Treatments & wellness

Salon treatment

Scalp facial

The facial framework applied to the scalp: cleanse, exfoliate, extract build-up, treat, massage, soothe.

Emerging evidenceEarly or partial research. Promising in places, not settled.
Scalp facial — illustrative

Indicative cost

£40.00–£110.00 per session

Where it's done

Salon · Spa

How long

45–60 minutes

Intensity

Gentle

Downtime

None.

Typical course

One-off or every four to eight weeks

Total course cost

£320–£880 for a full course

When people notice a change

Immediate for cleanliness and comfort; flaking generally settles over a few weeks with home care.

Keeping it up

Every four to eight weeks

What it's used for

Used with the aim of a visibly cleaner scalp, less flaking and a more comfortable feeling between washes.

How it works

Removing sebum, dead skin and product residue around the follicle openings addresses the most common causes of itch, flaking and limp roots.

What a session actually involves

A scalp analysis, then double cleansing, an exfoliating scrub or acid step, sometimes gentle steam, a treatment serum and a long massage. A blow-dry usually finishes it.

What people usually consider it for

  • Flakes or dandruff
  • Oily scalp
  • Dry or itchy scalp
  • Lack of volume

This reflects what the treatment is commonly used for — not a claim that it will work for you.

Who tends to find it worthwhile

  • — People with limp roots and build-up
  • — Anyone who stretches washes with dry shampoo

When it may not be suitable

  • You have an untreated or spreading scalp condition
  • You have open sores or recent scalp procedures

This list is not exhaustive. A qualified practitioner should assess you before any treatment.

Risks and side effects

  • Irritation
  • Dryness

Things to weigh up

  • — Over-exfoliating the scalp can make dryness worse

What the evidence looks like

Scalp cleansing has clear plausible benefits for build-up and comfort. Growth claims are not supported.

Questions worth asking first

If flaking is persistent, itchy and stubborn, ask to be referred to a GP or trichologist rather than booking a course.

If you'd rather not book

  • — A weekly scalp scrub or acid exfoliant plus a scalp brush in the shower

Products that sit alongside it

  • scalp exfoliator
  • scalp serum
  • clarifying shampoo
  • conditioner
Search the catalogue for these

What tends to sit alongside it

  • Scalp exfoliator
  • Scalp serum

Others people compare it with

Treatments and devices are listed for information only. Nothing here is medical advice, a diagnosis, or a promise of a result. Suitability depends on your health, skin and the specific device or practitioner — always check with a qualified professional first. We don't take bookings or refer you to providers. Last reviewed 2026-09-09.