The Best Scalp Brush

Buying Guide

Dandruff is a common condition that causes the skin on the scalp to flake. It can be inconvenient and embarrassing, but dandruff is not caused by poor hygiene. Increasing your shampooing frequency can make the issue less obvious, but treatment will be necessary to get to the root of the problem.

There are plenty of over-the-counter shampoos designed to treat dandruff, but in some cases, a dermatologist-prescribed shampoo may be necessary. Each shampoo has a different treatment schedule, so be sure you follow the directions carefully to get the quickest results.

In addition to shampoo, a scalp brush can be a valuable dandruff treatment tool. Scalp brushes help remove any excess skin cells that have built up in your hair, letting you brush them out so they don’t make an unexpected appearance as you’re going through your day. A scalp brush also acts as an exfoliant, sloughing those layers of skin away so the dandruff treatment can get to the scalp.

But even for those who don’t experience dandruff or other scalp issues, a scalp brush can come in handy. It stimulates circulation, which some believe promotes healthier hair overall. Scalp brushes are also great for removing the hair product residue that tends to accumulate on the scalp that doesn’t quite loosen up with daily washings. It’s a quick step you can take in the shower that may make a big difference.

One of the biggest reasons people gravitate toward scalp brushes, though, is the way it makes them feel. A scalp brush can offer a scalp massage. Although it’s not the same as the ones offered by some beauty professionals, it can still bring a little luxury to your shampoo, condition and rinse routine.

Scalp brushes aren’t limited to the shower. You can use them on wet or dry hair, customizing them to fit your needs. Many find they come in handy for shampooing each day, adding a little extra cleansing power to their shower routine.

• Most scalp brushes are manual, which makes them friendly for using while bathing or showering. You’ll move the brush in circular patterns around the entire scalp.
• Look for a scalp brush that will fit comfortably in the palm of your hand. An ergonomic design will keep your hand from wearing out halfway through the process.
• Those who have thicker hair will need a brush with longer bristles to ensure it gets all the way through to the scalp.
• Most scalp brushes feature a handle or ring that you slide your hand or finger through. This piece helps reduce the risk that you’ll drop it once water and shampoo make your hands slippery.
• Although stiffer bristles will do a better job of exfoliating, they can irritate the scalp. Look for silicon bristles that build in a little flexibility while also providing the massaging and exfoliating power you need.
• If you opt to use your scalp brush on dry hair, don’t feel the need to use it like a hairbrush. You’ll just focus on your scalp, then use a hairbrush for your hair.
• You don’t have to use your scalp brush every day. In fact, you can start with just a couple of times a week and add more days as you start to see benefits. Some may find that a few times a week is all that’s necessary.
• Even though you can use your scalp brush on dry hair, you’ll get the best results in the shower. By either massaging before shampooing or combining the scalp brush with your shampoo, you’ll help the shampoo better do its job in removing dirt and skin cells and keeping your hair as clean as possible.