This Free Hair Hack Is Proven To Boost Growth
It’s no secret that a healthy mane starts (quite literally) with a healthy scalp. The bottom line is: if your scalp is overloaded with dead skin cells, excess oil, and product build-up, it’ll prevent your hair from looking and feeling its best, and it can even stunt healthy hair growth. One of our favorite hair care rituals that promotes a happy and healthy scalp is scalp massage. Not only is it completely free and super relaxing, but it can also encourage new hair growth and keep your scalp more balanced. Here’s everything you need to know about scalp massage and how to do it.
Why Scalp Massage is SO Beneficial
Anyone who has had a scalp massage will tell you just how relaxing it is and right now, we need all the self-care we can get. Asides from feeling amazing, it’ll also helps encourage nutrient-rich blood flow, delivering a fresh dose of oxygen to your skin, thereby boosting hair growth and increasing shine.
If you’re skeptical, there are plenty of studies that support the benefits of scalp massage. One Japanese study found that scalp massage encouraged hair growth as it not only increased blood flow but the direct stimulation activated a highly active group of cells at the base of the hair follicle that support growth. Studies have also shown that it can increase thickness by stretching and expanding the living hair follicle cells and encouraging them to create thicker, individual hairs.
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We like to do a scalp massage for a few minutes every time we shampoo our hair, as it helps remove product buildup more effectively while simultaneously gently exfoliating away any dead skin.
You can also try massaging your scalp with oils that support a healthy scalp. Try the process an hour before shampooing, then repeat the scalp massage while in the shower to effectively cleanse the scalp.
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How to Give Yourself a Scalp Massage
When it comes to scalp massage, there are two options – you can use the power of your fingertips or use a massage tool.
The Fingertip Technique
- This is optional, but you can try hanging upside down off the side of your bed, so the blood rushes to your head.
- Use the fingertips of both hands to apply medium pressure moving in small circular motions, starting at the front of your scalp and working your way backward.
- Work your way across your scalp to cover all areas. For extra stress relief, massage your temples too.
- Try to massage your scalp for three to five minutes each time. Or try to do it for two minutes every day.
Studies show that continual, frequent scalp massages can lead to a boost in hair growth in six months with daily scalp massage!
Try a Scalp Massage Tool
Scalp massage tools will help to massage and exfoliate the scalp for healthier, happier hair. We love the ColorProof Scalp Cleansing Brush, $19, which is specifically designed for color-treated hair and thinning hair to whisk away dead skin, sebum, and product buildup. Another great option is the Briogeo Scalp Revival Stimulating Therapy Massager, $16, which is ideal for all hair types, including kinky and coily locks. Use it in the shower or as a treatment with your fave scalp hair oil.
DIY Hair And Scalp Oil Treatment
Another way to supercharge your scalp massage is by combining it with a scalp oil treatment. By blending oils that contain stimulating, antibacterial and soothing properties, you can give your scalp an added boost of nourishment and cleansing powers.
You can keep it simple and opt for an oil like the Tropic Isle Jamaican Black Castor Oil, $14, which is bursting with restorative fatty acids and antioxidants that are proven to boost growth. You can also make your own by combining the following ingredients:
Castor oil (2 tbsps): Castor oil has anti-fungal and antibacterial properties that can help fight scalp infections that prevent healthy hair growth. It’s also packed with omega-6 fatty acids, vitamin E, and proteins that nourish your hair and boost moisture.
Cinnamon (1tsp): Cinnamon has anti-microbial properties and can help to stimulate blood circulation and nourish strands.
Rosemary essential oil (2 drops): Rosemary has anti-inflammatory properties and can help to strengthen circulation and relieve and soothe an itchy scalp. By stimulating blood flow, it helps to maintain healthy hair growth and prevent hair loss.
Peppermint oil (2 drops): Peppermint Oil contains menthol, which boasts anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial and antiseptic properties that help to regenerate and fortify your hair follicles. It can also help to keep dandruff at bay.
Mix the ingredients together and massage into your scalp for five minutes. Leave on your scalp for up to one hour and then shampoo thoroughly and rinse out. Follow with your usual routine.
Remember, whenever you’re using essential oils, it’s important to dilute them with a carrier oil before application. Using essential oils undiluted can cause skin sensitivity and irritation.
For more hair care tips, check out how to revive your hair in three easy steps.
Disclaimer: Every product we review has been independently selected and tested without bias by our editorial team. We never take payment to review products, however, some brands allow affiliate links, so we may earn a commission if you purchase a product by clicking on one of our links.
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