What is a Head Spa and Can It Really Improve Your Hair? 

They're all the rage on TikTok, scalp spas that feature waterfall washing stations, high-tech cameras, and cleansing processes that promise to leave your scalp flake free and your hair rejuvenated. But does it actually do all that it claims? We dive into the benefits and the science behind the results so you don't have to... 

Scalp Spa Origins

While the concept of a head spa is relatively new in the United States, it's a decades old tradition in Japan that is just making its way across the Pacific. While scalp-specific treatments are all the rage in Japan, throughout Asia scalp massages are considered highly beneficial for your health and it's a common practice. In the US, scalp massages had typically been found only during hair washing at the salon-- but that is quickly changing. 

What Does A Head Spa Session Include? 

While the exact session depends on what package and time allotment you select from the spa, in general the session will consist of a consult where they review the condition of your scalp and then a series of treatments to clean and remedy the findings. 

Treatments can include: 

• A variety of massage techniques
• Shampoo and exfoliant cleansing
• Purifying and detoxifying treatments
• Thermal treatments like steam, hot towels, and infrared applications.
• Serums, oils, masks, and other conditioning treatments
• Aromatherapy and herbal treatments
• and more customized treatments for your scalp condition

Session prices range from $50 to $500 depending on the location and duration of your services. There's no question heading in for a 40 minute to several hour long session sounds relaxing and rejuvenating, but can it create visible results for your hair?

The Benefits of Scalp Cleansing

We've long understood as stylists that a clean scalp and gentle exfoliation can help create a good environment for healthy hair growth. But are all the benefits head spas are touting really possible? 

Head spas claim to offer: 

• Reduced Stress and Relaxation
• Nourished and Healthy Scalp
• Improved Mental Clarify and Focus
• Improved Sleep Quality
• Improved Emotional Well-Being
• Detoxification of Lymphatic Drainage System
• Increased Vitality 
• and Improved Hair Quality and Texture

While there isn't data to support every single one of these claims, it's easy to see how a day at the scalp spa could result in reduced stress and improve your sleep that evening. 

Does Scalp Treatment Really Improve Hair Growth? 

In short? Maybe. A dirty scalp can hinder hair growth, and if you have buildup that needs to be taken care of, a head spa could be a gateway to healthier hair. 

But for the average person with regular at-home scalp care, you're not likely to see any day-and-night results in hair thickness or growth speed. 

Should You Give it a Try? Sure! 

The head spa services aren't likely to damage anything but your ego (have you seen those camera close-ups of hair follicles?!) and it's sure to feel great to have your scalp massaged and nourished from time to time. 

Will we be recommending every client heads to the head spa? Probably not. But it's a luxury treatment that sounds fun to try and hey, we're prepared to be pleasantly surprised by the results! 

Have you paid a visit to a head spa for a scalp treatment? Let us know what you thought of it in the comments!