Most of us are pretty on top of our skin care routine, maintaining a consistent and efficient regimen that’s suitable for our skin type and our lifestyle. But for many of us, this routine is limited to our face and maybe our décolletage (neck). It’s important to remember, however, that our scalp requires TLC and maintenance too, as it is an extension of our living skin.
“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 in Pennsylvania. “Exfoliating or treating this buildup is important as it helps return hair’s natural luster and makes the scalp less flaky, dry and itchy.”
Further, Dr. Ilyas also mentions that if we don’t address this buildup, especially if we’re experiencing flaking, scaling and sensitivity in the scalp area, it can be immensely uncomfortable and very quickly lead to chronic skin conditions such as psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis. Excess itchiness can result in hair breakage as well. “If dry flaky scalp is the result of inflammation, then the underlying cause of the inflammation should be treated or addressed,” she says. “If the inflammation becomes chronic, then it can interfere with hair growth and become a source for discomfort as well.”
What Are Scalp Exfoliants
Luckily, there is no shortage of products on the market formulated specifically to address 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. Read more
