Not only does it feel heavenly, but a scalp massage also provides many health benefits!
From promoting hair growth to easing headaches, regular scalp massage has the potential to improve both your physical and mental wellbeing.
The best part? Because the nerve endings of the scalp are so close to the surface, only very little stimulation is needed to get maximum results!
Read on to learn the benefits of scalp massage and what you can expect from a professional scalp massage.
What is scalp massage?
A scalp massage is a type of massage that is localized to the head, behind the ears and back of the neck.
In most cases, a scalp massage is done with the fingertips and palm of the hand or with a scalp massager. Sometimes oil is applied to further heighten relaxation and to provide nourishment to the scalp.
The primary aim of a scalp massage is to release tension in the head and neck area. We tend to hold a lot of stress in these places, including the jaw and behind the ears. This tension can radiate to the head, resulting in persistent headaches or migraines.
A scalp massage helps to ease this tension, relaxing the nervous system and alleviating pain or discomfort.
The benefits of scalp massage
A healthy scalp leads to a range of benefits for the body and mind. Here are just a few proven benefits from this newfound massage practice:
Hair growth
Although research is limited, the scientific evidence to date shows that while scalp massages can’t cure hair loss, they do show promise in promoting hair growth.
Massaging the scalp stimulates blood circulation, which brings oxygen and hair-healthy nutrients to the hair follicles. This can encourage stronger hair growth and an increase in hair density.
A recent study found that 70% of the 300 participants that followed a specific scalp massage regimen reported improved hair thickness.
On top of that, regular scalp massage can help to remove dead skin cells and product build-up, improving oil control and reducing dandruff.
So, if your hair is thinning or appears unhealthy, consider getting a scalp massage!
Lowers blood pressure & reduces stress
If you want to experience pure relaxation, book a scalp massage! The entire process induces whole-body bliss, reducing stress and heightening feelings of calmness.
A 2016 study verified this, discovering that a 15- to 25-minute scalp massage has positive effects on the stress hormone, reducing stress and lowering both heart rate and blood pressure in those female participants.
Getting a scalp massage can help to regulate the nervous system, aiding in your body’s natural healing abilities. When the nervous system is functioning optimally, your body is much better able to fight off disease and illness.
Reduces muscle tension
Applying slight pressure to the head and temples using circular motions can help soothe muscle tension and migraines.
You may not think it, but the scalp can hold a lot of tightness! Whether from stress or bad posture, we tend to hold tension across the hairline and behind the ears and neck.
Scalp massage applied by a massage therapist or using a scalp massager at home will soften and relax these tension areas and improve blood flow, helping to eradicate pain from headaches – a much healthier alternative to aspirin!
Promotes healthy bonding & improves your mood
The stimulation from a scalp massage releases oxycontin, a hormone that improves mood and leaves us feeling happy and relaxed.
Serotonin imbalances are often associated with mood disorders including depression. A study published in the International Journal of Neuroscience found that massage had a positive impact on the body’s feel-good hormones; namely serotonin and dopamine. In fact, serotonin levels increased an average of 28% after a massage session, and dopamine by an average of 31%. On top of that, the stress level, cortisol, lowered by as much as 31% following a massage.
Scalp massage can also promote healthy bonds. When you give or receive a scalp massage from a loved one, emotional wellbeing improves as you bond through the power of touch.
So if you’re ever feeling in a low mood, opt to give or receive a scalp massage!
Regular scalp massages carry a range of benefits. You’ll be reducing tension, improving relaxation and promoting healthier hair growth all with just the gentle touch of the fingertips. You can get a scalp massage from a massage therapist, or, opt to do your own at-home massage using your own fingers, scalp massager or nearest and dearest!
Whichever way you choose to receive your massage, trust that you’ll be getting some wonderful benefits for a happier, healthier you.
If you’re wanting to learn more about the health benefits of massage and how Discover Massage Australia can help you to become a professional massage therapist, reach out about our range of massage courses today.
