6 benefits of scalp exfoliation and its side effects too

If you only use conditioners and serums just to take care of your hair strands, you need to make changes in your hair care routine. It’s not just your strands, but also your scalp that needs attention. Go for scalp exfoliation, which is a way to remove dead skin cells and build-up from the scalp’s surface. Let us tell you the benefits of scalp exfoliation, which can help to promote a healthier scalp and hair.

What are the benefits of scalp exfoliation?

Washing your hair is one way to keep your scalp healthy. You should also do scalp exfoliation, as it is beneficial too.

Here are some benefits of exfoliating the scalp:

1. It removes dead cells

Scalp exfoliation is a good technique to remove the dead cells, product residue and oil from the scalp. This helps to unclog the hair follicular units, resulting in better absorption of hair care products, says dermatologist and an aesthetic physician Dr Pallavi Sule.

2. It enhances circulation

Exfoliation will help to increase blood circulation of the scalp. This helps in the flow of nutrients and oxygen to the hair. So, hair can grow better, faster and healthier.

3. It prevents scalp conditions

If there is a fungal infection or any kind of scalp condition, it can easily be prevented with the help of scalp exfoliation. That’s because it reduces dryness and dandruff.

4. It helps with hair growth

Healthy scalp is known for promoting healthy hair growth. So, it may help to deal with hair loss problem.

5. It improves hair texture

If you do scalp exfoliation, it will improve the chances of having good hair texture, as it tackles problems like dryness.

6. It helps to absorb products

Clear scalp is very important for effective absorption of products that we apply on the scalp. So, include scalp exfoliation in your routine.

Natural ways of scalp exfoliation

You can try homemade scrubs for your scalp!

• Aloe vera and sea salt scrub: Mix the two ingredients, apply it on your scalp and rinse it off after 15 minutes.
• Coconut oil, tea tree oil, peppermint oil scrub: Mix coconut oil, peppermint oil, tea tree oil and sugar to to make your homemade scalp scrub. Apply it on your scalp, massage for a few minutes and then rinse it off.

What are the side effects of scalp exfoliation?

While scalp exfoliation is healthy, you should not go overboard with it. Those with an oily scalp can do it biweekly and the ones with a dry scalp, can go for it once a month, says Dr Sule.

If you do it frequently, you may have to deal with its side effects.

1. Scalp irritation

Aggressive or frequent exfoliation can lead to scalp irritation. If there is scalp irritation, you will experience itching or have a burning sensation on the scalp.

2. Dryness

Over-exfoliation can strip the scalp of its natural oils, leading to dryness and flakiness. This might exacerbate existing scalp conditions like dandruff or cause new ones to develop.

3. Increased sensitivity

Harsh exfoliants or overly vigorous scrubbing can make the scalp more sensitive, causing discomfort and making it more susceptible to irritation from other hair care products, says the expert.

4. Hair damage

Excessive or rough exfoliation may cause damage to the hair follicles, leading to breakage or weakening of the hair strands.

Just remember, not to over-exfoliate or use harsh chemicals that may be present in the store-bought scrubs.