub is to match it to your hair type.
- If you have oily hair, look for a product that contains salicylic acid or tea tree oil.
- For dry hair, opt for a moisturizing scrub with hydrating ingredients like jojoba oil or aloe vera.
- And if you’re prone to dandruff, choose a product with anti-fungal properties like neem oil or lemon juice.
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Our Top Picks for the Best Scalp Scrubs
Now that you know how and why to use a scalp scrub, let’s take a look at some of our top picks for the best products out there.
OUAI Scalp & Body Scrub
The OUAI Scalp and Body Scrub is a popular scrub that can be used to exfoliate and moisturize both the scalp and body. This scalp scrub is formulated with sugar crystals and probiotics, which work together to gently exfoliate and nourish the skin and scalp. It is a rose-scented scrub that exfoliates and removes dirt, oil, and product buildup on the scalp and skin. It then moisturizes and nourishes, leaving your hair soft and silky.
Nexxus Clean & Pure Sulfate-Free Scalp Scrub
The Nexxus Clean and Pure Scalp Scrub is a sulfate-free exfoliating and nourishing treatment that is specifically designed to detoxify and rejuvenate the scalp. This scalp scrub is infused with protein and marine minerals to cleanse the scalp as well as argon oil and sweet almond oil to restore shine and soft texture.
Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal + Coconut Oil Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo
Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal + Coconut Oil Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo contains charcoal to absorb excess oil and dirt from your scalp—leaving you with clean, healthy-looking hair. Coconut oil and avocado oil moisturize and protect your hair from damage caused by harsh cleansers. Plus, this shampoo has a refreshing citrus scent that will leave your hair smelling great all day long!
NatureLab Tokyo Perfect Shine Clarifying Scalp Scrub
NatureLab Tokyo Perfect Shine Clarifying Scalp Scrub is a 2-in-1 formula that acts as a scalp scrub and shampoo. This scrub contains natural ingredients such as grapefruit peel oil, sea salt, and sugarcane extract, and argon oil to remove buildup and impurities from the scalp, while also providing nourishment and hydration. The antioxidant-rich extract from grapes helps revitalize shine while the hyaluronic acid seals in moisture.
dpHUE Apple Cider Vinegar Scalp Scrub with Pink Himalayan Sea Salt
The dpHUE Apple Cider Vinegar Scalp Scrub uses pink Himalayan salt to naturally exfoliate the scalp, removing product build-up, impurities, and dead skin cells. This color-protecting formula is for all hair colors and hair types, and is made with Apple Cider Vinegar, Aloe Vera and Avocado Oil to rebalance your pH and keep your hair in top condition. ACV is also great at re-balancing a scalp that’s too dry, oily, or irritated.
Scalp Scrub Brush
For a more thorough cleanse and deeper penetration, a scalp brush can compliment a scalp scrub with better results. A scalp brush is designed to gently exfoliate the scalp and remove any buildup or impurities, while also stimulating blood flow to the scalp. This can help promote a healthy scalp and encourage hair growth.
Using a scalp scrub brush can also help distribute shampoo or scalp treatment products more evenly throughout the scalp, allowing for better absorption and efficacy.
Make Your Own DIY Scalp Scrub At Home
Making your own DIY scalp scrub at home is easy and can be done with just a few simple ingredients. Here’s a recipe for a basic scalp scrub:
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup of coarse sea salt or brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons of coconut oil or olive oil
- 5-10 drops of essential oil like cedarwood or rosehip oil (optional)
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, mix together the sea salt or brown sugar and coconut oil or olive oil until it forms a paste.
- If desired, add a few drops of your preferred essential oil for fragrance or extra benefits. Some good options include tea tree oil for its antibacterial properties or peppermint oil for its cooling sensation.
- Wet your hair and apply the scrub to your scalp, gently massaging in circular motions for 2-3 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly with warm water and follow with your regular shampoo and conditioner routine.
Note: It’s important to test the scrub on a small area of your scalp before using it all over to ensure you don’t have an allergic reaction to any of the ingredients. If you have any open cuts or sores on your scalp, it’s best to avoid using a scrub until they have healed to prevent further irritation.
Read More:
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