While we do focus on shampooing and conditioning our hair regularly, we tend to ignore scalp exfoliation. Just like the rest of our body, dirt, germs,and dead skin cells accumulate on the scalp too and a scalp scrub must be used to solve this issue the right way.
What are Scalp Scrubs?
Scalp scrubs are personal care products that are used to exfoliate your scalp. Just like body and face scrubs, these scrubs are applied to the scalp and they help get rid of product build-up, dirt, oil, and dead skin cells that accumulate on your scalp. Scrubs contain mild granules and other powerful ingredients. They help improve overall scalp health and effectively reduce scalp irritation and dandruff caused by excess oil. There are two types of scrubs that can be found:
1. Chemical Scalp Scrub
Chemical scalp scrubs or exfoliators use chemicals and/or enzymes such as an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) called glycolic acid or a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) such as salicylic acid. These chemicals are capable of dissolving any build-up and debris on the surface of the scalp.
Chemical scrubs are easily available in local stores and they show positive results with regular usage. However, chemical scalp scrubs may be quite harsh and cause discomfort. Avoid using them if you experience scalp irritation.
2. Organic Scalp Scrub
Organic scalp scrubs have a unique combination of natural ingredients like sugar, oatmeal, and ground coffee. These can be easily made at home and are completely safe for use. These natural ingredients promote blood circulation in the scalp and keep your scalp nourished. These scrubs also stimulate hair growth, and give you smooth, dandruff-free hair.
Benefits of Using a Scalp Scrub
Some benefits of scalp exfoliation are:
1. Reduces Scalp Itchiness
Dandruff can cause an itchy scalp and visible flakes. Using a scalp scrub will help control the buildup of oil and yeast and reduce flakes.
2. Promotes Hair Growth
With regular use of a scalp scrub, it is possible to achieve good scalp health. Hair tends to grow faster due to improved blood circulation. It nourishes hair follicles with the nutrients needed for healthy hair growth.
3. Balances Oil
If you have an oily scalp, scalp exfoliation will keep oil production in check. Your dull and lifeless hair will become shinier and softer.
4. Moisturizes Hair
A scalp scrub has moisturizing ingredients like aloe vera to keep both hair and the scalp hydrated. This also helps reduce hair breakage, split ends, frizzy hair, and other problems.
How to Choose a Scalp Scrub?
So, what exactly should you remember while choosing the best exfoliating scalp scrub? Here’s what you must note:
- There are many scalp scrubs available in the market; you must choose the ones that do not contain sulfates, silicone, or harsh chemicals.
- You can also go for scalp scrubs that contain active ingredients to promote hair growth, enhance hair volume, and strengthen hair roots.
- You must choose a scalp scrub with useful ingredients like aloe vera, rosemary oil, almond oil, salicylic acid, and others to reduce hair breakage and damage caused due to free radicals.
- A scalp scrub targets specific problems and you must choose the one that is meant for your hair type, such as dry, damaged, or curly hair.
3 Best DIY Scalp Scrubs
You can make a homemade scalp scrub with a few easily available ingredients. Listed below are some:
- Coconut oil and honey scrub – This scrub has nourishing properties and detoxifies the scalp. You can make this scrub by adding 1 tablespoon coconut oil, 2 tablespoon sugar, and 1 teaspoon organic honey.
- Avocado and tea tree brown sugar scrub – Add 1/2 teaspoon brown sugar, 1 teaspoon avocado oil, and 2 drops of tea tree oil, and apply it on your scalp. It acts as a natural conditioner, reduces flakiness, and strengthens your hair follicles.
- Lemon, sea salt and olive oil scrub – Lemon juice is great for an oily scalp, olive oil is rich in several vitamins and this mix can properly nourish your scalp and hair.
Conclusion
Just like our skin, the scalp has specific needs that may differ from person to person. Take enough time to find which scalp scrub works best for you and always read the ingredients of a product before using it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. How to use scalp scrubs?
Ans. You must apply scalp scrub to wet hair, make sure you divide your hair into different sections and massage the scrub into your scalp using your fingers. Focus on the scalp rather than the hair strands and wash it off thoroughly. You can follow up with a gentle shampoo and hair conditioner.
Q2. How many times can I use a scalp scrub?
Ans. The number of times you should use a scalp scrub depends on your hair type. It is best to use the scrub once every week.
Q3. Can a scalp scrub cause irritation?
Ans. Scalp scrub may cause irritation in some people. It usually goes away in some time, but if it doesn’t, you must consult the doctor.
