Massage has been a form of therapy since the days of Hippocrates, according to Massage Therapy Schools. Massage came to America in the late 1800s and was later used to treat World War I soldiers suffering from shell shock. Massage is now part alternative medicine and can be found in hospitals and clinics. Scalp massage is practiced in salons, spas and hospitals. Anyone can give himself a scalp massage for a quick refresher and stress reliever.
Reduces Stress
Massage is a proven stress reliever. Massage relaxes muscles and reduces stress in the body. It releases endorphins, which calm the nervous system, according to the Franklin Institute. It also boosts the spirits.
Headache Relief
Using mild pressure while massaging the temples helps reduce tension and alleviate migraine headaches, according to the Mayo Clinic. Head massage reduces tension, which is a common cause of headaches. The Mayo Clinic notes that the most common headache trigger is stress. Massage can even be a preventive method when you feel a tension headache coming on, take a few minutes to massage the head to relieve tension in the muscles.
Stimulates Hair Growth
Stress can trigger the hair follicle to go into a resting state and cause hair loss. This is a condition called Telogen effluvium and is the most common type of stress-related hair loss, according to the Mayo Clinic. A head massage is relaxing, increases circulation and stimulates hair growth.
Contact and seborrheic dermatitis cause plaque and skin scales over the scalp. This plugs the hair follicle and causes hair loss. Massaging the scalp loosens and removes plaque and scales. The National Institutes of Health recommend scalp massage for patients with seborrheic dermatitis.
Removes Sebum
Excess sebum can build up and clog the hair follicles. Gentle massaging of the scalp loosens and removes excess sebum. "CBS Money Watch" in the April 2001 issue of the "Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine" noted that scalp massage with jojoba oil increased head temperature that helps open the pores. This allows the oil to dissolve and remove excess sebum and clean the scalp.
Increased Circulation
Massaging the scalp increases circulation and blood flow to the head. Increased circulation brings nutrients to the scalp and hair follicles. This makes for a healthy head and prevents hair loss.
Massage Techniques
Light massage combined with a good essential oil provide the best benefits. Choose oil that is appropriate for your scalp. Jojoba oil removes excess sebum and has conditioning benefits for the hair. Put a small amount of the oil in a shallow bowl over warm water. Dip your fingertips in the oil and proceed to lightly rub the mixture into the scalp, parting the hair as you go.
Once the scalp is covered in oil, use a light kneading pressure and work your way from the temples to the base of the head using circular motions. Next, do the same thing for each side. Repeat this process, but use more pressure and a quicker pace. Then use the fingertips and knead the neck muscles down to the shoulder blades.
For extra conditioning, leave the oil on the scalp for 30 minutes before showering.
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