Scalp massage for stimulating hair growth—does it really work?

If you’ve ever experienced a scalp massage, you’ll know it does a great job of releasing tension and feels sublime—but is there any truth in the idea that scalp massage promotes hair growth? We asked the experts to weigh in and share the science behind this beauty rumor. 

Hair thinning is an incredibly common problem, with more than 40% of women experiencing hair loss or slowing growth. It can be caused by a number of factors such as pregnancy, medical treatment, stress, or just plain old genetics. It can also be triggered by heat-styling habits—even when using the best hair dryer or best hair straighteners.

Countless remedies promise to thicken and fortify thin locks; there’s plenty of hype out there, for example, about scalp massage as a hair-growth treatment. 

In short, it has been said that massaging your scalp stimulates blood flow to the area, which in turn promotes quicker and healthier hair growth. But could the solution to our fine-hair woes really be as simple as a regular scalp massage?

Does scalp massage for hair growth work?

We put this question to Trichologist Dr. Nick Fisherman of Wyndham Private Specialist Clinic. “Certainly—a scalp massage using the right technique can help hair growth by stimulating and improving the blood circulation within the hair follicles,” he explains. 

Every hair starts in the hair follicle, where the bulb of the hair sits, and a good blood supply is essential for healthy hair growth. According to research, scalp massage causes blood vessels under the skin to dilate, generating more blood flow to the area. The stimulation stretches out the cells of hair follicles, which causes them to produce thicker hair strands. 

We asked Zoe Irwin, hair expert and woman&home Hair Awards judge (who helped us pick the best hair products of 2021), her thoughts on scalp massage. “It’s really about creating a healthy environment for hair to grow," she told us. "If you can just manipulate your scalp every day, all through the crown, I promise you will see much better quality hair come through.”

Scalp massage step-by-step

1. Use your fingertips

“Boost blood and circulation to the follicles by gently massaging and moving your scalp with your finger pads or, for a more in-depth massage, use a brush to help increase hair health and shine,” says Zoe. There are other benefits of this process: if you massage your scalp gently before bed it can induce relaxation, while massaging your scalp throughout the day is also a quick pick-me-up.

2. Try a brush

For an effective scalp massage that won’t damage your hair, a flexible brush—such as a Manta—works wonders. Place the brush on the head, so it sits flat on the scalp at the base of your skull. Then start to scrape in an upwards motion towards the crown of your head.

3. A gentle press

Zoe suggests that ‘pressing’ your scalp brush into the hair produces an acupuncture-like effect. “When you go to India, you lie on something called Shakti (acupressure) mats, which stimulate your body; I use my brush in the same way.” Move the brush through the hair, pausing at intervals to press gently into the scalp.

4. Make small circles

Regardless of whether you’re using your fingers or a brush, gently move around the head using small circular motions to release tension and really manipulate the skin. The goal is to bring blood to the area, and small circles will focus your energies. 

The best products for scalp health

Scalp massage is certainly an effective hair hack for boosting growth and encouraging healthy, thicker hair to grow. You can take your scalp massage to the next level, however, by incorporating a few scalp health products as well.

• Revitalash Thickening Shampoo at Revitalash for £41

• Hairstory Scalp Brush at Hairstory for £11

Frank Body Exfoliating Scalp Serum at Frank Body for £16.95 

• Anyell Electric Head, Scalp and Neck Massager at Anyell Shop for £29.99

How to prevent hair loss

If you want fuller, thicker hair, there are some dos and don'ts when it comes to lifestyle. Obvious factors—such as partaking in regular exercise, eating a healthy, balanced diet, and quitting smoking—will contribute to the normal functioning of the cells in your body.

Dr. Fisherman also suggests being aware of hair accessories and hats—constant use may contribute to hair loss. “Avoid wearing caps all the time and, if you have long hair, avoid tight banding of hair to avoid traction alopecia,” he says. 

Traction alopecia is a hair loss condition where if the hair is repeatedly pulled on, whether that’s through hair ties, clips or braids, you are left with bald patches. It can be reversed with care and attention but, in severe cases, it can be permanent. 

Sometimes there is no physical reason as to why you might be experiencing hair loss. Your hair follicles might be perfectly functional, but intense feelings of stress and inward emotions can trigger this outward symptom too. 

It might be easier said than done, but try to remove, reduce or avoid highly stressful situations in your life. There are many different ways of coping with stress, but meditation techniques, regular exercise, and seeking professional help are all options that you can explore to help you cope during stressful times.