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For the most part, my hair is pretty healthy and easy to work with, but when something goes awry, it's usually my scalp that's the problem. Our scalp is part of our skin, so if our scalp isn't in good health, it won't be able to feed healthy hair.
When my scalp health is off, it can lead to such issues as oily roots, dandruff or dry scalp, shedding, and even limp hair. There are many factors that influence our scalp, such as the products we apply, our diet, lifestyle, and naturally, the climate. So, your scalp and hair condition can change throughout the year.
My hair care regimen consists of the standard suspects: nourishing conditioners, smoothing oils, and revitalizing shampoos. However, if my hair still doesn't feel or look its best, I focus on my scalp, which is frequently the cause of many hair issues.
Fortunately, a growing range of products designed specifically for scalp health are now available. I've compiled a list of some of the best scalp scrubs I've ever used in case you want to change your regimen to promote scalp care.
1. Cleansing Purifying Scrub with Sea Salt
This is the scrub I reach for when my hair is greasy or product build-up is extreme. The sea salt crystals help stimulate blood flow in the scalp, which can lead to new hair growth. It's a bit more textured than some, but I like how it controls excess oil, dandruff, and dry patches. Although suitable for all hair types, it's especially great for oily hair or sensitive scalps.
2. Oribe Serene Scalp Scrub
If I require a mix of physical and chemical exfoliation, this is one that I adore. The tiny polymer beads are extremely gentle on the skin but provide sufficient scrubbing action.
The mix of alpha hydroxy acids (like glycolic acid) penetrate deeper into the skin to destroy dead skin cells. I use this weekly before shampooing. It costs $52, which is pricey, but the result is worth it.
3. Umberto Giannini Scalp Scrub Exfoliating Anti-Dandruff Treatment
For a bargain option, this scrub is great. It's less than $10 and often on sale, so it's great value. It's a pre-shampoo treatment that contains piroctone olamine, which is an ingredient known to fight dandruff.
I also appreciate that it contains moisturizing coconut oil and natural walnut shell exfoliants. I noticed a reduction in flakes immediately and felt like my scalp had a really good deep clean.
4. Briogeo Scalp Revival Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo
This Briogeo product combines shampoo and scalp scrub in one. It's one of my favorites, and a small amount goes a long way. It scrubs away dead skin and product buildup, and I notice that it reduces itchiness of the scalp if I use it regularly. The cooling minty scent is an added benefit, as well, for an itchy scalp or for seborrheic dermatitis.
5. Ouai St. Barts Scalp and Body Scrub
If you want a multitasking product, this Ouai one is a winner. It works as well on the scalp as it does on the body, and the tropical scent makes me think of a sun-kissed beach.
I use this once a week as a shampoo substitute, but it's also a great body scrub. Take a little bit, and it lathers beautifully when you massage it into the scalp.
6. The Inkey List Exfoliating Scalp Scrub with Glycolic Acid
As an affordable and effective alternative, this glycolic acid scrub is wonderful. It's gentle enough for any hair type and perfect for fine hair that gets weighed down by harsher scrubs.
I work it into damp hair, let it sit for about 10 minutes, and rinse. It's also vegan, fragrance-free, and sulfate-free, making it perfect for sensitive scalps.
7. Kevin Murphy Scalp Spa Scrub
This scrub is suitable for all hair types, including color-treated hair. It's very good at soothing and balancing my hair and scalp and doesn't dry my skin out. I have found, however, that it does leave behind some grit, so I usually shampoo afterward. Even though it's marketed as a "pre-treatment," I find myself using it in addition to my shampooing regimen.
My hair's health has significantly improved when I switched to a routine that targets my scalp. There is a scalp scrub that will suit your needs, whether you're searching for an upscale treatment or something more affordable.
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