Beauty standards and natural techniques to enhance aesthetics have been around as long as humans. Hair is an important attractive feature for both genders, especially for women.
Different approaches and strategies are used to improve hair texture, color and density. Scalp massage is one of the oldest techniques used to promote natural hair growth and enhance hair quality.
In this article, we will explore if scalp massage helps with hair growth or not? If yes, how long you should massage your scalp and what’s the right technique. We will also look at other best massage oils.
A scalp massage is a form of massage directed towards the scalp. It is a simple yet effective technique for improving hair quality.
In today’s era when multiple shampoos, conditioners and hair oils are available, scalp massage is still recommended for effective results.
It is a scientifically backed fact that regular scalp massage helps maximize hair growth benefits. However, it requires the correct technique and sufficient duration to work.
How Does Scalp Massage Promote Hair Growth?
A scalp massage promotes hair growth in several direct and indirect ways. Let’s explore how it works.
Dermal Papilla Cells Stimulation
Dermal papilla cells, located at the base of hair follicles play an important role in hair development and growth. Massaging stimulates these cells which improves their ability to receive nutrients from the blood and nourish hair follicles, thus promoting growth.
Improved Blood Flow
The gentle pressure of massage boosts blood flow to the hair follicles. This increases the distribution of essential nutrients and oxygen to growing cells, creating an optimal environment for nourishment. It also helps in toxin removal.
Sebum Production
Sebum, the natural oil produced by the scalp, hydrates and protects hair. Regular scalp massage helps maintain sebum production, providing sufficient moisture for healthy hair.
Exfoliation & Dandruff Prevention
Regular massages exfoliate dead skin cells and promote healthy scalp. This keeps dandruff at a bay which means less irritation and a cleaner environment for hair regrowth.
Boosting Treatment Penetration
Massage increases the absorption of oils or topical treatments by increasing blood flow. This increases their efficacy and maximizes their benefits for healthy hair and growth.
Improved Sleep Quality
A scalp massage can be relaxing and improve sleep quality. A good night’s sleep is important for your body health, including hair. It gives them time to repair and rejuvenate the cells of the body.
See Also: Does Lack of Sleep Cause Hair Loss
Reduced Stress Hormones
Stress has multiple negative effects on your body. It can halt hair growth cycle, leading to dryness and hair shedding. A soothing scalp massage lowers your stress hormones.
What Is The Proper Technique For Scalp Massage?
Ensuring optimal growth using simple scalp massage techniques requires knowing how to do it properly. Here are a few tips to ensure you know the best way to massage your scalp:
| Technique Aspect | Recommended Method |
|---|---|
| Fingertips Placement | Spread them evenly across the scalp, neither too near nor too distant from each other. Ensure you’re not scratching the scalp with fingernails. |
| Pressure | Apply gentle but firm pressure. |
| Motion | Make small circular motions to improve blood flow. |
| Regions Of Scalp | Cover all the areas including nape of neck, behind the ears and the temple sides as well. |
| Rhythm | Go slow and steady, maintaining a rhythm to ensure a soothing and relaxing experience. |
These tips will help make your scalp massage successful, enabling you to get maximum benefits. An effective massage not only gives you the advantage of better hair growth but also enhances relaxation.
How Long Do I Need To Massage My Scalp?
The quality of massage is important, but the frequency is crucial too. The frequency and duration of each scalp massage should be kept in mind. Consistency in these massage therapies is what makes them useful in the long run.
Duration
It is recommended to start a scalp massage for 5 minutes. Gradually you can increase it to 10-15 minutes. It will help in the better absorption of oils and increase blood flow.
Frequency
It is best to do it daily, but you can make it a habit slowly. Consistency is the key here, therefore, regular massage is important. You can do it once or even twice daily to reap the benefits over time.
What Are The Best Oils To Use For A Scalp Massage?
Oils are a great choice for scalp massage, offering added benefits as they get absorbed. Each oil has its own benefits for hair growth, therefore, no single oil is superior to another.
Here are some well known oils for scalp massage:
| Oil Type | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Mustard Oil | Antibacterial and antifungal properties help prevent or reduce dandruff. |
| Coconut Oil | Hydrates and nourishes hair, easily accessible, especially in South Asia. |
| Jojoba Oil | Lightweight, resembles natural sebum, regulates sebum production, effective for dry scalp. |
| Almond Oil | Rich in minerals and vitamins, nourishes scalp, softens and thickens hair. |
| Lavender Oil | Calming and relaxing, reduces headache, improves sleep, relieves tension. |
| Peppermint Oil | Increases circulation, alertness, and offers a refreshing scent, good for stress relief. |
| Rosemary Oil | Boosts hair growth, thickens hair, enhances circulation, nourishes scalp and hair follicles. |
Apart from these natural hair oils, you can also use different oils in combination with:
- Fatty Acids
- Antioxidants
- Vitamin A
- Anti-inflammatory agents
See Also: Topical Steroid for Hair Growth
What Are The Benefits Of Scalp Massage?
Why miss out on a relaxing scalp massage when you enjoy so many benefits? Some of these benefits include:
- Relieves Tension: The muscles of head and neck become tense after a busy day at work or period of stress. This is especially common with desk jobs involving computers. A relaxing scalp massage during breaks or before bed can alleviate this tension.
- De-Stress: It is an easy way to relax and take out all the stress. It lowers stress hormones and can be conveniently added to your routine.
- Lessens Soreness: Is your scalp feeling sore from a tight ponytail or a busy day? Take a 10 minute break from your stressful routine to massage your scalp and help unwind.
- Haircare: Scalp massage promotes hair growth via nourishment and hydration. It helps in improving hair quality.
Can Scalp Massage Help To Regrow Hair After Hair Loss?
While we have discussed the benefits of scalp massage, including hair nourishment and growth, does it actually help with hair loss? Despite different treatments available, scalp massage remains one of the oldest techniques for promoting healthier hair after hair loss.
Some studies have mentioned that people who performed a scalp massage of 11-20 minutes daily either stopped or slowed hair loss. Some even noticed regrowth around bald areas. The stretching forces of massage on the scalp were found to change gene expressions that promote hair growth.
What Are Some Other Ways To Boost Hair Growth?
Scalp massages can be really helpful in hair growth, but they are most effective when combined with a proper hair care regime. These include:
- Balanced Diet: Foods with protein, vitamins and minerals such as eggs, fish and leafy vegetables are good for your health and hair growth.
- Suitable Hair Products: It is important to use suitable hair products that match your hair texture. There are special products for curly hair that provide specific nourishment and shine to the bouncy curls.
- Medical Treatment: If you are getting treated medically for any hair loss or dandruff, then make sure you use medicines as prescribed by the doctor. For example, finasteride, minoxidil or spironolactone.
- Regular Trimmings: It helps with prevention of split ends therefore get a trimming every six to eight weeks.
- Avoid Heat Styling: Heat can damage your hair, especially if you use hair tools like straightener or curling irons for heat styling regularly.
See Also: Redensyl for Hair Growth
Do Scalp Massagers Work For Hair Growth?
Yes, scalp massagers are good alternate options to your hands. In case your fingers get tired quickly, you can use a scalp massager instead. There are different types of scalp massagers available, some manual while others are electric.
The simple head scratchers have short plastic or rubber spikes, specially designed for dry or wet hair during a shower. Electric massagers have vibrations that you can use for relaxation sessions at home. Do not use electric scalp massagers during the shower.
See Also: How to Make Black Hair Grow Faster
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you overdo scalp massage?
Excessive scalp massage can lead to overstimulation, irritation and hair breakage, especially if you do not follow the right technique. Moreover, increased pressure and rubbing can damage hair follicles.
Does massaging your head make your hair grow quicker?
Yes, head massage can be really helpful for healthy hair growth. However, it requires dedication and persistence. Moreover, there are other treatment options available such as medications, laser therapy and hair transplantation.
What is the pressure point for hair growth?
Usually, you need to massage the whole scalp to get the full effects. However, there are certain pressure points to enhance hair growth.
- Baihui: Top of the head
- Fengchi: Behind earlobes
- Wangu: Between outer end of eyebrow and outer end of eye
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