Washing your hair is an essential and vital part of maintaining the overall health and appearance of your hair. Establishing a regular hair washing routine is key, but for my overly active girlies who are always on the go and my product-loving girlies who adore experimenting with new products, incorporating a scalp detox into your regimen can be an even more refreshing and invigorating experience.
– What is a Scalp Detox? –
A scalp detox is a targeted and effective massage technique that supports a healthier, more balanced scalp. By using either a specialized brush, your fingertips or an exfoliant, this practice helps remove product buildup, cleanse away impurities, and shed dead skin cells, leaving your scalp feeling clean and rejuvenated.
Regular scalp massages go beyond cleansing—they stimulate blood circulation to the hair follicles, ensuring a steady supply of essential nutrients to the roots. This boost in nourishment can promote stronger, thicker hair growth over time, while also improving overall scalp health.
Incorporating scalp detoxes into your hair care routine not only revitalizes your scalp but also helps maintain your hair’s natural shine, strength, and vitality.
– Why do our scalps need a detox? –
A common misconception is that curly, coily, or kinky hair textures don’t require detox treatments. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Just like any other hair type, these textures are prone to excessively oily pores and product buildup. As Atlanta-based hairstylist Erica Perry, a specialist in hormonal hair loss, explains: “If your scalp is unhealthy, inflamed, or your follicles are clogged, your hair will struggle to thrive; instead, it will shed and fall out (Adigun, Tayler. April 3,2024. Why you should detox scalp. Retrieved from: www.essence.com/beauty/why-you-should-detox-scalp.).” Another critical factor to consider is how environmental stressors impact textured hair. Pollution, hard water, and even daily exposure to the elements can lead to scalp irritation and damage the hair’s natural protective barrier. Regular detox treatments can help remove these impurities, restore balance to the scalp, and strengthen your hair over time. By prioritizing scalp health, you ensure a solid foundation for healthy, vibrant curls to flourish.
– When should you do a Scalp Detox? –
To achieve the best possible results, carefully tailor your detox schedule to align with your unique oil production, personal styling preferences, and everyday lifestyle habits. Additionally, consider the environmental factors that may influence your hair health, such as climate, humidity levels, and exposure to pollutants. Adapting your detox routine to address these external conditions can help protect your hair from unnecessary damage while ensuring it remains nourished and vibrant no matter where you are or what season it is.
**If you have a scalp condition: every six (6) to eight (8) weeks
**If you wear wigs: every eight (8) to twelve (12) weeks
**If you do not have a preexisting scalp condition or you do not wear wigs, I would opt to doing a scalp detox every 6 weeks. This is just my personal opinion, because that is about the time I put in-between my own scalp detox sessions.
– Who should avoid Scalp Detoxes? –
According to Asia Williamson, hairstylist and scalp specialist told Essence “The only people that should avoid a scalp detox are those who have open sores, bleeding, and high inflammation of the scalp.” Also, if you have any scalp disorders such as psoriasis or seborrheic dermatitis, consult with a dermatologist before you try a scalp detox.
– Products –
Below are black owned hair care companies that make and sell scalp detoxes.
1. TPH by Taraji: Master Cleanse Targeted Scalp Wash
cost: $14.99
website: www.tphbytaraji.com
* Can be bought via their website, however you can also purchase from your local Sally’s. Price may vary
2. Pattern by Tracee Ellis Ross: Deep Scalp Detox 2-in-1 Hair Serum Cleanser
cost: $29.00
website: www.patternbeauty.com
*Can be bought via their website. However, you can also purchase at Sephora and Ulta Beauty. *Prices may vary
DIY SCALP DETOX RECIPE
*Please do a patch test before you apply to your hair.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons Brown Sugar (for gentle exfoliation)
- 1 tablespoon Baking Soda (to remove buildup)
- 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar (to balance scalp pH)
- 2 tablespoons Aloe Vera Gel (for soothing and moisturizing)
- 5-10 drops of Tea Tree Oil (to fight scalp issues like dandruff and itchiness)
- 1 cup Water (dilution)
Instructions:
- Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the brown sugar, baking soda, aloe vera gel, tea tree oil. Add water to create a paste.
- Apply to Scalp: Wet your hair and apply the mixture directly to your scalp. Use your fingertips to gently massage in circular motions. This helps exfoliate dead skin cells and remove product buildup.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse your hair and scalp thoroughly with lukewarm water.
- Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse: Mix apple cider vinegar with water (1:4 ratio) and pour it over your scalp. Let it sit for a few minutes to balance the scalps pH and remove any remaining buildup. Rinse thoroughly with water.
- Condition: Apply a deep conditioner or leave-in conditioner to restore moisture to your hair. Rinse as usual.
- Dry and Style: Gently dry your hair and style as desired.
References:
1. 3 Benefits from a Scalp Detox: A guide for stylist who want to increase their income. Written by Judy S. Carasco
2. Why you should detox scalp. Written by: Tayler Adigun 4-3-2024. www.essence.com/beauty/why-you-should-detox-scalp/
3. Scalp Detox. Written by: Cortney Moore. Reviewed by: Julia A. Siegel, MD/Board Certified Dermatologist. Fact Checked by: Anna Harris. www.byrdie.com/scalp-detox
Product References:
4. TPH by Taraji. www.tphbytaraji.com
5. Pattern by Tracee Ellis Ross. www.patternbeauty.com