If you’ve ever received a scalp massage, you probably remember how soothing it was. In addition to reducing stress and anxiety, scalp massages have also been linked to an increase in hair growth.
Is there any truth to this added advantage of a scalp massage, or is it just a myth? Despite the paucity of research, this theory might hold some promise for you, depending on your hair growth requirements.
In this post, we’ll examine the research on scalp massages for hair growth in more detail. We also have further hair growth advice for you if you’re interested.
What is a Scalp Massage?
A massage of the scalp is comparable to one of the body, neck, or back. A scalp massage is typically performed little more delicately. Although it’s typically done without oil, you can if you’d like.
Typically, simply the fingertips are used to massage the scalp. Utilizing a scalp massager that simulates the pressure of your fingertips is another option.
What Research says about Scalp Massage and Hair Growth?
Researchers came to the conclusion that regular scalp massages may promote thicker hair in a small 2016 study. Nine males participated in this trial, each of whom received a daily 4-minute scalp massage for 24 weeks.
The men’s hair was discovered to be thicker than it had been at the beginning of the trial. These conclusions were supported by further study from 2019.
Based on survey results from 340 participants who followed directions to perform twice-daily scalp massages to reduce hair loss, this study was conducted.
About 69 percent of participants said their alopecia had improved, according to the self-reported findings. The hair follicles are the main focus of the benefits of scalp massaging for hair development.
Each hair on your head begins its existence inside a follicle, which is found on your scalp, just below the epidermis. According to studies, massaging the scalp stretches the cells in the hair follicles, increasing hair thickness.
As a result, the follicles are stimulated to grow thicker hair. Additionally, it’s hypothesized that massaging the scalp could help widen blood vessels under the skin, promoting hair growth.
Even though there hasn’t been much research done, what is known so far about scalp massages and hair development is encouraging.
How to Massage your Scalp?
You can massage your scalp in a number of different ways to encourage hair growth. Here are your four choices.
1. Traditional Scalp Massage
Only your fingertips are used during a typical scalp massage.
- Apply mild to medium pressure on your scalp while making little circles with the fingers of both hands.
- To completely coat your scalp, work your way across it.
- At least five minutes at a time, several times per day, try to massage your scalp with your fingertips.
Additionally, a certified massage therapist offers scalp massages. Depending on how long the massage is, the price will change.
2. Massage while Washing Hair
If you’re short on time, you can wash your hair and perform the typical scalp massage technique described above.
Spend five minutes using your fingertips to gently massage your shampoo or conditioner into your hair. After that, rinse your hair as normal.
3. Brushes and Massage Tools
You may get specialized equipment for a scalp massage, just like for body massages. While some dermatologists advise using a scalp massager, others think that massaging the scalp with the fingertip is just as helpful.
Which approach is ideal for you ultimately depends on you. Brushes and lightweight, portable rubber massagers are both available as equipment for massaging the scalp.
You can use these to massage your scalp in the same way that you would with your fingers.
4. Scalp Massage with Essential oils
Additionally, you can massage your scalp while using essential oils. Both lavender and peppermint oils may aid in promoting hair growth, according to animal research.
Combine 1 tablespoon of a carrier oil, such as jojoba or warmed coconut oil, with 1 to 2 drops of lavender or peppermint essential oil.
Apply the oils directly to your scalp and then gently massage your scalp with your fingers or a scalp massager. Do a patch test on a small area of your skin to ensure you are not allergic before applying any essential oils to your scalp.
Other Tips for Hair Growth
Other tried-and-true methods exist besides scalp massage to promote hair growth. If you wish to:
- Refrain from overbrushing and shampooing. Limit the use of heated hair styling equipment, chemical treatments, and colours as well. All of them have the potential to weaken and break hair cuticles.
- Discuss nutritional deficiency testing with your doctor. Hair loss may be exacerbated by low levels of zinc, iron, and biotin.
- If you have hereditary hair loss at the back of your head, try using minoxidil (Rogaine). This over-the-counter drug, offered as a liquid or foam, isn’t intended to treat hair loss in the front of the scalp or receding hairlines.
- Inquire with your doctor about hair loss prescription drugs. These include spironolactone for women and finasteride (Propecia) for males.
- Inquire about professional hair growth procedures with your dermatologist. Options include corticosteroid injections, hair transplants, and laser therapy.
- Discuss your hair loss with your doctor. Hair loss that is greater than typical may be a sign of a more serious disease, such as hypothyroidism.
The Bottom Line
Although there has been little research done, what is known so far suggests that while scalp massages cannot stop hair loss, they may be able to promote hair growth.
Using your fingertips or a scalp massaging instrument, you can give your scalp a massage. A licenced massage therapist can also give you a scalp massage.
Be important to follow up with your doctor if your hair loss gets worse or if you start to have other symptoms in addition to hair loss.
Can’t Find the App?
| Android | IOS |
|---|---|
 |
 |
FAQ’s
Can scalp massage stimulate hair growth?
According to studies, massaging the scalp stretches the cells in the hair follicles, increasing hair thickness. As a result, the follicles are stimulated to grow thicker hair. Additionally, it’s hypothesized that massaging the scalp could help widen blood vessels under the skin, promoting hair growth.
Do scalp massages thicken hair?
Standardized Scalp Massage Induces Stretching Forces to Dermal Papilla Cells in the Subcutaneous Tissue – PMC, Increasing Hair Thickness.
What actually grows hair?
According to studies, nutritional deficits in iron, biotin, riboflavin, vitamins B12 and D, biotin, and other minerals are linked to hair loss. If you’re losing hair due to poor nutrition, eating a balanced diet rich in certain vitamins and minerals may help promote hair growth.