The 14 Best Scalp Scrubs We Tested for Every Hair Type (And They’re Dermatologist-Approved)

If you haven’t treated yourself to a scalp scrub, get on it, stat. After all, your scalp is like the rest of your skin—dead cells can pile up, and pores can get clogged, especially if styling products are part of your typical hair regimen. It’s essential to exfoliate your scalp with a scalp scrub (like you would with a body scrub), as “regular exfoliation can help remove product residue and environmental pollutants that can build up and potentially even affect how well your hair is growing,” explains Shelly Aguirre, a stylist at Maxine Salon in Chicago.

To find the best scalp scrubs, we tested several dermatologist- and stylist-recommended options on a wide selection of hair types. We combed through their feedback and researched the products’ formulas to land on this curated selection of the best tried-and-tested scalp scrubs below.

Best Overall

Christophe Robin Purifying Scalp Scrub with Sea Salt

$54 at Amazon $20 at Nordstrom $54 at Christopherobin.com

Key Ingredients: Salt, carbohydrate complex, bisabolol | Size: 8.5 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Fragrance-Free: No

This formula actually pulls double duty as both a scrub and a shampoo. Sea salt (a natural exfoliant) gently scrubs off impurities and product buildup, while sweet almond oil soothes the scalp. It’s ideal for all scalp concerns, from flakes to oiliness to dryness. We loved how rejuvenated and squeaky-clean our scalp felt after using it, and our hair feels healthier overall after adding this scrub to our routine. A bonus? This formula won’t strip any professional color from your hair—take it from one tester with bleached hair who is convinced her blonde color looks even better with this in her regular haircare routine.

It’s worth mentioning that this scalp scrub has a texture that is tricky to disperse, especially on textured hair. One curly-haired tester notes the thickness of the formula’s granules, preventing it from getting past her curls and reaching her scalp to properly scrub it.

Emily Cieslak, associate editor (not shown): “Every time I use this scrub, my bleached hair looks lighter and brighter, as if the impurities and buildup have been removed.”

Best for Dry Scalps

Goop G.Tox Himalayan Salt Scrub Shampoo

$55 at Amazon $55 at Ulta $55 at Credo Beauty

Key Ingredients: Moringa and rosehip oil | Size: 6.7 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Fragrance-Free: No

Give your scalp a dose of serious moisture while also improving the shine of your strands with this whipped-mousse shampoo. This formula combines botanical oils with Himalayan salt to exfoliate your scalp and cleanse away dirt and grease. Our tester fell in love with this shampoo immediately, saying, “After the first wash, I could feel and see a difference. My hair had a post-blowout look—volume, shiny, and smooth. The next morning after an intense workout, I also noticed that my scalp had minimal flakiness.” The moringa and rosehip oil-infused formula delivers nourishing fatty acids along with oleic acid to soften and hydrate our hair, leaving it looking volumized and healthy. It also has a fresh minty citrus scent that makes our hair smell amazing.

Kathleen, tester with type 1A hair: “I cannot rave about this product enough. It targeted both my hair and scalp health and left them feeling clean and looking incredible! My hair was shiny, and my scalp barely had any noticeable flakes.”

Best for Buildup

Briogeo Scalp Revival Micro-Exfoliating Scalp Scrub Shampoo

$42 at Amazon $42 at Sephora $42 at Target

Key Ingredients: Charcoal powder, tea tree oil | Size: 8 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes| Fragrance-Free: No

For those who like combining multiple steps of their beauty routine in one, this cleanser-scrub hybrid from Briogeo is ideal. Simply use it as you would any shampoo, making sure to really work it into your scalp, then follow with conditioner.  Its formula features binchotan charcoal (a very high-quality type of charcoal), which pulls out impurities, as well as panthenol and peppermint, spearmint, tea tree, and coconut oils. One tester especially loved how this shampoo left her type 3C hair feeling noticeably more hydrated and shiny, with no signs of dandruff or frizz. If you have a dry scalp and you’re worried a scrub might further aggravate it, rest assured that this Briogeo formula won’t strip or irritate—take it from another tester who experiences excessive dryness, especially in the wintertime. It provided a deep clean, but the whipped texture (as opposed to a harsh granular texture) was gentle on their dry scalp, offering gentle exfoliation.

Mikey, tester with a dry scalp: “My scalp felt revitalized immediately after each use. It helped with my dry scalp symptoms, and my hair felt much lighter and more voluminous after using the scrub. I’ve noticed a lasting improvement in the health of my scalp as it’s been less dry with continued use of this scrub.”

Amanda, tester with type 3/4C hair (not shown): “This shampoo truly cleansed my scalp and hair. It has a wonderful lather and texture, and it didn’t make my hair feel brittle. This product did exactly what it claimed to do.”

Best Multitasker

Ouai Scalp and Body Scrub

$42

$32 at Amazon $42 at Sephora $42 at Ulta

Key Ingredients: Sugar, coconut oil | Size: 8.8 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Fragrance-Free: No

Not totally sold on buying a separate scalp scrub? We present you with this one-stop scalp and body scrub instead. You can, quite literally, use it from head to toe. Credit exfoliating sugar crystals coupled with hydrating coconut oil, which come together in a formula that works just as well on your scalp as it does on dry elbows and knees. And in true Ouai fashion, the sophisticated scent (a mix of rose, cedarwood, and musk) is totally satisfying.

Both Byrdie testers, one with type 4C curls and the other with type 3B curls, loved how this exfoliating scrub easily removed dead skin and product buildup from their scalps, leaving them with a noticeable refreshed feel. The formula turned into a lather that felt extra-gentle on the scalp, helping limit irritation—though one tester found her thick curls felt slightly drier, so consider following up with a deep conditioner if your hair is prone to dryness. Overall, between the incredible scent, manageable packaging, and gentle, effective formula, this Ouai scrub is one of our favorites.

Ecleen, tester type 3B curls and an itchy scalp: “My scalp felt refreshed after rinsing, and I noticed my hair wash went further with this product (meaning less itchiness and oiliness) after repeated use.”

Nicole, tester with type 4C curls (not shown): “Every time I touched the jar. I was compelled to open the lid and take a big whiff, inhaling the beautiful scent. It truly is a sweet fragrance to wear in your hair or on your body and transforms your shower experience.”

Best Gentle

Ceremonia Papaya Scalp Scrub

$39 at Amazon $36 at Sephora $39 at Revolve

Key Ingredients: Papaya enzymes, pink Bolivian salt, avocado oil | Size: 8 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Fragrance-Free: No

After testing this scalp scrub on two different hair types, we were pleased with its effectiveness on both. One tester with fine, type 2A hair loved how it made her scalp and roots feel squeaky-clean yet still hydrated (no stripped feeling here!), while our tester with type 4C hair found the dense, sudsy formula actually impactful while washing her hair—her words exactly: “it’s a match made in heaven for thick hair.” Made with naturally fortifying ingredients like avocado oil, papaya extract, and rosemary oil, plus pink Bolivian salt for a solid scrub (which transforms into a lather once it hits water), this deliciously tropical-scented formula cleanses efficiently while gently exfoliating and nourishing the scalp.

Maddie Barber, writer with type 2A hair: “My hair felt amazing—refreshed, light, and bouncier. It definitely helped remove oil, sweat (even after the most difficult heated workout classes), and any buildup from dry shampoo, leaving my scalp feeling totally refreshed. “

Chantia, tester with type 4C hair (not pictured): “It is one of the best shampoos I’ve used because of how it feels and minimizes my number of shampoo applications. It left my hair lightweight and didn’t fade my color.”

Best for Oily Hair

Philip B. Peppermint Avocado Scalp Scrub

$92 at Amazon $92 at Nordstrom $85 at Walmart

Key Ingredients: Salt, avocado oil, peppermint oil, eucalyptus oil, witch hazel, arnica flower extract, aloe leaf juice | Size: 8 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Fragrance-Free: No

Yes, this is pricey. But even the teeniest amount works wonders, which means you’ll get plenty of use out of the one (big) jar. The sea salt granules aren’t scratchy yet they’re large enough that you can feel them exfoliating. The same goes for the peppermint, avocado, and eucalyptus oils, which cool and invigorate your scalp. It’s enough to give it that refreshing, spa-like feel without being too tingly or overpowering. Also nice: The witch hazel water in the formula further helps balance out and energize the skin on your scalp, which is great if you tend to get oily.

Best With Chemical Exfoliants

Oribe Serene Scalp Exfoliating Scrub

$52 at Amazon View on Nordstrom $52 at Shopbop.com

Key Ingredients: Watermelon, lychee, edelweiss flower extracts, polymer beads, AHAs | Size: 4.2 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Fragrance-Free: No

Trust us: It’s worth shelling out the pennies for this guy. It boasts both chemical and physical exfoliating ingredients: alpha-hydroxy acids to dissolve dead skin and soft polymer beads to slough it off. Plus, it contains a litany of different plant-based extracts that offer antioxidant protection and help soothe the scalp. Aguirre is a fan, saying it’s her go-to recommendation for clients. Although it’s a powerful formula, she says that it’s still gentle on all hair types. Personally, we’ve found that it works especially well on thin and fine hair. 

Best for Sensitive Scalps

Sachajuan Scalp Scrub

$58 at Dermstore $58 at Shopbop.com

Key Ingredients: Shea butter, soybean oils | Size: 8.4 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Fragrance-Free: No

This soothing scrub comes recommended by New York-based board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green, M.D., who explains why it is the ideal option for those prone to irritation. “For people with sensitive skin, it is important to avoid scalp scrubs that strip all of the natural oils that shield the skin; instead, they should use gentle exfoliators,” says Dr. Green. “The Sachajuan Scalp Scrub is one of the best scalp scrubs for people with sensitive skin. Free from parabens, dyes, sulfates, and fragrances, it avoids common skin irritants that can cause scalp inflammation.” It uses a mix of sugar crystals and natural oils such as shea butter and soybean oil to boost hydration and protect the skin without leaving it feeling greasy. 

Best for Curly Hair

Nioxin Purifying Scalp Treatment

$27 at Amazon $27 at Ulta View on Nioxin.com

Key Ingredients: Triethanolamine, citric acid | Size: 1.6 oz | Cruelty-Free: No | Fragrance-Free: Not listed

Those with curly hair can especially benefit from taking extra care of their scalps. This exfoliating treatment from Nioxin is the one to reach for if you are looking to eliminate product buildup, hydrate your roots, and maintain your waves. Salon owner and hairstylist, Diane Cole Stevens, recommended this pick, telling us, “This scalp scrub offers a minty fresh feeling and boosts circulation. It effectively removes flakes and dead skin, as well as product residue—setting the base for healthy hair growth.”

Stevens also gave us her pro-tips on how to use this scrub effectively, saying, “Apply to the scalp on dry hair, massage for one minute, then let sit for 10 minutes. Follow with shampoo, rinse, and condition. This is a must-have for a spa-like experience in the shower and can be used weekly.”

Best for Dandruff

Cécred Clarifying Shampoo & Scalp Scrub

$19 at Ulta $39 at Cecred.com

Key Ingredients: Willow bark, tea tree oil, niacinamide | Size: 2.5, 8 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Fragrance-Free: No

We love this purifying pick from Beyoncé’s brand, Cécred. It’s ideal for tackling a range of hair types (especially those with natural or curly hair) and scalp-related issues—its versatility makes it one of the best scalp treatments available. One Byrdie tester in particular deals with persistent dandruff, itchiness, and seborrheic dermatits flare-ups—this Cécred formula offered her scalp much-needed relief during testing, reducing flakes and itchiness to the point that she didn’t need her medicated scalp treatments less and less.

The refreshing lemon and mint scent combines with purple willow bark and niacinamide to provide your scalp and hair with a deep, thorough wash and an intense dose of moisture. We also love how this clarifying shampoo comes with a nozzle applicator, making it easier to apply directly to your scalp, particularly if you have braids or locs.

Dalene, tester with fine hair and dandruff: “After repeated use, I felt it kept my scalp clean and well hydrated. Over the long term, I felt I had less dandruff and itching. My hair literally squeaked clean after I washed it, as it helped to remove all my product buildup.”

Olivia Hancock, senior beauty editor (not shown): “As my stylist distributed it throughout my hair, I noticed that the formula didn’t feel gritty or abrasive. Instead, the exfoliants effortlessly dissolve as they’re massaged onto your scalp. After she lathered it and rinsed it out, she encouraged me to feel my hair and scalp, and I noticed that it felt more refreshed and balanced.”

Best for Easy Application

Jupiter Purifying Mask

$37

$33 at Amazon $37 at Dermstore

$29

$25 at Hellojupiter.com

Key Ingredients: Volcanic ash, argan oil, biotin | Size: 5 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Fragrance-Free: No

Scalp scrubs can be notoriously tough to apply—and messy. That’s why we appreciate this super easy-to-use foam formula. It’s called a mask because it packs in moisturizing argan oil and strengthening biotin. Simply squirt out a dollop of the mousse-like texture and leave it on damp or dry hair for up to five minutes for a thorough exfoliation that leaves both your scalp and hair feeling totally fresh and clean.

Best Drugstore

Kristin Ess Instant Exfoliating Scalp Scrub

$15 at Amazon $15 at Ulta View on Shoppremiumoutlets.com

Key Ingredients: Sugar complex, sunflower seed oil, mango butter, avocado oil | Size: 6.7 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Fragrance-Free: No

As the name suggests, expect an instantly purified and rejuvenated scalp after using this scrub. Formulated with a special sugar complex and multiple plant oils, it removes product buildup and dandruff without drying out the hair. Many reviewers hail this as the one product that got rid of their itchy, flaky scalp for good. The texture is very thick, so it might take some time to work into the scalp.

Best for Hair Growth

Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Clarifying Sugar Scalp Scrub

$11 at Ulta $10 at Mielleorganics.com

Key Ingredients: Rosemary leaf oil, biotin, peppermint oil, shea butter | Size: 6 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Fragrance-Free: No

We love any product in our routines that offers multiple benefits, like this rosemary-focused scalp scrub from Mielle Organics. First and foremost, this scrub aims to clarify the scalp—our tester’s refreshed, lighter-feeling, and flake-free scalp post-use proves it delivers on these promises (it even made her hair softer at the roots, making it easier to manage). What’s more, the inclusion of rosemary and biotin is major for anyone dealing with thinning hair, as this ingredient is known for promoting hair growth.

Keep in mind that this packaging is different from other scrubs on this list—the squeeze bottle is slightly inconvenient compared to a jar that’s easy to scoop product from. While this element gave our tester pause when initially using this formula, the overall results and seamless spreadability (once the product was out of the tube) made it worth returning to.

Anna Traver, writer with type 3B curls: “My hair felt lighter and more refreshed after using, and my scalp felt less dry and itchy.”

Best for Itchy Scalps

Virtue Labs Exfoliating Scalp Treatment

$52 at Amazon $50 at Sephora $50 at Ulta

Unfortunately, an itchy scalp can affect anyone, regardless of hair type. However, this dilemma was no match for Virtue’s Exfoliating Scalp Treatment—the luxe-smelling scrub left our tester with a noticeably refreshed, itch-free scalp. With both physical and chemical exfoliants working together on this treatment’s ingredient list, specifically rice, salicylic acid, and fruit enzymes (respectively), it’s no surprise that this tester was pleased by her results after using this scrub. Aside from this formula’s scalp-clarifying benefits, our tester couldn’t rave enough about the pleasant scent, noting a “luxurious” experience each and every time she used it. 

Kate, tester with curly, frizz-prone hair and an itchy scalp: “My scalp felt clean, fresh, and calm right after rinsing. It is a really pleasant, reset feeling. It did help with itchiness, especially during the winter when my scalp tends to be more sensitive and dry.”

What to Look for in a Scalp Scrub

• Type of Exfoliant: Most scalp scrubs either have physical exfoliants—think sea salt or sugar crystals—or chemical exfoliants such as alpha-hydroxy acids. Triple board-certified cosmetic dermatologist, Dr. Dendy Engelman, M.D., favors chemical exfoliants for the scalp. “Chemical exfoliants are generally more controlled and scalp-friendly, especially for sensitive, oily, or acne-prone scalps. Ingredients like salicylic acid penetrate oil and help clear follicular buildup, making them ideal for dandruff, excess sebum, or inflammation, while gentle AHAs can improve dryness and flaking without friction,” says Dr. Engelman. She recommends using physical exfoliants in moderation as “aggressive scrubbing can disrupt the scalp barrier and worsen irritation.”
• Ingredients: In addition to exfoliants, look for scalp scrubs with moisturizing and soothing ingredients, like shea butter and argan and coconut oils.
• Texture: You’ll notice that scalp scrubs vary in texture, with some made of coarse granules and others with creamier, shampoo-like textures. “Coarse scrubs are best suited for individuals with very oily scalps, thick hair, heavy product buildup, or adherent flaking, because the larger particles can more effectively lift dense debris and excess sebum from the surface,” says Dr. Engelman. She notes that anyone with a sensitive scalp should veer away from these thicker, coarse options, however. “Fine-texture scrubs are more appropriate for fine hair, color-treated hair, sensitive scalps, or mild buildup, as they provide gentle exfoliation without disrupting the barrier or causing micro-cuts.”

How We Tested Scalp Scrubs

To test the best scalp scrubs, we compiled a list of products and spoke with hairstylists and dermatologists to get their expert recommendations. We then gave them to testers with different hair types to try out at home. After using the products, we had the testers note down the following: 

• Ease of Application: We looked into how easy it was to apply the scalp scrub and rinse it out. 
• Effect: Keeping the designated hair type in mind, we rated how well the product did what it claimed to do and how it left the scalp and hair feeling in terms of cleanliness, softness, and shine. 
• Feel: We rated the products not only on how well they made the scalp feel immediately after application but also on how the scalp felt over time and whether it successfully reduced dandruff and flakiness. 
• Ingredients: We looked into the formulas that contained moisturizing and nourishing ingredients.  
• Overall Performance: Finally, we ranked the products on how they improved the health and condition of the scalp and whether or not they left any residue or made the roots look greasy.

Meet Our Experts

Byrdie interviewed the following experts to learn more about how to select and use scalp scrubs.

• Diane Cole Stevens is a salon owner and hairstylist who specializes in color and styling techniques for curly to coily hair. 
• Dr. Michele Green, M.D., is a New York-based dermatologist specializing in the treatment of hair loss for nearly 20 years. 
• Shelly Aguirre is a hairstylist and educator based in Chicago with extensive experience in extensions, blowouts, and keratin treatments. 
• Dr. Dendy Engelman, M.D., FACMS, FAAD, is a triple board-certified cosmetic dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at the Shafer Clinic in New York City.

Why Trust Byrdie

Madison Barber is a Byrdie writer and shopping expert. She personally tested Ceremonia’s Papaya Scalp Scrub for this story, gathering insights while using it regularly for several weeks. Additionally, she analyzed several insights from Byrdie’s team of testers and fellow editors to determine which top-rated formulas deserved a spot on Byrdie’s list of favorites.

Byrdie contributor Melanie Rud contributed to an earlier version of this article. She has over a decade of writing and editing experience in the beauty industry. Plagued with an oily scalp since the beginning of time, she relies on a scalp scrub weekly.