Is a Japanese head spa the secret to healthy hair?
We all know that a double shampoo and a trusty hair mask can do wonders for your locks, but did you know that there’s a new hair treatment in town? Introducing the Japanese head spa.
This blissful blend of head massage, essential oils and scalp scrubbing has well and truly taken TikTok by storm, with influencers, experts and ASMR lovers raving about the experience and the benefits that come with it. But what actually is a Japanese head spa – and is it actually any good for you? Here’s everything you need to know.
What is a Japanese head spa?
As you’ve probably already guessed by its name, we have Japan to thank for this hot new haircare trend. Head massage has been an essential part of Japanese culture for centuries, with roots in traditional East Asian healing practices. But, it wasn’t until the end of the 20th century that the head spa developed into the treatment we know and love today. Soon enough the concept went global, and you can now get your fix in spas and salons across the world.
A Japanese head spa is a holistic treatment, focusing on scalp health and hair growth. Essentially, it is a deep cleanse of the hair with slow, intentional movement designed to promote mind-body connection through massage.
Why is it trending?
While algorithms can change at what feels like the speed of light, Japanese head spas have dominated our feeds for a while now – and for good reason. Not only are they a self-care dream, but the whole experience is also totally aesthetic.
Creators who have shared the spa experiences online are often sat on a plush salon seat with a golden halo above their scalp. They’re in an almost dark room, which is illuminated only by candles and soft blue lights. So the setting of the head spa is boujee, and us TikTok scrollers love that sort of thing. And the experience is ASMR heaven. Imagine faint sounds of running water and scalp scrubbing set against gentle spa music – what more could you want?
What does Japanese head spa treatment involve?
Of course, each salon offers something a little different, but typically your appointment will begin with a shampoo to remove dirt and dead skin from the hair before a hair mask is applied to hydrate the scalp. Your therapist will then perform the much-anticipated massage, to improve blood flow while ensuring that you’re completely relaxed. Finally, a steaming will open your pores before the hair is rinsed.
‘These treatments focus on deep cleansing, improving blood circulation through scalp massages, and reducing stress, all of which are important for scalp health,’ says celebrity trichologist and Viviscal Ambassador, Hannah Gaboardi. For ultimate hair health and increased growth, Hannah advises: ‘when considering a visit to a head spa, look for services like scalp massages, exfoliating treatments, hydrating masks, and micro-mist treatments.’
Is the Japanese head spa worth it?
It might be the latest TikTok trend, but don’t let that put you off. This is more than just a fad. Not only does the Japanese head spa leave your hair sparkling clean, it also promotes a host of hidden health benefits.
The soothing massage can reduce built up stress and tension, helping to lower your cortisol levels. Additionally, through removing unwanted build ups, the process can help to detoxify our scalps which can ease conditions like dandruff. And, by increasing the blood flow in our head, Japanese head spa treatments can promote hair growth and benefit those concerned about hair loss.
‘While Japanese head spas can enhance scalp health and potentially support hair growth, they are not a cure for hair loss caused by genetic or hormonal factors,’ Hannah reminds us. However, they are a great place to start if you’re looking to kick-start your healthy hair journey.
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