Table of Contents Show
Discover the benefits of head massage, a simple yet effective way to relax and ease tension. With our guide, you can learn how to give yourself a proper head massage at home.
Benefits of head massage:
While head massage is known for providing a relaxing and pleasurable experience, its benefits extend beyond that.
In 2020, a study conducted in Spain found that head massage can have a positive impact on mood and stress levels. This benefit can be achieved whether the massage is done manually with fingers or with specialized devices. Head massage has also been shown to alleviate headaches and improve blood circulation. Furthermore, research from Greece in the same year suggests that head massage may be beneficial for neurological conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease, by improving sleep quality and reducing anxiety.
Does head massage accelerate hair growth?
In 2016, Dr. Taro Koyama conducted a study that demonstrated the effectiveness of head massage in promoting hair growth.
The study involved 24 healthy men who did not have any underlying medical conditions that could lead to hair loss. They underwent a four-minute massage using a specialized device for 24 weeks. The researchers evaluated hair thickness, growth rate, and total hair count. The findings revealed that the hair thickness and growth rate of the participants increased significantly after the experiment.
A similar study carried out in 2019 by American scientists produced similar results. The participants were taught how to massage their own scalp by watching a video and were required to perform the massage for at least 20 minutes a day for ten months. The participants were asked to keep track of their diet, medication, hairstyle, and lifestyle changes to ensure accuracy in the results.
The conclusion drawn from both studies was that head massage can promote new hair growth in cases of hair loss if done daily and for a prolonged period. It was also found to enhance the growth rate of hair in individuals without hair loss issues. Hence, both studies affirm that head massage is effective in enhancing hair condition and speeding up hair growth.
How to properly do a head massage
A benefit of a head massage is that you do not need to visit a salon to receive it. With knowledge of the proper technique and movements, it is possible to administer the massage on oneself.
To prepare for the massage, it is recommended to wash your hands meticulously to prevent hair contamination. Additionally, ensure that your hair is untangled by brushing it thoroughly beforehand. Tangled hair can impede correct movements and make it challenging to detangle afterward.
Take a comfortable seated position with the back of a chair or armchair supporting you. Make sure there are no distractions or obstacles that could interfere with your movements. For a more relaxing experience, consider playing some soothing music during the head massage.
If using oil, select a variety that is beneficial for your hair. This will not only enhance the massage experience but also provide hair care benefits. Coconut, argan, jojoba, or any preferred oil will suffice. Use a small amount to prevent hair from becoming greasy, and warm the oil by rubbing it in your hands.
It is crucial to perform the massage with slow and gentle movements. Start from the forehead and work your way towards the crown and neck while running your fingers straight along the hair. Apply slight pressure to the scalp with your fingers, ensuring no discomfort is felt. Take care to avoid any moles or pimples on the scalp.
Proceed by making circular movements with your fingers all over your head, moving in the same direction from the forehead to the neck. Then repeat the same circular movements, this time starting from the nape of your neck and moving towards your forehead.
Direct your attention to the sides of your head and replicate the same finger movements as previously done, moving from your temples to the area surrounding your ears and down to your shoulders.
Following these targeted finger movements, shift to using your palms for the massage. Curve your fingers into a “C” shape and place your hands on the sides of your head. Position your thumbs slightly above your ears. Apply pressure to the scalp by moving your hands from the forehead to the nape of the neck and vice versa, pushing your hands firmly against the scalp. You may notice slight movement of the scalp forward and backward, which is expected.
Responses