The word "detox" gets thrown around a lot in the beauty and wellness industries. So when we heard about detoxifying your scalp, we couldn't help but roll our eyes — that is, until we talked to dermatologists. "I have always understood that healthy hair starts with a healthy and clean scalp and this is something that I educate my patients on regularly," says Dr. Caroline Robinson, founder of Tone Dermatology in Chicago. "Regularly cleansing the scalp with a shampoo that cleans the scalp without compromising your hair type is essential." To learn more about scalp detoxes, we tapped Dr. Robinson and dermatologist Dr. Corey L. Hartman.

Keep reading for our expert-approved guide to detoxifying your scalp.

What Is Scalp Detoxing?

"Scalp detoxing is similar to exfoliating the skin," explains Dr. Hartman, founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology. "It involves applying cleansing ingredients to the scalp to draw out impurities and restore shine and luster to hair."

Typically, using a clarifying shampoo can do the trick. However, if you have super thick hair, make sure to also use a scalp brush. This tool will not only massage your roots as you wash, but it will also make sure that the product is getting down to where it needs to be.

What Are the Benefits of Scalp Detoxing?

Dr. Hartman shares that regular scalp detoxing leads to shinier, healthy hair with more effective growth. Detoxing the area helps to pull debris from the scalp and promotes a healthy environment for hair. However, like with anything else, overdoing it can pose its fair share of issues. Oh, and if you have a pre-existing scalp condition, tread lightly.

Are There Any Risks or Side Effects to Scalp Detoxing?

"The main risk with the current 'detox' options available are that they may be too harsh on the hair creating excess dryness and even breakage," explains Dr. Robinson. "If you have a scalp condition such as seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, eczema, or even hair loss, it's essential to talk to your dermatologist before integrating these into your hair care routine."

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Who Should Be Scalp Detoxing?

According to Dr. Hartman, everyone can and should detoxify their scalp. "Particularly during the spring and summer when the scalp is coated in residue like sunscreen, salt water, and chlorine," he adds.

Dr. Robinson says it's especially helpful for those with textured hair. "Sebum, the natural oil produced by her scalp, can have a difficult time coating the hair and as a result can collect on the scalp," she notes. "Added to this we are often using multiple products to style our hair between washes. For curly hair types, it is important to have a consistent and regular wash routine weekly at minimum."

How Will I Know When It's Time to Detox My Scalp?

"Signs and symptoms of buildup may be a clue to the need for a deeper scalp cleansing," says Dr. Robinson. "These can include itching and invisible build up on the scalp."

Dr. Hartman adds that if your hair is looking kind of blah, you're noticing that growth has been stunted or your scalp is feeling "weighed down," it's time for a good wash.

However, Dr. Robinson points out that these symptoms should be monitored, in case they're signs of a larger issue. "Flaking and excessive itching may not necessarily be a sign that a deeper scalp cleansing is needed, and could be a sign of a scalp condition that requires evaluation by a dermatologist."

What Are Some Good Scalp Detoxing Products?

You'll want to look for products that boast ingredients like activated charcoal, salicylic acid, and antibacterial oils, advises Dr. Hartman.

We're fans of Kérastase's Energizing Scrub as well as Briogeo's Scalp Revival Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo. Oh, and Virtue's ColorKick De-Brassing Shampoo is for anyone worried about color protection.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How often you should detox your scalp?

    Dr. Hartman says those with textured hair should stick to detoxifying their scalp once a month.

  • Can detoxifying your scalp make hair grow faster?

    Detoxing the area does help to pull debris from the scalp to create a healthy environment for hair growth. However, more research is needed to show whether a scalp detox can increase the rate at which hair grows.

  • What's the quickest way to detoxifying your scalp?

    Brushing your hair is a quick, easy, and effective way to detoxify your scalp. Light pressure from the brush will stimulate blood flow and circulation, as well as remove buildup, including dead skin cells. Better yet, invest in a scalp massager.

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