The key to healthy hair growth is a healthy scalp. But, a healthy scalp takes a balancing act to achieve. One way to create and support a healthy scalp is by using scalp serums.

What does a scalp serum do?

Dr. Anna Chacon tells 21Ninety that some scalp serums can thicken the hair cuticle, which makes hair appear fuller. 

“Hair development serums promote a nutrient-rich environment on the scalp, stimulating blood vessels to transport oxygen to the roots of hair follicles and speeding up hair growth,” the board-certified dermatologist and published author said.

Ghanima Abdullah is a cosmetologist at The Right Hairstyles. Abdullah explained to 21Ninety that scalp serums support healthy hair growth in a more direct way than ingesting supplements or or shampoos.

“Normally you leave a scalp serum on the scalp so that it has plenty of time to work,” the cosmetologist said.

What to look for when buying a scalp serum?

As you shop for a scalp serum for healthy hair growth, it’s important to note that everyone’s scalp has different needs. So, if your friend is in love with a serum, know that it may or may not work for you and vice versa.

In general, Dr. Chacon noted to avoid ingredients like sulfates, formaldehyde, synthetic, and silicone, to help ensure the serum is delicate on your scalp. She suggests ingredients including plant stem cells, peppermint, cayenne, caffeine and ginger. Above all else, use whatever product suits your scalp’s needs. And, if you’re not sure what those needs are, be sure to chat with your trusted hair and scalp professional for additional advice.

Keep scrolling to shop the professional’s recommendations.

Swiss Apple stem cells

Act+Acre Cold Processed Stem Cell Scalp Serum is made with Swiss Apple stem cells that aim to promote and extend the growth phase of the hair follicle. Plus the serum touts its vegan formula as the serum to reduce thinning hair and fall-out. “It smells great too,” Abdullah mentioned.

Stimulate your scalp

$48
Photo Courtesy of Ulta

The Divi Scalp Serum uses a blend of amino acids and peptides to help support a healthier scalp. Copper tripeptide-1, peppermint oil, green tea leaf extract, tea tree oil, and menthol promote circulations while also helping to clear build-up from dead skin cells. Free of parabens, sulfates, alcohols, synthetic fragrances, and phthalates, its unique formula blend makes it worth a try.

Doubly recommended

$64
Photo Courtesy of Vegamour

Both Dr. Chacon and Abdullah recommended the Gro Hair Serum by Vegamour.

“[The] hair serum contains a variety of plant stem cells for improved hair growth. It also uses peptides to counter the effects of aging on the scalp,” the cosmetologist explained.

Some of the hair serum’s key ingredients are curcumin stem cell extract and red clover, which can act as DHT inhibitors to help minimize hair thinning and hair loss. DHT is a hormone that impacts the receptors on the scalp and causes hair loss.

Say farewell to flakes

The Inkey List Salicylic Acid Exfoliating Scalp Treatment is a recommended scalp serum by Dr. Chacon to help promote healthy hair growth. There are three key ingredients that help scalp and hair stay in top shape. Salicylic acid exfoliates excess oil from the scalp. Fluidipure 8G reduces the look of redness on the scalp. While panthenol sends hydrations into the hair and scalp. The exfoliating formula makes it a great option for those dealing with flakes.

Avoid the itch

Briogeo’s Scalp Revival Charcoal and Tea Tree Scalp Serum stays true to its name. Charcoal, tea tree oil, ginger oil, sunflower extract, and rosemary leaf extract are some of the star ingredients in this power-packed tincture. The invigorating formula goes down to the scalp to clear dry dead skin while providing itch relief. 

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