Stuck in our busy routines, we often neglect our scalp. The right scalp care can do wonders; not only can it help us relax, but it also supports healthier, thicker hair. With consistency and the right approach, a few minutes of massage can bring lasting benefits to your hair, scalp, and overall confidence. At ila Only Spa, we offer an unparalleled massage experience to ensure your long-term scalp health and hair vitality. Our trained therapists also guide you through proper techniques and help you understand how to care for your scalp and enjoy healthy hair growth.
A scalp massage is a therapeutic technique with several benefits, including better hair growth and improved hair thickness for some people. The light stimulation of the scalp can boost blood flow to the follicles, which leads to overall scalp health and stronger, shinning hair over time.
Read on to learn more about the significance and benefits of scalp massage for your hair and how it can help you enjoy long and healthy hair in the long run.
What Is a Scalp Massage?
A scalp massage is similar to a massage for your neck, back, or body. It involves gently massaging the scalp using the fingertips, light pressure, or a special scalp massaging device that mimics the pressure of fingertips. It usually includes circular motions, kneading, and acupressure applied to the scalp, neck, and sometimes the upper shoulder area.
This type of massage provides calming and rejuvenating effects. It can help by:
- Increasing blood circulation to the scalp
- Reducing stress and tension headaches
- Promoting relaxation, which results in mental clarity
- Supporting healthy hair growth by stimulating hair follicles
- Relieving tension that has built up from poor posture or stress
Other potential benefits of a scalp massage include:
- Reduced stress
- Increased blood flow
- Lower blood pressure
- Reduced heart rate
Typically, scalp massages do not use oil, but you can incorporate oils or other soothing products to enhance the experience. You can practice these techniques at home by setting aside just a few minutes each day for a gentle scalp massage.
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How Does It Work?
Although it is not entirely clear how scalp massage can improve hair growth, researchers believe that massaging the scalp can stretch or stimulate hair follicles, which spurs them to promote faster, thicker growth.
Like other forms of massage, scalp massage improves blood flow by dilating or opening up blood vessels in the deepest layer of the skin. This enhanced flow of blood delivers more nutrients to the hair follicles, which may also stimulate growth, strengthen hair roots, and help prevent or slow down the process of hair loss. Scalp massage may also contribute to fuller and healthier hair by physically stimulating hair follicles.
Can Scalp Massage Really Help With Hair Growth?
Yes. Scalp massage may support healthy hair growth, but it is not a miracle cure, and it does not work for everyone the same way. The key lies in improved circulation and stimulation of the hair follicles.
It is important to know that the benefits of a scalp massage for hair growth centers on the hair follicles. Each hair on the head starts its life within a follicle located just beneath the skin on the scalp. Regular scalp massage, about 4 -5 minutes, can lead to increased hair thickness over time.
Researchers have conducted several studies to explore the connection between scalp massage and hair growth. One study involved nine men who received a 4-minute scalp massage each day for 24 weeks. At the end of the study, researchers found men had thicker hair than at the start.
What Is the Right Way to Massage Your Scalp?
There are several ways to massage your hair, which can help stimulate hair growth. They are:
Traditional Scalp Massage
It involves the use of fingertips only. Use the fingertips of both your hands and apply light to medium pressure to your scalp, moving in small circles. Work your way across the entire scalp like this, from your hairline to the nape of your neck, to cover the entire area. Try massaging your scalp with your fingertips, at least 5 minutes several times a day for best results.
You can also get a scalp massage from a massage therapist to begin with, if you are not familiar with scalp massage, to enjoy a relaxing session. They can also guide you on how you can do it yourself.
Massage During Hair Wash
In case you are short on time, you can follow the traditional scalp massage method during a shower or while washing your hair. Gently massage shampoo or conditioner into hair, using your fingertips, for about 5 minutes. Rinse your hair as usual.
Note that weak hair breaks more easily than dry hair. Keeping this in mind, apply less pressure to avoid pulling or damaging your hair.
Brushes and Massage Tools
Special tools are available in the market that can help you enjoy a good scalp massage while reducing strain on your hands. These tools stimulate the scalp more evenly and effectively. They come as brushes, head-scratching tools, and electric scalp massagers, which are not very expensive and easy to use as well.
You can work them over your scalp in the same way that you would use your fingers.
Scalp Massage With Essential Oils
You can add essential oils like rosemary, peppermint, or castor oil and take your scalp massage experience and benefits to the next level. These natural plant extracts not only nourish the scalp and hair, and improve follicle function but also provide calming aromatherapy effects that support your overall wellness.
However, before applying any essential oil to your scalp, it is important to do patch test on a small area of your skin to ensure you are not allergic to them.
Some Other Tips to Promote Hair Growth
Besides scalp massage, there are other ways to protect your hair follicles, prevent hair damage, and boost hair growth. They are:
- Avoid excessive shampooing, use of dyes and heated hair styling tools, as they can weaken hair cuticles and cause breakage
- Stay away from harsh styling products and processes, such as perms, hot oil treatments, extensions, and chemical straightening
- Avoid smoking
- Avoid tight, pulled-back hairstyles
- Brush your hair gently and only as much as necessary
- Let your hair air dry rather than using a hairdryer
- Use conditioner after cleansing your hair, and apply leave-in conditioner when possible for nourishment
- Always wear a swim cap while swimming, and rinse your hair immediately after you are done.
Remember, scalp massage can only support hair growth. It cannot reverse genetic hair loss or severe scalp conditions. For persistent or noticeable hair thinning, it is best to consult your doctor and seek medical advice and treatment.
If you notice excessive hair fall or other scalp issues, consult your doctor right away. A range of factors can cause hair loss, including nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, skin conditions, or underlying health concerns.
Your doctor can recommend the appropriate tests to identify the root cause and guide you toward the most effective treatment.
They may recommend:
- Dietary changes
- Lifestyle adjustments
- Use of biotin, iron, zinc, and vitamins B, C, and D either through food or as supplements
Topical medications that help in hair regrowth - Corticosteroid injections
- Hair transplant surgery
- Laser therapy
- Micro-needling, especially when combined with minoxidil treatment
Remember, everyone’s hair is different. Thus, it is essential to customize your scalp massage and hair care routine to suit your individual needs. With patience and consistency, you can create a relaxing personal routine that supports both healthy hair and overall well-being.
Read more: Preventing and Treating Folliculitis After Waxing
How Often Should You Massage Your Scalp?
Experts believe that massaging your scalp for 10–20 minutes at a time is effective for hair growth. For best results, massage your scalp twice a day, although once a day is also sufficient.
When incorporated into a healthy hair care routine, scalp massage can improve hair growth and increase thickness. Some people also reported that it slowed down the process of hair loss for them.
Whether you are new to scalp massage and want to learn more about its techniques or simply crave a deeply relaxing session, ila Only Spa is here to help. Our certified and experienced therapists combine soothing touch with targeted care to promote scalp health and relieve stress, which makes you feel refreshed from the inside out. They understand that beauty starts from the head and give you a chance to get the bouncing, luxurious mane you have always craved. Contact ila Only Spa today at 212-303-7777 to book your scalp massage and start your journey to healthier, more beautiful hair.