The Ultimate Scalp Satisfaction: What to Expect From a Japanese Head Spa

When people mention spa clinics, the general assumption is that the treatments focus on the facial complexion, the legs, or the body. However, a Japanese head spa can be a unique and satisfying experience that will be a real treat for your whole scalp area.  

What Is a Japanese Head Spa?

A Japanese head spa refers to specialized treatments, such as massage and steam, that are geared toward improving scalp health. Safiya Nygaard interviews a professional scalp cleaner Arisa Watanabe, who says that the practice originated even more than 20 years ago. While it initially grew big in Asia, everyone from the West is starting to catch on to the trend. 

The Science and Benefits of Japanese Head Spas

Although paying attention to the scalp is somewhat rare in a spa, it is more than ideal for addressing various scalp concerns. Here are the science-backed benefits of getting a Japanese head spa. 

• Enhance the microbiome: The bacterial species that live within the scalp’s microbiome are limited, which can lead to dandruff in the long term. Thankfully, spas offer enough cleansing and care to improve bacterial diversity, which inadvertently slows down inflammation and dandruff formation. 

• Improve blood flow: One of the most popular steps behind Japanese head spas is the massage, which is known to enhance blood circulation. There’s also evidence that suggests that the increased blood flow within that general area can stimulate the hair follicles and trigger growth. 

• Offer stress relief: Many people’s goal with heading to a spa is to wind down and get some pampering. Various treatments with massages can boost happy hormones like dopamine, serotonin and oxytocin. The Japanese head spa can still offer that while professionally cleaning the scalp.

What to Expect

The head spa treatment can be marketed as a professional scalp exfoliation and other kinds of treatments, depending on the package that you avail from your chosen head spa. Here are some steps that may be included in your package. 

1. Scalp Assessment

The scalp assessment or analysis is usually done under a microscope to grasp what kind of scalp concerns a person may have to address. The close-up examination can reveal anything from oiliness to dandruff to head lice and more. Some may take pictures as a reference point for the before-and-after reveal post-treatment. 

2. Deep Cleanse

A deep cleanse is a key step in removing gunk and dirt lingering in the hair. You will typically get these following steps lying down, similar to how you would get your hair washed before the big cut at a salon. This may be conducted multiple times as well. Scalp clarifying shampoo and leave-in conditioner are some of the popular care products to expect.

3. Scalp Exfoliants

A Japanese head spa is thorough, which can warrant some exfoliants to cut through the stubborn parts of the spa. Watanabe likens the treatment to a facial or skincare routine, noting the importance of getting into the scalp and giving it some tender loving care to clean it out. 

4. Scalp Masks

Regardless of how oily scalps are, they still need good hydration. This is typically the stage where various masks are applied throughout the scalp. Some use thinner products like serums and oils when conducting this step. Scalp cleaners may be decided at their discretion, depending on the quality of your hair and other factors. 

5. Steam Therapy

Scalp steam therapy can be very therapeutic for both the scalp and the hair, as the mist can cleanse and hydrate the scalp all at once. Some people conduct the steaming prior to the mask and other hydration products to loosen the grease and open up the pores in this area, which can help with product penetration and absorption. 

6. Scalp Massage

A Japanese head spa may also feature a soothing scalp massage. Almond oil is ideal when moisturizing the scalp, while rosemary targets blood circulation. This portion can be particularly relaxing to experience, especially with enough product that lets the hands just glide through without feeling too wet. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How Can You Prepare for a Head Spa?

There’s little to no preparation needed for a head spa, but you can conduct your regular hair care routine like shampoo and conditioner before coming in. You can ask your scalp cleaner for any clarification prior to your appointment to know what you can expect. 

Can You Get Scalp Satisfaction At Home?

It is possible to apply some of the scalp-cleaning products on your own. You can try creating your own scalp scrubs at home. However, most of the appeal behind the Japanese head spa experience is being able to sit back and relax while your scalp is taken care of. 

How Often Should You Get a Head Spa?

Some recommend getting a head spa once every two weeks. However, it’s best to assess your scalp health and coordinate with your scalp cleaner on what would work for you. After a session or two, you can move it from a bi-weekly schedule to a monthly or bimonthly schedule, or even get the products and conduct the scalp care yourself. 

Is a Head Spa Safe For All Hair Types?

Yes, a head spa is safe for all hair types. While it does target the scalp, your hair will be a by-product of all the treatments you get. If you have color-treated hair, your spa clinic can choose products safe for dyes and avoid any treatments that might strip the hue.

Can a Head Spa Help with Hair Issues?

Yes, a head spa can help with numerous hair issues. As mentioned, it can stimulate hair growth and boost moisture. Cleaning the scalp from oil and dandruff also creates a better environment for hair strands to grow. 

Treat and Soothe the Scalp

Most people teach that shampoo and conditioner are all you need for a healthy scalp. However, there are numerous treatments that can help your hair and clarify your scalp. A Japanese head spa can be just the reset you need to relax and clean up.