Why no summer beauty routine should be without a scalp scrub
There's one hair care product that lays the foundation for all the rest. Without it, your everyday essentials could be less effective, and your overall hair health could take a nosedive. This wonder product is none other than the humble scalp scrub! It's the cornerstone of great scalp health, which makes it essential for overall hair health.
Learn why it's essential to exfoliate your scalp regularly and which must-have scrubs should make an appearance in your home care routine.
What is a scalp scrub?
A scalp scrub is a haircare product formulated to eliminate unwanted scalp build-up, like dead cells, hair products, and pollution. Although you might be imagining a salt-crystal-packed pot of wonderfully scoopable formula, scrubs can come in a variety of formats, including shampoos, serums, and scalp treatments. You'll find them in two different kinds: physical and chemical.
Physical scrubs usually contain 'gritty' ingredients like sugar, salt, or coffee, which gently lift and loosen build-up in the hair. They don't just come in a standalone format — physical scrubs can be integrated into other products, like scalp exfoliating shampoos, for example.
Chemical exfoliants don't rely on a physical scrubbing action; instead, they use glycolic acid and salicylic acid to dissolve debris. You can enjoy this super cleansing scalp scrub format as a serum or treatment.
Every scrub available at Paul Edmonds London is environmentally friendly. We only stock brands who take care to create biodegradable, sustainable scalp scrubs — in some cases, they even emulsify when mixed with chemical exfoliants like AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids). You'll get all the benefits with none of the harm.
Why use a scalp scrub?
Scalp scrubs can feel like a 'nice to have' step in your home care routine, but the benefits make this more of an essential than an indulgence.
According to recent research by global haircare brand Kérastase, scalp scrubs can make your hair healthier. Their findings show that regular scrubs give 79% more volume and six times more shine. They can also make your hair 22% cleaner!
Adding a scrub to your home hair care routine could lead to improved root strength and reduced hair loss, too. The gentle massaging action helps bring blood flow to the scalp's surface and into the hair follicles, which helps stimulate growth. By sloughing away product build-up and dead skin cells, you're helping to clear your pores, which is also great for your hair!
Important tip: if you suffer from scalp sensitivity or medical conditions like psoriasis, a scalp scrub may not be right for you. When in doubt, get an expert opinion!
Using a scalp scrub
Aim to use a scalp scrub at least once a week in your hair care routine — it makes a wonderful weekend treat! If your skin is becoming irritated, drop your usage down to once a fortnight. Are you a fan of styling products or dry shampoo? You might need to use your scrub twice a week to keep your roots free of build-up!
Here are some basic step-by-step tips on how to integrate a scrub with your hair cleansing routine:
- Wet your hair and apply the scrub to your head, gently working it into your roots using a circular motion.
- Thoroughly rinse the scrub from your hair, ensuring you remove all traces.
- Shampoo and condition your hair as normal.
Scalp scrubs should be used alongside a great hair conditioner and masque to help complete the detox. When integrated with your home care ritual, you can effectively create a regenerating protocol that optimises the overall well-being of your hair and scalp.
Read more: seasonal scalp care
Scrub up well: find your perfect match
Now that you know why scalp scrubs are so great for your hair, it's time for you to find your perfect match. Here are some of the award-winning, science-backed scrubs available in our salons and online shop.
Kérastase Chronologiste Pré-Cleanse Régénérant
Create the perfect environment for healthy, strong hair by using this pre-shampoo scalp cleanser. It contains Vitamin E, which is an antioxidant, alongside hyaluronic acid and abyssine, which plump and tighten the scalp. Pré-Cleanse Régénérant works brilliantly to maximise the Chronologiste Bain Régénérant Shampoo and all other products in the Chronologiste range.
Shu Uemura Ashita Supreme Intense Revitalisation Scrub
The Ashita Supreme Intense Revitalisation Scrub uses salt crystals to give a deep scalp cleanse without stripping your hair and skin of essential oils. It also contains ashitaba extract — a regenerating ingredient to help restore your skin cells to youthful vitality. It revitalises the scalp and gives volume and life to your hair.
Davines Naturaltech Detoxifying Shampoo
Protect your hair from aggressive free radicals by giving it a deep cleanse. Naturaltech Detoxifying Shampoo contains biodegradable jojoba capsules to remove pollution and toxins. It's also formulated with artichoke phytoceuticals for extra antioxidant power.
Would you prefer a tailored, expert recommendation? Book yourself in for an appointment with our team at Knightsbridge or Battersea Power Station.
Our stylists will give you a full consultation at the start of your appointment. They'll analyse your scalp and hair to create a bespoke backwash and styling protocol to match your needs. You'll also get product recommendations for your home care routine, including an ideal scrub for your holistic care plan.
Add a scalp scrub to your weekly home care routine and exfoliate your way to better hair health! Browse our top three product recommendations in our online shop or book an appointment with our hair specialists to get an expert assessment.