Maintaining scalp health is significant for hair growth and quality. A simple scalp massage involves applying a little pressure with the fingertips, which leads to an increase in the blood flow to the scalp and promotes hair growth. You can either do it yourself, ask someone to give it to you, or use a scalp massager.
People trust massaging scalp for hair growth. What are the other ways in which it helps? Let’s have a look.
Benefits of Scalp Massage
A nourished and healthy scalp supports hair growth and also provides other benefits. Now, let’s check out the benefits of scalp massage:
1. Promotes Hair Growth
Massages increase blood flow to scalp, which enhances the flow of oxygen and healthy nutrients to the hair follicles. It supports hair growth and density. Regular scalp massage reduces dead skin cells and balances oil control. According to a recent study, 70% of the participants among the 300 involved in the study have reported improvement in hair thickness after following a particular scalp massaging method.
2. Protects Against Hair Loss
Hair loss can be triggered by oxidative stress. Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between antioxidants and the free radicals. An unhealthy lifestyle, improper diet, and several environmental conditions, such as air pollution, cause oxidative stress, which then stimulates hair fall. Thus, to get protection from hair loss, you should follow a scalp massage treatment. A study in 2019 found that regular massaging of the scalp for 11 to 20 minutes can reduce hair loss and support regrowth.
3. Combats Dandruff
Dandruff comes due to various reasons, including dry scalp, unhealthy diet, weather conditions, yeast overgrowth, not using enough shampoo, etc. Here, scalp massaging can come to your rescue. Using a scalp massager brush removes dead skin and debris easily, thereby preventing dandruff. Also, it enhances blood circulation and the flow of oxygen in the hair follicles. It provides essential nutrients for your hair and improves scalp health.
4. Reduces Blood Pressure and Stress
A study in 2016 found that a 15 to 25-minute scalp massage reduces blood pressure, heart rate, and stress and has a positive effect on stress hormones in females. Also, a scalp massage improves the body’s natural healing ability and controls the nervous system. A strong nervous system fights against diseases and ensures better mental health.
5. Improves Your Mood
Increment of Serotonin hormone improves mood and provides relaxation from mood disorders. According to a report in the International Journal of Neuroscience, scalp massaging increases mood-friendly hormones like serotonin and dopamine. It increases the rate of serotonin by 28% and dopamine by 31%. Moreover, it reduces the stress level and cortisol by 31% and invokes the release of oxytocin, which also improves the mood.
| Did you know? Scalp massage also supports healthy bonding. That means when you receive a massage from a loved one, you feel better and it strengthens your bonding with them. |
Methods of Scalp Massage
There are several methods of massaging the scalp for hair growth. Here are some of them:
- Traditional Scalp Massage: A traditional scalp massaging needs light to medium pressure from the fingertips of both hands. Apply this method by moving the fingers in a circular motion and covering all areas of the scalp. Do it for at least 5 minutes at once.
- Scalp Massage with Essential Oils: For oil massage, blend 1 tablespoon of jojoba or coconut oil with 1 to 2 drops of lavender or peppermint oil. Then, apply it on your fingertips and gently massage the scalp.
| Expert’s Tip: Before applying oil massage, do a patch test on a small area of your scalp and make sure you’re not allergic. |
- Massage during Hair Wash: Gentle massage during shampooing or conditioning can promote hair growth. Do it for 5 minutes and wash your hair.
- Using Massage Tools and Brushes: Some dermatologists recommend scalp massage with hair brushes or light hand-held rubber massagers.
Conclusion
Hopefully, now you have clarity on the benefits and methods of massaging your scalp. Scalp massage is essential for all types of hair. No matter if you have straight, thick, curly, oily, or dry hair, a massage will definitely give you relaxation and support hair growth.
