Turns out, looking after your scalp is imperative if you want healthy hair—here's what to know

Fact: all good hair starts with a healthy scalp. Despite long-held popular beliefs, scalp treatments aren't just reserved for those with dandruff or sore, itchy scalps.

In actual fact, having good scalp health is essential to good hair. Whatever condition your locks are in, your scalp is at the root of it all. (See what we did there?) I hate to break it to you, but the best hair oils and best hair masks out there can't really work their magic unless the scalp is in tip-top condition. 

"The scalp is the bedrock for the hair follicle," explains trichologist Anabel Kingsley, "If it's not in good condition, the chances of you experiencing problems with hair growth and health increase significantly. Research has proven that a flaky, itchy scalp can cause and or worsen hair loss in certain individuals."

"Just like the skin on our face, the scalp ages too, which can lead to dull, thinning hair and – in the worst-case scenario – hair loss," adds Nate Bigger, founder of MONPURE London. 

"If you’ve ever experienced the discomfort of dryness, flakiness or an itchy scalp, then you’ll know that the scalp needs as much care and attention as everywhere else on our body," says Bigger. If you are one of the lucky few who haven't, scalp care remains just as important. We would never forget to treat our face, so why would we ignore our scalp? 

The good news is that we've started to recognise the importance of caring for our scalp, and treating the skin on our scalp with the love it deserves. It seems most of us are already taking scalp scare more seriously. With beauty retailer Face The Future seeing an 83% increase in customers looking for ways to create a healthier scalp.

So, we thought it was time to ask the experts for their top tips for everything you need to care for your scalp, from scalp scrubs to soaks and serums. Asking the all-important question: do scalp treatments actually work, and do we really need them? 

Why do we need scalp treatments?

The importance of caring for your scalp all comes down to the hair's structure. "The hair is comprised of two parts," explains José Ginestar, scientific director at Sisley Paris. "The hair bulb, the living part at the dermis level, and the hair fibre, the visible part that's greatly exposed to environmental damage."

"At scalp level, the hair bulb is the hair-producing entity, where the cells responsible for the formation of hair fibre and colour are concentrated. By bringing dedicated active ingredients to the scalp, the cellular mechanisms of the hair are going to be boosted," Ginestar explains.

Regardless of whether your scalp is normal, dry, oily or itchy, you need to be looking after it, giving it the same attention as you would your skin. "Special care of the scalp is needed, as the condition of the hair directly depends on its health; the hair will be stronger and denser, shinier and radiant with vitality," José adds.

Giving your scalp a refresh is important to remove product build-up, and a sore, flaking scalp can be treated with an exfoliating mask or tonic. "It is also crucial to massage the scalp in addition to the formulas," explains José. "Massaging the hair helps improve blood circulation and allows better penetration of the active ingredients. It's also better to use sulphate free shampoos, as these are harsh on the scalp."

José adds that, although the results are a long-term solution, you'll see a difference in your scalp after a few weeks if you heed this advice. 

Which ingredients are good for the scalp?

When shopping for scalp treatments, there are certain ingredients that can be especially good for your scalp. Below, MONPURE's founder, Nate Bigger, explains some of them in more detail.

Alpha-hydroxy acids

"AHAs, like lactic acid, help remove dead skin cells and also debris that build-up on our scalps throughout the day. This is important to help the absorption of active ingredients and improve the efficacy of moisturisers used." 

Retinol

You have probably heard about retinol—dermatologists have long sworn by it as a solution to a number of skincare dilemmas, from scarring to wrinkles and acne.

Now, people are starting to wake up to the fact that retinoids can have the same anti-ageing effects on the scalp – and hair loss – as they do on the face. "Our Follicle Boost Hair Density Serum stars a potent form of retinol called retinyl palmitate, which is retinol combined with the fatty acid, palmitic acid. This also occurs naturally in the body and is a renowned antioxidant, good for strengthening and repairing cells," Bigger tells us. 

Aloe Vera

"You might already be familiar with this ingredient as a popular 'after sun' or sunburn remedy. It’s a succulent plant that grows in arid landscapes around the world, and is full of what’s known as polysaccharides, which are famous for their hydrating and anti-inflammatory powers. So it’s a hero for issues like irritation, itching and dryness."

Witch hazel

"A natural toner and anti-inflammatory, it’s ideal for treating irritated scalps, as it’s historically been used in skincare remedies for ailments like rashes, insect bites, bruises and minor burns, and is renowned for calming sensitive skin."

Pro-Vitamin B5

"For those dealing with dry scalps in need of hydration, Pro-Vitamin B5 – otherwise known as pantothenic acid – is widely used in face creams, masks and toners. It’s another winning ingredient in our Hydrate and Soothe Scalp Serum, which together with moisturising allantoin, absorbs water from the air like a sponge to prevent dry, itchy scalps."

Camellia tea oil

"Widely used in Asia, this essential oil is extracted from the seeds of the tea plant. Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, as well as essential fatty acids it delivers an intense hit of nourishment to neglected scalps to stimulate hair follicles and enhance healthy hair growth while leaving it conditioned."

Pumpkin Seed Extract

"Testosterone in our body produces a chemical called dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which in excess may cause hair loss in certain individuals," explains MONPURE's resident dermatologist, Dr Sue Ann Chan. "This chemical is released by an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase, which pumpkin seed extract helps to block. That’s what makes it effective in preventing hair loss."

Do I need a scalp treatment?

"As with the skin on your face, your scalp has its fair share of dirt and debris. But with your hair covering it, it can easily build up, causing irritation and inhibiting hair growth," Bigger explains.

Although dry shampoo can save a greasy hair day, overuse can lead to product build up. This is where the best scalp treatments come in, to remove any build up and blockage of the hair follicle. 

"Using a good scalp scrub really helps to remove any build-up of dead skin cells that could be blocking the follicle. When the follicle is unblocked, this stimulates the hair regrowth. When the follicle isn’t blocked, this means that it’ll have a good cell turnover meaning your hair will grow healthier," says Hannah Gaboardi, trichologist and Viviscal ambassador. Longer and healthier hair? Yes, please.

"When you start using products, you will notice that the products can penetrate the scalp and hair easier, leading to more noticeable results. So when you use topical products such, your hair will get the full benefits," Hannah tells us.

That said, not everyone can necessarily use a scrub on their scalp. "Not all skin types are suitable for scrubbing," warns Dr Chan. "If you have any dermatological conditions, do consult your dermatologist [or doctor] before using scalp scrubs, as these can sometimes irritate the skin if you have pre-existing scalp conditions, such as scalp eczema or scalp lupus etc."

When it comes to scalp scrubs, you want to look out for those that have both chemical and physical exfoliants, zinc and salicylic acid. Do note: although scalp scrubs can boost circulation and hair growth, as they do slough away dead skin cells, this may make your hair look a little flaky after the first couple of uses. Fear not; it's just doing its job and clearing the build-up. Good thing we rounded up some of the best scalp serums and treatments to invest in.

Ready to get your scalp in check? Keep scrolling for the best scalp treatments out there, tried and tested by team Marie Claire UK.  

The best scalp treatments of 2023

Scalp treatments to cleanse and exfoliate

1. Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal & Coconut Oil Scalp Scrub

We love this scalp treatment as it is a scalp scrub and shampoo in one. Blending scalp-loving tea tree oil with charcoal to remove product build up and impurities, it works hard. Plus, plant-based micro-exfoliators act as a gentle physical exfoliant that dissolves as you wash. The minty scent and post-wash, fresh feeling make this one of the best scalp scrubs we've tried. 

2. Virtue Refresh Exfoliating Scalp Treatment

A scalp scrub for post-shampooing, not only does this treatment exfoliate and remove dead skin cells (great for boosting hair growth), it has Virtue's very own Alpha Keratin 60ku®, which means the hair is repaired after every use. It's made from fruit enzymes, coconut and rice exfoliator to cleanse and jojoba and Kalahari melon oil to moisturise. 

3. Coco & Eve Deep Clean Scalp Scrub

If a flaky or dry scalp is the concern, then this is the scalp scrub for you. This scalp scrub has a little bit of all the goodness your hair is craving, including AHAs, BHA and tea tree oil. Plus, volcanic ash and bamboo extract soak up excess oil, leaving your hair grease free for longer. Use this on damp hair before washing, and thank us later.

4. Hello Klean Exfoliating Scalp Brush

Apply your favourite scalp treatment and use this brush to help you massage the product into the scalp. Yes, a scalp massager brings that at-home spa feel to bath time, but the best part? It boosts circulation, which is sometimes thought to help with hair growth at the same time. Use on wet hair to slough away dead skin cells, or use on dry hair at any time for a little head massage. The rubber tips make this super comfortable to use.

5. Hello Klean Clarifying Scalp Soak

If your scalp is more on the sensitive side and you are looking for a scalp treatment without a physical exfoliant, then this is the one for you. Made with scalp-loving ingredients, like apple cider vinegar, and fermented rice water, it's designed for a congested or itchy scalp and works to detoxify and remove build up. This scalp soak is specially formulated to remove any impurities that come from showering with hard water. Massage into a wet scalp, leave on for five minutes and come out of the shower with your cleanest hair yet. 

6. Omorovicza Revitalising Scalp Mask

Omorovicza's special Hungarian Moor Mud is rich with minerals that restore the hair and scalp. Blended with a gentle amount of Salicylic acid to exfoliate the scalp and remove any product build up. Add to that the brands patented Healing Concentrate you've got yourself a winning combination. Irritated scalp? The Camphor crystals and menthol instantly soothe while offering a healthy dose of hydration to the scalp. The nozzle makes this scalp scrub super easy to use. While hair is dry, part the hair and use the nozzle applicator to cover your scalp. Massage and leave for up to 20 minutes before rinsing. Lay back and enjoy. 

Best leave-in scalp treatments

7. Living Proof Scalp Care Dry Scalp Treatment

The first thing you need to know about this scalp treatment is that it's one of those handy products that requires no water or rinsing. It simply soaks into your scalp with no greasy residue, allowing you to get on with your day. It's also packed with hyaluronic acid to soothe and hydrate a dry scalp, as well as a clever vitamin B3 complex to help support and rebalance your scalp microbiome, getting it back on track. 

8. Philip Kingsley Flaky/Itchy Scalp Toner

A liquid toner for your scalp, this formula is super cooling and soothing on particularly sore skin without making your hair greasy. Its anti-microbial properties get rid of bacteria and debris from the surface of the scalp while reducing excess oil production, and blood circulation is improved to encourage growth. You'll notice a difference after the first use, and the scalp will have healed greatly after several.

9. Hair Gain Leave-In Scalp Treatment

If you've heard wonderful things about Hair Gain from fellow beauty journalists, know that it doesn't disappoint. Use this on days when your scalp feels dry, and it goes on undetected without making hair greasy. It stimulates molecules within the hair follicle and uses pea shoots to boost hair growth. The leave-in scalp treatment can also be used to reduce shedding and is super lightweight. Apply directly onto the hairline and scalp and massage in. 

10. Hair Proud Hair Revival Leave-In Scalp & Hair Moisturiser 

Use this leave in scalp treatment on damp hair and apply generously onto the scalp and comb through the hair. It de-frizzes, moisturises and adds shine. The lightweight spray brings scalp back to health using a scalp prebiotic which helps encourage normal and healthy hair growth. 

11. Gisou Honey Infused Scalp Treatment

Designed to balance the scalp microbiome, this leave-in scalp treatment soothes the scalp by using Gisou's Mirsalehi Bee Garden Oil Blend to moisturise and restore dry and irritated skin. Plus, a mix of prebiotics and botanical oils protects the skin on the scalp and helps to stop moisture loss. The nozzle makes using this serum super easy. 

12. Bleach London Reincarnation Scalp Treatment 

Designed to reduce flakes and stimulate hair growth, this treatment utilises probiotics to balance the scalp microbiome—something the scalp loves for healthy, nourished hair. Use after washing by applying the serum all over the scalp and spending five minutes massaging in (consider it a little self care time). If hair growth is the aim of the game then use this morning and night. 

13. Grow Gorgeous Hair Growth Serum Intense

An ultra-concentrated leave-in scalp serum that promises thicker and fuller hair on each strand, there's high chance you've already seen the beauty crowd raving about this product. Using a unique mix of ingredients, including organic pea sprout (commonly used for promoting hair growth), plus green tea and caffeine to boost blood flow, it's a powerful concoction. Use by placing 20 drops onto the scalp and hairline and massage in, pulling any residue through the lengths.

Best scalp treatment masks

14. ESPA Super Nourish Hair and Scalp Mask 

Packed with nourishing ingredients, this scalp mask will help achieve super-glossy strands. Pineapple and pumpkin enzymes are used as plant-based exfoliators to give a gentle cleanse. Use it as an overnight mask when your hair needs some extra TLC, or use it as a rinse-off treatment for a deep condition.