Quick answer

Use the Detox Scalp Scrub before your Hydrating Shampoo. The scrub removes buildup and excess oil, then the shampoo gently cleanses and moisturizes without stripping your curls.

Why order matters for curly hair

Curly hair is naturally drier and more prone to buildup from products like gels, creams, and butters. If you shampoo first, you might not remove all that residue, leaving your scalp congested and your curls weighed down.

Starting with a scalp scrub loosens dead skin, product residue, and excess oil. Once you rinse, your hydrating shampoo can penetrate more effectively, delivering moisture exactly where it's needed.

When to skip the scrub

If your scalp is sensitive, irritated, or you have open cuts, skip the scrub and use only the Hydrating Shampoo. The scrub's gentle exfoliation is suitable for most, but it's still an extra step that may not be necessary every wash.

For those with fine or low-density curls, using the scrub once a week is usually enough. Over-exfoliating can disturb your scalp's natural balance.

Trade-offs at a glance

  • Scrub first, then shampoo: Apply the Detox Scalp Scrub to a damp scalp, massage gently, rinse, then follow with the Hydrating Shampoo. This order clears buildup first, then replenishes moisture.
  • Shampoo only (no scrub): Use the Hydrating Shampoo alone when your scalp feels balanced and you only need a light cleanse. This saves time and reduces the risk of over-exfoliating. Reserve the scrub for weeks when you've used heavy stylers or feel product buildup.
  • Scrub as a weekly reset: Even if you shampoo regularly, a weekly scrub can revive your scalp and improve how well your conditioner and stylers absorb. Don't use it every wash. Mark your calendar for a weekly scalp scrub session to maintain a healthy foundation.

Product comparison

  • Detox Scalp Scrub: Award Winner 🏆 2022 HOLA! Best In Beauty Award. Contains detoxifying Pink Clay, soothing Aloe Vera & balancing Peppermint Oil. Pink clay draws out impurities while aloe and peppermint soothe, making this scrub effective without harsh abrasives.

    Detox Scalp Scrub

    Detox Scalp Scrub

  • Hydrating Shampoo: Award Winner 🏆 2025 Shop TODAY Hair Awards: Best Overall Curl Shampoo. Made with Shea Butter & Moringa Oil. 97% agree it gently cleanses. Shea butter and moringa oil provide deep moisture, so this shampoo won't strip your curls after the scrub has done its work.

    Hydrating Shampoo

    Hydrating Shampoo

Which should you choose?

Best for

  • Curly hair that uses heavy stylers and needs a deep clean once a week
  • Anyone with an oily or product-prone scalp who wants a thorough reset before shampooing

Not for

  • Sensitive or irritated scalps that shouldn't exfoliate—stick to the Hydrating Shampoo alone
  • Daily use—over-scrubbing can disrupt your scalp's natural barrier