How Does A Scalp Massage Work?
A scalp massage helps relax the mind and increases blood flow to the scalp. It can be performed with or without oil and is believed to reduce stress hormones. The massage is generally done using fingertips. However, one can have a scalp massage with various massage tools as well. Some believe scalp massage promotes hair growth. But what does the research say?
Does A Scalp Massage Promote Hair Growth?
In a study, researchers had found that regularly massaging the scalp may stimulate hair growth, making them thicker. The study included 9 men receiving a 4-minute scalp massage everyday for 24 weeks. The men had thicker hair by the end of the study (1). Another study in 2019 surveyed 340 participants who were instructed to perform scalp massages twice a day. Over 69% of the participants had reported improved hair growth (2). The above study published in Dermatology and Therapy, 2019, focused on standardized scalp massage (SSM) and its impact on hair growth. Among the participants, 90.5% identified as male, and 32.4% reported adherence to SSM for at least 10 months. 37.3% reported hair loss stabilization, while 31.7% reported slight or significant hair regrowth. These findings suggest a potential association between SSM and positive hair-related outcomes. While more research is warranted, scalp massage is known to have other benefits as well.
Benefits Of A Scalp Massage
The main benefit of scalp massage is hair growth. Regular massage works on the hair follicles that are located beneath the scalp skin. A massage stretches the cells of these hair follicles and helps in hair thickening(1). Scalp massage also increase the blood flow in the scalp and hair follicles and promotes better hair growth. It may also help stop hair fall. Scalp massage also relieves stress (3). It may reduce headaches and migraines as well. The massage action has a calming effect on the body and mind. There are various ways to get a scalp massage that will help promote hair growth. Some of them are discussed below.
How To Massage Your Scalp For Hair Growth
1. Traditional Scalp Massage
Traditional scalp massage includes the use of your fingers to massage the scalp. You can give yourself this massage at the comfort of your home or hire a licensed massage therapist. The price of the massage service may vary depending on the duration of the massage. Giving yourself a traditional scalp massage: Step 1: Usingy our fingertips, apply light to medium pressure on the scalp. Step 2: Move your fingertips in small circular motions all over the scalp. Step 3: Massage for 5 minutes everyday for better results. Note: You can use various oils on your hair while giving yourself a scalp massage. A blogger who embarked on the 30-day scalp massage challenge, shares, “I have noticed my hair growth is at its highest during from weeks 12-16 of my relaxer stretch, as a result I am leveraging this extra growth by adding in daily scalp massages (i).”
2. While Washing Your Hair
You may also massage your scalp while washing your hair. You can use your fingertips to gently massage the shampoo or conditioner into your hair for 5 minutes.
3. Massage Tools
There are many scalp massaging tools that come in the form of brushes. These mimic your fingertips while you massage your scalp. Although some dermatologists are in favor of using massage tools, many still recommend the traditional massage. You may go for what suits you the best.
4. Essential Oils
You can also use essential oils to massage your scalp. Some animal studies show that Rosemary, lavender, and peppermint essential oils may promote hair growth (5), (6). Using these oils with a carrier oil may help increase hair growth. Step 1: Mix 2 drops of lavender or peppermint essential oil with a carrier oil (jojoba or coconut oil). Step 2: Mix the oils in between your palms and apply the mixture to your scalp. Step 3: Use your fingertips or scalp massager to massage your scalp gently. Note: Do a patch test before applying essential oils to check if they cause any allergies.
How long does scalp massage take to regrow hair? It may take a minimum of 6 months for scalp massage (a daily massage of 10-20 minutes) to regrow hair (7). Does scalp massage damage hair? Prolonged scalp massage may damage your hair due to friction. It may also result in temporary hair loss. Are scalp massagers safe? Yes. Scalp massagers are safe and won’t cause any damage to your hair (unless you over-massage, which can cause scalp irritation and hair shedding). Is a vibrating massager good for the scalp? Yes. Vibrating massagers are good for the scalp, and they help reduce excess oil and product build-up and also encourage hair growth. Is brushing hair good for the scalp? Yes. Brushing hair is good for the scalp as it helps distribute natural oils from roots to hair ends and offers them a natural shine. Scalp massages help improve blood circulation to the scalp, which in turn promotes hair growth. The video below has tips on how to improve your hair quality for faster hair growth that is also shiny. Check it out.
