head massage: picture: pexels
If you’ve been scrolling through social media, you may have stumbled upon the latest rejuvenation ritual with a difference – the head spa has taken the world by storm, and finally we are able to partake in the bliss.
First, what exactly is a head spa, and what makes it so unique?
What is a head spa?
The head spa – a beauty treatment originating in Japan, is a specialised scalp and hair care experience that goes beyond your typical shampoo, conditioner and scalp massage.
A head spa experience is designed to assess and treat your scalp – we’ve all heard that healthy hair starts with a healthy scalp. The detoxification of the scalp promotes healthy hair growth and creates a deeply relaxing experience.
In a head spa experience, one typically lays down as the hair is draped over a basin. A dome-shaped rinsing accessory moves over the head as you receive soothing scalp massages and cleansing treatments.
The head spa treatment
Each head spa experience can vary depending on the salon and its particular techniques, but generally, it involves several key steps:
Consultation
Many head spa experiences start with a consultation to assess your scalp and hair health. A scalp analysis may include a high-resolution camera to check for dryness, excess oil, dandruff, or other concerns. This helps the practitioner customise the treatment to suit your scalp’s specific needs.
Scalp cleansing and exfoliation
The treatment typically starts with a deep cleanse using specialised scalp cleansers or gentle exfoliants to remove buildup from products, oils, and impurities. This step helps open pores and unclog hair follicles, setting the stage for optimal hair and scalp health.
Steaming
Warm steam is often used to further open up the pores on the scalp, allowing for a deeper clean and promoting circulation. Steam helps to soften any residue on the scalp, which can then be gently removed during the next steps.
Relaxing scalp massage
A cornerstone of the head spa experience is the therapeutic massage. The massage technique focuses on the scalp, temples, and neck area to stimulate blood flow, reduce tension, and ease stress. This phase is often what people find most enjoyable, as the massage not only feels incredible but also enhances the scalp’s health by bringing fresh oxygen and nutrients to the follicles.
Nourishing treatment mask or serum
Depending on your scalp’s needs, the practitioner may apply a mask or serum to hydrate, nourish, or balance the scalp. Ingredients like essential oils, collagen, keratin, and antioxidants are often used to promote hair strength, shine, and health. The treatment is usually massaged in, allowing the ingredients to be fully absorbed.
Gentle rinse and styling
After letting the treatment work its magic, your hair is rinsed and styled. Many head spas use high-quality products designed to nourish the hair without weighing it down or creating excess buildup.
Benefits of a head spa
- Improved scalp health: The deep cleansing and exfoliation remove buildup that can clog follicles, which is especially helpful if you use a lot of styling products.
- Boosted hair growth: With increased blood circulation to the scalp, nutrients and oxygen are better delivered to the hair follicles, which may promote stronger, faster-growing hair.
- Stress relief: A head spa’s soothing massages and aromatherapy can help reduce stress and anxiety, providing a feeling of well-being.
- Healthier, shinier hair: With the scalp healthy and the hair well-nourished, you’ll notice shinier, more manageable hair.
Is there a head spa near you?
Head spas are popping up worldwide, with Japanese salons often offering the most authentic versions.
As the trend has gained global traction, variations have appeared in other countries, with luxury salons and wellness spas providing their own interpretations.
If you’re looking for a local experience, the newly opened head spa in Cape Town, Head Space offers the ultimate relaxation experience. You can immerse yourself in the Japanese culture too.
An at-home head spa
While nothing beats the experience of a professional head spa, there are ways to recreate a similar experience at home. Here’s a simple guide:
- Cleanse and exfoliate: Start by washing your hair and use a gentle scalp scrub.
- Steam: Use a warm towel wrapped around your head for a few minutes to open the pores.
- Massage: Spend 5-10 minutes massaging your scalp in circular motions.
- Apply a scalp treatment: Apply a nourishing hair mask or serum and let it sit.
- Rinse and style: Rinse off the treatment and style your hair as usual.
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Compiled by: Amy Steenkamp
First published by Woman&home
Also see: Unwind in luxury with our top 5 spas in South Africa
