I Tried Act + Acre's Cold-Processed Scalp Detox—Now I'll Never Use Anything Else

After a recent bout of oily dandruff, I discovered an entire new haircare product category that exists: scalp detoxes. "Scalp detox products are helpful in minimizing the buildup that is constantly produced by the scalp: oil, dead skin cells, bacteria, yeast…that continue to accumulate daily," says board-certified dermatologist Rachel Nazarian, MD, of Schweiger Dermatology Group. "Many shampoos—especially the newer trend of sulfate-free shampoos—don’t clean the scalp as effectively as the detoxing, which works to remove the buildup successfully."

"There are many benefits to scalp detox products, including promoting hair growth, easing scalp irritation, and purifying the scalp," adds board-certified dermatologist Shari Sperling, MD, of Sperling Dermatology, who says to look for salicylic and glycolic acid ingredients. "They help refresh the skin and remove dead skin cells."

After both dermatologists gave scalp detox products their seal of approval, I decided to try one out for myself. And after much research, I landed on the Act + Acre Cold-Pressed Scalp Detox. Ahead, discover my review of both the in-salon and at-home treatment, plus my before and after photo.

What Is the Act + Acre Scalp Detox?

The Act + Acre Scalp Detox is a bottled scalp exfoliant and soother. And while you can certainly use it alone, it was created to be used at home following a professional scalp detox at a salon (specifically, Act + Acre's in-salon scalp detox, although most salons offer a similar scalp detox or scalp facial). Since my scalp has really needed some extra care these days, I opted for the professional treatment in-salon with Act + Acre, then used the Cold-Processed Scalp Detox product at home following my treatment.

Pros + Cons

Pros:

• Great smell
• Scalp-soothing blend of oils
• Adds body and thickness

Cons:

• Three-step process is time-consuming
• Doesn't fully transform a dry scalp
  

About My Hair and Scalp

Having big, curly hair all my life also meant that I was a frustrated owner of a dry scalp. Because my hair structure makes it difficult for my scalp’s natural oils to find its way down the hair shaft, I was constantly dealing with dryness and itchiness.

Meanwhile, I was loading up my head with a slew of anti-frizz products that smoothed my curls but left behind so much build-up if I didn't wash them out properly. I tried generic dandruff shampoo and even saw a dermatologist years ago, who prescribed me an oil that I never put to good use because of its greasy effects.

After trying all the things for my dry scalp, I decided to pay a visit to Act + Acre—a natural haircare brand that treats scalp issues—for a studio consultation. 

Act + Acre Scalp Detox $48.00

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The Formula

• Baobab: Delivers protective antioxidant properties to the hair and scalp.
• Basil Leaf: Anti-inflammatory intended to sooth the scalp and reduce redness, itchiness, and irritation.
• Moringa Extract: May stimulate hair growth by improving circulation.

How to Use It

The instructions for the product say to use it as a pre-wash treatment. That means you'll use the handy squeeze-tube applicator to add drops of the formula all along your hairline and scalp, then let the product absorb for about 20 minutes. After the 20 minutes is up, you'll shampoo and condition as usual.

Dr. Sperling recommends using the product—or any scalp detox product for that matter—every other week for best results, or once a week if you have severe buildup.

The Results: Less Buildup

The before and after pictures weren’t as drastic as I'd thought they would be, but the way my scalp feels is day and night.

After two weeks, I experienced less itchiness, less speckled clothing, and fewer white flakes for my boyfriend to pick out at dinner. After one month, I couldn't believe how thick my hair felt. Every time I brushed it out, I visibly noticed how full and voluminous it looked. I also noticed that my hair was easier to comb through and less tangled than usual.

Although it took some time getting used to double cleansing my hair, it was worth the extra step. Since I got a full-body allergic reaction years ago from what doctors believed to be from my shampoo and conditioner, I’m usually skeptical about trying new formulas. But, thankfully, after 30-days I didn’t notice any harmful changes on my sensitive skin. It’s difficult to tell whether or not my hair felt “healthier,” but as I continued the three product treatments consistently, I saw a significant decrease in the flakiness I once had. After 30 days, it didn't get rid of my dry scalp completely, but I’m still pleased with the results. 

The Feel

This product contains oils, so it definitely feels oily when you apply (which is why it's meant to be used as a pre-wash treatment). However, it is a lightweight oil that doesn't feel too heavy on the scalp.

The Scent: Fresh and Clean

I loved how fresh my hair smelled after each use. When I would apply artificial shampoo and conditioner, my hair would smell fruity. Now, smelling like a fresh botanical garden is exactly how I want to start my days. 

The Value: Fairly Priced

Act + Acre's Scalp Detox retails for $48 for 3.4 oz, while the shampoo and conditioner are $58 together, or $32 each. The detox is intended to be used only once per week on the scalp rather than throughout the hair, so a bottle should last for quite a while. However, the shampoo and conditioner are a bit on the pricey side, considering you should double cleanse and use the conditioner about every other day (or depending on your hair washing schedule).

Act + Acre Scalp Detox vs. Omorovicza Revitalising Scalp Mask

Omorovicza's pre-shampoo scalp treatment retails for $79 for a 6.7 oz bottle and uses Hungarian Moor mud to draw out buildup on the scalp, compared to Act + Acre's blend of soothing oils. It's priced higher but you get more product. With salicylic acid, it's a good pick for an oily scalp and hair, while Act + Acre's gentle detox is ideal for all hair types.

The Final Verdict

Act + Acre showed me the importance of pampering my scalp as well as my hair. My scalp is more hydrated—and less flaky and itchy—since using Act + Acre's products. While it didn't work a complete miracle, I'm just happy my dry scalp is in remission as long as I have a tube of the trusty Scalp Detox by my side.

"Massaging your scalp with an exfoliating type of scrub or oil depending on your skin type will help remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and wash away any buildup," reminds Sperling. "Keeping your scalp clean and healthy is important to your hair health and can help prevent dandruff."

Nazarian emphasizes that dry skin is a slightly different issue and can not be addressed by a detox, but instead by "improving hydration and moisture in the scalp through use of hyaluronic acid, coconut oil, and ceramides."