• 09/11/2023

DIY Scalp Scrubs: How to Remove Dead Skin From Your Scalp Naturally

bowls of herbs and salt

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Anybody who’s done some kind of skin care can attest to the power of exfoliation. Scrubbing away dead skin cells can clear up your skin and encourage cell regeneration. Learning how to remove dead skin from your scalp naturally can do a world of good for it and your hair’s health.

Your scalp is just like the skin of the rest of your body. It, too, needs regular exfoliation for it to be healthy. Regularly scrubbing your scalp can help unclog hair follicles, remove buildup and encourage hair growth. You especially need to exfoliate if you use many hair products or have scalp issues like dandruff.

You can choose from hundreds of scalp scrubs on the market, but you can also make your own with ingredients you already have at home. Natural ingredients are highly beneficial to the skin and hair, and don’t contain harmful chemicals that can cause irritation. So, how do you create a DIY scalp scrub?

Scalp Scrub Base Ingredients

You can use so many natural ingredients to make a scalp scrub. They’re packed with benefits that are perfect for maintaining hair and scalp health. All you need to do is to choose the right components based on your needs.

Below are a few of the many ingredients you can use to build a scrub. Check out their benefits and find the best ingredients for your hair and scalp.

Exfoliants

Every scrub needs an exfoliating agent to move any oil, dirt and buildup. Here are some you can incorporate into a scrub:

  • Salt: Salt is an effective natural exfoliant with antifungal properties. It’s also a natural clarifying agent, helping remove oils from your hair follicles.
  • Sugar: Sugar has a finer texture and can be better for those with more sensitive scalps. It’s a natural humectant, and is an excellent moisturizer for your hair and scalp.
  • Baking soda: Baking soda is a gentle abrasive perfect for battling dandruff.

Essential Oils

Essential oils provide lots of benefits to both your skin and hair. Adding two to four drops of the right one to a scalp scrub can help target irritation, dandruff and hair loss. Although there’s a long list of essential oils you can use, here are some of the best ones for your hair and scalp:

  • Tea tree oil: Tea tree oil is a highly effective antibacterial and antifungal agent. When used on the scalp, it can help eliminate dandruff and other fungi-related issues.
  • Rosemary oil: Rosemary oil is scientifically proven to help with hair growth. Research shows that it’s just as effective as Minoxidil as a treatment for hair loss.
  • Peppermint oil: Peppermint oil is also a hair growth agent people usually use with rosemary oil.

Moisturizing Agent

A moisturizing agent hydrates your scalp and helps hold the whole scrub together. Here are some great ingredients to use:

  • Coconut oil: Coconut oil moisturizes your scalp and hair, and creates a barrier against irritation. Coconut oil can also aid your scalp’s fungal microbiome to prevent dandruff.
  • Honey: Honey is a powerful ingredient that greatly benefits the skin and hair. It’s a moisturizing agent that prevents hair breakage and adds shine.
  • Aloe vera: Aloe vera helps control oily hair while keeping itch and irritation at bay. It also helps strengthen hair down to the follicles.

Other Ingredients

You can definitely add other ingredients that bring lots of nutrients to your hair and scalp. Here are some popular choices:

  • Apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar (ACV) helps strengthen hair and give it a lustrous shine. It’s also an antimicrobial agent that helps fight itch and infections.
  • Avocado: Avocados contain natural oils and nutrients that are perfect for your hair and scalp. They can bring life back to dull and dry hair.
  • Oatmeal: Oatmeal has calming properties that fight itch and irritation. You can use it to moisturize and soothe your scalp.

How to Remove Dead Skin From Your Scalp Naturally

Need help building a natural scalp scrub? If you’re not sure what ingredients to use or which combinations are right for you, follow these suggestions. Just choose a mixture that corresponds to your current scalp issue.

For Dryness 

Rich ingredients like avocado are perfect for adding moisture to your hair. Mix it with sugar, honey and jojoba oil to complete your moisturizing scalp scrub.

For Oily Scalps

For oily scalps, go for a salt scrub base. Add a few drops of tea tree oil and mix with a few tablespoons of aloe vera.

For Buildup

If your hair and scalp feel heavy and clogged, choose clarifying ingredients. Start with a salt base to help exfoliate your scalp and remove sebum. Next, add elements with antibacterial properties, like tea tree oil, honey and ACV.

For Dandruff

To battle dandruff, combine ingredients with antifungal properties. You can use either salt or baking soda as the exfoliant. Then, add a few drops of tea tree oil. For your moisturizing agent, go for coconut oil, then add a splash of ACV to top it all off.

For Itch and Irritation

If your scalp is itchy and irritated, use calming ingredients. Go for a softer brown sugar scrub with a few drops of peppermint oil. Add aloe vera and oatmeal to feel immediate scalp relief.

For Hair Growth

If you want to scrub your scalp for hair growth benefits, use rosemary and peppermint essential oils. Mix them with sugar for a gentle scrub that clears your follicles, prepping your scalp for growth. Finally, add a moisturizing agent like jojoba oil.

How to Use Scalp Scrubs

Mix all your ingredients in a bowl, divide your hair into sections and carefully apply your scrub. Then, gently massage the scrub onto your scalp, covering all areas. Rinse hair thoroughly, making sure to wash off solids like oatmeal. Follow up with shampoo and conditioner.

When learning how to remove dead skin from your scalp naturally, it’s important to exercise some restraint. Too much exfoliation can irritate your scalp and strip your hair of natural oils. Stick to using a scrub once every two weeks.

Natural Scrubs for Scalp Health

Maintaining hair and scalp health is key to enjoying luscious hair that grows at a healthy rate. Plus, you’ll enjoy the light and fresh feeling of having a clean scalp.

Choosing natural ingredients for your DIY scrubs is a great way to nourish your scalp without worrying about harmful chemicals and preservatives. Next time you want to know how to remove dead skin from your scalp naturally, open your pantry and whip up your very own scrub.

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