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Whether it be with social plans or our heads, we can all be a little flaky.

best scalp exfoliators 3 cosmetic items overlapping on a red background. From left to right white squeezable tube white…

Collage: Laneen Wells; Source images: Courtesy of brands

“My scalp has never felt cleaner, and I’ve been noticing a lot less flakiness.”

properties, and an intensive 9% alpha hydroxy acid blend of exfoliatingglycolicandlactic acids.

Like its predecessor, this pre-shampoo scalp scrub is powered by peppermint androsemary oils.

Scalp Revival Charcoal + Coconut Oil Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo in branded white jar on light gray background

“The Anablue Scalp Cleanser gently cleanses my scalp, leaving the area feeling squeaky clean and refreshed.”

It starts as a gritty, gooey scalp scrub that exfoliates with sugar crystals and apple cider vinegar.

It also contains conditioning properties a la Kalahari melon and jojoba oils.

AHA+ACV Pre-Shampoo Scalp Clarifying Treatment in yellow and red branded bottle with applicator cap on light gray background

The biggest benefit of using a scalp exfoliator is its buildup-reducing properties.

“Some may work to increase blood flow to the scalp which also stimulates hair growth.”

It should not feel tender and should not have an odor.

Rosemary Mint Clarifying Sugar Scalp Scrub in branded green tube with black cap on light gray background

What’s the difference between physical and chemical exfoliators?

In addition to scalp scrubs, Dr. Camp also suggests using ascalp massager.

“Also skip if you have any cuts, sores, or infections in the scalp.”

Anablue Scalp Cleanser in branded bright blue tube on light gray background

Testers considered performance across four primary categories: efficacy, texture and experience, fragrance, and packaging.

For more on what’s involved in our reporting, check out our completereviews process and methodology page.

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A beauty product is a personal purchase.

BHA Salicylic Acid Scalp Exfoliator in branded gray tube on light gray background

You like our hair?

Gee, thanks, we bought these strand enhancers (and you should, too):

Done reading?

Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo bottle of pale yellow dandruff shampoo with white cap on light gray background

TPH By Taraji Never Salty Scalp Scrub in yellow tube on light gray background

Scalp Care Exfoliator in branded blue and white bottle with applicator tip on light gray background

Exfoliating Scalp Treatment in branded light blue jar with cap on light gray background

Ouai Scalp & Body Scrub beige jar with white lid on light gray background

The gray Manta Pulse Hair Brush on a light gray background