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Apple Cider Vinegar Scalp Scrub for Dry, Flaky, or Itchy Scalps – A DIY Detox That Works

If your scalp feels like it’s throwing a tantrum—dry, itchy, flaky, or just plain dull—it might be crying out for a detox. And no, I don’t mean a juice cleanse (unless that’s your thing). I’m talking about a quick, DIY Apple Cider Vinegar scalp scrub that clears product build-up, soothes irritation, and leaves your roots feeling like they just took a deep breath.

As a mum who’s juggled teenagers, a dog who lives to roll in mystery smells (looking at you, Aloo), and more dry shampoo than I’d like to admit—I can vouch for how this scrub revives my scalp after a week of messy buns and neglected hair care.

This isn’t just any scalp scrub. It’s a zesty mix of ACV, exfoliating sugar, and hair-loving oils that balance your scalp’s pH while giving it the gentle exfoliation it desperately needs.

Why Apple Cider Vinegar for Your Scalp?

Here’s the tea: ACV is loaded with natural acids that help reset the scalp’s pH, clarify buildup from hair products, and nix flakes from dry skin or even mild dandruff. It’s basically a multi-tasking miracle that costs less than a takeaway coffee.

Top Benefits:

  • Removes excess oil, dead skin, and product gunk 
  • Balances scalp pH for healthy hair growth 
  • Soothes itchy or inflamed scalp conditions 
  • Adds shine and bounce to limp hair 

DIY Apple Cider Vinegar Scalp Scrub Recipe

This version skips the weird ingredients and keeps it pantry-simple, gentle, and effective.

You’ll Need:

  • 2 tbsp organic apple cider vinegar (with “the mother”) 
  • 1 tbsp raw sugar (or brown sugar for a gentler exfoliation) 
  • 1 tbsp coconut oil or jojoba oil (for moisture + slip) 
  • 2 drops tea tree oil (optional, for flake-fighting power) 
  • 2 drops rosemary essential oil (stimulates circulation) 

Instructions:

  1. Mix It Up: In a small bowl, combine all ingredients. Stir until it forms a grainy paste. 
  2. Pre-Wash Hair: Dampen your hair slightly (not soaking wet) so the scrub can grip to the roots. 
  3. Apply: Part hair in sections and massage the scrub directly into your scalp using fingertips. No nails—just gentle, circular motions. 
  4. Let It Sit: Leave on for 5–10 minutes if you have time. This allows the ACV and oils to work their magic. 
  5. Rinse Thoroughly: Wash hair with a gentle shampoo and condition as usual. 

How Often Should You Use It?

Once a week is plenty for most people. If your scalp is super sensitive or prone to dryness, start with once every two weeks and adjust as needed.

  • Don’t skip the oil. Apple cider vinegar can be drying on its own—coconut or jojoba oil helps restore balance. 
  • Sensitive nose? Add a drop of lavender or peppermint essential oil to mellow the vinegar smell. 
  • Use it before coloring your hair. A clean, clarified scalp makes for more even dye uptake. 

And if your teens roll their eyes when they smell vinegar in the bathroom, just tell them it’s your version of a salon day—minus the $150 price tag.

Great For:

  • Perimenopausal scalp changes (yes, your scalp joins that hormonal rollercoaster too) 
  • After travel or swimming (goodbye, chlorine and dry airplane air) 
  • Transitioning to natural haircare or no-poo methods 
  • Flaky scalp under wigs or extensions 

Bonus: How to Store

This scrub is best made fresh, but you can double the recipe and store it in a small glass jar in the fridge for up to a week. Just let it sit at room temp for 10–15 minutes before using.

So go ahead—treat your scalp to a reset.
 It’s the foundation for healthy, bouncy, happy hair. And honestly, when your scalp feels good, everything else seems just a little less itchy and chaotic, doesn’t it?