How to Build an Effective Scalp Care Routine in Singapore (2025)

In Singapore’s humid weather, it’s common to experience greasy roots, stubborn flakes, and itchy scalp.

By 2025, more people are learning that treating the scalp is like skin care. Because just like a good skin care routine, the right hair care routine makes a real difference.

This guide walks you through the exact steps to care for your scalp, plus expert tips on products, warning signs, and what to use if your scalp is irritated, oily, or flaky.

Step 1: Use the Right Shampoo for Your Scalp Type

Not all shampoos are created equal, especially if you're dealing with scalp issues. The first step is to choose a scalp-focused shampoo that matches your skin type at the root, not just your hair texture.

A good scalp shampoo should:

Clean without stripping essential oils
Address your specific symptoms (oiliness, flaking, itchiness)
Balance your scalp’s pH to support a healthy microbiome

Ingredients to look for:

Zinc PCA or Salicylic Acid: Great for oily or dandruff-prone scalps, they control sebum and gently exfoliate dead skin
Tea Tree Oil or Rosemary Oil: Known for their antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, they calm irritation
Niacinamide: A form of vitamin B3 that strengthens the scalp barrier and improves moisture retention

Avoid shampoos with heavy silicones, creamy textures, or artificial fragrance, especially in Singapore’s humid weather. They can clog pores and trigger rebound oiliness.

If your scalp feels squeaky clean but tight after washing, your shampoo might be too harsh.

Step 2: Exfoliate Your Scalp 1–2 Times a Week

Your scalp, like your face, builds up dead skin, sweat, and product residue. If left unaddressed, this buildup can clog hair follicles, increase flaking, and reduce the effectiveness of tonics or serums.

Regular exfoliation helps:

Clear sebum plugs
Boost microcirculation
Improve scalp product absorption

Choose from two main types of exfoliants:

Physical Exfoliants (Scalp scrubs)

Contain fine particles (like sugar or walnut shell powder)
Gently massage into the scalp before shampooing
Best for flaky or congested scalps

Chemical Exfoliants (Pre-shampoo solutions)

Use salicylic acid or glycolic acid to dissolve buildup
Less abrasive, more suitable for sensitive or acne-prone scalps

“Exfoliating your scalp once a week is often enough. Overdoing it can disrupt the scalp barrier, especially in hot, humid conditions.”

Step 3: Apply a Scalp Tonic or Serum After Washing

This step is often skipped, but it’s the key to long-term scalp health.

After cleansing, your scalp is clean and more receptive to treatment. Applying a leave-in conditioner or serum nourishes the follicles and soothes any lingering inflammation.

Benefits of scalp tonics/serums:

Boost blood flow to the roots
Hydrate and protect the scalp barrier
Calm itch, redness, or flaking

Look for functional ingredients like:

Biotin: Strengthens follicle function and may improve density over time
Caffeine: Energises the scalp and supports circulation
Prebiotics: Support a balanced microbiome, reducing sensitivity

These formulas are especially helpful for:

Postpartum (to reduce inflammatory hair fall)
After bleaching or dyeing (to soothe chemical stress)
After workouts (to cool and refresh the scalp)

As a rule of thumb, apply directly to the scalp and not the hair for better absorption.

Step 4: Adjust Your Washing Frequency Based on Scalp Type

Over-washing can dry out the scalp, while under-washing can cause buildup. The trick is to tune your wash routine based on how your scalp behaves in Singapore’s tropical climate.

Here’s a quick reference guide:

Scalp Type	Recommended Frequency	Tips
Oily/Greasy	3–5x per week	Use clarifying or balancing shampoo
Dry/Flaky	2–3x per week	Pair with hydrating tonics
Coloured Hair	2x per week	Use sulphate-free, colour-safe shampoo
Active Lifestyle	After workouts	Rinse or co-wash post-sweat

Signs you’re overwashing:

Scalp feels tight or itchy
More flakes than usual
Hair gets greasy faster (rebound oil)

Signs you’re underwashing:

Itchiness or odour by day 2
Flakes despite not using heavy products
Hair looks limp at the roots

“Balance is the goal, listen to your scalp, not social media routines.”

Step 5: Protect and Rebalance Your Scalp Barrier

Think of your scalp like facial skin: it has a barrier that protects it from dryness, allergens, and bacteria. Daily habits and harsh products can damage this barrier and cause chronic inflammation.

Protect your scalp by:

Avoiding alcohol-based styling sprays, dry shampoos, or pomades near the roots
Rinsing your scalp after sweating, especially post-gym, outdoor runs, or long hours under a helmet.
Using scalp soothing tonics or masks after harsh treatments (dye, rebonding, perm)

If your scalp feels hot or tender, a cold compress or peppermint-based spray can bring instant relief.

How Do You Know If Your Scalp Needs Help?

Here are common signs your scalp needs attention:

Persistent itchiness after washing
Flakes or greasy patches within 24 hours
Stinging or burning sensation from shampoo
Hair falling more than usual when brushing

Left untreated, these can lead to blocked follicles and thinning hair.

Why Is Scalp Care So Important in Singapore?

Singapore’s hot, humid climate accelerates:

Oil production
Fungal overgrowth (like Malassezia)
Sweat-related irritation

Pair that with:

Frequent colouring or styling
Hard water and sweat buildup
Air-conditioning drying out your scalp

…and it’s no wonder more people are struggling with scalp issues in this country.

Top Secret: Scalp Care That Works for Singapore

At Top Secret, we understand that no two scalps are the same. That’s why our products are designed for Singapore’s weather, lifestyle, and scalp concerns.

Our bestsellers include:

Botanist Botanical Scalp Cleanse Shampoo: Gently cleanses excess oil and impurities while refreshing sensitive or congested scalps with botanical ingredients.
OGX Biotin & Collagen Shampoo: Supports thicker-looking hair while strengthening roots and cleansing mildly for daily scalp balance.
Scalp Solution Tonic: Calms itchy, inflamed scalps and promotes a balanced microbiome, ideal for humid climates and helmet use.
L’Occitane Healthy Scalp Trio: Complete set with shampoo, conditioner, and serum to detoxify, soothe and rebalance the scalp barrier.
Pura Kosmetica Detox Life Pre-Shampoo: Removes buildup and preps the scalp for better nutrient absorption during your wash routine.

Whether you need moisture, anti-flake care, or scalp rebalancing, Top Secret has a routine that fits.

Frequently Asked Questions About Scalp Care Routine

What Is the Best Scalp Care Routine?

Shampoo with the right formula, exfoliate weekly, use a tonic, and protect the scalp post-wash.

Can I Use Regular Shampoo?

Regular shampoo may clean hair, but not all clean the scalp. Look for formulas that target scalp balance.

How Do I Fix an Oily Scalp in Singapore?

Use lightweight, clarifying shampoos 3–5 times per week. Avoid thick conditioners near the roots.

Should I Exfoliate My Scalp?

Yes. Dead skin, sweat, and product buildup block follicles. A scalp scrub once a week can help.

How Long Before I See Results?

Most people notice less itch or flaking after 2–3 weeks of consistent care.

What If I Colour My Hair?

Use sulphate-free, colour-protect shampoos and apply tonic only to the scalp. Not dyed strands.