3 DIY Scalp Scrubs for Healthy Hair Growth

Last week we tackled hair masks for healthy hair. In another article we also discussed how scalp massages can help promote hair growth. And we all know that a healthy scalp is the foundation for healthy hair. Just like exfoliating your face removes dead skin cells and promotes radiance, scalp scrubs can do the same for your scalp. This process helps reduce product buildup in your scalp, stimulate blood circulation, and promotes a healthy environment for better hair growth. Here’s the exciting part, you can mix various effective scalp scrubs using natural ingredients you can find at home!

Benefits of DIY Scalp Scrubs

Exfoliation

Scalp scrubs remove dead skin cells, dirt, and product buildup that can clog hair follicles and hinder hair growth.

Improved Circulation

The gentle massage during application stimulates blood flow to the scalp and hair follicles, which can help deliver essential nutrients to the scalp for healthier hair.

Reduced Itchiness

A buildup of dead skin cells and product residue can cause scalp irritation and dandruff. Regular exfoliation can ease the itchiness and promote a healthy scalp.

Promotes Relaxation

The act of massaging the scalp with a scrub can be a relaxing experience. It can help reduce stress and promote overall well being.

DIY Scalp Scrub Recipes

Refreshing Mint Scrub (For Oily Hair)

2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 tablespoon coconut oil, 5–7 drops peppermint essential oil

For this scrub you will need 2 tablespoons brown sugar which acts as an exfoliant, 1 tablespoon coconut oil for moisture, 5–7 drops peppermint essential oil which helps invigorate and clarify the scalp.

To create the scrub, simply mix all ingredients in a bowl. Massage the scrub gently onto your scalp, focusing on areas prone to oiliness. Personally, my scalp tends to get oily close to my hairline and the top of my head. Leave the scrub on for 5–10 minutes and rinse thoroughly with cool water.

Nourishing Coconut Scrub (For Dry Hair)

1/4 cup shredded coconut flakes, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon honey

The ingredients for this scrub will be 1/4 cup shredded coconut flakes as a gentle exfoliant, 2 tablespoons olive oil (moisturizer), and 1 tablespoon honey, which acts as a humectant for added moisture. Humectants attract water to your skin or scalp which helps retain hydration.

Grind the coconut flakes in a food processor until they resemble a coarse powder. You may also use a mortar and pestle to crush the coconut flakes. Simply combine all ingredients and massage onto your scalp. Leave it on for 15 minutes and rinse thoroughly with warm water followed by cool water to seal in the hair follicles.

Soothing Oatmeal Scrub (For Sensitive Scalp)

1/2 cup rolled oats, 2 tablespoons plain yogurt, 1 tablespoon aloe vera gel

For this scalp soothing scrub you will need 1/2 cup rolled oats, ground into a fine powder, 2 tablespoons plain yogurt for its anti-inflammatory properties, and 1 tablespoon aloe vera gel to calm and moisturize the scalp.

This scrub is ideal for those with sensitive scalps as it provides gentle exfoliation with soothing properties. Mix all of these ingredients in a bowl then massage onto your scalp as usual. Leave it to soak on your scalp for 10 minutes then rinse with cool water.

Other Tips for Using DIY Scalp Scrubs

• Patch test! This is absolutely necessary to prevent any unwanted reactions. Before applying the scrub to your entire scalp, do a patch test on a small area of your inner arm to check for any allergic reactions. If after 2 hours, your skin remains the same, you may proceed with the scrub. If any redness, itching, or inflammation occurs, it is best not to use any of the ingredients on your scalp.
• Wet your hair for better scalp coverage and absorption.
• Massage the scrub gently in circular motions for a few minutes and go through all the sections of your head. Avoid harsh scrubbing that can irritate your scalp.
• Make sure that you rinse thoroughly. Rinse all the scrub particles from your hair to prevent buildup, which can lead to itching or dandruff.
• After scrubbing and rinsing, follow up with a nourishing conditioner to replenish moisture and keep your hair healthy. Use it on the lengths and ends of your hair.
• Use a DIY scalp scrub once a week, or every other week depending on your hair type and scalp condition.
• If you have any open wounds or scalp conditions, avoid using scalp scrubs until they heal.

And that’s it! Do some research on the different ingredients mentioned in this article and see which products would work for your specific hair needs and hair type. Have fun with mixing to achieve your ultimate hair goals!