How to Make DIY Scalp Scrubs at Home: 6 Easy Recipes

I’ve always been a fan of DIY hair products. There’s something so comforting about blending oils and natural ingredients by hand, crafting a new wholesome recipe each week. It’s become one of my favorite rituals and a little love letter to myself. But it wasn’t until recently that I had a quiet realization—if I’m already making my own mask, why not start creating my own DIY scalp scrub too?

That decision completely transformed my hair care routine. 

Making your own homemade scalp scrubs gives you full control over what goes on your scalp and lets you customize each blend to match exactly what your hair needs. You can tailor each scrub to focus on boosting hair growth, soothing dryness, or simply resetting after using too many styling products.

Why Use a DIY Scalp Scrub?

Just like our skin and lips, our scalp needs regular exfoliation to stay clean and healthy. A natural scalp scrub can do wonders! If you’re struggling with dandruff, excess oil, or product buildup, adding a scalp scrub to your hair routine can help refresh your roots and support overall scalp health. These are some of the benefits of using a DIY scalp scrub:

Removes Buildup and Excess Oil

Between dry shampoo, styling products, and environmental grime, your scalp can accumulate a surprising amount of residue. Over time, this buildup can clog follicles and weigh down your roots. A homemade scalp scrub, especially one made with sugar or sea salt, can gently exfoliate the scalp, clearing away debris and restoring balance. 

Promotes Hair Growth

One of the key benefits of scalp exfoliation is that it encourages healthy hair growth. By stimulating blood flow, a DIY scalp scrub can create the ideal environment for new strands to thrive. Think of it as skincare for your scalp because healthy hair always starts at the root.

Reduces Flakes and Itchiness

A flaky, itchy scalp is often a sign that your skin isn’t being properly exfoliated, among other things. Instead of reaching for another bottle of medicated shampoo, try a natural homemade scalp scrub with anti-inflammatory ingredients like aloe vera, tea tree oil, or rosemary. Add gentle exfoliants, like quick or ground oats, to soothe irritation while gently sloughing off dead skin.

Improves Product Absorption

Cleansing your scalp thoroughly ensures that any subsequent treatments, oils, or masks can penetrate more effectively. Using an exfoliating scalp scrub once a week can boost the results of your entire haircare routine. Exfoliating makes your products work smarter, not harder.

How to Use a Homemade Scalp Scrub Properly 

When it comes to exfoliating your scalp, how you use a scalp scrub matters just as much as what’s in it. The righttechnique not only boosts the benefits of scalp exfoliation but also helps avoid irritation or dryness. 

Think of this process as a reset for your roots. 

How Often to Exfoliate Scalp

It depends on your scalp type, hair texture, and environmental factors like the weather. For example, if you frequently use styling products or have an oily scalp, a weekly DIY scalp scrub for buildup removal might be ideal. On the other hand, if your scalp is more sensitive or dry (especially in colder months), start using a scrub once every ten days.

Personally, I try to exfoliate once every 10 days during the summer when my roots get oilier, but I cut back to every three weeks in the winter. If you’re wondering how often to exfoliate your scalp, listen to your body.

Some general tips:

• Start with once every 10 days and pay attention to how your scalp reacts.

• Increase frequency if you have excess oil, product buildup, or flakes.

• Reduce frequency if your scalp feels dry, tight, or irritated.

• Always start with wet hair, either in the shower or after soaking your scalp with warm water. This helps soften any buildup and preps your skin for exfoliation. 

• Section your hair to expose the scalp.

• Scoop a small amount of your DIY scalp scrub recipe onto your fingertips.

• Apply to the scalp, not the hair strands.

• Gently massage for 2-3 minutes. Use light to medium pressure. Think “soothing massage,” not “intense scrub.”

• Focus on areas where you notice the most oiliness, flakes, or buildup.

• Avoid using brushes or tools for application. Your fingers give you the best control and are far less likely to irritate.

• Adding nourishing oils like almond, jojoba, or coconut oil in your homemade scalp scrub helps hydrate your scalp while gently lifting dead skin cells.

Post-Scrub Care

There are two simple ways to prepare your DIY scalp scrub. The first is to mix only natural ingredients such as sugar, coconut oil, and honey, just like a traditional homemade exfoliant. 

The second option is to combine your homemade scrub with a bit of shampoo. If you include shampoo in the blend, you won’t need to rewash your hair afterward. But if your scrub doesn’t contain shampoo, it’s best to follow up with a thorough rinse and your regular shampoo routine once you’re done scrubbing.

Always end with a hydrating conditioner or scalp oil. This helps rebalance moisture and soothe your scalp after exfoliation.

Natural oils like coconut, jojoba, or almond oil, combined with soothing additions like aloe vera or honey, help restore balance and lock in hydration after your scrub.

And don’t forget, protecting your hair from the sun and harsh elements matters, too! A lightweight leave-in conditioner or serum with UV protection can make all the difference, even in cooler weather.

Best Natural Ingredients for a DIY Scalp Scrub

Here are some of our favorite ingredients to use in DIY scalp scrub recipes. Each one brings its own unique benefits, from gentle exfoliation to deep hydration, soothing irritation, and clarifying buildup.

Natural Exfoliants

Sugar: A classic choice for any DIY scalp scrub recipe, sugar is gentle yet effective. It dissolves easily in warm water, making cleanup simple. It’s especially great for sensitive skin and safe to use on a weekly basis. You can use it to create a sugar scalp scrub that helps remove product buildup or make it the star ingredient in your favorite homemade scalp exfoliator recipe.

Sea Salt or Himalayan Salt: Salt is slightly more abrasive than sugar and comes with natural antimicrobial properties. It’s ideal for oily hair or dandruff-prone scalps, helping to detoxify and deeply exfoliate. Use it to create a clarifying DIY scalp scrub that leaves your scalp feeling clean and refreshed.

Oats: Finely ground oats offer ultra-gentle exfoliation and have calming, anti-inflammatory properties, making them perfect for itchy or dry scalps. Use them as the main ingredient in a soothing homemade scalp scrub to help ease irritation and restore comfort.

Alma Powder: A brightening, mildly abrasive powder rich in vitamin C. It’s perfect for oily scalps or dull roots. Use it in a refreshing natural scalp scrub paired with citrus zest for an energizing boost.

Natural Moisturizers

Coconut Oil: Coconut oil’s high concentration of fatty acids helps moisturize the scalp and promote stronger, healthier hair. Its natural anti-fungal properties make it an excellent base for any homemade scalp scrub.

Jojoba, Avocado, and Sweet Almond Oil: These natural oils are ultra-light and soothing, making them perfect for sensitive or delicate skin. They help balance oil production and promote lasting hydration.

Olive Oil: Packed with antioxidants, this nourishing oil softens both the scalp and strands. It’s especially helpful during winter or in dry climates when your scalp feels tight or itchy. Adding it to a deep-conditioning homemade scalp scrub gives your hair that extra boost of hydration and moisture right where it needs it.

Egg Yolk: Adds protein and essential fatty acids, perfect for strengthening fragile hair and nourishing dry roots. Use it in a restorative DIY scalp scrub for hair growth.

Natural Butter (Shea, Cocoa, Mango): These nutrient-rich butters provide deep hydration, soothe irritation, and help lock in moisture after exfoliation. Use them in a homemade scalp scrub recipe for dry or curly hair types.

Nut Milks (Almond, Oat, Coconut): Nut milks are gentle and creamy, offering soothing hydration while helping to create a smooth, creamy texture in your scrub. Pair them with oats and honey for a calming DIY scalp scrub that’s perfect for sensitive skin.

Clarifying Agents

Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV): With its naturally low pH, ACV helps restore the scalp’s balance and gently dissolves buildup from styling products or excess oil. It also has antimicrobial properties, making it ideal for a DIY scalp scrub focused on deep cleansing.

Tea Tree Oil: Tea tree oil is frequently used for fighting dandruff, soothing itching, and reducing scalp inflammation. It helps detox the scalp and unclog follicles. Use it in a clarifying scalp scrub, or mix it with white sugar, avocado oil, and mint essential oil for a refreshing scrub that’s perfect for flaky scalps.

Ginger: Naturally warming, ginger improves circulation to the follicles and helps reduce inflammation when used in any homemade scalp scrub recipe.

Turmeric: Anti-inflammatory and antibacterial, turmeric supports scalp healing and may reduce itchiness and redness. Add it to a homemade exfoliating scrub to help remove buildup and excess sebum.

Lemongrass: This citrusy herb offers antimicrobial and astringent benefits that help freshen the scalp. Try it in a refreshing DIY scalp scrub, perfect for oily roots.

Soothing Add-Ins

Aloe Vera: A natural hydrator with cooling and soothing properties

Honey: Naturally antibacterial and deeply moisturizing, honey adds a touch of luxury to any scalp scrub. It helps heal microtears and soothes inflammation. Use it in any moisturizing DIY scalp scrub recipe.

Dandelion Root & Marshmallow Root: These roots are gentle, anti-inflammatory, and rich in mucilage, making them perfect for calming irritated scalps.

Essential Oils 

Rosemary Essential oil: Stimulates circulation and supports hair growth.

Peppermint Essential oil: Helps relieve itchiness and provides a cooling sensation.

Lavender Essential oil: Soothes the scalp and supports relaxation.

How to Make a Scalp Scrub at Home

Let’s get started with making your own homemade scalp scrubs! I’m sharing some simple, natural exfoliating scalp scrub recipes that you can easily make using ingredients from your pantry.

Grab a bowl, utensils, a mason jar, and a blender if you want a smoother texture. These DIY scalp scrubs recipes are easy to make and fully customizable to suit your hair’s unique needs.

Keep in mind these tips before applying any homemade scalp scrub:

• Detangle your hair with a comb to make application easier.

• Always apply on a damp scalp before shampooing.

• Patch test essential oils first, especially if you have sensitive skin.

Exfoliating Honey & Sugar Scalp Scrub

Best for: product buildup, dull hair, mild dandruff

Ingredients

• 1 cup white sugar

• 2 tbsp raw honey

• 3 tbsp avocado oil

• 5 drops peppermint essential oil

• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar (optional)

• 2 tbsp shampoo (optional)

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine honey and brown sugar.

2. Stir in avocado oil, ACV, and peppermint oil until well-mixed.

3. If you want to add shampoo to the scrub, add it at the end. The amount depends on how thick or runny you want the consistency to be.

4. Apply to your scalp in sections, using your fingertips, and massage gently for 3 minutes.

5. Rinse your hair thoroughly and follow with shampoo and conditioner.

Tip: A go-to DIY scalp scrub for a healthy scalp. Apple cider vinegar gently clarifies by removing product buildup, while peppermint oil adds a refreshing, cooling sensation.

Soothing Oatmeal & Aloe Vera Scalp Scrub Recipe for Itchiness

Best for: itchy, irritated, or sensitive scalps

Ingredients

• 1 cup finely ground oats

• 1 tbsp aloe vera gel

• 4 tbsp almond milk

• 2 tsp almond oil

• 4 drops of lavender essential oil

Instructions

1. Blend oats into a fine powder if not pre-ground.

2. Mix with aloe vera, almond milk, and almond oil in a bowl.

3. Add lavender oil and stir well.

4. Gently apply to scalp, let sit for 5–10 minutes, then rinse with warm water and follow with shampoo and conditioner.

Tip: This natural scalp scrub soothes inflammation, hydrates the skin, and gently exfoliates.

Salt & Turmeric Clarifying Scrub for Oily Scalps

Best for: oily scalp, buildup, flaking

Ingredients

• 1 cup sea salt or Himalayan salt

• 4 tbsp olive oil

• ½ tsp ground turmeric

• 1 tsp ginger juice or grated ginger

• 1 tsp honey

Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine salt and turmeric.

2. Mix in olive oil, ginger, and honey until it forms a thick paste.

3. Massage into the scalp for 3–4 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.

Tip: Use a dark towel. This Turmeric scalp scrub may stain. Apply once every 10–14 days for best results.

Nourishing Cocoa Butter & Egg Yolk Hair Scrub

Best for: dry, damaged, or brittle hair

Ingredients

• 1 egg yolk

• 2 tbsp melted shea or cocoa butter

• 3 tbsp avocado oil

• 1 cup sugar

• ½ tsp vitamin E oil

Instructions

1. In a small, whisk melted butter and egg yolk.

2. Add avocado oil and sugar. Stir until combined.

3. Add vitamin E oil and mix again.

4. Apply your DIY scalp scrub and massage gently. Let sit for a few minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water. 

5. Follow with shampoo and hair mask or conditioner.

Tip: Avoid really hot water to prevent “cooking” the egg!

Herbal Detox Scrub with Alma Powder & Rosmery

Best for: refreshing and detoxifying scalp, stimulates growth

Ingredients

• ¾ cup Alma Powder 

• 1 tbsp brown sugar

• 2 tbsp coconut or castor oil

• 2 drops rosemary essential oil

• 2 tbsp lemongrass tea (cooled and strained)

• 1 pinch of dandelion or marshmallow root powder (optional)

Instructions

1. Mix alma powder and sugar in a bowl.

2. Add coconut oil and cooled lemongrass tea to create a paste.

3. Stir in rosemary oil and optional root powder.

4. Apply to damp scalp, massage in, and rinse thoroughly.

Tip: Perfect as a summer at-home scalp scrub to detoxify and stimulate growth.

Anti-Dandruff Tea Tree homemade exfoliating scalp scrub

Best for: flakiness, dandruff, itchiness

Ingredients

• 1 cup white sugar

• 3 tbsp jojoba oil or almond oil

• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar (ACV)

• 1 tsp lemon juice

• 1 tsp raw honey

• 2–3 tsp tea tree oil

Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix sugar, oil, honey, and ACV until a thick, smooth paste forms.

2. Add tea tree oil and lemon juice and stir again.

3. Apply directly to the scalp using fingertips, gently massaging for 3 minutes.

4. Leave on for 3–5 minutes, then rinse thoroughly and follow with a gentle shampoo.

Tip: This DIY scalp scrub recipe uses tea tree oil to combat dandruff-causing fungus and ACV to rebalance the pH.

How to Choose the Right DIY Scalp Scrub for Your Hair Type

Oily Scalp

Best ingredients: sea salt, ACV, peppermint oil, tea tree oil, lemon zest

Why it works: Helps absorb excess oil and clears clogged follicles.

Dry or Sensitive Scalp

Best ingredients: oats, honey, aloe vera, lavender oil, coconut milk, almond oil

Why it works: Hydrates, soothes, and reduces irritation.

Curly or Color-Treated Hair

Best ingredients: sugar, avocado oil, shea butter, rosmery oil, eggs

Why it works: Nourishes and strengthens without stripping.

DIY Scalp Scrub FAQs, Customization Tips & Self-Care Rituals

Can I Use a Scalp Scrub on Color-Treated or Relaxed Hair?

Yes, absolutely, but gently is the key. If your hair is chemically processed, color-treated, or relaxed, your scalp may be more sensitive, and your strands can be more prone to dryness or breakage. That’s why choosing a gentle, natural scalp scrub is so important.

Opt for soft exfoliants like finely ground oats, brown or white sugar, or even soothing clays. Skip harsher ingredients like apple cider vinegar, coarse salt, or potent essential oils like peppermint or tea tree, which can be too drying or irritating on already processed hair.

You’ll also want to be mindful of how often you exfoliate—once every one to two weeks is usually enough to remove buildup without over-stripping. Always patch test your DIY blend, apply with care, and rinse with cool to lukewarm water to protect your color and avoid further stress to your scalp.

A little care goes a long way in maintaining healthy roots and vibrant strands, even with color or chemical treatments.

Will a Scalp Scrub Help With Dandruff?

A well-made scalp scrub can be a game changer in managing dandruff, especially when used consistently. Dandruff is often caused by a combination of excess oil, product buildup, and an overgrowth of sebum on the scalp. Exfoliating with a DIY scalp scrub helps slough away visible flakes while unclogging follicles and reducing the environment where yeast and bacteria thrive.

For the best results, use ingredients known for their antifungal, antibacterial, and soothing properties. Tea tree oil is a classic go-to for fighting dandruff and calming irritation. Apple cider vinegar (ACV) helps balance the scalp’s pH and dissolve buildup, while oats and honey provide gentle exfoliation and moisture to keep your scalp from drying out too much.

Tip: Use your homemade scalp scrub for dandruff about once a week, no more than twice, to avoid over-exfoliation. Always follow up with a nourishing treatment like a DIY hair masks (these are our favorites) hydrating conditioner, or a lightweight oil to lock in moisture and soothe the scalp. With regular use, you’ll notice fewer flakes, a calmer scalp, and healthier hair from root to tip.

Customization & Self-Care Tips

Your scalp, like your skin, changes with the seasons, hormones, diet, and stress. What works one month may not work the next. That’s why experimenting with your own diy scalp scrub recipe is so powerful. You can switch up oils, exfoliants, and soothing agents to match your needs—naturally.

Make it yours. Make it weekly. Make it feel good, and share them with us!

I hope these DIY scalp scrub recipes bring some extra love and nourishment to your haircare routine. If you enjoy creating your own  products, you’ll love trying these homemade exfoliants alongside these DIY hair masks. 

Don’t miss our other DIY beauty recipes, including body scrubs, face scrubs, and even lip scrubs made with simple, natural ingredients.

Pin this article to save it for later so you can revisit your favorite scalp scrub recipe anytime. And if you’ve tried your ownDIY hair scrub or have a go-to blend you swear by, share it in the comments—I’d love to keep this self-care ritual going together.

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