Growing Popularity of Head Spas in the U.S.

Receiving a scalp or face massage during a haircut or facial often provides relaxation. Now, head spas are appearing nationwide, focusing on deep cranial and facial relaxation.

Karena Kong, a regular at Nen Head Spa in San Francisco, remarks, I always wished there was more focus on my head, face, and neck during massages. She appreciates the 90-minute sessions dedicated to head, face, and shoulder massages.

What to Expect from a Head Spa

Head spa expert Ha Truong utilizes a Red and Blue light brush on Liz Evans to promote hair growth and reduce bacteria while massaging the scalp to enhance serum absorption at Sunday Headspa in San Francisco.

Originating in Japan, head spas combine massage with herbal tinctures, a tradition dating back centuries. Modern versions became popular in Japanese salons in the 1990s, eventually spreading to Asia and now the U.S.

A typical session lasts 60 to 90 minutes and includes a scalp inspection, deep cleansing, exfoliation, steam treatment, and extended massages for the head, face, and neck. Many spas also offer essential oils, conditioning masks, and aromatherapy in tranquil environments with dimmed lights and soft music.

Peter Tham, owner of Nen Head Spa, notes, The sensation of getting your head washed, especially on a hot and humid day, feels really good. Combining that with facial, scalp, neck, and shoulder massages helps relieve tension, particularly for those who work long hours in front of computers.

Evaluating Head Spa Claims

Some head spas claim health benefits, suggesting treatments can offer stress relief or address scalp conditions, hair loss, or even alopecia. Experts advise consulting a dermatologist for serious skin or hair concerns.

It’s important to differentiate between relaxation treatments and medical advice, states Zakia Rahman, dermatology professor at Stanford University School of Medicine. Rahman acknowledges the growing interest in head spas and recommends them as a complement to medical treatments if necessary, noting the positive feelings users report.

Head Spas: Relaxation and Rejuvenation

At Sunday Headspa, technicians begin each session by inspecting hair follicles with magnifying devices to assess their condition, followed by a deep clean. Coordinator Jolly Mac notes their clients often experience head spa services in Asia and seek similar experiences in the U.S., starting at about $200 an hour.

Customer Crystle Vitari recalls visiting a head spa in South Korea, finding it rejuvenating and relaxing. It’s so relaxing; I often fall asleep, she adds.

This article is a part of AP’s Be Well coverage, focusing on wellness, fitness, diet, and mental health.