Frequently asked questions
Do dermatologists recommend scalp scrubs?
“Dermatologists may recommend scalp scrubs, but with some caution,” says Dr. Rapaport. “They can be helpful for individuals dealing with buildup, an oily scalp, or mild dandruff. However, they should not be overused, as excessive scrubbing or harsh formulations can cause irritation, especially in those with sensitive skin or conditions like psoriasis or eczema.”
As far as what to look for, experts recommend selecting ingredients that are gentle yet effective—and avoiding harsh chemicals (like sulfates and parabens), heavy fragrances (like synthetic fragrances), or overly abrasive particles, since these things can all be irritating to the scalp. Some key ingredients to consider include Himalayan pink salt or sugar for physical exfoliation; tea tree oil, peppermint oil, or salicylic acid to help cleanse and purify the scalp; rosehip oil or other soothing natural oils to provide hydration and nourishment; and rosemary oil and orange-peel oil for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits, says Dr. Rapaport.
How often should you use a scalp scrub?
In general, dermatologists say it’s safe to use a scalp scrub once per week, but even more sparing use—e.g., once every two weeks—might be more appropriate for those with sensitive skin or an excessively dry scalp.
What’s the difference between a salt scrub, a sugar scrub, and a chemical exfoliant?
Not all scalp scrubs have the same exfoliating ingredient. Sugar and salt are examples of physical exfoliators, which manually slough off dead skin cells and product buildup via gentle abrasion. Chemical exfoliants harness the powers of acids, such as glycolic acid, lactic acid, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs). Both can get the job done, but chemical exfoliants may be too irritating for those with sensitive skin or excessively dry scalps.
Should you use a scalp scrub if you have seborrheic dermatitis?
Dr. Engelman recommends proceeding with caution if you want to use a physical scalp scrub on seborrheic dermatitis. “You’ll definitely want to avoid over-scrubbing or using it too frequently,” she says. She recommends, instead, opting for a salicylic acid exfoliant, which can help loosen some of the scales on the scalp. “Ultimately, a medicated shampoo containing an ingredient like ketoconazole, selenium sulfide or zinc pyrithione may be more appropriate,” she says. It’s important to consult your dermatologist before adding a scrub to your scalp routine, especially if symptoms are persistent or severe.
Can scalp scrubs help or worsen dandruff?
Confusingly enough, they can do either, according to Dr. Engelman. “Gentle exfoliation can help lift away flakes, excess oil and buildup, making dandruff appear less noticeable,” she says. Chemical exfoliants can be particularly helpful for this because they dissolve the accumulated dead skin you want to rid of. “However, a harsh scrub can cause the scalp intense irritation and stripping of oils, which can make flaking and itching significantly worse,” she says. So it’s important to stick with something gentle.
What are the side effects of scalp scrubs?
While there is no particular side effect to using a scalp scrub, overexfoliation can cause redness, burning, tenderness, itching, and dryness—which can lead to increased flaking. “It can also disrupt the scalp’s moisture barrier and trigger rebound oil production,” Dr. Engelman adds. No matter your hair type, she urges you to pay attention to how your scalp reacts when using a scrub and only stick with it if you’re receiving a positive result.
How we evaluated scalp scrubs
We evaluated scalp scrubs by evaluating a few factors, including ingredients, efficacy in making our scalps feel clean and flake-free, and the overall application experience. The best scrubs featured physical exfoliants, either salt or sugar, plus chemical exfoliants like AHAs, BHAs, and enzymes. They also featured hydrating and soothing ingredients like niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, or argan oil to ensure that the scalp doesn’t feel dry post-wash. The scalp scrubs that made our final list lathered well and did a good job of washing out fully, no matter the size of the exfoliating particles. Our final picks did what they set out to do—and gave us smooth, clarified scalps with less oiliness, itching, and buildup.
