Benefits of Hair & Scalp Massage for Hair Growth - MyHairSmart

Benefits of Hair & Scalp Massage for Hair Growth

Written by: prerna khemka

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Introduction

We all know how relaxing a hot oil scalp massage could be, and while you may be getting this massage for numerous reasons, recent research and anecdotal evidence have shed light on another exciting potential benefit: hair growth. Can something so relaxing and heavenly also induce the growth of luscious, healthy hair? Let’s find out.

In the quest for great hair, there's a timeless trick that goes beyond relaxation – the magic of hair and scalp massage. This simple practice isn't just about feeling good; it's a key to unlocking healthier, more vibrant hair growth. Let's explore the science and easy techniques behind this age-old secret.

What is A Hair & Scalp Oil Massage?

But first, what exactly is a hair oil massage? This gentle form of massage occurs around the head and neck area. Traditionally, warm oil is applied and massaged into and around the scalp area to reduce any tensions and increase blood circulation. Massage for hair growth must be done for longer duration to see its benefits.

Scalp massages are given for a variety of reasons. These include to reduce stress, ease migraines and headaches, to relax the neck, and for its potential to promote hair growth.

Importance of Hair Health and the role of Scalp Massage

Hair health is not just about appearances; it plays a crucial role in our overall well-being. The scalp, housing thousands of hair follicles, serves as the foundation for strong, beautiful hair. Beyond aesthetics, a healthy scalp is integral to supporting robust hair growth.

Scalp massage emerges as a pivotal practice in this context, stimulating blood circulation, ensuring efficient nutrient delivery to hair follicles, and promoting the production of essential oils that nourish the hair. By understanding the connection between hair health and scalp massage, we recognize the power of this simple ritual in fostering an environment where our hair can thrive, revealing its natural strength and radiance.

Benefits of Hair & Scalp Massage

Hair and scalp massage is a simple yet powerful practice that offers a myriad of benefits for both the health and aesthetic appeal of your hair. Among its primary advantages is the significant improvement in blood circulation to the scalp. The gentle kneading and pressure applied during a massage session stimulate blood flow, enhancing the delivery of vital nutrients to the hair follicles. This increased nutrient supply is crucial for supporting the various stages of the hair growth cycle, promoting overall hair health and vitality.


  • Improved Blood Circulation: Massage stimulates blood flow to the scalp, enhancing nutrient delivery to hair follicles and promoting overall hair health.
  • Stress Reduction: Scalp massage helps alleviate stress and tension, reducing cortisol levels, which can contribute to healthier hair growth.
  • Increased Sebum Production: Gentle massage encourages the natural production of sebum, a beneficial oil that conditions and nourishes the hair.
  • Enhanced Hair Strength: Regular massage can strengthen hair roots and reduce breakage, contributing to longer, more resilient strands.
  • Relief from Dryness and Dandruff: Massage aids in distributing natural oils, preventing dryness, and improving scalp conditions like dandruff.

In conclusion, incorporating hair and scalp massage into your routine is more than a luxurious self-care practice; it is a holistic approach to nurturing the health and beauty of your hair. From improved blood circulation and stress reduction to enhanced sebum production and relief from common scalp issues, the benefits are numerous. Embrace the therapeutic ritual of hair and scalp massage for a head of hair that not only looks stunning but is also resilient, vibrant, and indicative of overall well-being.

Techniques for Effective Hair & Scalp Massage

Mastering effective hair and scalp massage techniques is key to reaping the full benefits of this revitalizing practice. Here are techniques to elevate your massage sessions:

A woman relaxing face

  • Gentle Pressure: Use your fingertips to apply gentle pressure, avoiding excessive force. This helps prevent discomfort and promotes a relaxing experience.
  • Circular Motions: Employ circular motions with your fingertips. This stimulates blood flow and promotes the activation of hair follicles.
  • Start at the Neck: Begin your massage at the neck and work your way up to the front of the scalp. This approach ensures a gradual relaxation of tension.
  • Use the Pads of Your Fingers: Utilize the soft pads of your fingers, not your nails, to avoid any scalp irritation. This ensures a smooth and comfortable massage.
  • Incorporate Different Sections: Divide your scalp into sections and massage each one individually. This systematic approach ensures comprehensive coverage and effectiveness.
  • Vary the Pressure: Combine gentle and firmer pressure during the massage. This variation can enhance the therapeutic effects and cater to individual preferences.
  • Focus on Tension Points: Identify areas with increased tension and focus on massaging those points. This is particularly beneficial for stress relief.
  • Include Hair Ends: Extend your massage to the ends of your hair. This promotes even distribution of natural oils, preventing dryness and split ends.
  • Use Massage Oils: Consider incorporating natural oils like coconut or jojoba. This not only enhances the massage experience but also nourishes the scalp and hair.
  • Be Consistent: Establish a consistent routine for scalp massage, whether it's a few minutes daily or a more extended session weekly. Regularity maximizes the benefits over time.

By combining these techniques, you can transform your hair and scalp massage into a rejuvenating ritual that not only relaxes but also promotes optimal scalp health and vibrant hair.

product for hair growth

Benefits Of Hair Oil: The Research

According to a 2019 study, scalp massages can indeed induce hair thickness and prevent further hair thinning. In this study, 340 participants were asked to perform a standardized scalp massage twice a day over the span of a few months. An estimated 70% of these respondents reported experiencing hair loss stabilization and regrowth of new hair. Even more surprising was the time it took for the hair regrowth to occur, which was reported at an average of 36 hours of scalp massage time.

Another study, completed in 2016, also reinforces the claim. 9 subjects received 4 minutes of a standardized scalp massage every day for 24 weeks, and the results were astounding: after just 24 weeks, these subjects witnessed significant changes in hair thickness.

So what about hair oil? A high quality study carried out over a period of 7 months had subjects with alopecia massage herbal oils into their scalps. The research astonishingly found that, compared to the control group, the test subjects had experienced significant hair growth, which was attributed to the hair oils.

So what’s the science behind it? There are two reasons why hot oil scalp massages may stimulate hair growth. The first and most apparent reason is that the circular motions of the massage itself increase blood circulation to the scalp, meaning that more nutrients can be delivered to the hair follicles. The second reason, highlighted by the studies above, is that scalp oil massages have also been shown to stretch and dilate the hair follicles, thereby stimulating further hair growth.

So yes, it does sound too good, but it is also true.

Best Hair Oils For Scalp Massages

Now that you know how to give yourself a scalp massage, it is best to choose the right hair oil to optimize the hair growth. Not only will this strengthen your hair follicles, but a good hair oil will also provide ample nutrition to ensure that your hair grows healthy and strong.

Instead of using a simple carrier oil, such as coconut or almond, you may want to consider oils that have been specifically created for hair growth. Better yet, hair oils that contain pure, 100% natural extracts of botanical herbs such as amla, brahmi, and bhringraj might be the best pick. This is because these specific Ayurvedic herbs have also been shown to stimulate hair growth and improve overall hair health- so why not make the most of your scalp massage?

A great example of this are these Protect Oil and Repair Oil, which have been specifically designed to prevent hair loss, strengthen and improve hair texture, and promote hair growth. The rich oils are infused with a powerful blend of Ayurvedic hair growth herbs so that your scalp massage is the most effective it could ever be. This truly sounds like the best of both worlds.

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About the Author

Prerna Khemka

Our founder, Prerna Khemka, confronted hair loss in her twenties. Fueled by a profound passion for Ayurveda and equipped with insights from Western technology, she embarked on a transformative odyssey. Determined to find a solution that resonated with her cultural roots, Prerna delved into extensive research and innovation. The result? A line of clean, effective products that not only revived her own hair but also empowered countless others facing similar challenges.