Scalp care is the foundation of healthy hair. We often focus on shampoos and masks, but forget about an important step in hair care—cleansing the scalp. This can be achieved with scrubs and peels. These cosmetic products help remove all dirt. They thoroughly cleanse styling product residues and dead skin cells. Moreover, scrubs and peels help eliminate excess sebum. They also have a positive effect on the scalp, particularly by stimulating blood circulation. How do you choose the right scalp scrub? What should you look for to ensure it is as effective and safe as possible? Let’s explore this topic in more detail.
Why is it important to use a scalp scrub?
The scalp is no different from the skin on your face and body. It also regularly renews itself, and dead cells are exfoliated. But unlike the skin on the body, it doesn’t cleanse as easily and is more prone to accumulating impurities. This is easily explained—hair makes cleansing difficult, and styling products worsen the situation. Without proper cleansing, pores can get clogged. Hair follicles may suffer from a lack of oxygen, which can lead to various problems, such as:
- excessive oiliness of hair;
- dandruff (dry or oily);
- slow hair growth;
- hair loss due to inflammation or circulation issues.
Deep cleansing with a scrub or peel effectively cleanses the skin. Additionally, it stimulates microcirculation. This improves follicle nourishment and increases the effectiveness of other hair care products.
What types of scalp scrubs are there?
Before choosing a scrub, it’s important to understand the different types. Depending on the mechanism of action, these products can provide:
- Mechanical cleansing. These are classic scrubs containing abrasive particles. They physically remove dirt and dead skin cells. Salt (sea or regular) or sugar can provide this effect. Manufacturers may also add crushed fruit or nut kernels, etc. Abrasive products are suitable for oily and combination scalps.
- Chemical cleansing. These are various peels. They may contain acids (such as salicylic, lactic, or glycolic acid) or enzymes. These active ingredients dissolve dead cells and impurities. This is a good option for sensitive or dry skin, as mechanical exfoliation can cause irritation in such cases.
- Combination products. These combine mechanical and chemical effects. They have a universal action and are suitable for different skin types.
Different scalp care products can provide varying levels of intensity. When choosing such products, follow the manufacturer's recommendations.
What should you look for when choosing a scrub?
When choosing a scrub, it’s important to consider the characteristics of your scalp. At the same time, you should evaluate the problems you want to address and the product’s composition.
- For oily skin, it’s better to choose products containing sebum-regulating components. Scrubs and combination products with moderate abrasive properties will also be beneficial. Good options include cleansers with zinc, charcoal, and salicylic acid. Additional ingredients like menthol or mint will provide a long-lasting refreshing feeling.
- For dry skin, abrasive products are generally not recommended. In this case, it’s better to choose peels. Look for products with moisturizing ingredients such as aloe vera or hyaluronic acid. Soothing and nourishing oils will also be helpful.
- Sensitive skin. The ideal choice will be enzyme or acid-based scrubs with a gentle action. They provide a mild exfoliation.
- For dandruff or a tendency to develop it, choose products with antifungal ingredients. Specifically, zinc pyrithione provides this effect.
A careful selection of scrubs or peels is also essential if you are prone to allergies.
How to use a scalp scrub correctly?
To achieve maximum effect and avoid damage, follow these simple rules:
- Do not use the scrub too often. For oily skin—once a week, for dry or sensitive skin—once every two weeks. Pay attention to how your skin reacts to this procedure.
- Apply to wet skin. This will make the product easier to distribute. Some scrubs should be used before washing your hair, while others—after. It depends on the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Massage gently. Avoid strong pressure, especially if the scrub contains large abrasive particles.
- Rinse thoroughly. Scrub residue can cause irritation. Additionally, it may leave your scalp feeling dirty.
- Finish with moisturizing. Don’t forget to use a conditioner after the scrub. It helps restore the hair cuticle, which helps retain moisture and nutrients inside.
- Start with a sensitivity test. Apply a small amount of the scrub behind your ear, rub it in, and rinse off. Make sure there is no allergic reaction (wait at least 12-24 hours).
- Avoid using scrubs on damaged or inflamed skin.
- Choose products that match the season. In winter, moisturizing scrubs are better, while in summer—cleansing scrubs.
- Don’t forget about comprehensive care. Proper nutrition, regular hair washing, and minimizing stress also affect the health of your scalp and hair.
If you have issues with dandruff or serious hair loss, it’s best to consult a trichologist before using new products.
Which scalp scrub is best to choose?
Among the best scalp cleansing products, the following stand out:
- Deeply Scalp Scrub with Apricot Kernel. This is a rejuvenating exfoliating treatment designed to cleanse and refresh the scalp. Formulated with finely ground apricot kernels, it gently removes buildup, excess oil, and impurities, promoting a healthier scalp and hair. This scrub helps to stimulate circulation, balance oil production, and leave the scalp feeling invigorated and refreshed. Ideal for all hair types, it provides a soothing, detoxifying experience for optimal scalp health.
- Esthetic House CP-1 Head Spa Scalp Scaler. This excellent product can be used for various scalp types. It contains a complex of active ingredients that provide deep cleansing and promote scalp health. Using this product helps relax the scalp and calm it. The scrub restores the natural balance of the epidermis and improves the scalp's protection from external factors. Esthetic House CP-1 Head Spa Scalp Scaler reduces the activity of sebaceous glands, alleviates inflammation, and has bactericidal properties. Its use helps strengthen hair cuticles and prevent hair loss. Moreover, the scrub’s ingredients neutralize fungal infections and prevent dandruff.
- TOP BEAUTY Hair scrub. This professional cleansing product has a complex formula. It contains menthol oil, which provides intense cooling for the hair and scalp, helps prevent dandruff and itching, and adds shine and volume to the strands. The scrub also contains apricot kernels, which stimulate microcirculation and promote deep epidermal cleansing. As a result, the scalp is massaged, activating hair growth and stopping hair loss. TOP BEAUTY Hair scrub also contains keratin, which penetrates each hair's structure, strengthens it, and improves the overall condition of the strands.
A scalp scrub is an essential part of hair care. It helps maintain scalp health and stimulates hair growth. Additionally, it prevents many problems. The key is to choose the right product based on your skin type and needs. Remember that regular use and proper application are the keys to luxurious hair!
You can purchase quality scalp care products at the online store KeratinPro. Our store also offers a great selection of other professional hair care products. The prices for all our items are very reasonable—we avoid markups and adhere to a fair pricing policy. We also offer attractive discounts for loyal customers.
We process orders quickly and deliver across Ukraine. We can also ship your purchases internationally.