Best Scalp Scrubs of 2023

"You can think of your scalp as the topsoil when it comes to healthy hair growth," says Dr. Andrea Suarez. It's a pretty spot-on analogy because a well-cared-for scalp is key for maintaining a gorgeous mane. Exfoliating your scalp creates a powerful shield against inflammatory issues and hair loss. By gently removing environmental buildup, improving blood flow, and taming inflammation, a good scalp scrub can be a superhero when it comes to keeping your follicles healthy and your scalp calm.

However, finding the right exfoliator to keep your hair and scalp at peak performance can be challenging. Naturally, this means we’ve collected a few products to aid you in your quest for a happy, healthy head. Check out our picks for a super-charged scalp scrub below!

 

 

Why You Should Use the Best Scalp Scrubs & Exfoliators

Before we dive into our pick of products, let’s explore exactly why a scalp scrub is a smart investment. While your hair itself is made from dead skin cells, your scalp is a living piece of skin. Like any part of your body, it naturally sheds dead skin cells. And, like any part of your body (or face), this natural exfoliation process can often benefit from a boost. 

From head to toe, exfoliation is one of the most important parts of your self-care routine. Hair health begins at the scalp and removing dead skin cells and product build-up is the key to a comfortable scalp and silky, shiny locks. Other benefits? Think prevention of dandruff and dry skin, or lank and oily hair. We’re sold!

So, how often should you scrub your scalp for the best results? We recommend a gentle sloughing once or twice a week—no more, no less. Don’t go overboard, as exfoliating more often can strip the hair's natural oils and cause the scalp to panic and over-produce oil. 

Now you know the basics of scalp care, let’s look at our favourite scrubs for healthy skin and luscious locks.

1. Best Overall: Coco & Eve | Deep Clean Scalp Scrub

(@cocoandeve)

The Coco & Eve Deep Clean Scalp Scrub stands out with its natural ingredients and hydrating, caffeine-infused formula. The Deep Clean Scalp Scrub addresses various scalp concerns, including product build-up, excess oil, and flakes. The sulfate-free and vegan formulation makes it suitable for all hair types, while the peppermint oil helps rejuvenate the scalp and leaves it smelling fresh and clean! Pro-tip: pair with the new Coco & Eve 2-way Scalp Scrub Applicator for the best results.

2. Best Budget: The INKEY List| Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Scalp Scrub 

(@theinkeylist)

This cost-conscious scrub offers a combination of gentle chemical exfoliation and manual exfoliants. The INKEY List's budget scrub features glycolic acid, which helps protect and balance the scalp's pH and keeps hair follicles clean. It provides an affordable option for those seeking an effective scalp scrub without breaking the bank.

3. Best Runner-up: Christophe Robin | Purifying Scalp Scrub with Sea Salt

(@christopherobinparis)

This scalp scrub has a proven formula that makes it an in-salon favorite for color treatments. Christophe Robin's Purifying Scalp Scrub with Sea Salt is known for effectively removing residue and reviving the scalp. Now that the secret is out, you can enjoy its purifying and replenishing effects without spending money at the salon.

4. R+Co | Crown Scalp

5. Davines | SOLU Sea Salt Scrub

On Wednesdays we wear pink, but on other days we use pink sea salts to deep clean our scalps. Giving your hair a brand-new life, this impurity-fighting paste deep cleans your scalp in no time by gently removing gunk and dirt. Enriched with sea salt, beer sugar extract, and jojoba scrubbing beads, it also encourages healthy new growth. Lush lengths, here we come!  

6. Oribe | Serene Scalp Exfoliating Scrub




(@oribe)

To have a healthy scalp, you must get to the root of the problem. And this is where this detoxifying, purifying, and calming scalp scrub comes in. Infused with a mix of fruit extracts, exfoliating beads, and alpha hydroxy acids, the Oribe Serene Scalp Scrub is luxurious and powerful and by far one of the best scalp exfoliators. By the end of your scalp care sesh, you’ll be left with healthy, glossy strands. 

 

7. Briogeo | Scalp Shampoo

(@briogeo)

Another popular scalp scrub for dandruff is Briogeo’s Scalp Revival—formulated with charcoal to detoxify and combat irritation. Dry, itchy scalps don’t stand a chance against this powerful, soothing scrub—infused with cooling spearmint, peppermint, and tea tree oil. So, say goodbye to flaky, dry skin and discomfort. And hello to sleek, shiny hair.

 

8. OUAI | Scalp and Body Scrub

(@theouai)

Need some serious pampering? This rose-scented paste is like taking your scalp on a trip to the spa. The ultimate multi-tasker, the OUAI Scalp and Body Scrub provides an all-in-one solution for your exfoliating needs. Safe for all skin types, the coconut oil and sugar blend cuts through dead skin cells to cleanse your hair and body. As always, you can rely on OUAI to get the job done.

 

9. Ouidad | Heavy Lifting Bubbling Scalp Mask 

(@ouidad)

Using the Ouidad Heavy Lifting Bubbling Scalp Mask is like having front row seats to a magic show. The detoxifying treatment gently lifts away dirt while transforming from a gel to a lightweight bubbling foam. Its astounding, balancing formula is activated by the pH of your scalp. Eliminating residue that can cause dryness and dandruff, it does all the heavy lifting needed for a happy, healthy scalp..

  

11.  Philip B | Peppermint Avocado Scalp Scrub 

(@philipb)

Philip B's luxurious sea-salt scalp scrub and shampoo hybrid features a special formula that gently exfoliates the scalp while removing buildup. The Peppermint Avocado Scalp Scrub is a must-have for those looking to achieve dream-like, bouncy hair. Philip B's blend of sea salt avocado, peppermint, eucalyptus, witch hazel, and more will leave your scalp cleaner than ever.

12. goop | G.Tox Himalayan Salt Scalp Scrub Shampoo

(@goop)

This unique whipped shampoo contains an exfoliating cocktail of mineral-rich Himalayan pink salt, moringa oil, and pure unfiltered rose hip oil to purify and detox your mane (and scalp). goop's scalp scrub cuts through dirt, oil, and product buildup, leaving your head clean and refreshed from follicle to scalp. Plus, it has a delicious scent that lasts after washing.

Final Thoughts

The secret to a healthy scalp? A gentle yet powerful scrub to remove dirt, dead skin cells, excess oils, and product build-up. While finding the right scrub can be a little tricky, our best scalp scrub guide will give you plenty of options to explore. Or, if you’re looking for a hydrating, soothing and exfoliating product that’s free from nasties, you can’t go past our Deep Clean Scalp Scrub!

 

For more hair and beauty tips and tricks, check out our blog.

 

 

 

 

Edited By: Pip Jarvis & Iris

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