7 Best Scalp Exfoliators for Oily Scalp in 2026
In 2026, selecting the right scalp exfoliator for oily scalps involves understanding the different formulations and ingredients designed to control excess oil, remove buildup, and maintain scalp health. Effective options often contain natural components like rosemary, peppermint, or sea salt, complemented by gentle exfoliants such as sugar crystals or salicylic acid. Choosing the appropriate product depends on your scalp’s specific needs and hair type, which can considerably influence hair health and overall cleanliness.
Rosemary Scalp Exfoliator & Clarifying Shampoo 10.6oz
- 【SCALP DETOX SCRUB 】Our rosemary scalp scrub can effectively remove product buildup, impurities, dead skin cells and relieve itchy, can balances a dry,...
- 【PLANT-BASED FORMULAS】Infused with rosemary essential oil, peppermint oil, sea salt, jojoba seed oil, honeysuckle flower extract with a refreshing scent...
- 【PROMOTE HAIR GROWTH & STRENGTHEN HAIR ROOTS】Made with premium ingredients that will improve scalp health, Our hair scrub with rosemary essential oil, and...
If your scalp gets oily quickly, you need a way to control the extra oil and keep your scalp healthy. The Rosemary Scalp Exfoliator and Clarifying Shampoo is a good choice. It’s a 2-in-1 product that cleans your hair and cares for your scalp at the same time. It helps remove old product, oil, and dead skin. This can reduce itchiness and help your scalp breathe better.
The shampoo is made with natural ingredients like rosemary oil, peppermint oil, and sea salt. These ingredients give it a fresh smell and soothe your scalp. It works well for all hair types. Just use it once a week to help your hair stay strong and encourage it to grow.
This product is best for people who have oily scalps and want to reduce oil and buildup. It is simple to use and safe for regular use. Just remember, it may take some time to see big results. If you have a very sensitive scalp, start with less frequent use to see how your skin reacts.
Use this shampoo for a clean, refreshed scalp. It’s a natural way to keep oil under control and promote healthy hair.
Pacifica Rosemary Apple Cider Scalp Detox Tonic
- Deep Scalp Exfoliation – Experience a salon-level scalp exfoliant that works like a face peel for your head. This hair exfoliator for scalp blends AHA, BHA,...
- Apple Cider Vinegar Power – Our apple cider vinegar hair rinse combines ACV and witch hazel to act as a scalp cleanser. This apple cider vinegar rinse helps...
- Goodbye Flakes & Itch – This salicylic acid scalp treatment doubles as a dandruff scalp treatment that helps with irritation and flakes reduction. Formulated...
The Pacifica Rosemary Apple Cider Scalp Detox Tonic is a good choice for people with oily scalps. It helps clean and refresh the scalp. The tonic works like a gentle face peel. It uses ingredients like AHA, BHA, and rosemary to remove buildup on the scalp. This helps keep the hair follicles clear and healthy.
The formula also has apple cider vinegar and witch hazel. These ingredients balance the scalp’s pH and control excess oil. They help make the scalp less oily and fresher. The tonic also has salicylic acid, rosemary, sage, and peppermint. These ingredients can reduce dandruff and help soothe irritated skin.
Using this tonic is easy. You put it on your scalp and leave it for 5 minutes. Then, you rinse it out. It prepares your scalp for deep cleaning and can help your hair grow healthier.
Best for: People with oily scalps who want a natural way to detox their scalp. It can help reduce dandruff and support healthy hair.
Pros:
- Cleans the scalp well with AHA, BHA, and rosemary.
- Balances oil and pH levels with apple cider vinegar and witch hazel.
- Eases irritation and fights dandruff with natural ingredients.
Cons:
- It may cause a tingling feeling, which might bother sensitive scalps.
- You need to leave it on for 5 minutes, which might seem slow.
- It’s not a leave-in product. You must rinse it out after use.
This tonic can help you keep your scalp clean and healthy. It works well if you want a natural, exfoliating treatment that fights oil and dandruff.
NatureLab TOKYO Scalp Scrub & Clarifying Shampoo (8.1 oz)
- 2-IN-1 SCALP SCRUB & SHAMPOO - NatureLab.TOKYO dual-action scalp detox scrub uses sugar crystals to gently exfoliate and lift away buildup, excess oil, and...
- DEEP HYDRATION & NATURAL SHINE - Our 2-in-1 is scalp cleanser is formulated with hyaluronic acid to deeply hydrate dry strands and soothe the scalp, and...
- BALANCED SCALP & LUXURIOUS FRAGRANCE - Probiotic-rich sake water helps support a balanced scalp microbiome, while the scent of sweet violet and Japanese almond...
Think about trying the NatureLab TOKYO Scalp Scrub & Clarifying Shampoo. It’s a good choice if you want to control oil and clear out buildup on an oily scalp. This product does two things at once. It gently exfoliates with sugar crystals and cleans your hair with a clarifying shampoo. The sugar lifts away dirt, excess oil, and leftover products easily. While it cleans, it also adds moisture with hyaluronic acid. This helps keep your hair healthy and your scalp calm. Plus, it doesn’t have harsh ingredients like sulfates or parabens. It’s safe for color-treated hair and all hair types. The fresh scent makes your hair smell nice too.
Best For: People with oily scalps who want a gentle way to clean and refresh their hair and scalp.
Pros:
- Removes oil, dirt, and product buildup with sugar exfoliation.
- Adds moisture and calms the scalp with hyaluronic acid.
- Free from harsh chemicals, safe for colored or sensitive hair.
Cons:
- Works best if used 1-2 times a week.
- Might not be strong enough for very greasy scalps.
- The scent is fresh but might not suit everyone’s taste.
Use this product regularly to see the best results. It keeps your scalp clean, your hair hydrated, and leaves your scalp feeling good and refreshed.
Neutrogena Clarifying Shampoo for Oily Hair & Scalp
- Clarifying shampoo for build up: Deeply cleanses oily hair and scalp to remove residue and excess oil; pH-balanced cream formula is gentle, non-medicated, and...
- Sulfate-free shampoo: Free from sulfated surfactants (SLS, SLES), parabens, and phthalates; color safe shampoo formula preserves hair vibrancy and is suitable...
- Pink grapefruit shampoo: Features natural pink grapefruit extract; adds shine and leaves hair feeling refreshed with a bright, citrus scent of bergamot and...
Neutrogena Clarifying Shampoo is a good choice if you have an oily scalp and hair. It clears out extra oil and dirt from your scalp and hair. The shampoo washes away residue and buildup, leaving your hair feeling fresh and clean. It has a gentle, pH-balanced formula that won’t dry out your scalp or hair. It is safe for curly, color-treated, or any other hair type.
This shampoo doesn’t contain sulfates, parabens, or phthalates. That means it’s gentle and helps keep your hair bright and healthy. It has a citrus scent from pink grapefruit extract, which makes your hair smell nice. It cleans well but also cares for your scalp and hair at the same time.
Best for: People with oily scalp and hair who want a gentle, effective clarifying shampoo that doesn’t dry out hair.
Pros:
- Cleans away excess oil and residue thoroughly
- Gentle enough to use often on all hair types, including colored hair
- Free from harsh chemicals that can harm hair and scalp
Cons:
- Might be too strong for very dry or sensitive scalps
- You may need to use it often if your scalp produces a lot of oil
- Some people might find the citrus scent strong or it doesn’t last long
This shampoo works well for people with oily hair who want a clean, fresh look. It keeps your hair and scalp healthy without drying or damaging them.
Mielle Rosemary & Mint Exfoliating Scalp Scrub
- Clarifying Scrub for Buildup & Oil - Doubling as a scalp moisturizer & scrub, this multi-use formula exfoliates the scalp to remove excess oil, impurities, and...
- Non-Drying Formula - This scalp and hair scrub is paraben, sulfate and mineral oil-free with a formula that offers a gentle exfoliation experience, enhanced by...
- Pairs with Rosemary Mint Shampoo & Conditioner - Use as the first step in your complete Mielle Rosemary Mint scalp detox routine for optimal scalp refreshment...
The Mielle Rosemary & Mint Exfoliating Scalp Scrub is perfect if you have an oily scalp. It helps remove extra oil, dirt, and old product buildup. This makes your scalp feel clean and fresh. The scrub gently exfoliates with sugar granules that won’t dry out your skin. It also has ingredients like biotin that help your hair grow healthy.
To use, part your hair and put the scrub on your scalp. Massage it gently to remove dirt and oil. Then rinse well and wash your hair with shampoo. Follow up with conditioner for the best results.
This scrub works well for people with oily scalps or if your scalp gets clogged often. It cleans without drying your skin. It’s a good idea to use it regularly to keep your scalp healthy.
Some things to keep in mind: don’t use it too often or scrub too hard, as your scalp might become sensitive. You also need to use shampoo and conditioner after the scrub for the best care.
Joico Scalp Exfoliating Scrub for Healthy Scalp
- FOR ALL SCALP CONCERNS & HAIR COLORS: Whether you have natural or color-treated hair, this exfoliating foaming scrub is suitable for all hair colors and scalp...
- ROSEHIP OIL: A powerhouse oil that is rich in essential healthy-hair vitamins, beta carotene and antioxidants. Helps replenish dry, damaged hair while making...
- VEGAN SMARTRELEASE TECHNOLOGY: This vegan form of protein, made from pea and vegetable sources, mimics the protein found naturally in hair.
The Joico Scalp Vitality Exfoliating Foaming Scrub is great for people with oily or sensitive scalps. It helps clean away extra oil and product build-up. When you use it, you’ll feel a cool, soothing sensation on your scalp, which makes it more comfortable. This scrub works well for thick, long hair and sensitive skin, even for kids. It helps keep your scalp balanced and healthy. Many users say their hair and scalp feel cleaner and softer after use. It can also help reduce itching. The gentle foaming action makes the scalp feel refreshed. You should use this scrub every few weeks as part of your regular hair care routine for a clean, healthy scalp.
Best for: People with oily or sensitive scalps who want a gentle, effective way to clean and care for their scalp.
Pros:
- Removes excess oil and product residue well
- Has a cooling, soothing feeling when used
- Good for sensitive skin and long, thick hair, including kids
Cons:
- The small, narrow bottle tip makes it hard to target specific areas. You may need to squeeze or be careful.
- Can dry out hair or make it feel stiff, so you might need to condition more
- Some people think the exfoliant ingredients, like walnut shells, are too harsh or don’t work well for their scalp
This scrub is a simple way to keep your scalp clean and healthy. It feels good to use, and many people enjoy the cooling sensation. Just remember, it’s best to use it every few weeks.
L’Oreal Hyaluron + Pure Oil Scalp Serum
- Oil Erasing Scalp Serum: Our Hyaluron + Pure Scalp Serum features an innovative oil-erasing formula with 6% Exfoliating Complex to remove up to 100% of residue...
- Inspired by Skincare: Powered by 6% Exfoliating Complex & Hyaluronic Acid for up to 72H purified roots & hydrated, shiny, healthy-looking hair. From the #1...
- Purifying and Rehydrating Routine: Gently exfoliate with the Hyaluron + Pure Oil Erasing Serum Scalp Treatment. Then, clarify with the Hyaluron + Pure 72H...
The L’Oreal Hyaluron + Pure Oil Scalp Serum is good for people with oily scalps. It helps to control excess oil and clean the scalp. The serum has a special formula with 6% Exfoliating Complex. This helps remove build-up on the scalp without stripping away natural oils. It also has hyaluronic acid, which gives the scalp moisture and soothes irritation. You can feel the fresh and clean effect for up to 72 hours after using it.
Use this serum regularly as part of your hair care routine. It works best when you combo it with a clarifying shampoo and a moisturizing conditioner. The serum has a nice smell with berries, cherry blossom, vanilla, and sandalwood. It makes the whole experience more pleasant and enjoyable.
Who should use it: People with oily scalps who want a gentle way to remove build-up. It also keeps the scalp healthy and hair hydrated.
Good points:
- Contains 6% Exfoliating Complex to remove excess build-up.
- Hydrates and calms the scalp with hyaluronic acid.
- Smells nice and fresh, with fruity and floral notes.
- Keeps the scalp feeling clean for up to 72 hours.
Not-so-good points:
- Might not be the best for very dry or sensitive scalps.
- Needs regular use with other hair products for best results.
- Might not work well for extremely oily scalps needing stronger cleaning.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Scalp Exfoliators for Oily Scalp
When choosing a scalp exfoliator for an oily scalp, it’s important to take into account the balance between ingredient effectiveness and the risk of over-drying the scalp, which can lead to increased oil production. You should also pay attention to ingredients that might cause sensitivities or allergic reactions, making sure they are suitable for your skin type. Additionally, select an exfoliator that is compatible with your hair texture and easy to apply, to ensure effective and comfortable use.
Ingredient Effectiveness Balance
Choosing a scalp exfoliator for oily scalps needs careful thought. You want ingredients that work well but are gentle too. Salicylic acid, AHAs, and BHAs are good choices. They help remove too much oil, clear clogged pores, and clean deeply. But, the amount of these ingredients is key. Too much can irritate or dry out your scalp. Too little may not work. Natural ingredients like witch hazel, peppermint, and rosemary can balance the scalp without drying it out. They also soothe sensitive skin. Avoid rough scrubs with sharp particles like walnut shells. These can hurt your scalp and cause irritation. The best exfoliator mixes ingredients that clear pores with those that keep your scalp moisturized. This helps keep your scalp healthy. It also keeps oil balanced without damaging the skin’s natural barrier.
Clarification Versus Drying
Choosing the right scalp exfoliator is important, especially if you have oily skin. There are two main types: clarifying and drying exfoliators.
Clarifying exfoliators help clean away extra oil and dirt. They remove buildup from your scalp without drying out your skin. These products often have gentle ingredients that clean well and keep your scalp hydrated. Use them a few times a week to keep your scalp fresh and balanced.
Drying exfoliators are stronger. They often have harsh ingredients like walnut shells or lots of alcohol. These can strip away too much oil and cause dryness or irritation. If you use them too often, your scalp might make more oil to replace what you lost.
Choose the right exfoliator based on your scalp’s needs. If your scalp gets oily quickly, a clarifying exfoliator is a good choice. If your scalp feels dry or irritated, avoid harsh products. Using a clarifying product once or twice a week is enough. You can also try a gentle, moisturizing exfoliant to keep your scalp healthy.
In the end, the key is to pick a product that leaves your scalp clean but not dry. Adjust how often you use it to keep your scalp feeling good every day.
Ingredient Sensitivities Avoidance
If you have a sensitive scalp, it’s important to choose exfoliators carefully. Look at the ingredients to prevent irritation or allergic reactions. Avoid harsh stuff like walnut shells or rough scrubs. These can hurt your delicate skin. It’s better to pick products that are fragrance-free. Fragrances can cause sensitivities. Be careful with salicylic acid. It can dry out your scalp or cause redness. Do a patch test before using it fully.
Stay away from artificial dyes and preservatives like parabens or phthalates. These can irritate sensitive skin. Instead, choose natural ingredients. Plants like rosemary, peppermint, or sea salt are gentle and less likely to cause problems. Picking the right ingredients keeps your scalp healthy. It also helps control oil better.
Compatibility With Hair Type
When choosing a scalp exfoliator for oily hair, pick one that matches your hair type. If you have straight or wavy hair, products with ingredients like salicylic acid or AHA/BHA work well. These ingredients can help control oil and clean out pores.
If your hair is curly or chemically treated, pick gentle exfoliators. Harsh scrubs can cause dryness or damage. Also, look for products labeled non-comedogenic. These won’t clog pores or cause breakouts if you have acne-prone skin.
Pay attention to how often you use the exfoliator. Using it too often can make your scalp produce more oil and upset your scalp’s balance.
Choosing an exfoliator suited to your hair type helps keep your scalp healthy. It makes your hair look better and feels more comfortable.
Ease of Application
When choosing a scalp exfoliator for oily hair, think about how easy it is to use. Products with simple tools like pumps or applicators make it easier to put the treatment exactly where you need it. They also help keep the mess down. Creams, gels, or smooth textures spread evenly on the scalp, so you don’t have to worry about clumps. Single-use packets are helpful if you’re traveling or want to do a quick, focused treatment. Some exfoliators have built-in massagers or applicators. These make it easy to massage your scalp while applying the product. Clear instructions and few steps also make application simple and fast. Choose products that are easy to use, mess-free, and reliable. This way, your treatment is effective and straightforward every time.
Frequency of Use
How often you should use a scalp exfoliator depends on your scalp’s needs. If you have an oily scalp, exfoliating once a week or every two weeks usually works well. But if your scalp is very oily or has a lot of buildup, you might need to do it a little more often. On the other hand, if your scalp is sensitive or gets irritated easily, try using the exfoliator once a month or even less.
Be careful not to overdo it. Using the exfoliator too much can remove natural oils and make your oiliness worse. It can also cause irritation or dryness. The goal is to keep your scalp clean and free of clogged pores. But it’s also important to listen to how your scalp feels. If it gets red, itchy, or sore, cut back on exfoliation.
Check your scalp regularly and adjust how often you use the exfoliator. This way, you can keep your scalp healthy and fresh while controlling oil and buildup. Remember, less is sometimes more when it comes to scalp care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Scalp Exfoliators Cause Increased Oil Production?
Yes, scalp exfoliators can sometimes increase oil production if overused or if they strip too much natural oil. You should use them sparingly, follow instructions, and opt for gentle formulas to avoid stimulating excess oil.
How Often Should You Exfoliate an Oily Scalp?
You should exfoliate your oily scalp once to twice a week to avoid over-stripping your scalp’s natural oils. Regular exfoliation helps control oil buildup and dandruff while keeping your scalp fresh and healthy.
Are Natural Ingredients Better for Oily Scalps?
Natural ingredients can be better for oily scalps because they tend to be gentler and reduce irritation. You should look for ingredients like tea tree, salicylic acid, or charcoal, which help control oil and exfoliate effectively.
Can Scalp Exfoliation Help With Dandruff?
Yes, scalp exfoliation can help with dandruff by removing dead skin cells, excess oil, and buildup, promoting healthier scalp conditions. Regular exfoliation reduces flakiness, prevents clogged follicles, and supports a balanced scalp environment.
What Signs Indicate Over-Exfoliating the Scalp?
You might over-exfoliate if your scalp becomes red, inflamed, itchy, or excessively oily. You could also notice increased sensitivity, flaking, or discomfort after washing, signaling that you’re exfoliating too often or harshly.
Last update on 2026-01-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
