If your in-shower haircare routine doesn’t go beyond shampoo and conditioner, it may be time to add scalp exfoliation into the mix—especially if you have oily strands. A scalp scrub can help refresh your scalp, tackle product buildup, and pave the way for healthier-looking hair. Essentially, your routine is in for a major upgrade.
In this guide, we’ll dive into what scalp scrubs are, the benefits they bring to your haircare routine, and how to use them effectively. Plus, we’ll highlight some of the best scalp scrubs from L’Oréal’s professional brands, so you can find your match.
What Are Scalp Scrubs?
Scalp scrubs are exfoliating treatments designed specifically for the skin on your scalp. They’re made with physical exfoliants, like sugar or salt, and help remove dead skin cells, excess oil, and product residue to reveal a more balanced scalp. These helpful formulas go beyond surface-level cleansing and can help target weighty build-up that your shampoo may miss.
What are the benefits of using a scalp scrub?
Incorporating a scalp scrub into your routine can have an array of benefits, for your scalp and strands. Specifically, scrubs can help:
- Remove buildup from product residue, oil, and impurities
- Slough away dead skin cells
- Help balance an oily scalp
- Prep the scalp for other haircare products
- Boost volume at the roots
- Leave your scalp feeling fresh and clean
How To Use a Scalp Scrub
Using a scalp scrub is pretty straightforward. First, hop in the shower and saturate your hair with water as you would prior to shampooing. Then, divide your strands into a few roughly even sections to make the application easier. Take a small amount of your scrub and gently massage it onto your scalp with your fingertips using circular motions. Repeat this process on each section of your scalp, then rinse thoroughly to ensure no residue is left behind. Follow up with your shampoo and conditioner as usual.
Keep in mind that the above is a general overview of how to use a scrub—the exact steps you should follow may vary depending on the formula you’re using. That’s why we always recommend reading (and following) the directions on your product labels to ensure optimal results.
Editor’s note: Our friends at Skincare.com recently wrote about how to use a body scrub. Read all about it so you can have fresh-feeling skin from head to toe.
How often should you use a scalp scrub?
Typically, you don’t need to exfoliate your scalp every time you shampoo. Working this step into your routine a couple of times a month tends to be enough. But, again, read the label on your scalp scrub. Some are meant to be used twice a week, while others are intended for monthly use. Start slow and be sure to pay attention to how your scalp feels, as you don’t want to overdo it.
3 Scalp Scrubs We Love
Put your new scalp scrub know-how to use and try one of our favorite exfoliating formulas.
Shu Uemura Art of Hair Ashita Supreme Scalp Scrub
Soothe and hydrate your scalp with this luxurious sea salt-infused scalp scrub. This refreshing formula for normal to dry scalps deeply cleanses and exfoliates your scalp to help remove impurities and product buildup. Plus, it offers a revitalizing cooling sensation for an ultra-clean feel.
Kérastase Symbiose Scalp Renewal Exfoliating Anti-Dandruff Scalp Scrub
If stubborn flakes are coating your scalp (and shoulders), try this anti-dandruff scrub. Formulated with salicylic acid (a chemical exfoliant) and plant-based beads, it instantly exfoliates dead skin cells and removes visible flakes. The twice-weekly scrub purifies the scalp without stripping it and helps address the symptoms of dandruff, leaving your scalp feeling soothed, hydrated, and revitalized.
Kérastase Fusio Scrub Énergisant Purifying Scalp Scrub
For oily scalps, we recommend this Kérastase pick instead. The deeply purifying and energizing scrub with sea salt cleanses away impurities and buildup for healthier-looking hair. It also increases hair volume for up to 24 hours after application, so you can enjoy fuller hairstyles. Use it once or twice a week in place of your usual shampoo for a fresh-feeling scalp.
Next Up: 15 Tips for the Most Moisturized Scalp Ever
Header image credit: @kerastase_official
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