Our skincare routines are likely multi-step convoluted processes with a designated lotions and potions for every inch of the face - but can you say the same about your scalp?
The scalp is a delicate ecosystem and can be disrupted by lifestyle, thermal, environmental and chemical factors, yet we tend to hold it in less regard than our complexions even though it functions in much the same way (perhaps because it’s hidden by all that hair). Anabel Kingsley, Trichologist and Brand President at Philip Kingsley explains, “Your scalp is simply an extension of the skin on your forehead and skincare shouldn’t stop at your hairline”.
It’s time to rethink your haircare routine and bring the products to the same high standards of those you’d apply on your face.
Whether it’s to slough away follicle-clogging dead skin, remove product build-up from dry shampoo, hairspray and styling essentials that may be causing irritation, or manage the overproduction of oil, a scalp scrub deserves its place in your bathroom cabinet. The simple but effective deep cleansing product can work wonders for the health of your mane.
We understand your reticence at putting grainy salt or sugar granules on your gentle scalp but much like there are physical and chemical exfoliators for the complexion, the same is true for the scalp. Some may prefer the manual act of buffing, while others can stick to ingredients that they will no doubt recognise from their cleansers, serums and more if you’re looking for that less abrasive, mess-free application. There are formulas for every hair type, texture and sensitivity.
What are the benefits of a scalp scrub?
Be it hair growth or TLC for your strands, a scalp scrub is a multitasking hero. Kingsley says, “Like the skin on your face, your scalp can benefit from a weekly targeted mask. There are many different types of masks available – from soothing and hydrating to exfoliating and anti-inflammatory”.
“Scalp masks containing gentle chemical exfoliants are great for general scalp health, but especially for those who suffer from dandruff and seborrhoeic dermatitis as they help to remove dead skin cells. This is important as a flaky scalp can contribute to hair loss, and it can also impact the integrity and strength of the hair shaft as it emerges from the follicle. Masks containing stimulating, anti-inflammatory ingredients can be great for those experiencing hair loss or shedding. They also help to prime the scalp for optimal absorption of any leave-on topical hair loss drops or serums”.
Helen Reavey, board-certified Trichologist and founder of Act+Acre recommends chemical scalp exfoliants “These work to remove dead skin cells and product buildup on the hair follicle, stimulating growth and relieving conditions such as irritation, inflammation, and itchiness”.
Are they good for your hair?
Both trichologists are in agreement that physical exfoliants may be too harsh for the scalp. “The beads can create tears, leading to an increased risk of inflammation/infection” stresses Reavey.
For this reason, you may be better off sticking to chemical formulations. “These are often full of great ingredients such as salicylic acid or glycolic acid, which work to eliminate buildup and regulate sebum production, thus helping to balance oily hair”, she continues.
“Your scalp is your hair’s support system; the bedrock of your hair follicles – and anything that is good for your scalp is good for your hair” adds Kingsley. “The reverse also applies. Avoid harsh mechanical scalp exfoliants that contain large, abrasive particles as they can harm both your scalp and the hair at your roots. If a mask feels too rough to use on your face, don’t use it on your scalp”.
How to use scalp scrub
The clue is certainly in the name with this one. The formulas are best applied directly to the scalp and along the hairline. “Concentrate on problem areas such as the top of the head and the nape of the neck. Gently massage the product into the scalp, making sure to avoid bringing the product down onto the hair shaft. From there, rinse accordingly and follow up with your favorite shampoo and conditioner” Reavey explains.
What hair type is best for a scalp scrub?
With such a variety of different formulations on offer, you can choose a mask specifically for your hair type and concern. But for conditions like psoriasis “you usually need prescription strength products” says Kingsley. The same is true for inflammation. “Treatments with a specialist that utilise steam, massage and infrared may be necessary to properly clear and calm the scalp”.
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Christophe Robin Cleansing Purifying Scrub with Sea Salt
Christophe Robin’s sea salt-based Cleansing Purifying Scrub has earned its place in the beauty hall of fame. The grainy buffing product has earned cult status among those in the know for its thorough cleaning properties and expert removal of impurities and build-up.
Since the product launched back in 2013, it has garnered many awards and that is no doubt due to its combination of the physical exfoliation of the granules with active ingredients that are kind and soothing to the scalp.
The scrub is applied to wet hair and massaged into the locks where it is deeply cleansing and gently foaming. You’d assume this would make it incredibly dehyrdating but this is not the case. Instead, strands feel squeaky clean, fresh and will give you more time grease-free between washes.
Buy now £18.00, lookfantastic
The INKEY List Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Scalp Scrub
There is both a glycolic acid and salicylic based exfoliating scalp scrub from The INKEY List depending on your concerns. The latter was created for oily, itchy and flaky scalps to buff away dead skin cells and balance sebum production. The glycolic works in much the same way but for all scalp and hair types. The named ingredient has a balancing effect that clears blocked follicles to give you the healthy locks you’ve been dreaming of. Both are lightweight serums that combine physical and chemical exfoliants and keep their formulas minimal to reduce the chance of irritation.
Buy now £13.99, Cult Beauty
Act+Acre Cold Processed Scalp Renew
Act+Acre is a recent launch on UK soil and has been an immediate hit. So popular is the label that they sold out entirely of this hero product and has a waiting list of 4,500 eagerly anticipating its return.
The brand was founded to educate beauty lovers everywhere that your scalp deserves the same TLC as your skin. Scalpcare is its M.O and the Scalp Renew is the exfoliating product that can tackle irritation, itchiness and balance overzealous oil production with salicylic acid as the star ingredient.
Trichologist Helen Reavey is the brand’s founder. She explains, “I love our Scalp Detox and Scalp Renew since they work as an effective duo to clear flakes, reduce inflammation, and support a healthy scalp barrier for those experiencing scalp conditions like dandruff, psoriasis, and seborrheic dermatitis”.
Buy now £42.00, Cult Beauty
Virtue Scalp Exfoliating Scrub
Keep this scrub from Virtue on hand for a scalp spring clean no matter the time of year. The brand is known for its proprietary Alpha Keratin component that forms the basis of its reparative haircare and also features in this product.
It is set alongside papain and bromelain fruit enzymes and rice exfoliator to cleanse the scalp of irritants, dead skin cells and more that may be interferring with the healthy appearance and fresh feeling of your locks. In the formula, there’s also coconut, jojoba and Kalahari melon oils that ensure, while declogging the follicles, it is also hydrating and nourishing.
Buy now £46.00, Space NK
OUAI St. Barts Scalp and Body Scrub
Social media sensation Jen Atkin is responsible for the locks of some of the most well-coiffed celebs around - from Gigi Hadid to Chrissy Teigan. Her own label OUAI has seen similar success, combining her extensive expertise into at-home products that combine efficacity with the sensorial.
This is a new scrub as part of the new St. Barts collection and has the addictive scent to match. You’ll instantly feel transported to the sun-soaked shores of the Caribbean island with this product. Plant sugar that lathers on contact sloughs away at dead skin, while notes of dragonfruit, orange blossom, tuberose and baltic amber set the fragrance. You’ll have swishy, gorgeously scented locks in no time.
Buy now £32.00, Cult Beauty
Aveda Scalp Solutions Exfoliating Scalp Treatment
With a liquid gel texture, this treatment glides onto the hair, dissolving pollutant, product residue and grease and oil in its wake. The ingredients are 96 per cent naturally derived where salicylic acid forms the basis and is combined with a citrusy floral blend of lemon, orange, neroli and invigorating mint that ensures that it is a luxury part of your routine that you will cherish. The treatment has an immediate impact on excess sebum and can be used on all scalp and hair types and textures.
Buy now £39.00, lookfantastic
Oribe Serene Scalp Exfoliating Scrub
From the packaging to the formulations, Oribe is in every sense a luxury label. This scrub is made up of skincare-level ingredients and natural actives that buff away at dirt and oil to breathe new life into your locks. External aggressors can cause hair to become lifeless and dull, but this AHA and polymer bead-based formula has a clarifying effect. The brand’s Signature Complex - a combination of watermelon, lychee and edelweiss extracts - is restorative without stripping the strands of its natural oils. Fear not for those with sensitivities as the Flower Complex also contained within counteracts irritants with a soothing cocktail of chamomile, cornflower, matricaria, linden, marigold and willowherb flower extracts.
Buy now £47.00, Cult Beauty
Grow Gorgeous Scalp Care Scalp Detox Scrub
Designed to be used every so often when your tresses needs that extra helping hand for some extra oomph, this scrub provides a total detox. It lifts away grease and grime to refresh from the scalp to the tips for a healthy, shiny head of hair. The formula is made up of white willow bark extract, bamboo exfoliating particles and pomegranate enzymes that act as the exfoliators. These bits provide the deep clean, while grapefruit extract encourages cell renewal by stimulating the scalp.
Buy now £25.00, lookfantastic
