Do We Really Need Scalp Scrubs?
The answer is YES! Until I experienced it myself, I didn’t realize just how essential a scalp scrub could be. I started noticing product buildup around my roots—thanks to layering on dry shampoo, styling products, and the general wear of daily life. Desperate for a solution, I gave the Moroccanoil Pre-Shampoo Scalp Scrub a try, and I was genuinely impressed by the results. My scalp felt cleaner and less weighed down, and it even helped my roots appear more lifted and refreshed.
Why Scalp Scrubs Work: The Science Behind It
Like our skin, our scalps can accumulate dead skin cells, sebum, sweat, and product residue over time. This can lead to dullness and clogged follicles and even hinder hair growth. A scalp scrub helps by:
Exfoliating Dead Skin Cells: Scalp scrubs typically contain physical or chemical exfoliants, like sugar crystals, sea salt, or AHAs, which gently lift dead skin cells and impurities from the scalp surface.
Clearing Product Build-Up: Regular shampooing cleanses hair but often doesn’t remove heavy residue from products like dry shampoo or texturizers. A scalp scrub cuts through this build-up, improving scalp health and hair texture.
Increasing Blood Circulation: Massaging a scrub into your scalp increases blood flow, which promotes healthier hair follicles and can encourage hair growth. The massage is not only soothing but helps to ensure all the active ingredients reach your roots.
How to Use a Scalp Scrub
Incorporating a scalp scrub into your routine is simple and doesn’t require any extra fuss
Pre-Wash: Most scalp scrubs, like the Moroccanoil one I tried, are designed to be used before shampooing.
Massage Gently: Scoop a small amount and apply directly to your scalp. Massage in circular motions for a few minutes to really work the scrub into the scalp and loosen buildup.
Rinse Thoroughly: After scrubbing, rinse your hair well and follow with your regular shampoo and conditioner. This helps to wash away any remaining scrub and leaves your hair feeling completely refreshed.
For most people, using a scalp scrub once a week is enough to maintain a healthy scalp without over-exfoliating. If you’re prone to oiliness or heavy product use, you might want to increase this frequency slightly.
Best-Selling Scalp Scrubs and Ones I’m Excited to Try
Several scalp scrubs on the market are known for their effective formulations and positive results. Here are a few that are making waves in the beauty community:
1. Moroccanoil Oily Scalp Treatment Pre-Shampoo Scrub: My personal pick, this scrub uses natural exfoliants like argan oil and salicylic acid, which work well together to purify and balance the scalp.
2. Ouai Scalp & Body Scrub: A sugar-based scrub that’s gentle yet effective, this product also doubles as a body exfoliator, making it a versatile choice.
3. Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal + Coconut Oil Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo: This scrub-shampoo hybrid is designed with charcoal to draw out impurities and coconut oil to moisturize, providing a detoxifying and hydrating experience in one step.
4. Christophe Robin Cleansing Purifying Scrub with Sea Salt: Known for its ability to deeply cleanse and remove buildup, this cult favorite is often used after color treatments to soothe and reset the scalp.
5. Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Happi Scalp Scrub: With a blend of AHAs and BHAs, this chemical exfoliating scrub helps dissolve dead skin cells and buildup without any harsh scrubbing particles.