Taking care of our hair is trending. An Irish expert shares why exfoliating your scalp could be the key to your healthiest hair yet.
In recent years we have seen the ‘skinification‘ of hair accumulate before our eyes. It refers to the beauty trend of applying the same rules we have for our skin and skincare to our scalps and hair ends.
With products like scalp and strand oils, bonding treatments, clarifying shampoos and peptides in shampoos and serums, the aim is to support and nourish the hair from root to ends instead of simply maintaining it.
Focusing solely on the scalp, treating it as an extension to the skin on your face means we should be exfoliating it regularly. We caught up with Emma King, Irish hair expert and founder of Cascata Hair to find out if the trend is worthwhile.
Firstly, should we exfoliate our scalp?
“I always explain it simple – your scalp is skin, and it needs care just like your face does,” Emma begins. “Over time, product build up, natural oils, dead skin and everyday dirt can sit on the scalp and clog follicles. When that happens, it can affect how your hair looks, feels and grows. From what I see in the salon, once the scalp is properly cleansed and balanced, the hair immediately responds better. Healthy, beautiful hair really does start at the scalp, you can’t have one without the other.”
What kind of results can someone expect from regular scalp exfoliation?
“When exfoliation is done gently and consistently, people usually notice a difference quite quickly. The scalp feels cleaner, fresher and more comfortable, and issues like flaking, itchiness or oiliness often improve over time. From a hair point of view, it helps follicles work more efficiently, which can support healthier growth, better shine and stronger-looking hair. I also find hair takes treatments better and styles more easily when the scalp isn’t congested. I often describe it as giving the scalp a fresh start.”
I want to start exfoliating my scalp, but where do I start?
“My biggest advice is to keep it gentle. Always choose a scalp exfoliator that’s made specifically for the scalp not a harsh scrub and follow the instructions carefully. With products like Cascata Detox + Reset, exfoliating and cleansing happen in one simple step. Apply directly to the scalp (sectioning the hair if needed), massage gently in circular motions, and once water is added it lathers and cleanses at the same time so there’s no need to shampoo again afterwards.”
How often should I exfoliate my scalp?
“For most people, once a week works very well. If your scalp is sensitive or you’re new to exfoliation, once every two weeks is a great place to start. What matters most is consistency. When scalp care becomes part of your regular routine, it supports long-term scalp health and that’s what you’ll see reflected in the condition and appearance of your hair.”
Irish Country Magazine beauty writer Adele Miner has been incorporating scalp exfoliation into her haircare routine for a number of weeks and shares the results. “I have quite greasy hair that can usually only go a day or two without washing. Since making scalp exfoliation part of my haircare routine once or twice a week I have noticed a huge difference in how long it takes my hair to get greasy, pushing out hair wash day by a day or so.”
Scalp exfoliants to try:
Cascata Advanced Scalp Care Detox + Restore Scalp Shampoo – €50
The INKEY List Salicylic Acid Exfoliating Scalp Treatment – €16.99
