Why You Should Cleanse Your Scalp Between Washes

Locs and natural hair in general may be uncomplicated in terms of being unprocessed, however this does not mean this hair types are wash and go type hairstyles. For a lot of us, “wash day” is a half day to a whole day’s project!

For us 3a-4c, curly, kinky textured girlies, thought must be put into everything from pre-poo-ing, detangling, or sectioning, washing, conditioning, drying then styling. This whole ordeal can last hours, and it just isn’t convenient for the modern natural haired girl boss to do a whole wash day routine a couple of times a week.

Scalp health is paramount for growing healthy, strong hair. Clogged pores limit blood flow making it harder for nutrients to reach hair follicles.

That’s exactly why cleansing your scalp in between washes is essential for maintaining healthy locs. Regular scalp cleansing helps to remove impurities such as sweat, product build-up, lint and dust.  It also promotes better blood circulation, which can stimulate hair growth and keep your locs looking vibrant and strong. By keeping your scalp clean, you can prevent issues such as dandruff and itchiness, making your loc journey more comfortable and enjoyable while feeling way more confident.

Additionally, cleansing your scalp in between washes helps to maintain the overall health of your hair. When your scalp is clean, it can better absorb the natural oils produced by your body, which are essential for keeping your locs moisturized and preventing dryness. This is particularly important for Black women with locs, as our hair tends to be more prone to dryness. Regular scalp cleansing also helps to prevent the buildup of harmful bacteria and fungi, which can lead to infections and other scalp conditions. By incorporating scalp cleansing in-between full washes into your loc care routine, you can ensure that your locs remain healthy, strong, and beautiful.

It isn’t practical for us to do a full-out wash day several times a week. So, what’s a girl with an active lifestyle to do??  What’s a viable solution on these occasions?

A good scalp cleanser! One that is cleansing and not over-drying. This is especially helpful for active girlies such as me! Excessive sweat can lead to clogged pores, dryness and a lack luster look that will leave you feeling real “blah”.

I use one of two things to keep my scalp the perfect foundation for healthy rapid growth.

One product I use is Taliah Wajiid’s Black Earth Products “Moisture Clenz”. This scalp cleanser is a non-drying easy alternative to use in-between washes. You simply spray it on your scalp and roots of hair then follow up with a warm damp lint free towel/wash cloth to wipe off any excess. I usually follow this up with some rosewater & glycerin or a light oil depending on how dry my scalp and roots feel. “Moisture Clenz” contains peppermint and green tea oil extract which helps to soothe inflammation and itch, improve circulation, serves as an antifungal & antibacterial and balances oil production to the scalp.

My recommendation would be to not overuse or use it in place of a true wash when one is really needed. You can also use this on the locs from mid length to the ends of your locs. Just be sure to follow up with your damp lint free towel and then seal in moisture with a lightweight oil.

When time allows, a second option I lean to when my scalp needs a quick cleanse it to make my own!

Here’s a recipe for my DIY ladies to make your own! This can be fun and you’re in full control of the ingredients! Here’s a simple scalp cleansing recipe that is easy to concoct.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup distilled water (base + hydration)

• ¼ cup aloe vera juice (soothes, adds slip + moisture)

• ¼ cup witch hazel (gentle cleanser, controls buildup & itch)

• 5 drops tea tree oil (antimicrobial, dandruff control)

• 5 drops peppermint oil (stimulates scalp, cooling feel)

• 1 tsp glycerin (optional but great for pulling in moisture)

Directions:

1. Mix everything in a clean spray bottle.

2. Shake well before each use (oils will float).

3. Lightly mist your scalp—focusing on itchy or buildup-prone areas.

4. Massage in with fingertips for 2–3 minutes to boost circulation.

5. Follow with a light oil sealant (like jojoba, grapeseed, or a few drops of your fave blend) if your scalp tends to dry out.

Use this recipe 1-2 times a week, after workouts and even under protective styles or if your scalp feels tight or itchy.

Need something even simpler but effective? I got you sis!

Ingredients

·        ½ cup distilled water

·        ¼ cup witch hazel

·        3 drops of tea tree oil

Apply same directions listed above for mixing and applying.

If you are fresh out of essential oils or don’t want to use any, I have an even simpler option for you. A simple half part distilled water and witch hazel mix will do the trick until you are able to schedule in that “wash day”.

Don’t underestimate how imperative it is to have a clean scalp. Nor do you have to choose between being active and having a clean scalp and hair!

If you have other methods, products or recipes you use to keep your scalp clean and fresh between washes please comment and share below!