10 Finest Scalp Exfoliators in 2024 That’ll Deal with Flakes

Editor’s tip: Since this scalp therapy additionally accommodates heavy moisturizers, it is meant to be a post-shampoo therapy that substitutes your typical conditioner.

Key substances: rice powder buffing beads, salicylic acid, papaya enzymes, pineapple enzymes, Kalahari melon oil, jojoba oil | Perfume-free: no

Finest Multi-Use Formulation: Ouai Scalp & Physique Scrub

Why it is value it: Dr. Camp loves that Ouai’s Scalp & Physique Scrub can be utilized nearly anyplace (besides on your face and neck, that are far too delicate for tough physique scrubs). “To be used on the scalp and physique, this foaming scrub is made with sugar crystals and coconut oil to exfoliate and take away buildup whereas softening and balancing moisture ranges,” he says. It has been a longtime Attract tester favourite since 2018 (if not earlier) for its skin-polishing skills and moisturizing results. “Even should you do not have scalp points, I promise you are going to love Ouai’s Scalp & Physique Scrub,” stated tester Jihan Forbes in her evaluate.

Editor’s tip: For those who’re a fragrance-phile, you will love Ouai’s model’s signature Melrose Place scent. For these unfamiliar, it is a souped-up rose perfume that is elevated with hints of bergamot, lychee, white musk, and champagne.

Key substances: sugar crystals, coconut oil | Perfume-free: no

Ceaselessly Requested Questions

What are the advantages of scalp exfoliators?

The largest good thing about utilizing a scalp exfoliator is its buildup-reducing properties. “Scalp exfoliators work to take away the useless pores and skin cells, oil, and product particles that may clog hair follicles and gradual development,” says Dr. Jeffy. “Some may go to extend blood circulate to the scalp which additionally stimulates hair development.” She additionally notes that these nourishing formulation might help scale back flaking, itchy scalp, and dandruff on account of their buildup-sloughing skills.

As a reminder, a wholesome scalp is evident of flakes, redness, and irritation, in keeping with Michelle Henry, MD, a board-certified dermatologist primarily based in New York Metropolis. “We should not see redness, we should not see irritation, and we should not see loads of scales or buildup,” she beforehand informed Attract. “It shouldn’t really feel tender and shouldn’t have an odor.”

What is the distinction between bodily and chemical exfoliators?

Bodily exfoliators, normally sugar or salt-granule-based, are formulations that polish the floor layer of your pores and skin manually, whereas chemical exfoliants make the most of acids that deteriorate product buildup and useless pores and skin cells. “Sugar and salt crystals are sometimes used as bodily exfoliators in scalp merchandise to softly buff the pores and skin,” says Dr. Camp. “Chemical exfoliants just like the alpha hydroxy acids, lactic acid and glycolic acid, and beta hydroxy acids like salicylic acid, break aside the bonds between useless pores and skin cells, facilitating their removing from the scalp floor.” Along with scalp scrubs, Dr. Camp additionally suggests utilizing a scalp massager. “Scalp massaging instruments, usually manufactured from silicone, can be utilized to exfoliate, too,” he says.