THE PROBLEM

Your scalp isn’t just oily. It’s overloaded.

Shampoo cleans the surface. It doesn’t touch what’s sitting at the root — days of product residue, environmental grime and natural sebum that build up faster than a normal wash cycle can clear. That’s why roots can look flat and feel oily by day two, even right after washing.

Washing more often to compensate can strip the scalp further — which often signals it to produce even more oil. It’s a cycle, not a hygiene problem.

HOW IT’S DIFFERENT

A pre-wash step, not another leave-in oil.

Most scalp oils sit on top of your hair and take three shampoos to fully remove. This one is built to release: the featherlight oil blend works into buildup at the root, and a plant-derived emulsifier (Polyglyceryl-4 Oleate) means the moment water hits it, it turns milky and lifts away — instead of clinging to your strands.

That’s why it’s used before you shampoo, not instead of it. Your regular wash does the rest.

Your pre-wash ritual.

01

Apply to dry scalp

Apply directly to a dry scalp before shampooing, focusing on the areas that feel oiliest.
02

Massage for 3–5 minutes

Massage gently to help loosen buildup and settle the oils into the scalp.
03

Leave for 20–30 minutes

Or leave on overnight if preferred — there's no need to rush.
04

Emulsify, then shampoo

Add a little water to emulsify, then shampoo thoroughly. Use 1–2 times weekly.
KEY ACTIVES
◆

The botanicals behind the reset.

  • 01

    Black Seed Oil

    NIGELLA SATIVA SEED OIL
    Nourishing and conditioning — helps hair look and feel healthier from root to tip.
  • 02

    Neem Oil

    AZADIRACHTA INDICA SEED OIL
    A traditional botanical known for supporting a clearer, more comfortable-feeling scalp.
  • 03

    Rosemary Leaf Oil

    ROSMARINUS OFFICINALIS LEAF OIL
    Invigorating and aromatic — supports a balanced, healthy-looking scalp environment.

IS THIS FOR YOU

Is this the right fit for your scalp?

A good fit if your roots feel oily or flat by day two or three, you notice visible build-up (rather than dry-skin flaking), or your scalp no longer feels fresh between washes. Pre-Wash Scalp Detox is designed to help lift away excess oil and build-up before shampooing, leaving your scalp feeling cleaner and your hair lighter at the roots.

FULL TRANSPARENCY

Every ingredient, plain English.

We list the complete formula because you shouldn’t have to guess what’s on your scalp.

Rice Bran & Sunflower Seed Oil

Lightweight carrier oils that spread evenly without weighing hair down.

Jojoba Seed Oil

Closely mimics natural sebum, helping loosen buildup without over-stripping.

Black Seed, Neem & Tamanu Oil

The traditional botanical trio behind the formula’s scalp-clarifying feel.

Rosemary, Lavender & Cedarwood Oil

Invigorating, calming botanicals that also give the formula its herbal scent.

Bisabolol

Known for its gentle, comforting feel — a favourite in sensitive skin formulations.

Tocopherol (Vitamin E)

An antioxidant that helps protect the oil blend and nourish the scalp.

Polyglyceryl-4 Oleate

The plant-derived emulsifier that lets the whole formula rinse out cleanly with water.

BEFORE YOU ADD TO CART

Common questions.

Is this suitable for an oily scalp?

Yes — it’s formulated specifically for oily roots and everyday buildup, helping the scalp feel lighter and less congested between washes.

Will this make my hair greasier?

No. Unlike a leave-in oil, it’s designed to fully emulsify and rinse out when you shampoo — it preps the scalp, your regular wash does the rest.

Is it safe for colour-treated or chemically treated hair?

It’s applied to the scalp, not the lengths, and contains no bleach or ammonia. If your scalp is sensitised or you’re unsure, patch test first and check with your colourist or dermatologist.

Is it suitable for a sensitive scalp?

The formula is built around botanical oils rather than actives or fragrance additives, but if your scalp is easily reactive, we’d recommend a patch test first. If you have a diagnosed scalp condition, check with your dermatologist before use.

How often should I use it?

1–2 times a week for most people. It’s a weekly reset, not a daily step.

Can I leave it on overnight?

It’s designed to work in 20–30 minutes, but if you’d prefer to leave it on longer or overnight, that’s fine — simply shampoo as usual afterwards.

How long does one bottle last?

At 1–2 uses a week, most people get roughly 2–3 months from a 100ml bottle, depending on how much you use per application and your hair length.

What if I already use a scalp or hair treatment?

You can still use this as a pre-wash step — apply before you shampoo, then continue your normal routine. If you’re using a treatment for a diagnosed scalp or hair condition, check with your prescriber before adding anything new.

Is it cruelty-free and made in Australia?

Yes — every DAP product is cruelty-free and made in Sydney.

OUR PROMISE

Try it risk-free.

Every DAP order is backed by a 30-day return policy — see our Refund Policy for full details. Orders ship same-day from Sydney, with complimentary shipping.

Customer Reviews

Overall rating: 5.0 / 5 from 3 reviews.

Customer photo review of Pre-Wash Scalp Detox

Love the Hair ritual, especially the pre wash oil. I had a very oily scalp and have been noticing my hair not at all gets oily after 1 or 2 days. I have been using this oil and Dap shampoo and conditioner for around 5 weeks now. Lovely products 😍

Pre-Wash Scalp Detox

I have seen less hair fall within days since I started applying this oil twice a week before I shampoo. Highly recommend this product to anyone who would like to improve their hair care routine :)

Pre-Wash Scalp Detox

Love this product. My hair has definitely thickened with growth since using this product. My hairdresser actually asked me what I was doing as she noticed how healthy my hair has become . ❤️

Pre-Wash Scalp Detox