How to Exfoliate Your Scalp

The When, Why, and How of Scalp Exfoliation

Medically reviewed by Brendan Camp, MD

People exfoliate their scalp to help the hair and scalp stay healthy and clean, and keep pores and hair-growing follicles from clogging. It is not a medical treatment and its effectiveness is not established. But as long as you exfoliate safely, you can remove built-up oil, hair care products, debris, and dead skin cells.

This article discusses the methods, ingredients, and safety tips for scalp exfoliation.

Why You May Want to Exfoliate Your Scalp

The potential advantage of exfoliating your scalp is based on the theory that removing the residue of hair products, oil, and dead skin cells can revitalize both your hair and scalp.

Scalp exfoliation can remove buildup that could make your scalp itchy, lead to flakes or dandruff, and even make your hair prone to breakage. Exfoliation makes way for healthier, shinier, and perhaps thicker hair.

Types of Scalp Exfoliation Products

As scalp exfoliation has become more common, many more products have been introduced. Here's a guide to the basics.

Dandruff Shampoo

Dandruff shampoos are made with different ingredients. Some are more targeted to exfoliate than others, and some have more than one active ingredient. Take the time to read the labels. Here's an overview of common ingredients in dandruff shampoos:

• Salicylic acid helps remove buildup on your scalp, making it a good choice for exfoliation.

• Pyrythione zinc helps keep down the growth of Malassezia yeast, which is linked to dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp.

• Selenium sulfide helps slough off flakes and has anti-inflammatory properties.

• Ketoconazole helps slow the growth of yeast and may boost hair growth.

• Coal tar has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. It slows down skin cell death, leading to less flakes, but it may darken light-colored hair.
  

Clarifying Shampoo

Clarifying shampoos are designed to rid both the hair and scalp of buildup and are intended for occasional use, perhaps once or twice a week.

In addition to cleansing ingredients, some clarifying shampoos contain salicylic acid, an exfoliant also found in some dandruff shampoos. Clarifying shampoos may have other types of beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that also help get rid of scalp buildup.

If you prefer more natural products, you can also find clarifying shampoos made with fruit enzymes like papaya, which is a mild exfoliant, or other natural ingredients like carbonic acid, vinegar, or tea tree oil. No matter which clarifying shampoo you try, follow it with conditioner and be aware it may dry out your hair or scalp.

Exfoliating Scrubs

Scrubs are another option to rid your scalp of residue. They are gently massaged into the scalp once a week or every other week. They can be either chemical or physical:

• Chemical scrubs: Chemical scrubs often contain mild acids such as alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) or beta hydroxy acid, which some people may find too harsh. They may also contain natural physical or mechanical exfoliants such as oatmeal, charcoal, sugar, or sea salt. Consider choosing a scrub that also contains soothing or moisturizing ingredients like aloe vera or almond oil.
  

• Physical scrubs: Physical or mechanical exfoliators include products like brushes, massagers, or gloves that you rub over your scalp. Battery-powered exfoliators are also available.

Preventing Scalp Oil and Debris Buildup

Regular shampooing and using water-soluble hair products may help prevent excess buildup and residue on your scalp. Regular brushing can also help. Hairspray, dry shampoos, gels, and waxes are likely to contribute to buildup, so use them sparingly if buildup on your scalp is a concern.

How to Exfoliate Your Scalp Safely at Home

When you exfoliate, read and follow the directions carefully because the techniques may vary. The directions may be to use before, after, or in place of shampooing and conditioning. The product instructions will also guide you on how frequently to use them and which skin or hair types they may may benefit.

Instructions for chemical or physical exfoliants usually advise using them on your scalp after you shampoo your hair, when it's still wet. Apply the product or device in a circular motion, massaging gently for about five minutes.

Some chemical exfoliants may need to sit for several minutes. You don't want to damage the scalp; you want to remove debris, clear the pores, and invigorate the skin. Let the products do the work rather than scrubbing vigorously.

A physical or chemical scrub usually is chosen based on personal preference. Physical scrubs can be harsher, so if you have a sensitive scalp, you might choose a chemical one, especially those with fruit acids or enzymes, as a starting point. Some people use both an exfoliating product and a physical exfoliator.

Start by exfoliating once a week or even once every other week. You can increase it to twice weekly, but watch for dryness and irritation.

Precautions for Scalp Exfoliation

If you have a scalp infection, any injury or wound to the scalp, sunburn, or very sensitive skin, don't exfoliate your scalp.

If you have scalp psoriasis (an autoimmune skin condition) or eczema (an inflammatory skin condition), talk to a healthcare provider about whether exfoliation can help you. Exfoliation might be recommended to control itching and flaking and soften scales. Some ingredients recommended by the National Psoriasis Foundation are salicylic acid or coal tar.

If you do exfoliate, avoid exposing your scalp to sunlight to avoid sunburn. Wear a hat or sunscreen formulated for the hair and scalp. If you are being treated for a scalp condition or may have an infection, talk to your healthcare provider before you exfoliate.

When to See a Healthcare Provider

If you see rashes on your scalp, scaly patches, itching, tenderness, scalp injury, or hair loss, see a healthcare provider.

These symptoms may be signs of health conditions that need treatment, such as head lice, ringworm, psoriasis, eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, or thyroid conditions. More serious health conditions may affect the scalp as well as other parts of the body.

Summary

Scalp exfoliation done properly can invigorate your scalp and get rid of buildup and debris. You can choose from shampoos, chemical scrubs, or manual devices, but don't overdo it. Once a week or once every two weeks is enough. If you notice any irritation or have any health or skin conditions that affect your scalp, don't exfoliate until you discuss it with a healthcare provider.

Read the original article on Verywell Health.