Do You Need a Scalp Detox? Here’s How to Find the Right One [Quiz]

Your hair and scalp are exposed to the same environmental stressors your body is. Just like your body, your scalp functions like a sponge that absorbs everything you apply to it, including the good, the bad, and the ugly. Over time, everything you add builds up and can mess with your scalp’s health. Here’s when a scalp detox can come in handy to help you get rid of the toxins without stripping your scalp from its natural oils.

Not sure if you need it? Take this quiz to find out if you’re due for a scalp detox treatment.

Is a Scalp Detox for Real?

If this is your first time hearing about a scalp detox, it’s easy to see how you might be doubtful. After all, there’s a detox out there for everything from our digital life to our gut health. But scalp detox is a real thing and gets rid of dead skin cells, any environmental pollutants, excess sebum, and old product buildup.

While none of this sounds glamorous, there’s no way to hide it, we all have scalp buildup. When you don’t deal with the excess buildup, you’re left with a higher risk of hair loss, or itchy and flaky scalp conditions.

How to Find the Right Scalp Detox for Your Hair Type

Similarly to finding the right shampoo and conditioner for your hair type, you need to find the right scalp detox. The skin on your scalp is as unique as the skin on your body, choosing the right products means all the difference. Follow these guidelines to choose the perfect scalp detox to suit your scalp needs.

For Thick Hair & Oily Scalp

If you’re always struggling with an oily scalp, you’re probably also struggling with more buildup. Go for something a bit more aggressive. Instead of choosing a foam, try a scalp scrub that will reach the buildup at the root and lift it up.

Try this: 2 parts of coarse sea salt and one-part shampoo for an exfoliating scalp scrub DIY.

For Fine Hair & Sensitive Scalp

You have to be very careful here. While you want to detox your scalp, you don’t want to irritate your scalp with harsh exfoliants. Instead, try a clarifying shampoo to get a deep cleanse every other week. Also, make sure you’re using a sulfate-free shampoo to prevent buildup and irritation.

Try this: ¼ cup of apple cider vinegar mixed with 2 cups of water for a gentle cleanse.

Scalp Detox Benefits

Incorporating a scalp detox in your hair care routine will help you achieve beautiful locks in no time. Not to mention, it’s a key element to make sure your scalp health is at its best. Some other benefits include:

• Promote healthy hair growth
• Reduce odor-causing bacteria
• Prevent oxidative stress
• Prevent scalp imbalances
• Calm scalp irritation

At first, use a scalp detox every seven days to get the buildup under control. Then, keep using a scalp detox twice a month to keep everything under control. Additionally, you might also want to try a scalp detox every time you change your hair care routine by the season. After a while, you’ll notice your hair products start to work better, and you’re not always fighting against oil, sensitivity, or flakes.

Remember, if you have a scalp condition such as psoriasis or dandruff, speak with a dermatologist before starting a scalp detox regimen.