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Scalp serums are one of the best products you can add to your hair routine – but which is right for you? Scalp-care is a lot like skincare – there’s no one size fits all, and depending on the condition of your scalp, you’ll want to look for different actives. We broke down five key categories and the treatments that will serve you best.
To Stimulate Growth:
The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density, ($30.00)
A dry, tight scalp can weaken hair at the roots, compromising your horse-girl hair goals. The Ordinary’s Multi-Peptide Serum packs peptide complexes and caffeine powder to stimulate the scalp, glycerine to hydrate, and lactic acid to polish up any loose flakes, all in a hydrating emollient base that will leave your scalp soothed and your roots stimulated.
For Greasy, Oily Hair:
Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal + Tea Tree Scalp Treatment, ($48.00)
Those with greasy or oily hair will love this serum. Think of Briogeo’s serum as a dry shampoo in a liquid, good for your hair and scalp form. Binchotan charcoal soaks up oil hair follicle congesting oil and product build-up while peppermint, tea tree and spearmint decrease irritation, itchiness and inflammation. Meanwhile witch hazel, hyaluronic acid and aloe balance the scalp, preventing dehydration. Those with oily scalps and greasy locks rejoice.
For a Dry Scalp
VIRTUE Topical Scalp Supplement, ($83.00)
Consider VIRTUE’s Topical Scalp Supplement a potent night serum for your scalp. Full of peptides, hyaluronic acid, glycerine, ceramides and the brand’s Alpha Keratin 60ku this serum replenishes a stressed out scalp while you sleep easy knowing a tight, dry scalp is on the way out.
For a Combination Scalp:
Goldwell Kerasilk Revitalize Detoxifying Serum, ($44.95)
If you’re lucky enough to hit the trifecta of dehydrated, oily and irritated scalp look no further. Combining dandruff fighting Zinc PCA, root strengthening Hydrolyzed Silk and Keratin and scalp replenishing red algae extract the treatment delivers everything you need it to in an easy to use spray bottle.
For Scalps That Require Medical TLC:
Co-Co Scalp Ointment, ($12.69)
If you’re suffering from psoriasis or chronic dandruff a medicated option might be for you. While not glamorous, and a little more fiddling than its high-end counterparts, dermatologist-recommended Co-Co Scalp Ointment means business. It contains a powerful combination of 2% salicylic acid, 12% Coal Tar in solution and 4% sulphur in a hydrating coconut compound. Apply to your scalp pre-shower, leave for an hour then wash out with warm water and a gentle shampoo. This product is powerful so short-term use of three to seven days is advised. Unsure if this product is for you? Always seek advice from your doctor or dermatologist first!
