Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsHair GrowthOther BenefitsMassaging OptionsDisadvantagesOther Tips
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
Hair Growth
Other Benefits
Massaging Options
Disadvantages
Other Tips
Ascalp massageis known for its ability to provide relaxation. Some research also supports its use to improvehair growth. A scalp massage can be done at home using your hands or a scalp massage tool.
This article will cover the benefits of a scalp massage, other hair growth tips, and who should avoid scalp massaging.
Valeriia Sviridova / 500px / Getty Images
Does a Scalp Massage Help Hair Growth?
There is limited research to support scalpmassagefor hair growth. Two studies do show the beneficial effects of massage. The first study, from 2016, found that scalp massage can increase hair thickness.
The study examined nine males who received a four-minute scalp massage with a massage device once daily for 24 days. It is believed that the massage caused mechanical stress on the dermal papilla cells, causing a change that increased hair thickness.
The second study, from 2019, supported the 2016 research and found that massage improved hair thickness in non-balding males.
These studies support the idea thatmassagecan influence hair growth patterns. However, due to the small study size, more research is needed to support these findings.
Other Scalp Massage Benefits
Scalp massage not only improves hair thickness but also lowers stress hormones and blood pressure. A 2016Journal of Physical Therapy Sciencestudy found that office workers who received scalp massages twice a week had lower blood pressure andstress hormones. The participants' heart rate did not significantly decrease but did show a small improvement.
Another benefit of scalp massage is that it can relieve migraines and tension headaches.
According to the American Massage Therapy Association, massage can treat tension headaches. The source recommends finding a professional massage therapist who is familiar with tension headache massage.
How to Massage Your Scalp
Massaging the scalp can be done at home at any convenient time. There is no standardized scalp massage guideline, but below describes how to use this self-care technique.
Traditional Scalp Massage
Other techniques use a kneading or tapping motion across the scalp. You can incorporate all these movements or choose which one you like best.
Massage While Washing Hair
Some people find that they prefer massaging their scalp while in the shower. The hair is wet, and they can useshampooorconditionerto help glide their hands across the scalp.
Use the same techniques as a traditional scalp massage, with moderate pressure applied to the scalp with fingers moving in a circular motion.
Scalp Massage Tools and Brushes
Another option when performing a scalp massage is to use scalpmassage toolsor brushes. A scalp massager is a tool with small nubs or soft teeth used on the scalp while washing hair or showering. The gentle massage helps stimulate blood flow, lather shampoo, apply conditioner, and loosen flaky skin.
Some people may prefer to use atoolor a brush if their hands tire quickly or they just prefer the sensation that the tool or brush provides.
Scalp Massage With Essential Oils
Scalp massages can be a relaxing activity that can beenhanced with essential oils. Peppermint oil, in particular, has been researched for its hair growth benefits. A 2014 study looked at participants who were treated with saline,jojoba oil,peppermint oil, and Rogaine (minoxidil). Results showed that peppermint oil produced the best hair growth effects.
It’s important to note that applying undiluted oil directly on the skin is not recommended because of the risk of irritation. Essential oils are often diluted in carrier oils, shampoos, or conditioners.
Castor Oil for Hair Growth: Benefits, Side Effects, and How to Use It
Are There Disadvantages to Using a Scalp Massage for Hair Growth?
For many people, scalp massages provide a soothing activity that can also improve hair thickness. However, people withskin conditionsof the scalp, scalp sensitivity, orskin damageshould avoid or take precautions before performing a scalp massage.
Contact a healthcare provider before starting scalp massages if there are concerns about the skin on the scalp.
Other Tips for Hair Growth
Improving hair growth will not happen overnight. It takes time and treatment consistency. Below are tips to improve hair growth:
A Word From VerywellThere is little evidence to show that scalp massage has a significant impact on hair growth, and the evidence that does exist is anecdotal (unreliable narratives). However, scalp massagers can facilitate the even distribution of shampoo and conditioner, making products work more effectively.—BRENDAN CAMP, MD, MEDICAL EXPERT BOARD
A Word From Verywell
There is little evidence to show that scalp massage has a significant impact on hair growth, and the evidence that does exist is anecdotal (unreliable narratives). However, scalp massagers can facilitate the even distribution of shampoo and conditioner, making products work more effectively.—BRENDAN CAMP, MD, MEDICAL EXPERT BOARD
There is little evidence to show that scalp massage has a significant impact on hair growth, and the evidence that does exist is anecdotal (unreliable narratives). However, scalp massagers can facilitate the even distribution of shampoo and conditioner, making products work more effectively.
—BRENDAN CAMP, MD, MEDICAL EXPERT BOARD
Summary
Scalp massage is a technique that has been shown to improve hair thickness. It can be performed at home during the regular hair care routine in or out of the shower. While scalp massage is generally considered safe, people with skin conditions or scalp sensitivities should talk to their healthcare provider before using scalp massage.
10 Sources
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
English RS, Barazesh JM.Self-assessments of standardized scalp massages for androgenic alopecia: survey results.Dermatol Ther (Heidelb). 2019;9(1):167-178. doi:10.1007/s13555-019-0281-6
Kim IH, Kim TY, Ko YW.The effect of a scalp massage on stress hormone, blood pressure, and heart rate of healthy female.J Phys Ther Sci. 2016;28(10):2703-2707. doi:10.1589/jpts.28.2703
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.Migraine.
Kobza W, Lizis P, Zięba HR.Effects of feet reflexology versus segmental massage in reducing pain and its intensity, frequency and duration of the attacks in females with migraine: a pilot study.Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine. 2017;37(2):214-219. doi:10.1016/S0254-6272(17)30047-X
MedlinePlus.Tension headache.
American Massage Therapy Association.Massage can be effective for tension headaches.
Oh JY, Park MA, Kim YC.Peppermint oil promotes hair growth without toxic signs.Toxicological Research. 2014;30(4):297-304. doi:10.5487%2FTR.2014.30.4.297
NYU Langone Health.Medication for hair loss.
Almohanna HM, Ahmed AA, Tsatalis JP, Tosti A.The role of vitamins and minerals in hair loss: a review.Dermatol Ther (Heidelb). 2019;9(1):51-70. doi:10.1007/s13555-018-0278-6
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