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If you use a lot of hair care products, shampoo won't be sufficient to remove all the buildup. That's where scalp scrubs come into play. These products not only get rid of all the gunk but also help to control dandruff, leaving your scalp cleaner and healthier. If you've never used a scalp scrub before, scroll down below to learn how.
What Are Scalp Scrubs?
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Scalp scrubs or scalp exfoliants are specialized treatments designed to clean the skin on your head to ensure healthy hair growth. They help remove any buildup of hair product residue that regular shampooing might miss. These scrubs usually contain small, gritty particles made from natural ingredients like salt, sugar, crushed nut shells, or from polyethylene beads, or other safe synthetic materials. When you rub these scrubs into your scalp, the particles help lift away the buildup, remove dead skin cells, and boost blood flow all of which are known for promoting hair growth in hair follicles.
Beyond just cleaning, scalp scrubs also help prevent dandruff and reduce greasiness. It's important to pick a scrub that matches your hair type—oily, dry, or normal. For instance, if you have sensitive skin, choose a scrub with finer particles and calming ingredients like aloe vera or tea tree oil.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using Scalp Scrubs
A scalp scrub is a scalp treatment that is used to exfoliate your scalp to get rid of debris, product buildup, and sweat. These products are crucial for maintaining a healthy scalp and stimulating hair growth since they unclog hair follicles. If you've never used a scrub before, follow the steps below:
Step 1: Wet Your Hair
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While certain pre-shampoo products are designed to be applied to dry hair, scalp scrubs should only be used to wet hair. Before using your scalp scrub, thoroughly wet your hair and scalp as though you were preparing to shampoo.
Step 2: Massage the Scrub Into Your Scalp
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After your hair is nice and wet, take a handful of product in your palms and begin scrubbing it into your scalp in circular motions. Make sure that you only concentrate on your scalp and that you are not too rough. If you have a sensitive scalp, rubbing too hard could cause abrasions and itching.
Step 3: Wash Out the Scrub
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After scrubbing for a few minutes, thoroughly wash out the scalp exfoliant from your hair. To ensure that there is no leftover product, run your fingers through your hair and scalp.
Step 4: Shampoo and Condition Your Hair
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After exfoliating your scalp, the next step is to follow up with a gentle shampoo and conditioner. Stay away from harsh shampoos that may contain sulfates as they could dry out your strands.
Step 5: Follow Up With a Hair Mask
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If you want luscious, healthy hair, incorporating a hair mask in your scalp exfoliation routine can make so much of a difference. Additionally, many scalp scrubs contain harsh ingredients that might dry out your hair. If you feel like your conditioner did not do a good job of reviving your strands, a hair mask can help.
Step 6: Rinse with Warm Water
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Last but not the least, thoroughly rinse your hair with warm water. Although hot water is quite relaxing, it can dry out your skin and hair.
Helpful Tips to Keep in Mind When Using Scalp Scrubs
Since your scalp is made out of skin, you will likely make blunders when exfoliating. Here are some tips to make sure you're taking good care of your scalp:
1) Avoid Over-Exfoliating
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If you have a flaky scalp, you might be tempted to exfoliate it frequently. However, keep in mind that there is a chance of over-exfoliating when you scrub your scalp regularly, just as there is with any form of exfoliation.
Over-exfoliating can rip the skin on your scalp and cause discomfort or even bleeding. To prevent this, limit your usage to once per week (or once every two weeks). If you detect cracked skin or any other sensitivity, stop using the scrub altogether.
2) Hydrate Your Scalp
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If you do not have an oily scalp, a scalp scrub may dry out your scalp. A dry scalp makes you more prone to dandruff, hair fall, and frizz. To prevent this, make sure to use a hydrating scalp oil with your conditioner. When looking for hydrating scalp oils, keep an eye out for ingredients like coconut oil, tea tree oil, peppermint oil, etc.
3) Use an Exfoliating Brush With Your Scalp Scrub
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If you want your scalp scrub to work more effectively, try incorporating an exfoliating brush into your routine. Before getting into the shower, use this hairbrush on your dry scalp to remove any product and dead skin cells so that the scrub can effectively penetrate. This is similar to dry brushing your body.
How to Choose the Right Scalp Scrub
When picking a scalp scrub or scalp exfoliant, think about your hair type (dry, oily, normal), scalp condition (sensitive, prone to dandruff), and any specific concerns like product buildup or flakiness Focus specifically on the ingredients. Here's a guide to help you choose:
- For Oily Scalp: Look for charcoal or clay to soak up excess oil.
- For Dry Scalp: Choose scrubs with coconut oil or shea butter to hydrate the skin.
- For Sensitive Scalp: Opt for gentler scrubs with fine grains, oatmeal, or aloe vera to prevent irritation.
- For Dandruff: Try scrubs with tea tree oil. They're known for fighting dandruff.
When Do You Need to Use a Scalp Scrub?
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A scalp scrub can give your scalp a deeper clean by removing sweat, product buildup, dandruff, and any other residue that might remain on your scalp and prevent hair growth.
There are a few indicators that indicate it's time to use a scrub. If your scalp is flaky, using a scrub to remove the additional skin will help. If your scalp produces excess oil, a scrub will help remove any buildup that a regular wash could miss.
How Often Should You Use a Scalp Scrub?
This will depend on your specific hair and scalp condition, but here are some general guidelines:
- Normal Scalp: Once every two weeks.
- Oily Scalp: Once a week.
- Dry or Sensitive Scalp: Once every three weeks or even less frequently.
Note: If you notice any irritation, dryness, or increased sensitivity, it may be a sign to reduce the frequency.
DIY Scalp Scrub Recipes for a Healthy Scalp
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Instead of buying scalp scrubs, you can always make your own right in your kitchen using natural ingredients. Here are two easy recipes:
1) Coconut Oil and Sugar Scrub
This scrub is great for most hair types, especially if you have a dry or itchy scalp. The coconut oil moisturizes your skin, while the sugar helps exfoliate.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons of coconut oil
- 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar
- 5 drops of tea tree oil (optional for extra antibacterial properties)
Instructions:
- Mix the coconut oil and sugar in a bowl until you get a consistent paste.
- If using, add the tea tree oil and stir thoroughly.
- Apply to your damp scalp in gentle circular motions.
- Rinse thoroughly with warm water, then follow up with your usual shampoo and conditioner.
2) Oatmeal and Honey Scrub
This scrub is particularly good for sensitive scalps. Oatmeal is gentle and soothing, honey is antibacterial, and the conditioner helps to soothe and moisturize the scalp.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons of finely ground oatmeal
- 1 tablespoon of honey
- 1 tablespoon of conditioner
Instructions:
- Combine the oatmeal, honey, and conditioner in a bowl to form a paste.
- Apply to a wet scalp, massaging in soft, circular motions.
- Leave it on for a few minutes, then rinse off completely with warm water.
Summary
If you have an oily scalp or struggle with dandruff, think about incorporating a scrub into your hair care regimen. These products can help in clearing your scalp of impurities that could be compromising your scalp health. However, they are not the only products that have an impact on the health of your hair.
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