We tend to worry about our hair more than our scalp, but if you expect to have healthy hair it most definitely starts with a healthy scalp. The scalp is skin, but it is more than just the skin our hairs grow out of. It requires proper maintenance just like our hair, but before you can fully understand what it needs you need to know what it is.

According to Dr. Christopher Harris, the scalp consists of five layers: the skin, connective tissue, epicranial aponeurosis, loose areolar tissue, and pericranium. The scalp skin is some of the thickest skin on the body and it carries more blood than the rest of the skin. It has an abundance of sebaceous glands, which secrete sebum into the hair follicle to lubricate the scalp and hair. Because of the abundance of sebaceous glands, it is important to clean the scalp thoroughly, because if oil builds up, it can clog the hair follicles or cause certain forms of dandruff.

Most assume just washing your hair and scalp with shampoo is enough to properly cleanse the scalp, but some need an exfoliation or the removal of the oldest dead skin cells that cling to the outermost surface or epidermis. The products used between wash day accumulate on the hair shaft and scalp. A scalp mask, exfoliant, scrub, or treatment used regularly to stimulate blood flow and remove product buildup. Here are ten of the best scalp scrubs you should consider incorporating in your regimen.

Alterna Caviar Exfoliating Scalp Facial

This scalp facial claims to exfoliate with microbeads that help dislodge flakes while purifying the scalp. This exfoliator is formulated with hydrogenated jojoba oil in the first five ingredients and is a emulsifier, and skin conditioner. This scalp facial is specifically designed for sufferers of a dry, flaky scalp.

Brocato Peppermint Scrub Restorative Hair & Scalp Masque

Harness the power of peppermint with this masque to remove environmental pollutants, products, medications, minerals, and chemicals. A soiled scalp will be detoxified while the dull hair will be left with life and luster. A tight scalp with minimal circulation becomes revitalized and full of energy.

Christophe Robin Cleansing Purifying Scrub with Sea Salt

A favorite scalp scrub with sea salt, this purifying scrub will detox, cleanse, and rebalance a sensitive or overly oily scalp. Great for removing any chemical residue left after color treatments, this scrub uses the natural exfoliating power of sea salt to eliminate impurities and support natural blood micro-circulation.

Keranique Micro-Exfoliating Follicle Mask

This exfoliating mask can be used as a scalp mask or even a deep treatment before shampooing. It will gently exfoliate the scalp without weighing down fine strands. This gentle mask will remove product and environmental buildup while nourishing your strands.

Kiehl’s Deep Micro-exfoliating Scalp Treatment w/ Argan Exfoliators

Dandruff problems are the main focus of this scalp treatment, as it controls the dandruff while promoting a healthy scalp. This exfoliator uses apricot and argan to gently exfoliate and balance a dandruff-ridden scalp leaving it stimulated and healthy.

Organic Root Stimulator Scalp Scrub Stimulating Formula for Hair and Scalp

Organic Root Stimulator Scalp Scrub will unclog and gently exfoliate with essential herbs to increase circulation and add life to a weathered scalp. Sulfur-rich nutrients are applied to the scalp to rejuvenate the follicles and give your hair a healthy environment to thrive.

Ouidad Mediterranean Bay Leaf Exfoliating Hair & Scalp Treatment

Here is an exfoliating treatment infused with natural AHA complex of apple extracts, lemon, and sugar cane for a gentle yet effective exfoliation. A dual-action formula cleans the scalp of buildup while delivering nutrients the hair roots. This exfoliator is great for seriously oily or parched-dry scalps.

Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Hair And Scalp Treatment Unisex

Great for all hair types, this hair and scalp treatment soothes and treats an irritated scalp while moisturizing and conditioning your curls. This treatment is cool and refreshing with the goodness of Australian tea tree oil.

Philip Kingsley Exfoliating Scalp Mask

This Philip Kingsley mask contains organic aloe vera to help minimize flaking of the scalp while soothing and softening dryness. With over 50 years of trichological expertise under their belt, Philip Kingsley created a mask that adds maximum scalp and hair benefits.

Simple Brown Sugar Scalp Scrub

You don’t have to use a store-bought product to make your scalp feel incredible. You can make your own with these two accessible pantry products:

• 3 Tbsp. brown sugar
• 2 Tbsp. coconut or olive oil

Mix ingredients and apply to scalp. Massage gently throughout your entire scalp. Rinse and shampoo as usual.

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