What Are the Benefits of a Head Massage?
Relax, Rejuvenate, and Nourish Your Hair from Root to Tip
Head massages offer a variety of benefits, including promoting hair growth, lowering blood pressure, and reducing headache symptoms. They provide not only sensory pleasure but also relief from stress and tension, and may even help stimulate hair growth.
The Best Part?
You can easily perform a head massage at home, or you can visit a massage therapist for a professional experience. Read on to discover the benefits of head massages, how to do one yourself, and what to expect from a professional head massage.
Benefits of a Head Massage
The benefits of a head massage depend on the specific technique used.
A gentle technique that focuses on the central nervous system, including the head, spinal column, and sacrum. This type of massage is commonly used to:
- Release tension
- Ease migraine and headache pain
- Reduce stress
- Promote relaxation
Even simpler massages, like those you can do at home, can help with stress reduction, scalp conditioning, and improving blood circulation in the head and neck area.
Head Massages for Headache
Head, neck, and shoulder massages are often used to naturally alleviate headaches and migraines. Techniques like deep tissue massage, trigger point massage, self-massage, and acupressure can help relax strained muscles and reduce tension headaches.
While research specifically focused on head massages for headaches is limited, some studies suggest that massage, especially at key points on the upper neck and back of the head, can reduce both the frequency and intensity of headaches.
Trigger point release massage significantly reduced headache frequency and intensity. This indicates that such massage therapies may be effective for tension-type headaches.
Manual therapies reduced headache pain, frequency, and intensity, while improving neck flexibility. This suggests that these treatments can be useful alongside conventional treatments.
May Promote Hair Growth
If you have thinning hair, a scalp massage could help.
Lowers Blood Pressure
A scalp massage not only promotes relaxation but may also help lower blood pressure. The increase in blood circulation from a head massage has a positive effect on blood vessel relaxation and neck muscle tension.
How to Do a Head Massage
One of the great things about a head massage is that you can do it yourself. All you need are your fingertips massage oil is optional.
You can also use a scalp massaging tool, such as a brush or handheld silicone massager. These tools can be used in the same way as your fingers to massage the scalp.
Follow these steps to give yourself a head massage:
- Sit in a comfortable chair. If you're using oil, place a towel around your neck and on the chair to catch any drips.
- Apply light to medium pressure to your scalp with your fingertips or massaging tool. If you're using oil, dip your fingertips in the oil first.
- Move your fingers in small, circular motions around your entire scalp.
- Massage for at least 5 minutes, ensuring you cover your whole head.
- You can wash the oil out with shampoo afterward.
For a relaxing partner massage, have your partner lie down or sit in a chair. If using essential oils, dilute them first and apply only a few drops. Use slow, gentle strokes, working up to circular motions on their scalp. Don't forget to massage their neck too.
Best Oils for a Head Massage
While a head massage can be done without oils, many people prefer using essential oils for their aroma and added benefits.
Some essential oils that pair well with a head massage include:
- Lavender oil
- Peppermint oil
- Coconut oil (as a carrier oil)
- Jojoba oil
- Sweet almond oil
Jojoba or sweet almond oil are recommended because they're gentle and won't clog pores. Keep in mind that essential oils are not regulated by the FDA, so it's important to choose a reputable brand and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns. Always do a patch test before using a new essential oil.