Getting a scalp or face massage is often a relaxing highlight of a haircut or facial. Now, head spas are popping up across the country, offering deep cranial and facial relaxation.
What to Expect from a Head Spa
Head spas originated in Japan, rooted in centuries-old practices combining massage and herbal tinctures. Modern versions gained popularity in Japanese salons in the 1990s before spreading throughout Asia and now the U.S.
A typical session lasts 60 or 90 minutes and often begins with a scalp inspection, followed by deep cleansing, exfoliation, steam, and extended head, face, and neck massage. Many services include essential oils, conditioning masks, and aromatherapy in a quiet setting with dimmed lights and soft music.
“Typically, when you go get a massage, the focus is always on your back, and I always wish there was more on my head, on my face especially, on my neck,” says Karena Kong, a frequent customer of Nen Head Spa in San Francisco. “When I saw that they give 90 minutes of just head, face, shoulder massage, I felt like it’s a great way to just focus on the areas that I love.”
Peter Tham, owner of Nen Head Spa, where head massages cost about $100 an hour, says: “The core part of it is actually getting your hair washed. The feeling of getting your head washed, especially on a hot and humid day, feels really good. Combine that with facial, scalp, neck, and shoulder massages, which is kind of where most people, especially those who sit in front of a computer all day, suffer a lot of tension.”
What to Make of Head Spa Claims
Some head spas make health and medical claims, suggesting stress relief or treatment for scalp conditions, hair loss, or alopecia. Experts caution that people with skin or hair conditions should see a dermatologist for advice and treatment.
“It’s important to know and differentiate something that’s done for a health reason or relaxation from seeing a medical expert, a dermatologist, if you are having hair loss,” said Zakia Rahman, a dermatology professor at Stanford University School of Medicine. Rahman notes that head spas are generally fine as a complement to medical treatments if needed.
Head Spas Can Be Relaxing and Rejuvenating
At Sunday Headspa in San Francisco, each session starts with a technician inspecting hair follicles with a magnifying device. Then customers get a deep clean, said Jolly Mac, the spa’s coordinator. Many clients first discovered head spa services in Asia and seek similar experiences, starting at about $200 an hour.
Customer Crystle Vitari first visited a head spa in South Korea and finds it “rejuvenating” and relaxing. “Every time, I fall asleep and take a nap, actually, because it’s so relaxing,” she said.
