What scalp treatments are
Scalp treatments are services aimed at the skin of the scalp. Depending on the provider, they may include scalp facials, exfoliation, deep cleansing, and treatments for flaking, oil or itch. Some are done at a salon or spa, others at a clinic.
A provider usually looks at your scalp first and asks about your symptoms, products and routine, then suggests what they think fits. A licensed provider decides what is suitable for you.
If your scalp is painful, bleeding, crusting, or the symptoms keep coming back, see a dermatologist. A scalp treatment is no substitute for medical care.
Questions to ask before a scalp treatment
A few questions help you understand what you are agreeing to.
- What does the treatment involve, step by step?
- What products or ingredients do you use?
- Is it suitable for sensitive skin or for color-treated hair?
- How might my scalp feel afterward, and for how long?
- How often do people come back?
- What does it cost?
- When would you send someone to a dermatologist instead?
See the questions to ask page for more.
Note your symptoms first
A scalp treatment goes better when the provider understands what you are dealing with. Before your visit, spend a week or so noticing your scalp.
When does it feel oily? When do flakes show up, and do they look dry or greasy? Does itching come at certain times, or after certain products? Has anything changed recently, such as a new shampoo, a new hair dye, a stressful period, or the change of seasons? Write it down in a few lines. It gives the provider something concrete to work with and helps you describe it clearly on the day.
Questions about scalp treatments
Can a scalp treatment help with dandruff or flaking?
Some scalp treatments focus on flaking, and a provider can talk about what they offer. No one can promise what a treatment will do for you. If flaking is thick, spreading, painful or keeps coming back, see a dermatologist, who can look into the cause.
Should I wash my hair before a scalp treatment?
Ask the provider when they confirm. Some prefer to see your scalp as it usually is, others want clean hair. Many suggest skipping heavy oils, styling products and dry shampoo that day.
Who performs scalp treatments?
Stylists, estheticians, trichologists and clinic providers such as nurses or physicians may offer them, depending on the treatment and the state. Ask the provider about their role and license when they contact you about your request.
Share only what you are comfortable sharing. A local provider decides what is suitable at a consultation.
Go to the formMore consultation topics
Scalp assessment
A provider looks at your scalp and hair, asks about your history, and may suggest tests or a dermatologist.
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