The Benefits of Scalp Massage

Have you ever wondered why us hairdressers spend so much time massaging conditioner into your hair at the basin? Have you ever felt that it is quite awkward or inappropriate? There is a good reason why we spend time doing it, and this post will explain why.

"According to Ayurveda, a healthy beautiful head of hair requires an ongoing care routine that starts with nourishment. Why wait until you experience hair problems? As with your skin, start taking care of it now, and you'll reap the benefits for years to come"

The process of massage is well known for healing and relaxation, it's no secret that it helps relaxation and promotes sense of well being; there are, however, some incredible benefits for massage specifically of the scalp.

The first benefit is its ability to increase the blood flow to the scalp, and therefore the follicles surrounding each and every hair. This means every follicle is provided with the blood it needs for healthy growth, as well as any nutrients it needs to create healthy, strong hairs. If you need more info about hair growth, see my previous post.

Another benefit of scalp massage is the way in which it reduces tension and a build-up of muscular toxins which can lead to sore muscles (particularly at the nape of the neck), headaches, hair loss and inhibited hair growth. The muscles surrounding the scalp need to be lax and free to move for them to be able to get essential blood flow to each follicle, meaning regular scalp massage can actually increase the scalps' ability to grow healthy, strong hairs. Massage is scientifically proven to reduce anxiety and stress within the body and mind, which in turn creates a healthier environment for things to grow - such as the length of your hair!

The benefits of scalp massage are endless, it also helps the scalp release an oil called Sebum, which you will know as 'grease' as it builds at the hair's root. Sebum is an absolutely essential oil required for optimum hair health, including shiny bouncy hair and a moisturised scalp. One of the issues my clients think they have is Dandruff, which is actually an active and sometimes infected, sore, itchy and often smelly build up of skin cells stopping the scalp from breathing. If you think you have this, there are so many remedies out there for you and you should see your GP :) If you are familiar with dry flakes of skin appearing every now and then on your scalp that only improves when you use a shampoo high in chemicals and detergent (Head and Shoulders, T Gel etc ... my worst nightmare) then you may find that regular scalp massage and the use of essential oils once a week can help you. By encouraging your scalp to release its own Sebum, you can help it stay moisturised and supple and also strengthen the root of each hair shaft.

I recommend that you try massaging your own scalp every time you wash your hair, even just while you are lathering up your shampoo! Here is a quick guide to help you massage your head the right way (think about pushing the blood flow from your neck to the top of your head!)

1. Begin by warming up the scalp, whether this is by adding oil and softly distributing this around the scalp, or by washing the hair in warm water before massaging. This will provide you with a head-start for that blood flow!

2. Either use an essential oil or your shampoo or conditioner, and use enough for the massage to feel smooth and relaxing (there's nothing worse than a rough massage!)

3. Begin by using your fingertips firmly on the scalp and in circular motions, rub around the entire head.

4. Move to the base of your scalp - see these muscles as the gates to your entire head. If the blood can flow freely through these muscles then your whole scalp will benefit. Pinch the muscles at the back of your neck with both hands and massage upwards - try to gently push your thumbs into the ridge at the base of your head, where your scalp holds the most toxins, to release them.

5. Move from the base of your neck upwards - remember we're pushing the blood towards the tip of your head. Using small circular motions, imagine you're massaging a crown around your head and follow that line like a coiled spring, upwards.

6. Remember your ears! Massaging around the ears is beneficial - include the muscles in front of and behind the ears to reduce tension and relax stressed and over-used muscles.

7. Imagine your hands are claws and use as much pressure as you feel is necessary - no pressure is right or wrong. Your fingertips are the best but you can also use the palms of your hands and the base of your wrists.

8. Once you've reached the top of your head - using your nails, claw gently from the top of your head towards your neck. All of that blood flow you've encouraged and all of those toxins you've released? Imagine you're pushing them towards your shoulders.

9. Drink PLENTY of water. You should always make sure your system is flushed well after any massage or any toxins can easily settle elsewhere.

10. Enjoy! A scalp massage should always be relaxing. If you find this to be too much of a chore, why not ask a loved one to do it for you?

Alternatively, why not try a very large toothed comb and spend a few minutes a day combing gently around the scalp? This isn't as effective as there's no heat involved but is definitely beneficial.

At Curly Woo Hairdressing, I provide a mobile hairdressing service and one of my services is the Hair Spa. The Hair Spa is a botanical treatment for both the hair and scalp and includes a full consultation prior to my visit - I will talk to you about any scalp or hair health concerns and decide which essential oil is best to use for your hair/scalp type (for example, if you have a dry scalp I will use a particularly moisturising formula, or for an oily scalp I would use a cleansing formula). Once we've established which oils to use, I provide a full scalp and neck massage to relax, de-stress and encourage scalp health. This massage lasts around 30 - 45 minutes and once we've taken care of your scalp, we rinse and apply a hair masque tailored to your hairs needs. While this is on, you're given an arm and hand massage with the same oils and this is a chance for us to chat about your hair style and current products used - I can talk you through maintenance of your scalp health and also maintenance of your hair style with products and styling advice.

The Hair Spa also includes a cleansing shampoo to remove any oils and a blow dry and style. This treatment can be used with a cut and blow dry service but cannot be combined with a colour service. The service lasts around 1 and a half hours and makes a great treat for a loved one or pampering session for yourself!

Currently available for only £20 (cut charged separately) - call me or contact me via email for any more info!

Thanks for reading, let me know how you get on with your weekly scalp massages. Next time your stylist spends 2 or 3 minutes massaging your head at the basin, thank them for helping your scalp stay healthy!

Jennifer xo