The INKEY List Salicylic Acid Exfoliating Scalp Treatment 5 fl oz — Pre-Wash Serum for Flakes & Hydration

This targeted scalp treatment from The INKEY List is formulated as a pre-shampoo serum to tackle visible flakiness and surface buildup while restoring a more balanced scalp environment. It combines salicylic acid for gentle exfoliation with FLUIDIPURE 8G to soothe redness and panthenol to add moisture—designed to be used 1–2 times weekly before cleansing.

How does this treatment remove flakes without over-drying?

The serum uses salicylic acid to loosen and lift dead skin cells on the scalp surface, allowing flakes and product residue to rinse away during your wash. Panthenol helps retain moisture, so the exfoliation step doesn’t leave the scalp feeling stripped.

• Salicylic acid dissolves surface buildup for easier cleansing.
• Panthenol provides hydration to prevent dryness post-exfoliation.
• Designed as a pre-wash step to rinse away loosened flakes.

Will it help reduce scalp redness and irritation?

The formula includes FLUIDIPURE 8G, an ingredient selected to calm visible redness and help soothe an irritated-feeling scalp. Regular, short pre-wash treatments can contribute to a less reactive scalp surface over time without heavy topical residues.

• FLUIDIPURE 8G targets redness and soothes discomfort.
• Short leave-on time (about 10 minutes) minimizes exposure while delivering results.
• Fragrance-free formulation reduces potential irritation triggers.

How do I use it in my routine for best results?

Shake the bottle well, dispense into your palm, and massage the serum into the entire scalp with fingertips. Leave it on for approximately 10 minutes, then shampoo and rinse as usual; use the treatment once or twice weekly depending on scalp condition.

• Shake before use to mix active ingredients evenly.
• Apply pre-shampoo across the whole scalp for thorough coverage.
• Follow with your normal shampoo to remove loosened flakes and residues.

Is this suitable for colored or sensitive hair types?

The INKEY List designed this serum to be compatible with all hair types, including color-treated hair; it’s fragrance-free and cruelty-free to minimize unnecessary additives. If you have a highly reactive scalp, patch testing first is advisable.

• Safe for use on colored and chemically treated hair.
• Fragrance-free to limit sensitizing ingredients.
• Cruelty-free formula aligned with clean-beauty preferences.

Who is this for: This pre-wash exfoliating scalp serum is intended for anyone struggling with visible flakes, scalp buildup, or occasional itchiness who wants a straightforward, rinse-off solution. It suits people seeking a simple weekly or biweekly scalp reset—especially those using styling products, living with oil-prone scalps, or wanting a non-greasy, hydrating approach without added fragrance. If you have severe or persistent scalp conditions, consult a dermatologist before starting a new treatment.

Ingredients

Aqua (water), Propanediol, Salicylic acid, Betaine, Panthenol, Peg-40 hydrogenated castor oil, Phenoxyethanol, Polyquaternium-37, Hexylene glycol, Capryloyl glycine, Citronellyl methylcrotonate, Sodium hydroxide, Ethylhexylglycerin, Xylitylglucoside, Trisodium ethylenediamine disuccinate