When we think of exfoliation, typically we think about skin exfoliation for lips, face and body. However, exfoliation can also be done on the scalp. After all, our scalp is made of skin too!
Benefits of Scalp Exfoliation for Natural Hair Growth
Many stay on the hunt for the best hair growth potion, lotion, cream or oil but the secret to achieving long and healthy hair is pretty simple. We first have to create a healthy environment for our hair to grow and this starts with a healthy scalp.

Remove Product Buildup
The healthy hair movement shifted our views on what’s healthy and unhealthy for our hair. We’re using less shampoo and more conditioner which is great for increasing moisture but it also increases the opportunity for scalp buildup. When the scalp is suffocated by bacteria, product buildup or dead skin cells, growth is impacted.
Remove Dead Skin Cells
Just like exfoliating our face, lips and body, scalp exfoliation serve the same purpose. It removes dead skin cells so that new skin cells can emerge to promote a healthier hair growth cycle.
Unclog Pores, Lift Dandruff, Relieve Scalp Conditions
Scalp exfoliation unclogs pores, lifts unwanted dandruff and even relieves scalp conditions like acne, blemishes, whiteheads, dryness, itching and flaking. Keeping the scalp healthy and free from unwanted buildup and bacteria will ensure hair follicles have the best environment for growing long and healthy hair.
Related: Natural Remedy to Relieve a Dry, Itchy, Flaky Scalp
Ways to Exfoliate the Scalp
I’ve been using a handmade scalp exfoliator by Komaza Hair Care for the past two years but a quick Google search show many options ranging from DIY treatments to commercial products like ALTERNA Haircare Caviar Clinical Exfoliating Scalp Facial, Madam C.J. Walker Beauty Culture Dream Come True Wonderful Scalp Exfoliator, Ouidad Mediterranean Bay Leaf Exfoliating Hair & Scalp Treatment and Keranique Micro-Exfoliating Revitalizing Mask.
Komaza Pona Hair and Scalp Treatment
Many years ago, I struggled with dryness, breakage and split ends. I purchased a hair analysis from Komaza Hair Care to better understand my hair. During that time, I was introduced to Komaza Pona Hair and Scalp Treatment. Unlike a basic at-home DIY mix, this product offers benefits above and beyond scalp exfoliation as listed below:
- Soothes and hydrates the scalp
- Encourages hair follicle growth
- Improves and repairs hair structure
- Supports cellular growth
- Softens keratin to encourage hair regrowth
- Increases water content in hair and skin
- Anti-aging calming skin exfoliator
- Increases cell renewal and skin clarity
- Stimulates hair growth and prevents hair loss
- Strengthens the capillaries that supply blood to hair follicles
- Fortifies scalp tissue
It delivers everything it promises and more. I no longer struggle with dry scalp, itchy scalp or scalp buildup of any kind.
Related: Komaza Pona Hair and Scalp Treatment Review
Shampoo Brush
A shampoo brush safely lifts away dead skin cells, controls dandruff and removes product buildup leaving behind a clean, healthy scalp. It stimulates blood flow to the scalp which is a natural technique for promoting faster hair growth. Scalp massaging is perfect for areas that have thinned from stress, hairstyles or chemical services. A shampoo brush is more effective than using my fingers to remove buildup and it offers a soothing massaging to the scalp. I have two types of shampoo brushes but both serve the same purpose as explained below:
Mar-V-Cide Shampoo Brush
The Mar-V-Cide shampoo brush does not come with bells and whistles but gets the job done. It’s very gentle and does not damage the hair or scalp.
Scalp Invigorator
The scalp invigorator is a shampoo brush and battery operated scalp massager. You can use the scalp massager feature on wash day to lift product buildup or during the week on dry hair to stimulate blood flow to your scalp.
Related: Scalp Massager and Shampoo Brush for Natural Hair
How to Use a Shampoo Brush
I place the shampoo brush on my scalp and gently massage the area. I lift the brush and move it to another area of my scalp and gently massage. Repeat until done. I do not rake, drag or comb it through my hair like a comb. Using the shampoo brush along with a scalp exfoliating treatment is the perfect wash day treat.
This reminds me that I need to use my scalp invigorator more often. Especially when I’m applying oil to my scalp. Great info, Jay!
Thank you, Kim! I love my Scalp Invigorator. So soothing.
Jay I enjoy all the articles you post, thank you so much! keep on going!
How Stefan, long time no speak – thank you.