/ Natural Hair

Why scalp scrub is key to healthy hair

by wedo_act

12/03/2021

Washing your hair has become second nature to most of us when it comes to our hair care routine and you’ve probably been shampooing and conditioning for as long as you can remember. However, scalp care is something that is often overlooked, and while it’s easy to forget about the areas you can’t see, our scalps needs just as much TLC as the rest of our skin, making scalp exfoliation a key to maintaining healthy growing hair and scalp1.

girl holding her dark hair

If your luscious locks are looking a bit flat and lifeless or your scalp’s feeling a little dry and itchy, then a scalp scrub could be what you’re missing from your weekly or bi-weekly routine. Just like body and face scrubs, scalp scrub is a treatment that provides an exfoliating effect to remove product build-up, excess sebum, dirt, and dead skin cells, leaving the scalp feeling cleansed and moisturised.

What are the benefits of using scalp scrub?

Scalp scrubs purify and cleanse the surface of your scalp, which functions similarly to the skin on your face as they both produce sebum. If excess oil builds up in these glands, then like your skin, your scalp might need some extra purification in-between shampooing. That’s where scalp scrubs come in…

Removes build-up

The build-up of sebum and dirt on the scalp can weigh down your hair, causing it to look flat and lifeless. Adding a scalp scrub to your hair care routine can help get rid of the build-up of excessive oil which can help to prevent greasy hair and help to increase that all-important volume.

Prevents dry scalp

If you have a dry scalp, an exfoliator will also help to get rid of the dead skin cells that collect around the root of the hair, helping to keep the scalp well balanced and healthy.

picture of a scalp with dandruff

How to use scalp scrub in your hair care routine

Adding a scalp scrub into your routine might take some getting used to, but your scalp will thank you for including it in your routine. Apply the scrub before washing your hair with a sulphate-free shampoo and follow up with silicone-free conditioner. Gently massage the exfoliator onto a wet scalp for a couple of minutes before thoroughly rising. Then follow with the rest of your hair care routine.

Similarly to your face, you shouldn’t over exfoliate your scalp at the risk of throwing off your pH balance and stimulating an over-production of oil in a ‘panic response’. We therefore recommend using a scalp scrub no more than once a week or bi-weekly. Treat it like more of a pampering spa-service that you would do occasionally, rather than using it every time you wash your hair.

man spraying wedo scalp tonic in hair

Are different scalp scrubs advised for different hair types or scalp concerns?

Scalp scrubs are becoming more and popular and they can be beneficial for all scalp types, however it’s good to know that some ingredients that work for oily scalps may not be as effective if used on a dry scalp. For example a scalp scrub containing BHA chemical exfoliant would be great for targeting excess oil, but might be too harsh for a sensitive scalp. Make sure to do your research to find the right scrub for your hair type or scalp concern.

If you have a particularly sensitive or delicate scalp, then you may find a scalp scrub too harsh on your skin. If any irritation or discomfort arises then you should discontinue with use and talk to you doctor if symptoms persist. Likewise, if any inflammation occurs following on-scalp coloration such as permanent colouring or lightening, do not use a scalp scrub until the scalp feels normal again.

Can you make your own scalp scrub at home?

If you’re feeling creative and fancy having a go at making your own scalp scrub at home, then you can do so by following our weDo/ DIY video below.

Simply mix sugar with conditioner and – specifically if you have a dry scalp – add a few drops of weDo/’s Natural Oil. Mix the mixture into an even paste and apply onto a wet scalp. Massage in circular movements using your fingertips, before rinsing thoroughly and continuing with your usual hair care routine.

Now that you have a scalp scrub sorted, discover our naturally derived products to complete your hair care routine and learn more tips and advice for all types of hair concerns on our weBlog.

Keep in touch with weDo/ by following us on Instagram and TikTok for advice on sustainable beauty, tips on how to use our products and overall joy.

 

 

1 Trüeb, R. M., Henry, J. P., Davis, M. G., & Schwartz, J. R. (2018). Scalp Condition Impacts Hair Growth and Retention via Oxidative Stress. International journal of trichology, 10(6), 262–270.

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