Finding Your Perfect Scrub Schedule
Jan 29, 2024 | By Maria
Scalp scrubs play an invaluable role in your hair routine. While it may not be as popular as shampoo, conditioner, or even hair masks, it should be a staple in your routine. You may already know that skin needs regular exfoliation and you do this already with the skin on your body and your face. But the same also goes for your scalp. It needs regular exfoliation to get rid of the dry and dead skin as well as dirt and product buildup. A good scalp scrub is as necessary as a good clarifying shampoo.
However, it’s important to note that scalp scrubs have a different schedule from the other hair care products you use and should not be used daily. You have to find the perfect schedule for your hair. Everyone is different, so finding your perfect scrub schedule should take into account a few things. We’ve created a basic guide for you to figure out the best scrub frequency for you!
Things to Consider
Hair Type
Different hair types require different types of care. There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to hair care. You need to know what your hair type is and what type of care your hair type is to figure out how you are also going to incorporate your scalp scrub into the mix.
Dry Hair
You will know that you have dry hair if your hair has a dull shine and if the hair feels stiff and rough to the touch. Hair types with dry hair include those with coarse, frizzy, curly, or wavy hair. For dry hair, moisture is a must.
Scalp scrub use should be infrequent for dry hair because your hair needs the extra oils that it produces, and a scalp scrub will get rid of those. Once a week is typically enough to exfoliate dead skin but also keep the moisture balance in your scalp and hair.
Oily Hair
It’s pretty easy to tell if you have an oily hair type and scalp. It will usually be much quicker for your roots to get oily after washing your hair. If you start getting greasy at the 1-3 days mark, that means that you have oily hair. Hair types that usually have this are straight hair and wavy hair.
For this hair type, more frequent scrubbing will be beneficial to get rid of excess sebum and dead skin. Twice a week might be the sweet spot for you. But observe how your hair and scalp will react to such frequent use. If some dryness or even excess oiliness occurs, you might be better off with less frequent use.
Normal Hair
Normal hair is the right balance between the two previous hair types. You can experiment and observe how weekly or bi-weekly scalp scrubbing will benefit your hair.
Issues and Concerns
Dandruff
Dandruff is a common issue the scalp scrubs battle effectively. If you suffer from dandruff, starting with frequent scalp scrubs such as twice a week is better. This can help remove the flakes initially; when the scalp is clear, you may reduce the frequency to once a week.
Heavy Buildup
If you are a heavy product user and style your hair frequently with oils, creams, hairspray, dry shampoo, and more, your hair will benefit from more frequent use of scalp scrubs. Your hair is prone to heavy buildup. Using a scrub twice a week will help give you a fresh start and deeply clean your scalp, pores, and roots.
Sensitive Skin
Sensitive skin may cause a fuss when it comes to choosing a scalp scrub and finding the perfect schedule for it. If you have sensitive skin, make sure to choose a scrub with no highly abrasive ingredients or artificial chemicals. Stick to natural and gentle exfoliants like sugar, coffee grounds, and organic ingredients. If physical exfoliants are still too abrasive for your skin, look for a scalp scrub containing chemical exfoliants such as salicylic acid.
As for frequency, sensitive scalps are better off with less frequent use of scalp scrubs. Once every two weeks is enough.
Some Easy to Remember Tips
- Once a week: The recommended starting point for scalp scrubs suitable for most hair types and scalp conditions.
- Twice or thrice a week: A schedule that’s recommended mostly for those who have oily hair, dandruff, or for those who have hair growth as a goal.
- Less than once a week: The recommended frequency for those who have dry or sensitive scalps.
How to Tell If It Isn’t Right
Finding out your perfect scalp scrub schedule is incredibly important because it’s easy to over-exfoliate if you are not careful. It’s better to start with less frequent scrub sessions to ensure that this doesn’t happen rather than risk over-exfoliating the scalp. But fear not; it’s not that bad if you over-exfoliate. It’s just inconvenient and uncomfortable so it’s best to be avoided.
You’ll know if you’ve over-exfoliated if
Your scalp feels irritated
Signs of over-exfoliation include itchiness, dryness, irritation, stinging, or burning sensation. It’s pretty self-explanatory. If you feel any of these symptoms, stop using and let your scalp recover for a few weeks before using a scalp scrub again. And make sure to lessen the frequency once this happens.
Excess sebum
It’s the same principle as overwashing or washing with sulfates: if the hair and scalp are stripped of too much moisture, they will start to overcompensate and produce way more oil than usual. If your hair gets oilier after using a scalp scrub for a certain period, you may be using it too often and benefit from lessening the frequency.
Inflammation
If the scalp feels inflamed, there is redness or swelling, stop the use of scalp scrub and consult a dermatologist.
How to Incorporate
Schedule
Schedule your scalp scrub accordingly. It’s best paired with a good clarifying shampoo right after and a deep conditioner. They’re also a good combination because they can be typically used at around the same time (once a week or so). Make it a spa day.
Patch Test
Before trying out any product, always make sure to patch test. Apply a small amount first on an inconspicuous area and observe if there are any adverse reactions or side effects before using the full amount.
Aftercare
A scalp scrub is best followed by a moisturizing deep conditioner after cleansing it with a clarifying shampoo. After that, blow dry and let your scalp breathe.
Observe
Be observant of your hair. See what kind of effect the scalp scrub gave you after use. You can adjust the frequency depending on what you think your hair needs.
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The Right Time
Timing is so important. And that includes your hair care routine! Scheduling your products with the appropriate frequency as well as being consistent with it can make a world of difference. Finding your perfect timing when using a scalp scrub may be a bit of trial and error at first. After all, everyone is different and you’ll only know what’s right for you once you try things out. But hopefully, this guide will help you know where to start. Happy scrubbing!