No matter what season, we all build up gunk in our scalps. We exfoliate our skin and our lips – why should our scalps be any different? Product build-up, dandruff, dead skin cells and the weather can all contribute to a scalp that deserves a makeover. Scrubbing your scalp can unclog pores and promote healthy future growth. Keep hair glossy as ever and within budget with our favorite DIY scalp scrubs.
1. Aloe vera scrub
2 tbsp aloe vera + 1 tbsp sugar
Aloe is always a lifesaver in terms of moisturizing during exfoliation. The grains of sugar (unrefined brown is best for all recipes) act as the exfoliator. This recipe is also ideal for adding volume to thin hair, or for treating a scalp that won;’t stop itching. Apply on a damp scalp after mixing well, massage, and rinse.
2. Coffee scrub
1/4 cup used coffee grounds + 2 tbsp olive oil
After making your fresh cup of Joe in the morning, save the grounds and blend well with olive oil. This will make your hair grow faster, and the caffeine will really invigorate your scalp in a similar way that mint can. Scrub gently on and rinse off, following up with shampoo.
3. Coconut scrub
1 tbsp coconut oil + 1tbsp baking soda
Mix this blend, which acts as a clarifying scrub, into your scalp until it feels slippery. Don’t add baking soda if you feel that you have sensitive skin, but at the same time, using only coconut oil might add a slight greasy film after washing, so maybe try this scrub at night. Afterwards shampoo.
4. Himalayan Sea salt scrub
1/2 cup Himalayan pink salt – 1/4 cup warm coconut oil, 10 drops essential oil of choice
Mix this until it turns into a paste you can spread. Add an essential oil if you desire. Let this mix soak for 30 minutes before you put it on your hair. Pink salt buffs away dead skin and dandruff with ease while facilitating further hair growth. It also allows other ingredients to penetrate further.
5. Cinnamon scrub
1.4 tsp cinnamon – 1 tsp baking soda – 1 tbsp olive oil
If you’re looking for a scalp detox, a cinnamon scrub is what you’ve been missing out on. We all need this tingly treatment at least once a month to remove impurities from our scalp. Again, if you suffer from skin sensitivities, swap out the baking soda for something more soothing.
6. Cornmeal and tea tree scrub
Cornmeal + tea tree oil + clarifying shampoo
Yes, you can make a scrub out of shampoo, just make sure that it’s a clarifying shampoo so you can clean your hair as best as you can. Tea tree oil is naturally antiseptic, and cornmeal acts as a gentle exfoliant and alternative to sugar. You can also use ground almonds which has a similar texture.
7. Acne or grease prone aspirin scrub
aspirin tablets + 4 tbsp warm water + toothbrush
Place all your tablets in a bowl and pour warm water over them. Aspirin is filled with salicylic acid, which is great for exfoliating skin and treat acne. So if you’re prone to scalp acne or grease skin, part that hair and scrub all along your scalp lightly. Rinse, put your normal shampoo on, and condition as usual.
8. Deep cleansing lemon scrub
2 tbsp sea salt, 2 tbsp lemon juice, 2 tbsp olive oil
Add all the required ingredients to a bowl for a powerhouse of an exfoliating cleanser. Citric acid is a natural chemical exfoliant in lemon juice that essentially acts as a gentle peel, loosening oil and dead cells. That combined with the Vitamin A and E in olive oil will leave your hair shining.
9. Sensitive skin brown sugar oat scrub
1/2 cup rolled oats + 1/2 cup brown sugar + 3 tbsp conditioner
If you have sensitive skin, oatmeal is the ultimate underrated pantry ingredient that your locks will love. It’s like a scrub and hydrating scalp mask all in one. If you suffer from flaky or irritated skin, this moisture-filled (and delicious smelling) scrub can be worked into hair – just make sure to remove products beforehand.
10. Apple cider vinegar scrub
1 teaspoon honey, 1 tbsp coconut oil, 1/4 cup pink salt, 10 drops essential oil
This potent hair detox takes advantage of all ACV’s wonderful health benefits and combines it with the TLC of honey and an essential oil of your choice. It refreshes your hair and adds just the right amount of shine.