Having thick, healthy hair is a goal many of us share, but hair loss, thinning, and slower growth can be frustrating. Among the countless remedies offered online, scalp massages has gained attention as a potential solution for encouraging hair growth. But does it actually work? Is it backed by science, or is it just another myth?
What Is A Scalp Massage?
A scalp massage involves using your hands or tools to apply gentle pressure and movements to your scalp. Typically, this is done by kneading, tapping, or circular strokes across your head. It’s a practice rooted in traditional wellness routines from cultures around the world.
Though it’s often associated with relaxation⎯like what you experience at a spa, scalp can also help with hair health and growth.
Why Is Massage Beneficial for the Hair and Scalp?
Improved Circulation
One of the primary benefits of scalp massages is improved blood flow. By physically stimulating the scalp, you increase circulation to the hair follicles. This means more oxygen and nutrients can reach them—two critical components for hair growth.
Hair Thickness
According to a study by the National Library of Medicine, “scalp massages resulted in increased hair thickness,” promoting hair growth by triggering specific cellular pathways related to the hair growth cycle.
Stress Reduction and Hair Growth
Chronic stress is a factor in hair loss. “Three types of hair loss can be associated with high stress levels” which are telogen effluvium, trichotillomania, and alopecia areata. Scalp massages are great for relaxation, helping to reduce stress and its impact on the body. Less stress means the less likelihood of having stress-related hair loss.
However, scalp massages are not a standalone treatment for severe hair loss conditions, but low-cost, non-invasive techniques are worth trying for anyone looking to boost hair health.
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Benefits of Scalp Massages Beyond Hair Growth
While hair growth might be the main reason to get a scalp massage, there are many other benefits of them. They also help with the following:
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Healthy Scalp Maintenance ~ A healthy scalp is crucial for healthy hair. Regular massages can help exfoliate dead skin cells, remove buildup from products, and keep your scalp clean and nourished.
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Improved Relaxation ~ A scalp massage is incredibly soothing. It lowers cortisol levels, reduces tension headaches, and even promotes better sleep.
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Helps With Product Absorption ~ Whatever hair products you’re using, pairing them with a scalp massage can improve their absorption. The massage helps the ingredients penetrate deeper into the scalp.
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Boosted Circulation ~ Scalp massages promote blood flow not just to your hair follicles, but the surrounding skin as well, enhancing overall scalp health.
Best Tools to Massage Your Scalp With:
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Scalp Massage Brushes ~These silicone-bristle brushes gently exfoliate your scalp while improving blood circulation.
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Electric Scalp Massagers ~ Battery-powered scalp massagers offer vibrations or spinning movements for a more thorough scalp massage.
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Essential Oils~ Certain essential oils like our Peppermint Tea Tree Hair Oil stimulates hair growth, combats dandruff, and soothes the scalp.
It’s recommended that “if you want to improve your hair growth or thickness, [massage] your scalp 2 times every day.” Other things that can help with hair growth are maintaining a balanced diet, proper hydration, and minimize how often you use heat styling tools. Add in scalp massages to your hair care routine, and see which products you should Spring clean this season!
