There is nothing quite as relaxing as a scalp massage. A head massage is a comfortable massage focusing on the scalp and neck that is supposed to help people relax their minds and improve circulation.
While hair loss is often determined by things like stress and genetics, regular scalp massage has been shown to possibly increase hair thickness. The research is limited but what little exists does seem to support the idea that massaging your scalp has beneficial properties.
Can Scalp Massage Reduce DHT?
Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is an androgen sex hormone that helps stimulate what people genuinely associate with masculine features. These include things like muscle mass, how fat is stored in the body, and body hair.
DHT also affects the growth of male sex characteristics through puberty. While DHT plays a role in the body hair growth, it also plays a role in hair thinning and eventual hair loss. DHT can cause hair follicles to shrink… which – along with shorter hair growth cycles – can lead to fine, weak strands of hair that fall out more frequently.
While the science is limited, relaxation and stress reduction benefits of a scalp massage can help reduce DHT and improve hair health.
Do Scalp Massages Stimulate Hair Growth?
While there is not much, there are some studies that suggest scalp massages can improve hair loss. According to the research, scalp massages can increase how thick hair is by stretching the cells of hair follicles which then produces thicker hair. There is also some evidence it improves blood circulation by dilating blood vessels beneath the skin.
Do Oil Massages Help Hair Growth?
There have been some animal studies showing lavender and peppermint having the potential to promote hair growth. Before massaging your scalp, apply a few drops (1 or 2) to your scalp and use your fingertips to gently work the oils into your scalp.
Remember to test a few drops on a small area of your bare skin first to test for any allergic reactions.
How Long Should You Massage Your Scalp?
According to one small study, the researchers had their subjects receive a 4-minute scalp massage every day for 24 weeks in a row. By the end of the study, it was found the men had thicker hair than they started with.
There are various electronic massages available, but you can also use your hands for a scalp massage. Use the fingertips of both hands to apply light to medium pressure to your scalp while working in small circles. Be sure to work your way across the entire scalp. You can even do this while washing your hair to save time! While it should not, if it ever starts to hurt then you should refrain from continuing.
RHRLI Has Surgical And Non-Surgical Hair Restoration Options
Are you seeing more scalp and less hair when you look in the mirror? At RHRLI, we’ve been treating hair loss for years and because we’ve transplanted more than one million hair follicles using the ARTAS®iXi Robotic FUE Hair Restoration System, you know we have the experience and expertise to create the optimal results possible. Contact us today for a free consultation on how best to restore your hair.