9 Scalp Products For Protective Styles

Cantu's rinse is a reviewer favorite. Ladies with different hair types and conditions like postpartum hair loss and chronic dry scalp calling this "tingly" treatment a "must-have."

I have been on the road quite a bit this summer, and this tonic has been my go-to because I can pop it into my carry-on and it calms my itchy scalp. I apply this each night before wrapping my faux locs in a silk scarf.

I found the brand Girl + Hair (pronounced "Girl and Hair") during a Google search and was excited to read it was founded by Dr. Camille Verovic, a black girl boss that is a marketing pro turned doctor. Their treatment balm is made with five different oils, including shea butter and castor oil and is small enough to pack in your gym bag or carry-on without taking up too much space.

Working out is always a good thing, even if that means a little sweat. Products like Defunk's Hair Refresher can help neutralize odor from hair and scalp post-workout, and it also "stops the itch."

If you have sensitive skin or want a product made with cruelty-free, organic ingredients, SCALPBLISS's formula will soothe the scalp before and after protective styling. You can also purchase a "mini tube" to drop in your bag on the go.

Mielle Organics' Mint Almond Oil is a fan favorite and is known to help reduce breakage and balance the scalp.

Made with willow bark extract (exfoliates the scalp), coconut oil, ceramides (seals in moisture), this lightweight-formula is said to condition dry scalps and strengthen the hair.

This rinse is not the braid spray you used in the 90s. Now, it is made without parabens, mineral oil, sulfates, and petroleum. The micellar water, coconut oil, and peppermint oil based rinse will refresh and clean the scalp.

The thought of a gel shampoo intrigued me, and based on the product reviews —this shampoo is worth a try. Reviewers recommend applying the gel in sections, massaging the scalp, and then wipe with a cloth and let the hair and scalp air dry.