As a beauty editor, I'm constantly experimenting with hard-to-wash-out hair productsโso, unsurprisingly, there's often a ton of gunky buildup on my scalp. While I'm no stranger to exfoliating shampoos and scalp serums , I decided to bring out the big guns and treat myself to a head spa. Head spas, also known as scalp bars, have been popping up all over cities like New York and Los Angeles, with popular salons racking up four-month waitlists due to demand.
Candace Spann. Meet the Experts. During a head spa treatment, a hair therapist will use essential oils, scalp scrubs , and deep conditioning masks to exfoliate the scalp, remove excess oils and debris, and hydrate the hair follicles. You can also expect a vigorous scalp massage to alleviate tension, increase stimulation, and relax the scalp muscles.
According to trichologist Penny James, the massage techniques performed at Japanese head spas "target and lift the scalp muscles to stimulate blood flow to the scalp. James tells us there are numerous benefits to combining scalp treatments and massage. Candace Spann, which "results in improved blood flow and therefore improved nourishment to the follicles.
Scalp massage has also been clinically proven to reduce stress levels and lower blood pressure and stress hormones. For those of us who live in a perpetual state of anxiety guilty as charged , a head spa may also aid in relaxation and help loosen tight muscles in the head.
The lifting technique around the scalp can help relax facial muscles, leaving you feeling rejuvenated and rested. According to Dr. Spann, "You should not do scalp massage if you have an open wound or infection on your scalp. If you suffer from scalp psoriasis, it is important to be very gentle with your massage.
