Venues offering Head Spa

Head spa (also called hair spa or scalp care) is a treatment that approaches the scalp the way a facial approaches the skin, combining cleansing, exfoliation, a mask and massage in a single session. It became popular in Japan. The aim is not to style the hair but to cleanse and soothe the skin it grows from; in this respect it is closer to a spa treatment than to a hairdressing service.

A head spa session step by step

Head spa is usually done on a wash bed you lie down on or in a chair that reclines backwards. The content varies from venue to venue, but a typical sequence is as follows:

1. Scalp assessment: oiliness, flaking and sensitivity are checked; some venues do this with a microscope camera.
2. Pre-treatment: a product or treatment oil that loosens oil and product residue is worked into the scalp.
3. Exfoliation: flakes and build-up on the scalp are removed with a gentle product.
4. Washing: the scalp and hair are washed with lukewarm water and a shampoo suited to the scalp type.
5. Massage: the scalp, temples, nape and neck are worked with the fingertips. This is the most distinctive part of the session, and many guests fall asleep during it.
6. Mask and finishing care: a treatment product is applied to the scalp and hair, and then the hair is dried.

At some venues a face and shoulder massage is also part of the programme.

Duration and how often to go

Sessions of 45-90 minutes are common for head spa. Your hair is washed and dried by the end of the session, so you can carry straight on with your day. Not putting heavy styling products on your hair before the session makes the pre-treatment easier. How often to have sessions depends on how oily the scalp tends to get and on the complaint; those who want regular care plan sessions a few weeks apart.

What it does and what it is not

After a head spa the scalp feels noticeably light and fresh; oil and product build-up are reduced, and the massage part may help ease tension around the temples and nape and help you relax. The effect is not permanent: the scalp goes on producing oil every day, and the effect of the treatment also depends on your routine at home.

Head spa is not a hair loss treatment. Noticeable and progressive hair loss, sores, crusting or severe itching on the scalp, or sudden bald patches call for a visit to a dermatologist. These signs may point to conditions that need treatment, such as psoriasis, eczema and fungal infections.

Who it suits and who should wait

Head spa is chosen by people with an oily scalp, dandruff, itching or product build-up, those who use styling products often, and those with stress-related scalp tension or tension-type headaches. Because you stay clothed and products are applied only to the head, it also suits people who do not want a body massage.

It is not done if the scalp has an open wound, an active infection or a flare-up of eczema or psoriasis. If you have recently had a hair transplant, wait for the period your doctor has given you. If you have a known allergy to the products used, or use a medicated shampoo on a doctor's advice, say so at the start.

How it differs from head massage, head and neck massage and facials

Head spa is often confused with treatments that have similar names or focus on the same area:

A head massage focuses only on relaxation; head spa combines massage with cleansing and care of the scalp. If you feel the tension more in your shoulders and back than in your head, body massages such as an anti-stress massage may be more suitable.

What affects the price, and questions to ask before your appointment

The price of a head spa depends on the length of the session, whether the scalp analysis is done with a device, the product range used, whether a face and shoulder massage is included, hair length and how much drying is included, and the type of venue. For a general overview, see the guide to what determines massage and spa prices. When making an appointment, ask:

• How the scalp analysis is done and whether the results are explained to you
• What the products contain, and whether they suit coloured or chemically treated hair
• Whether a face and shoulder massage is part of the programme
• Whether drying and styling are included at the end of the session
• Whether the session is suitable for you if you have had a hair transplant, are having dermatological treatment or use a medicated shampoo