The Healing Powers Of A Scalp Massage
shivani k 
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Scalp massages take most of us down the memory lane. They take us back to our childhood when we had no choice but to surrender and sit down while our mothers or grandmothers gave us that relaxing champi. A hot-oil massage of the scalp has been one of the most popular home beauty treatments in most Indian homes since time immemorial. Even as adults, an easing scalp massage is something we always look forward to whenever we get our hair done at our favorite salon.
Though the rest of the world has managed to discover its benefits only now. We did some research and jotted down some health and beauty benefits of scalp message so that you can be inspired to go back to this wellness treatment. Here they are:
1. It Relieves Stress
You have had a hectic day at work, but once you reach home, a scalp massage by your loved one or even from yourself is enough to wash away the stress of the day. We all know how stress has the ability to disrupt not just our peace of mind but our regular body functions and our hormone levels as well. And this can lead to severe hair fall too. Here, a scalp massage performs the function of a magic potion — it alleviates stress. It is even known to increase the production of a hormone called serotonin which plays a vital role in regulating our moods (1).
Pro Tip: Try to get your shoulder and neck massaged whenever you get a scalp massage done. It will completely relax you. If you’re someone who leads a sedentary life being glued to your PC at work and at home, then this massage is highly recommended.
2. It Promotes Scalp Health And Strengthens Hair From The Roots
Your hair will grow only if it has a healthy environment to do so, which, of course, means a healthy scalp. Therefore, make it a point to get at least one oil massage in a week as it will condition the scalp (2). Massaging scalp with oil will also help in getting rid of the dead skin cells and keep dandruff-related problems at bay. A healthy scalp equals healthy hair!
Pro Tip: Hot oil massages have wondrous benefits. Apply the warm oil onto your scalp (not just on the length of your hair and its ends) and massage your scalp in gentle, circular motions using your fingertips. This way, the oil will penetrate into your scalp and nourish it from inside.
3. It Increases The Blood Flow To The Scalp
The hair follicles are the only living part of your hair. Showering it with love and care will ensure that your hair grows up to be healthy and voluminous. One of the basic requirements for a hair follicle to stay alive is enough blood flow. And a scalp massage provides that – it increases the blood circulation to your head as well as your face. Massaging your scalp dilates the small arteries present in the scalp, increasing blood circulation to your hair follicles and this, in turn, prolongs the growth cycle of your hair.
Pro Tip: Start massaging from the temples. It eases tension and redirects blood circulation to your head. So, start from your temples and slowly move upwards towards your head by massaging in small circular motions.
4. It Helps You Sleep Better
If falling asleep peacefully has become a task for you, then consider giving yourself a scalp massage right before you go to bed. Make it a part of your daily night routine. What you can do is dim the lights of your bedroom, turn off all your gadgets and keep them away, and then massage your scalp before you hit the sack. We’re sure you’ll fall asleep like a baby. Scalp massages drain away the fatigue you’ve been feeling the entire day.
Pro Tip: Massage your scalp for a good 15 minutes, this would surely make you drift off to the dreamland in a jiffy.
How To Do It The Right Way
- Always make it a point to massage your scalp the night before you plan to shower. Massaging your head while showering is a bad idea as your hair is quite fragile when it’s wet.
- If you want the health of your hair and scalp to be consistent, then choose the right hair oil. It should be one that conditions your scalp and promotes hair growth.
- Don’t massage your scalp with your nails. Your long fingernails will cause trouble to your scalp health. The nails will only scratch your scalp and cause irritation.
- There are chances that you might get carried away while massaging your scalp and this might leave you with a head full of messy, tangled hair. Don’t do it! Massage lightly and gently and avoid creating a mess.
Now you know the numerous health benefits that a simple scalp massage of 10-15 minutes can give you. So start massaging, keep yourself tension-free, and rock those lustrous locks. In case we missed out on stating any benefit, share it with us in the comments below.
