Why we should massage the scalp, what benefits it has & how to do it correctly

In addition to providing a feeling of well-being, performing scalp massages has many benefits for hair health. Here we tell you how to do it correctly.

Getting your hair to look shiny, glossy, strong and healthy does not only depend on the shampoo, conditioner, mask or any other hair product you use. To take care of your hair’s health, it is very important to give yourself scalp massages routinely. Although they are highly appreciated for their relaxing properties, this technique offers many other benefits.

Why we should massage the scalp

The scalp serves as the base for healthy hair. If you don’t regularly massage the scalp, it will stick to the scalp and eventually fade and weaken. “Massaging the scalp makes it more flexible and properly oxygenates the hair thanks to vascularization.” Besides offering the feeling of relaxation and relieving tension, this hair care method activates blood circulation around the hair follicle and boosts the effectiveness of any hair products applied.

Benefits of massaging the scalp

As we have already mentioned, massaging the scalp has many benefits for hair health. Experts from the cosmetics brand Vichy list the most important ones :

It slows down hair loss: alopecia can be caused by stress, which can be relieved with a massage, which in turn eliminates headaches. In addition, this practice removes waste and excess sebum that clog the roots.

Promotes hair growth: scalp massage stimulates vascularization, dilates blood vessels and makes hair more flexible. The hair follicle will flow better and more abundantly, making it receive oxygen and the nutrients necessary for its growth.

Beautifies hair: By oxygenating the scalp, the massage eliminates waste and sebum, making hair look shinier and healthier.

Strengthens hair health: a scalp massage removes dead cells when washing your hair. If this is not done, it is very likely that these cells that remain there will clog the follicles, affecting hair health.

Nourishes the tissues: the action of the scalp massage provides mobility to the cranial muscles. In this way, it helps to nourish the tissues by providing heat to the scalp and promoting vasodilation of the skin. Blood circulation will be much more fluid, eliminating harmful substances that may accumulate.

Does the direction of scalp massage also matter?

The direction of the massage on the scalp is very important. “Massaging from the base to the top of the head increases energy and stimulates circulation. It is ideal for tired, dull and devitalized scalps. Conversely, moving downwards regulates the flow of energy and reduces the activity of an overactive scalp.” 

How to properly massage your scalp

You can give yourself a scalp massage at home, although it is always better to go to a specialist, especially if you have very oily hair. The best time to do it is immediately after washing your hair. Here we tell you how to do it correctly step by step, according to CCC experts.

Kneading: With your fingers separated and bent, place the pads of your fingers on the scalp and make circular movements downwards from the forehead. Use your thumbs to massage the 

crown of your head. Then continue from the temples to the forehead and finally upwards from the nape of the neck. Another way to knead is to work the nape of the neck with your thumbs while the rest of your fingers rest on the scalp and gradually move up to the crown of the head. You can also place one hand on your forehead and the other on the nape of the neck and knead while moving them towards the crown of the head.

Vibrations: with the palms of your hands on your temples, move them up to your forehead using vibrating movements. You can also do this with one hand on your forehead and the other on the back of your neck, moving them up to the crown of your head.

Root lifting: grab the hair with your fingers and pull it slightly upwards. The movement will not only be very pleasant but will also help absorb the cosmetic products.