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A woman having her scalp exfoliated

How To Give Yourself A Scalp Facial

Wondering why you need a scalp facial and, more importantly, how to do one? We’re breaking down how to give yourself a scalp facial step-by-step.

When it comes to self-care, there’s nothing more relaxing than treating yourself to a facial. Whether you opt for a DIY facial or go all-out at the spa, it’s one of the most relaxing (and beneficial) skin care practices you an indulge in. Now, as the skinification of hair trend continues to grow in popularity, we realize how much our scalps can also benefit from a facial. 

If you’ve never heard of a scalp facial before, you’ve come to the right place! We’re breaking down exactly what a scalp facial is, how it fits into your hair care routine, and the products you need to give yourself one at home. 

What is a scalp facial?

Similar to a regular facial, a scalp facial can provide many benefits for your mane. This multi-step treatment deeply cleanses to remove impurities, excess oil, and product build-up from the scalp. Scalp facials can also help to unclog the hair follicles to support stronger, healthier hair growth. If you’re dealing with scalp concerns like dandruff, this treatment can hydrate your scalp, remove flakes, and eliminate itchiness. Like a regular facial, you’ll follow specific steps that help exfoliate, sooth, and moisturize your scalp. 

Are scalp treatments good for your hair?

As we’ve learned from the skinification of hair trend, scalp care is essential for achieving a healthy mane—and scalp treatments are a major part of building the best scalp care routine. If you have scalp concerns, a professional can evaluate your scalp and determine the best treatment  for you to use. While scalp treatments are available in-salon, you can also give yourself a scalp facial at home using essential scalp care products

Below, we’re breaking down exactly how to treat yourself to a scalp facial, including the products you’ll need for the best possible results. 

How To Do A Scalp Facial



Start with a pre-treatment. 

Your scalp facial should begin with a pre-shampoo treatment formulated to target your scalp’s specific needs. These formulas can soothe, detoxify, and exfoliate your scalp and help your shampoo and conditioner work better. Scalp scrubs work great as pre-shampoo treatments. For those with oily hair, consider using a formula like Kérastase Scrub Energisant Deep Clean Fusio Dose Scrub pre-poo. This deeply purifying and energizing scalp scrub for oily scalps, formulated with sea salt and salicylic acid, cleanses away impurities and hair build-up. For those with dandruff or dryness, try Kérastase Scrub Apaisant Deep Clean Fusio Dose Scrub. This relaxing formula deeply cleanses to combat dandruff, dryness, and flakes and soothes itchy scalps. 

Give your scalp a massage.

Once you’ve applied your pre-treatment, it’s time to give yourself a scalp massage—and yes, they’re just as relaxing at-home as they are at the shampoo bowl. A scalp massage can help to increase circulation in your scalp and promote healthy hair growth. It’s also the perfect way to add some self-care into your routine. 

After you’ve applied your pre-treatment, use your fingertips to gently massage your scalp in a circular motion beginning at the front and working your way towards the back. If you don’t want to use your fingers, you can also purchase a handheld scalp massager. Repeat this step while you’re lathering your shampoo. 



Apply shampoo and conditioner.

After you rinse out your pre-treatment, it’s time for  shampoo and conditioner. Be sure to use a system specifically formulated for your scalp concerns. If you have dandruff, we recommend a system like Mizani Scalp Care Shampoo and Conditioner. Formulated with pyrithione zinc, peppermint oil, and cucumber extract to cool dry scalps, this system relieves itchiness and dandruff, leaving hair smooth and soft. You can also use a hydrating shampoo and conditioner like Biolage Hydrasource Shampoo and Conditioner if you’re trying to soothe a dry, flaky scalp. This system helps optimize moisture balance and protect against future damage for healthy-looking hair. 

A clarifying shampoo is the best option if product build-up is your primary concern. Redken’s Detox Hair Cleansing Cream Shampoo purifies your hair, removing minerals like copper, iron, magnesium, and calcium, all found in hard water, as well as excess oils, pollution residue, and buildup of product. 



Use hair treatments. 

Your scalp facial routine isn’t over yet. Finish off your scalp facial with a hair serum, oil, or lotion. A formula like Kérastase Initialiste Advanced Scalp & Hair Serum can strengthen hair fibers, add softness, and reduce hair breakage. If you have an itchy scalp, Mizani’s Scalp Care Calming Lotion, made with aloe vera, avocado oil, and eucalyptus, nourishes, cools, and soothes the scalp while getting rid of dandruff and flakes. You can also use a hydrating hair oil like L'Oréal Professionnel Mythic Oil Huile Originale Hair Oil. This argan oil-enriched formula leaves hair shinier, softer, and nourished while preventing frizz. 

Now that you know how to give yourself a scalp facial, you can utilize these steps in your scalp care routine. 

Searching for more expert hair tips? Use our salon locator to book an appointment at a salon near you. 

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