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So most of us are pretty on top of our skin routine and we all know we should be exfoliating our face on a weekly basis but what about our scalps? “Over time, some people experience a ‘buildup’ of residue from hair products, shampoos and conditioners, as well as an accumulation of natural oils and dead skin cells on the scalp,” explains Erum Ilyas, MD, a dermatologist at Montgomery Dermatology . “Exfoliating or treating this buildup is important as it helps return hair’s natural luster and makes the scalp less flaky, dry and itchy.”
What Are Scalp Exfoliants
Luckily, for us there are hundreds of products specifically addressed to scalp buildup and discomfort. “Most products marketed as scalp exfoliants use ingredients intended to chemically exfoliate the scalp similar to acne products or hydrating ingredients intended to address itching and flaking of the scalp,” says Dr. Ilyas.
Some of the most popular ingredients used include charcoal, which targets excess oil and impurities much like it does in a face mask, coconut oil, a skin hydrator, apple cider vinegar, which has anti-yeast properties, tea tree oil, which is known for its antimicrobial and antiseptic benefits, and salicylic acid, which can help remove excess dry skin and scale.
How to Use Scalp Exfoliants
Dr llyas recommends starting off using a scalp exfoliant every other week or up to once a week. “It’s best to get used to using the product to avoid overdrying, as excess use may strip your scalp of natural oils and even strip away some hair color if you are coloring your hair,” she warns. “It’s also helpful to follow up these treatments with a leave-in conditioner or regular conditioner to rehydrate your scalp and hair.”
Ready to give it ago with listed the top products to help your scalp on the way to recovery.