Top Benefits of Scalp Exfoliation and DIY Scalp Scrubs

For any woman, her hair occupies pride of place in her heart, and she is forever on the lookout for better ways to get shinier, healthier tresses. But in this search for perfect hair, we often forget its origin – the scalp! It’s only when we are faced with the embarrassing prospect of scratching our dry itchy scalp that we begin to think of scalp health. And that’s where the benefits of scalp exfoliation come into the picture.

What is Scalp Exfoliation?

The scalp is the complete area of skin that covers the head from forehead to the neck, from ear to ear. Along with follicles that grow hair, it also has glands that secrete oil and sweat. This oil and sweat can accumulate on the scalp, along with dirt and buildup from hair products, which can result in an itchy scalp. Scalp exfoliation is the process of removing the outermost dead skin cells, refreshing the scalp. Scalp exfoliation can be done by using an exfoliating shampoo or a scrub which will help release the dead skin cells.

4 Benefits of Scalp Exfoliation

1. Promotes Hair Growth

Exfoliating the scalp results in better circulation and the increased blood flow promotes hair growth. The exfoliation process stimulates follicles and ensures that more nutrients reach the scalp via the bloodstream.

2. Makes Hair Bouncier

We use a lot of hair products on a daily basis, including shampoos, conditioners, hair sprays, serums and other styling products. All this results in a buildup of unwanted chemicals which weighs hair down. Exfoliation clears the scalp and results in lighter, bouncier hair.

3. Reduces Dandruff

People who are prone to dandruff already suffer an itchy scalp, but exfoliation helps to tame this menace. The removal of the outer dead skin cells helps to get rid of the dandruff flakes too, offering much needed relief.

4. Reduces Breakouts

All the accumulated dirt and sweat on the scalp provides an ideal breeding ground for bacteria, which can cause all kinds of infections. Regular exfoliation keeps the scalp clean and fresh, preventing breakouts and infections.

5. Prevents Hair Loss

As we age, we start noticing thinning hair, one reason for which is a slow cell turnover. By exfoliating regularly and getting rid of the dead skin cells, we encourage better cell regrowth and reduced thinning.

6. Increases the Effectiveness of Hair Products

When you apply a nourishing hair mask on an un-exfoliated scalp, your hair and follicles aren’t getting all the nutrients in the pack. Exfoliation ensures that you need less of the product and that they’re more effective in giving you healthier hair.

5 DIY Scalp Scrubs you can Make at Home

1. Brown Sugar – Oil Scrub for Hair Growth

Mix together 1/2 cup brown sugar with 1 cup of coconut oil or olive oil and a few drops of lavender essential oil. Massage on a damp scalp for some minutes before rinsing off.

2. Oatmeal Scrub for Dandruff Control

Mix 2 tbsp oats with a few drops of tea tree oil and enough water to get a paste. Massage the paste onto your damp scalp till every area is covered. Wash off with cool water.

3. Baking Soda Scrub for Deep Cleansing

Mix 1 tbsp baking soda with 1 tbsp shampoo and 3 drops of peppermint essential oil. Massage all over a damp scalp with medium pressure and rinse off.

4. Coffee Scrub for Detoxing

5. Sea Salt Scrub to Remove Product Buildup

Mix 2 tbsp sea salt with a tbsp of lemon juice and olive oil each. Massage the scrub thoroughly onto damp scalp for 5-10 minutes before rinsing.

After every scrub, wash hair with a clarifying shampoo and condition as usual. You’ll feel the results of the benefits of scalp exfoliation almost immediately, as if your scalp suddenly got lighter! Do this once a month, or at the most once in two weeks for a squeaky clean scalp and shiny, healthy hair!