Our scalp plays a huge role in our hair health but it’s an often-overlooked part of our body when it shouldn’t be. Medi Tresse is a medical practice that’s devoted to all things hair and scalp, specializing in female hair loss. I recently experienced an incredible scalp exfoliation in their New York City location which was extremely relaxing (I fell asleep) but also left my scalp feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. The scalp exfoliation procedure at Medi Tresse is administered by medical practitioners, not aestheticians, and the process starts with a complete hair and scalp evaluation followed by a treatment. The scalp exfoliation treatment gently removes dead cells and toxins, purifying the pores in the process. It’s suited to most people but can be especially beneficial for people who wash their hair twice a week or less, as they’re likely to have more build-up.

Intrigued? We spoke to Dr. Mary Wendel, founder of Medi Tresse about how to maintain scalp health and the role it plays in how our hair grows and looks.

Medi Tresse: Everything You Need to Know About Scalp Exfoliation

What is Medi Tresse and who are your clients?

Dr. Mary Wendel: Medi Tresse is a medical practice totally dedicated to evaluating and treating women struggling with hair loss from any cause. We are all medical practitioners trained in the science of hair loss and the available, scientifically proven treatments.

What is scalp exfoliation?

Scalp exfoliation is a treatment to remove all the build-up on the scalp including excessive leftover hair products, naturally produced sebum oil, dried skin, and scales. At Medi Tresse we utilize a high-pressure exfoliation spray which is combined with a detox spray of aloe vera, to cleanse and detoxify with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as Hyaluronic acid which deeply hydrates the scalp.

Why is it important to do scalp exfoliation? What are the benefits of scalp exfoliation?

The scalp contains sebaceous glands that produce sebum, often thought of as the body’s natural oil that moisturizes hair and skin. This is true, but the sebum can build up and clog pores and cause irritation and folliculitis, interfering with hair growth. Many of the hair products and treatments that women use can actually be toxic to the scalp skin, causing dermatitis, seborrhea, and dandruff, and in some cases can be severe enough to cause hair loss. In the summer, hair tends to dry out from the sun as well as from swimming in salt water and pools, all of which can inflame the scalp further. Exfoliation cleanses the scalp and improves scalp health in all these situations and stimulates healing. 

Does scalp exfoliation promote hair growth?

Healthy hair requires a healthy scalp to grow. If the scalp is inflamed, or the hair follicles and pores are clogged, healthy hair cannot grow. In our practice, we see women with unhealthy scalps every day, due to chemical treatments, improper washing, or build-up of dead skin and oils. Exfoliation removes the buildup and helps to moisturize.  Without exfoliation, the scalp does not provide the optimal environment for growth.

Is anyone ineligible for scalp exfoliation?

There really are no risks to scalp exfoliation. The only individuals who should avoid it have had recent scalp surgery and have not completely healed, with stitches still intact. At Medi Tresse we always examine the scalp before treatment to ensure that exfoliation is appropriate.

How often should individuals get professional scalp exfoliation?

I generally recommend this treatment about every three months. However, I do also recommend a home exfoliation every one to two weeks with a soft rubber exfoliation brush and cleansing shampoo. At Medi Tresse we recommend Tresse Root Cleanse which is formulated to remove cellular debris, excessive hair products as well as sebum buildup. It also moisturizes the scalp with essential oils and Aloe Vera.

Price of Medi Tresse Exfoliation

The initial consultation is $150. The fee for the basic scalp exfoliation is $149 but there are additional boosters that can be added depending on the patient which can increase the price.