Scalps are having a moment on TikTok. (Scalp facials, to be more specific.) A scalp facial is exactly what it sounds like—it’s a treatment that has all the elements of a facial, but for your scalp. The trend has over four billion views—and counting—on the app, but it’s not just a fad. Turns out, you may want to consider showing your scalp some TLC every now and then. Ahead, we explain what a scalp facial is, the benefits of doing one, and how to do one at home.
What is a scalp facial?
The goal of a scalp facial is to create a nice, balanced scalp. The treatment removes dirt, product buildup, dead skin cells, and oil from your scalp. Then, after washing your hair, you apply serums and oils to add moisture back into the scalp.
What are the benefits of a scalp facial?
Not only is a scalp massage soothing and therapeutic, but they target buildup, irritation, flakes, dry patches, and more, all signs of an unhealthy scalp.
If you’re struggling with an itchy or inflamed scalp, a scalp facial will hydrate the scalp, eliminate flakes, and soothe irritation, providing comfort and relief. It also helps encourage hair growth. Once you’ve unclogged your scalp and swept away buildup, it becomes the ideal environment to grow healthy, long, and strong hair. Speaking of hair—when your scalp is too dry, your hair will look dull; when your scalp is too oily, you’ll have limp stringy hair. When your scalp is balanced, you’ll notice that your hair feels fuller, bouncier and has just the right amount of shine.
How to DIY a Scalp Facial
While you can get a scalp facial, also known as a scalp treatment, in the salon, it’s also possible to DIY the experience at home. Just follow the steps below.
Massage in a scalp oil
Before you start, check out your scalp. Are you dealing with dandruff? Excess oil? Hair loss? Choose your pre-shampoo oil based on whatever your specific needs are. Using small circular motions with your fingers or a scalp massager, slowly work in the oil. After applying the oil to your scalp, let it sit for at least 15 minutes to penetrate the scalp deeply.
Apply a scalp scrub
Next, grab a scalp scrub. Like the skin on your face, dead cells, sebum, and buildup can pile up on your scalp, clogging pores. This will deeply cleanse the scalp, clear away buildup, and reduce excess sebum. Regular exfoliation is key to rejuvenating and regulating your scalp.
Shampoo and condition your hair
Now, it’s time to cleanse and condition. Make sure you’re thorough and use the right cleansing shampoo for a gentle refresh. If flakes and itchiness are a concern, consider using a dandruff shampoo.
Lock in Hydration
To keep your scalp smooth and hydrated, you need to restore the moisture lost during the shampoo process. Look for a serum that’ll lock in hydration and address any scalp concerns while keeping everything in check.
