HeatherWoolery-Lloyd, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in Florida and the creator of Specific Beauty, a skincare line designed to treat hyperpigmentation. Incorporating scalp brushes and massagers helps relax the scalp and increase suppleness," Hill says, noting that the tools help reduce muscle tension. "We know stress tightens the scalp and impedes circulation and hair growth, so depending on hair-care regimens and scalp conditions, weekly scalp massages with massagers are excellent for overall health and wellbeing." Hold your tool of choice in the palm of your hand and use circular motions to sweep away debris. Be especially gentle, of course, on particularly sensitive scalps and thinning hair. In 2019, a pair of researchers from California looked at scalp massage for treating AGA ( 11). They wanted to know if scalp massage can reverse hair loss. Another question was if the results are dose-dependent, or if someone will get more regrowth the more they massage.

Avoid excessive shampooing and brushing. Also, limit the use of chemical treatments, dyes, and heated hair styling tools. These can all weaken hair cuticles and cause breakage. She found that the best way to handle the styler was by sliding three fingers inside the top loop and massaging it through the scalp when applying styling products. “The Denman made such a difference in successfully working my hair oil in at the roots,” she says. “Utilizing this tool makes applying the treatment far more efficient and effective! My hair feels healthier and more nourished since I incorporated it into my routine.” Though it worked well for her, she advises against using this if you have a sensitive scalp as the bristles are very firm. Regardless, it’s lightweight, durable, and performs well as a detangler, product applicator, and styler. We love the way this massager feels in our hands — its comfortable grip won’t slip in the shower or increase finger tension, letting all the focus rest on your zen-like moment of relaxation. “The bristles are a great balance of being firm yet pliable,” reports our tester. She tried the tool with conditioner and noticed an increased level of penetration. Though, she notes, “when I used it with shampoo, I didn’t feel that same level of absorption.” If you use hair oils or serums, it performs especially well on both wet and dry hair. And, it adds a pretty design touch to your shower. “Personally, I appreciate that it looks nice,” adds our tester. One thing that would make the tool even better was if there was some variation in the size and shape of the bristles for more sensory benefits. Tangle Teezer Scalp Exfoliator & Massager: This massager didn’t make the cut for us due to its long, wiery bristles that were uncomfortable to use on dry hair. The handle space was also too small, making for a cramped grip. The diverse, thin spikes are supposed to be its highlight, but ultimately, became its downfall.Massage also promotes the local release of histamines and other endogenous substances that are vasoactive. In other words, they affect the blood vessels by increasing their diameter. These vasoactive effects are more pronounced with a strong, forceful massage. Scalp Massage Promotes Healthy Hair Growth If your goal is self-care and simple relaxation or you have extra-sensitive skin, you’ll want to look for soft, silicone bristles. You can also find scalp massagers with fine-tooth bristles (such as the Tangle Teezer The Scalp Exfoliator & Massager and the Kitsch Pro Scalp Exfoliator) that can feel more gentle. If you’re hoping to target stubborn buildup or dry, flaky skin, you should aim for a scalp massager with firmer, larger bristles. Additional Products Keep your opposing fingers one or two inches apart. If your scalp is tight, this might be hard in the beginning. With time it will get easier. Try to do this all over your scalp, not only the affected areas. You can do this massage for around 1 minute. Two-Handed Squeeze

If you have very short hair you can use both brushes simultaneously, one in each hand. With circular motions, brush and glide across the entire scalp. Pay special attention to the areas you want to treat. Apply the massager to the scalp (on wet and sudsy or dry hair) using firm pressure, but not to the point where it causes discomfort. Move in circular motions or whatever feels best or most relaxing to you. “Using a scalp massager in the shower is ideal because dead skin cells that are loosened can then be rinsed away,” adds Dr. Marcus. To start, get into a comfortable, quiet area. This may be your bed, your couch, or even a quiet space at work. Try to find a place where you will be uninterrupted. The Simplest Massage Once you have completed the massage (10-15) minutes, let sit for an additional 5-10 minutes. Then, rinse thoroughly with lukewarm (or cold) water. You can repeat this on a daily basis or do it occasionally to add variation to your massage routine. Which Scalp Massage Technique Is Right for You?All hope isn't lost, though, because even though scalp massagers won't physically grow your hair, they can definitely make your scalp healthier (and long hair = healthy hair, y'all). Since scalp massagers are really excellent at removing product buildup and excess oil, they're a great addition to anyone's routine. If you’re pressed for time, you can use the traditional scalp massage method outlined above while you’re washing your hair.

Ask your doctor about prescription medications for hair loss. These include finasteride (Propecia) for men and spironolactone for women.

The verdict: Scalp massagers

Scalp massage (or head massage) is simply the manual stimulation of the scalp. You can do it with your bare hands or special devices. These range from simple plastic aids to complex electrical devices.