A head massage feels fabulous. In addition to the sensory pleasure it offers, a head massage may ease symptoms of a headache, reduce stress, and possibly boost hair growth, too.
And the best part? You can learn how to do one at home. Or you can visit a massage therapist if you want an expert head massage.
Read on to learn more about the benefits of a head massage, how to do one yourself, and what to expect if you get a professional head massage.
Benefits of a head massage
Sarah Monreal, a licensed massage therapist and owner of Wayfare Wellness, says the benefits depend on the type of head massage you get.
For example, she offers cranial-sacral massage therapy. This is a gentle massage technique that focuses on the central nervous system of the head, spinal column, and sacrum.
This type of head massage is often used to:
- release tension
- ease migraine and headache pain
- reduce stress
- promote relaxation
That said, Monreal points out that even less specialized massages, like the type you do at home, may help reduce stress and tension, condition the scalp, and improve blood circulation in your head and neck area.
Here are a few other benefits of a head massage.
Promotes hair growth
If your hair is thinning or not as thick as it used to be, you may want to consider a scalp massage.
In a small 2016 study, the participants experienced an increase in hair thickness after 24 weeks of daily scalp massages.
