How (and Why) to Exfoliate Your Scalp: Step By Step

Want a smooth and healthy dome? You need to exfoliate your scalp.

Exfoliation is a key part of caring for your head, especially since you're no longer growing hair.

We'll show you how to exfoliate your scalp and talk about why it can be a game-changer for a perfectly polished dome and healthy skin.

Why is Scalp Exfoliation Important?

Scalp exfoliation involves removing dead skin cells, loosening build-up, and clearing follicles.

Think about our shaving routine; we apply pre-shave oils, shaving gel, and moisturizers. While these products are great for your skin, they build up and clog your pores, especially if you have an oily scalp.

The result? A dry scalp, flaky skin, clogged hair follicles, oily hair, and an itchy scalp, to name a few.

Physical or Chemical Exfoliants?

There are two types of scalp exfoliants: physical and chemical. What's the difference?

• Physical exfoliants must be applied with gentle circular motions after application. A good example is using your fingers to rub your homemade brown sugar, sea salt, or oatmeal exfoliating scrub, or using an exfoliating brush. The good thing about physical exfoliants is that you feel them working right away since you use ingredients that create friction against your scalp. DIY options are also cheaper. Just remember not to rub too hard and irritate your skin.

• Chemical exfoliants don't need rubbing; you just leave them on and let them exfoliate your scalp. That's less work for you. The downside? It may take a while to see results, and some baldies react to chemicals.

Which is better? Physical or chemical exfoliation? It depends on what works best for you.

How to Exfoliate Your Scalp

Exfoliating shampoo

Exfoliating shampoos are way different from your regular shampoo. They have tiny beads that scrub away dirt and leave your scalp fresh and invigorated. Just don't use them every day. Over-exfoliation can do more harm than good, which we'll discuss later. Once every two weeks is a good place to start and experiment from there.

Exfoliating brush

An exfoliating brush is a good tool to exfoliate your scalp and gives your head a good stress-relieving massage. These silicone brushes don't cost much but work wonders on your scalp. Freebird has a Scalp Exfoliator Brush & Scalp Scrubber that comes with the FlexSeries Shaving Kit.

Leave-in Treatment

If physical exfoliants are not your thing and you prefer a hands-off approach, try a leave-in treatment. It's easy, just put it on and forget it. Perfect for busy baldies.

Do you have aspirin in your medicine cabinet? Oddly enough, it's a scalp exfoliant since it contains salicylic acid. Crush 6 to 8 tablets and mix with water to form a paste, apply it to your scalp, and leave for 5 to 10 minutes. See those excess skin cells melt away.

If you're unsure about a DIY aspirin scrub, Freebird has a scalp exfoliant with salicylic acid; a safer option.

DIY Scalp Scrub

You can make a DIY scalp scrub from natural ingredients found in your kitchen. Just mix brown sugar and oatmeal into your favorite shampoo, and you'll get an instant exfoliation concoction that can keep your scalp happy.

Got fruits? Papaya, pineapple, and pumpkin are also good scalp exfoliators.

Sensitive scalp? Combining salt with sugar can make a less abrasive scrub for gentle exfoliation. Coffee is a good exfoliant, too!

For dry scalps, why not add moisturizing oils like coconut or jojoba and tea tree oils to level up your scalp care game?

What Are the Benefits of Exfoliating Your Scalp?

It prevents product buildup

One of the major benefits of scalp exfoliation is the removal of product buildup. You'll immediately notice the difference once you exfoliate, especially if you have an itchy or flaky scalp.

It boosts the effectiveness of other hair care products

Are your products not working? Dead skin cells can block them, preventing them from working their magic on your scalp. Exfoliating helps them soak in better and do their job more effectively. You'll notice healthy hair and shinier hair growth,

Scalp exfoliation also boosts blood flow to hair follicles, bringing them more nutrients.

It helps with dandruff

Got flakes on your clothes? Don't worry. A scalp scrub is an effective way of dealing with dandruff and a dry scalp.

Conditions like dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis are linked to oxidative stress, which is prevalent in various scalp conditions and can impact hair growth and retention. Exfoliate your scalp and use a dandruff shampoo for the best results.

It keeps excess oil in check

Too much sebum on your scalp makes your skin extra oily. Exfoliation removes oil and should be a part of your scalp care routine.

After exfoliating, you should avoid exposing your scalp to direct sunlight. If you need to go out, wear a hat or apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher for sun protection.

Potential Side Effects and Risks of Scalp Exfoliation

• Over-exfoliation: Like anything done in excess, over-exfoliation can do more harm than good. Remember, our scalp is ultra-sensitive and irritates easily by scrubbing too hard or applying a chemical product you're allergic to. The best way to avoid these potential problems is to start slowly and gently with physical or chemical exfoliants. You'll know if you've gone too far if your scalp feels sore or turns red.

• Reactions: Always spot test chemical exfoliants first before applying them to your sensitive skin. Natural ingredients are often recommended for DIY scalp exfoliants to prevent chemical exposure. If you notice pain, swelling, irritation, or discomfort, discontinue the scalp scrub and talk with your doctor.

• Damage: You should also avoid using your fingernails to exfoliate. You might scratch your scalp and do further damage.

• Existing Skin Issues: If you have skin conditions like acne, eczema, psoriasis, cuts, sores, or an active infection, don't exfoliate your scalp. Talk with your dermatologist first.

The Bottom Line

The global scalp scrub market is estimated at $15.1 billion in 2025 and is projected to grow to $21.9 billion by 2035. This means more and more people are starting to see its benefits.

Exfoliating your scalp is like hitting the reset button for your bald head. Regular scalp exfoliation promotes scalp health, leading to a better head-shaving experience.

If you haven't tried scalp exfoliation yet, add it to your head-shaving routine.

Your scalp will thank you.

FAQ

What is Scalp Exfoliation?

Scalp exfoliation refers to removing dead skin cells and debris through a physical exfoliant or chemical exfoliant. It makes way for new skin cells and hair follicles to grow. If you have sensitive scalps or other scalp problems, you should consult your doctor before starting a scalp scrub.

How Can I Exfoliate My Scalp at Home?

You can exfoliate your scalp at home by using a DIY scalp scrub, an exfoliating shampoo, an exfoliating brush, or a leave-in scalp treatment.

How do I Get Rid of Buildup on My Scalp?

You get rid of built-up hair products on your scalp by regularly exfoliating. This process removes dead skin and oils that can clog your hair follicles. Waking up with greasy pillows is a hassle. This is why a regular scalp scrub should be a part of your grooming routine to remove excess skin cells.

How Often Should You Exfoliate the Scalp?

Generally, exfoliate your scalp once every two weeks. Over-exfoliation can disrupt your scalp's balance and cause irritation.

Does Apple Cider Vinegar Exfoliate the Scalp?

Apple cider vinegar can help in scalp exfoliation since it acts like a mild exfoliant. It's made from fermented apples, but you must proceed cautiously. Dilute it with water and use it as a rinse after shampooing. It can help remove dead skin cells and balance the pH of your scalp.

How Do I Get All the Dead Skin Off My Scalp?

You can remove dead skin at home easily. Use a DIY scalp scrub, an exfoliating shampoo, an exfoliating brush, or a leave-in scalp treatment. Just apply gently and rinse well for a clean feel.

Do Dermatologists Recommend Scalp Exfoliation?

Many dermatologists and hair experts suggest scalp exfoliation for a healthy scalp. They say it helps with scalp buildup, dandruff, or an oily scalp. They recommend gentle methods and the right frequency to avoid irritation.

Is Exfoliating Good for the Scalp?

Yes, exfoliating is great for your scalp. Scalp exfoliation takes away product buildup, extra oil, and dead skin cells. This helps stop problems like dandruff, itchiness, and clogged follicles.