Editor’s tip: Since this scalp treatment also contains heavy moisturizers, it’s meant to be a post-shampoo treatment that substitutes your usual conditioner.
Key ingredients: rice powder buffing beads, salicylic acid, papaya enzymes, pineapple enzymes, Kalahari melon oil, jojoba oil | Fragrance-free: no
Best Multi-Use Formula: Ouai Scalp & Body Scrub
Why it’s worth it: Dr. Camp loves that Ouai’s Scalp & Body Scrub can be used just about anywhere (except for your face and neck, which are far too delicate for rough body scrubs). “For use on the scalp and body, this foaming scrub is made with sugar crystals and coconut oil to exfoliate and remove buildup while softening and balancing moisture levels,” he says. It’s been a longtime Allure tester favorite since 2018 (if not earlier) for its skin-polishing abilities and moisturizing effects. “Even if you don’t have scalp issues, I promise you’re going to love Ouai’s Scalp & Body Scrub,” said tester Jihan Forbes in her review.
Editor’s tip: If you’re a fragrance-phile, you’ll love Ouai’s brand’s signature Melrose Place scent. For those unfamiliar, it’s a souped-up rose fragrance that’s elevated with hints of bergamot, lychee, white musk, and champagne.
Key ingredients: sugar crystals, coconut oil | Fragrance-free: no
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of scalp exfoliators?
The biggest benefit of using a scalp exfoliator is its buildup-reducing properties. “Scalp exfoliators work to remove the dead skin cells, oil, and product debris that can clog hair follicles and slow growth,” says Dr. Jeffy. “Some may work to increase blood flow to the scalp which also stimulates hair growth.” She also notes that these nourishing formulas can help reduce flaking, itchy scalp, and dandruff due to their buildup-sloughing abilities.
As a reminder, a healthy scalp is clear of flakes, redness, and irritation, according to Michelle Henry, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. “We shouldn’t see redness, we shouldn’t see irritation, and we shouldn’t see a lot of scales or buildup,” she previously told Allure. “It should not feel tender and should not have an odor.”
What’s the difference between physical and chemical exfoliators?
Physical exfoliators, usually sugar or salt-granule-based, are formulations that polish the surface layer of your skin manually, while chemical exfoliants utilize acids that deteriorate product buildup and dead skin cells. “Sugar and salt crystals are often used as physical exfoliators in scalp products to gently buff the skin,” says Dr. Camp. “Chemical exfoliants like the alpha hydroxy acids, lactic acid and glycolic acid, and beta hydroxy acids like salicylic acid, break apart the bonds between dead skin cells, facilitating their removal from the scalp surface.” In addition to scalp scrubs, Dr. Camp also suggests using a scalp massager. “Scalp massaging tools, often made of silicone, can be used to exfoliate, too,” he says.