Introduction
Baldness often refers to a significant loss of scalp hair. The most frequent cause of baldness is hereditary hair loss as people age. Some people would instead let their hair loss progress naturally without treatment or camouflage. Others may disguise it with hats, scarves, cosmetics, or hairstyles. And still, others decide on therapy to stop additional hair loss or to encourage growth. 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. Many diverse civilizations have employed scalp massage for hair loss throughout history. Every hair loss regimen should include scalp massages. Increased circulation is one of the most evident advantages of scalp massaging.
The scalp is one of the most challenging areas for blood to circulate since it is an extremity. The increased blood flow feeds the follicle. Blood flow is necessary to provide the hair follicles on the scalp with oxygen and nutrients. The tightness of tension reduces blood flow in the scalp. Restoring flexibility and releasing tension by scalp massage contributes to developing an optimum environment for new hair growth. Excess sebum and dead skin cells can obstruct the formation of new hair; therefore, massaging the scalp can help loosen and eliminate them. The natural oils in the hair are distributed by massaging the scalp, which conditions and protects the hair.
What Is A Scalp Massage?
A head massage called a scalp massage is done to promote circulation and mental relaxation. Head and neck strain is frequently felt. Therefore scalp massages may be a highly effective stress reliever. The scalp is rubbed with warm oil, which helps to loosen up the neck and temple muscles. A message of the scalp is comparable to one of the body, neck, or back. A scalp massage is often performed a little more delicately. Although it's often 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.
Evolution
Traditional scalp massages were used with oil-rich treatments that conditioned hair and triggered healthy hair development in the hair follicles. However, modern massages are primarily focused on stress reduction. While you wait for the moisturizing properties of a body wrap to take effect, you might enjoy a 20-minute oil-free scalp massage. Alternatively, your spa could incorporate a scalp massage into a facial or reflexology session. Others provide scalp massages that can be combined with neck and shoulder rubs or given on their own, with or without oil.
A scalp massage using tried-and-true methods may transform a feel-good rub into something with more advantages, just like any excellent massage. The use of acupressure, which includes pressing with the fingers on some regions of the head, is also advised by professionals. They advise massaging with the fingertips and palms. Like acupuncture, acupressure is based on the notion that the body is made up of energy lines, and blockages along these meridians can result in pain, weariness, and even sickness. It is believed that exerting pressure on specific locations along these lines will release the congealed energy and solve the issue. Breathe deeply throughout the massage to maximize the relaxing benefits. Scalp massage is a standard à la carte service offered by many spas, but it is also a well-liked add-on to hair and styling treatments.
Massaging The Scalp To Promote Hair Growth
The advantages of scalp massages have been the subject of few extensive or varied investigations. Additionally, the available data does not support the claim that scalp massages promote hair development. But that doesn't imply that they don't function. The method may promote thicker, healthier hair. Men who had no hair loss participated in a study and had daily 10-minute scalp massages for 30 weeks. After the research, hair growth had not significantly improved. However, participants had thicker hair. According to experts, massage encourages blood flow to the scalp, which results in fuller strands. Their research also demonstrates that human dermal papilla cells, which are involved in hair growth and may be directly stimulated and stretched, may promote the formation of better hair.
According to 2019 research, alopecia patients who received regular scalp massages reported seeing their hair regenerate more quickly. Over six months, more than 300 patients received daily scalp massages for 11 to 20 minutes. More hair regeneration or reduced hair loss was noted by over 70% of subjects. Increased circulation, which distributes nutrients that promote hair growth, may also play a role. However, the hair follicles are the main focus of the advantages of scalp massaging for hair development. Each hair on your head begins its existence within a follicle 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, massaging the scalp might help widen blood vessels under the skin, promoting hair growth.
The Advantages Of Scalp Massages
A regular scalp massage regimen improves the health of your scalp and hair by decreasing product accumulation, eliminating dead skin cells, and stimulating hair growth by improving blood circulation. This enhances the natural beauty of your hair. Here is a summary of all you should know about using scalp massage to encourage healthy hair and to grow hair. Additionally, you'll learn why scalp massages are so good for your general health. The best scalp care is right at your fingertips (or step up your scalp game with a silicone brush)! You may include it in hair or scalp serums or use it independently.
Encourages a Calm and Positive Attitude
We are all aware of the association between massages and relaxation. It doesn't matter if you have a deep tissue massage to relieve stress or a shoulder rub from a loved one; massage has several positive effects on your overall health and fitness, including improving your sensations of emotional wellness and relaxation. Massage of the scalp is no exception. According to studies, a massage that concentrates on your head and scalp is very beneficial for improving your mental health and well-being. In addition, getting a scalp massage might help you unwind and lower your tension.
Promotes Healthy Bonding
One of its key advantages is you may massage your own scalp whenever you wish. However, you don't have to limit your scalp care routine to the shower. A terrific approach to hone your skill and connect through the healing power of touch is to give and receive scalp massages. It is customary in some cultures to offer family members head massages to encourage general well-being, relaxation, and joy. In addition, the release of oxytocin, a hormone that fosters social bonding, may be stimulated by exchanging scalp massages with your partner or close pals. The hormone, which fosters emotions of security and connection, is more significant in massagers.
Relaxes The Muscles
Yes, there is such a thing as scalp tension, and your hairstylist can typically detect straight away if your head is under stress. But until someone begins running your fingers through your hair, you won't truly feel it for yourself. Blood flow to the hair follicle may be reduced due to constricted blood vessels brought on by stress on the scalp. Additionally, it may interact with neck and back muscular tensions, which may result in headaches and back pain, symptoms that are aided by the spinal strain brought on by prolonged sitting.
Promotes Healthy Bonding
You may give yourself a scalp massage whenever you want, which is one of its key advantages. However, your scalp care regimen doesn't have to be limited to the shower. The power of touch may strengthen relationships and improve skills while giving and receiving scalp massages. Giving family members scalp massages to encourage general well-being, relaxation, and joy is customary in various cultures. Exchange scalp massages with your partner or close friends to produce oxytocin, a hormone that fosters group bonding and promotes healthy bonding. Increased levels of the hormone, which fosters a sense of security and connection, are observed in massagers. You may always add one as an extra service at your next hair appointment if you're not feeling too wild about giving one to yourself or getting one from a friend. Not only can this procedure improve blood flow for healthier hair follicles, but a qualified scalp massager may also teach you the ideal method to use on family and friends.
Increases Nervous System Performance
You'd be surprised at how many advantages a straightforward scalp massage may give your central nervous system. Regular massage therapy has been found to improve the health and well-being of people with nervous system disorders, and massage therapists have seen various positive impacts for their clients. Adding a frequent massage to your wellness regimen may benefit people of all levels of nervous system functionality, even though the majority of studies on the effects massage has on the nervous system have been conducted on patients with degenerative diseases.
Blood Flow Is Improved by Scalp Massage
Fortunately, a scalp massage can increase the amount of blood flowing to the scalp (9). The rate of blood flow there is accelerated as a result. Histamines and other naturally occurring vasoactive chemicals are also encouraged to release locally during the massage. In other words, they have an impact on the blood vessels by enlarging them. A vigorous, vigorous massage has more prominent vasoactive effects.
Effectiveness Of Scalp Massages
Scalp massages for hair development stimulate the oxygen in hair follicles. A sufficient amount of oxygen promotes quicker and better hair development. Therefore, people with hair loss or thinning hair might benefit from scalp massages. Both men and women benefit from scalp massages because they calm the body, lower stress hormones, and promote hair development. Scalp massages have to be a part of your self-care regimen as well. The convenience of scalp massages allows for any time and anywhere use. There are several ways to massage the scalp, including with your fingertips, a brush, a gentle push, and a circular motion. You may massage your scalp when your hair is wet or dry. Circular strokes should be used to massage your temples after starting with the sides of your head. Next, use your thumbs to rub softly and provide pressure. After that, massage your head all over, covering your whole scalp. Section by section, massage. Please avoid using your nails when massaging since they might infect your scalp.
The Phases of Hair Development
Each hair strand develops at its own pace and goes through three phases of growth:
- Anagen. Hair goes through an active growth period of 3 to 10 years.
- Catagen. Hair stops growing for two to three weeks during the transition period.
- Telogen. It takes 3–4 months for the hair to come out during the resting phase.90% of the hair follicles on the typical scalp are in the anagen phase at any given moment, 1% are in the catagen phase, and 9% are in the telogen phase. The last group is responsible for the 100 to 150 hair strands that fall out every day.
Performing A Head Massage
The ease with which you may do a head massage is its charm. Your fingertips are all you require. Massage oil is not required. Instead of using your fingertips to massage your scalp, you can if you'd like. These items include brushes and hand-held rubber massagers. Like how you would use your fingertips, you may massage the whole surface of your scalp using the massager.
Follow these steps to massage your head:
- Start by using your hands or a massage tool to apply mild to medium pressure on your head. Dip your fingertips in the oil if you're using it before starting the massage.
- Make little circular strokes all over your scalp.
- Make careful to massage your entire head for at least 5 minutes.
- The oil may be removed with shampoo.
Take a seat on a cozy chair. If you're using oil, place a towel on the chair and over your neck to collect any spills. Additionally, giving your mate a scalp massage may strengthen your relationship. Finally, try massaging each other's heads at home using these suggestions from Monreal:
- Have your companion take a seat or lie down in a comfortable position. Start by utilizing a tiny quantity if you're employing essential oils. Then, put some oil on your fingertips.
- Work up to light circular strokes that run around your partner's head by concentrating on applying mild, delicate strokes.
- Additionally, softly massage their neck with your thumbs.
Use Of Scalp Massager
Another option is to use a scalp massager in place of your hands. Different types of scalp massagers exist.
- A Scalp Massager: Start by placing the points of the metal massager on the top of your head. Move the massager instrument slowly up and down. To cover the whole scalp, spin it as you move it in circular patterns. Although another massager tool is available for the crown, this one works better for the sides of the head. Targeting particular parts of your scalp is made possible by the little rubber instrument known as the plastic massage brush.
- Plastic Massage Brush: You can use two brushes at once, one in each hand, if your hair is really short. Glide your brush and glide over the entire head in circular strokes. The regions you want to treat deserve specific attention. To prevent yanking out hair, always use one brush at a time and gently if you have long hair. Apply pressure to a specific head area with the brush and gently rub the area in a circular motion.
Once you've finished massaging that spot, raise the massager and set it down on the area next to it. The brush shouldn't be dragged across the scalp because this might entangle and pull hairs. This scalp massager may also be used in the shower. Use the brush to clean the scalp thoroughly after using shampoo.
Essential Oil-Infused Scalp Massage
Additionally, you may massage your scalp while using essential oils. Both lavender and peppermint oils may aid in promoting hair growth, according to animal research. Combine one tablespoon of carrier oil, such as jojoba or warmed coconut oil, with 1 to 2 drops of lavender or peppermint essential oil. Apply the oils straight to your scalp and then gently massage your scalp with your fingers or a scalp massager.
These are the top hair oils for massaging the scalp.
- Coconut Oil: As we already explained, coconut oil is the best choice for massaging the scalp. It works effectively and has a lovely scent, especially for people with damaged and dry hair. In addition, it lubricates hair shafts and gives your hair more luster. If you have been dealing with hair loss issues, this oil is for you. Regular use of this oil, ideally heated, will improve the condition of your hair.
- Almond Oil: The standard almond, also known as badam, works wonders as a powerful hair tonic and is terrific for improving memory. It is more potent than coconut oil and has a far greater ability to permeate the hair shaft. Thus, your hair will grow much more quickly. Additionally, it is an excellent oil for easing aches and pains. Additionally, you may witness the miracle by combining almond oil and the Ayurvedic herb Brahmi.
- Mustard Oil: Because it produces heat and helps to increase circulation, it is particularly beneficial in the winter. Additionally, it strengthens and nourishes your hair while treating several hair problems.
- Sesame Oil: This oil provides the finest nourishment for the scalp. If you have thin, dry hair that is split-end-ridden, you could use it. In addition to moisturizing the hair, sesame oil also eases aches and pains. To maximize the health benefits of sesame oil, mix it with some Brahmi or hibiscus.
Additional Hair-Growth Recommendations
There are additional tried-and-true methods to promote hair growth besides massaging your scalp. Perhaps you should:
- Don't over-shampoo or over-brush your hair. Also, avoid using hot hair styling equipment, chemical colors, and treatments. Each of them may weaken and break the hair cuticles.
- It would help if you discussed nutritional testing with your doctor. For example, hair loss may be exacerbated by low iron, zinc, and biotin levels.
- Look at minoxidil for genetic hair loss at the back of the head (Rogaine). This over-the-counter drug's liquid or foam form isn't intended to treat hair loss at the front of the scalp or receding hairlines.
- Consult your doctor about using prescription hair loss drugs. These include spironolactone for women and finasteride (Propecia) for males.
- Ask your dermatologist about prescription medications for hair growth. Options include corticosteroid injections, hair transplants, and laser therapy.
- Inform your doctor of your baldness. Hair loss more than typical may signify a more severe disease, such as hypothyroidism.
Conclusion
You might benefit from a relaxing scalp massage for your hair. According to limited studies, the procedure appears to increase blood flow to the scalp, which may stimulate longer, thicker strands. However, further proof is required. So if you're losing your hair, consult your doctor about the best action. Most of the variables that affect hair development are outside your daily control. Preventing hair loss and thinning from a poor diet is the best action you can take. So be sure you eat a balanced diet and drink enough water. If you have unexpected or substantial hair loss, consider seeing a doctor. They can look for underlying factors such as medical disorders or nutrient shortages. Some Ayurvedic oils can be used for various conditions, including hair loss, insomnia, dandruff, headaches, stress, and premature graying of hair. Beneficial oils include Neelibringadi, Bringamalaka, Durvadi, Kayyanyadi, and even Palin coconut oil. Massage is a popular complementary medicine technique that helps to increase blood circulation and reduce stress. It can, however, also be an effective promoter of hair growth. Of course, a healthy diet modification should be made in addition to scalp massage for longer, healthier, and glossier hair. A head massage has several benefits, whether you provide it yourself, using a machine, or from a professional. Additionally, a relaxing head massage may lessen tension and anxiety. Additionally, it may reduce blood pressure, enhance blood flow to the head and neck, lessen the severity of migraines or headaches, and encourage hair growth.
References
- https://bebodywise.com/blog/head-massage-benefits/
- https://www.kamaayurveda.com/blog/scalp-massage
- https://www.goodrx.com/well-being/alternative-treatments/scalp-massage-for-hair-growth
