Head spas are taking TikTok by storm, with videos showcasing women enjoying luxurious scalp treatments and massages. But is this trend just a fleeting fad, or is there real value in these specialized spa services?
A Deeper Cleanse for Your Scalp
The allure of a head spa lies in the promise of a deep cleansing experience, where a professional expertly massages and washes your scalp, leaving you feeling relaxed and refreshed. These spas offer a range of services, including a simple hair wash, scalp massage, and even upper body treatments. While the benefits of a head spa are mostly temporary – think relaxation, a clean scalp, and a nice blowout – some locations also offer scalp analysis.
However, a word of caution from a senior chemist in the Beauty, Health and Sustainability Lab: “Unlike a dermatologist or trichologist, I would take the info collected [during a scalp analysis] with a grain of salt.”
My Head Spa Experience: A Luxurious Deep Cleanse
Intrigued by the prospect of an expert deep clean, I decided to try a head spa treatment myself at Blissful Headspace Spa in Brooklyn, New York.
Head spas, originating in Japanese culture, are designed to provide a soothing and revitalizing experience for your scalp. One popular head spa on TikTok describes its services as “a scalp treatment,” highlighting its effectiveness in tackling various scalp concerns like oiliness, dandruff, and hair loss.
Exploring the Cost of a Head Spa
Head spa prices vary widely, ranging from $35 to $330, depending on the specific services offered and the location.
The spa I visited offered a range of treatments:
- A basic 40-minute scalp treatment (wash and massage) cost $48.
- A 90-minute specialized scalp care treatment (targeting specific concerns like dandruff or oily scalp, including hair steaming) cost $178.
- Other spas, like MASA.KANAI, offer 60- and 90-minute sessions with additional treatments like Hydrohara Waterfall, Ultrasonic Mist, and Zero Instant moisturization, priced at $300 and $330, respectively.
My Journey Through a Head Spa
My initial appointment was for a $68 steam scalp treatment and massage, but the manager upgraded me to the signature scalp herbal steam treatment (a $78 value) at no extra charge.
The spa experience itself was a soothing one. After changing into a comfortable robe, I was guided to a massage table connected to a wash bowl. The massage began with a gentle application of oil, followed by a soothing scalp massage using a specialized tool.
Next came the deep cleansing process, where my hair specialist thoroughly shampooed and conditioned my hair, focusing on detangling and removing any buildup. Hair steaming followed, allowing moisture to penetrate each strand.
The final stage involved a brief scalp analysis using a digital microscope, showcasing the cleanliness of my scalp.
My Verdict: Worth It for the Massage and Cleanse
While I was impressed by the relaxing massage and deep cleansing aspects of the head spa, I found the blowout service lacking for curly hair. The final result was frizzy, and there weren’t any products available specifically for curly hair.
Final Thoughts: A Relaxing Escape for Your Scalp
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the relaxing experience of the head spa. The soothing music and dimly lit room provided a peaceful atmosphere.
While the blowout wasn’t ideal, I appreciated the softness and detangling of my hair after the treatment.
If you’re seeking stress relief or simply looking for a thorough scalp cleanse, I recommend giving a head spa a try. However, if you have curly hair, be prepared to style it yourself or bring your own products.
Head spas offer a unique and relaxing way to unwind, leaving you feeling rejuvenated and with a healthy, clean scalp.
