Jan
21
Written by:
Jane Bridgeforth
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
What feels good, releases stress, and can be done in as little as 3 minutes?
Scalp massage has been used by various cultures as a treatment to promote healthier hair and encourage hair growth. Scalp massage treatments continue despite little scientific evidence that it will increase hair growth. However, scalp massage does increase blood circulation which helps to nourish your scalp's hair follicles. You probably have about 100,000 hair follicles in a full head of hair. That's a lot of stimulating action going on.
It's your choice whether you want a dry scalp massage or one with oil. A common belief is that if you have a dry scalp, then you should use oil, while toning lotion is used for an oily scalp. Those with dry scalps usually get more scalp massage than those with oily scalps. Since oily scalps have more sebum being produced, you really don't want to over stimulate and produce more oil. My advice would be to check with your hair stylist or dermatologist for more specific recommendations for your hair type before getting a scalp massage. Feel free to bring your own products if you like.
Now hair pulling or tugging appears to be a hate it or love it technique. Some people are too sensitive to tolerate any type of hair pulling while others enjoy a gentle tug. Definitely make your therapist aware of your feelings about this technique.