If You Deal with Buildup, Consider Adding a Scalp Massager to Your Hair-Care Routine

If you’ve ever thought that a scalp massager wasn’t for you, whether because of price or an assumption that they’re too bougie for your low-key hair-care routine, think again. “It is necessary to activate the scalp muscles and improve circulation as well as remove debris from the base of the hair follicle,” says Bridgette Hill, a certified trichologist, hairstylist, and colorist with over 20 years of scalp- and hair-health experience. “The scalp brush is universally needed for all scalp and hair types to be used at some point in scalp and hair-care regimens,” she adds.

That said, Hill points out that the benefits of scalp massagers depend on how you use them. Her suggestion? Pair scalp massagers with pre-shampoo scalp treatments weekly or bi-weekly. “The scalp brushes aid with exfoliation, removing dead skin cells and product buildup from the base of the hair follicle,” she explains. “When used with a pre-shampoo oil or serum-based scalp treatment, scalp brushes and massagers aid in assisting the active ingredients to penetrate deeper due to the design of the brush’s teeth or nodes, as well.” And, in case you were wondering, a massager also does wonders for ridding your scalp of itchy dandruff — so long as you’re gentle and don’t apply too much pressure.

What’s more, Hill says that opting for an ergonomically-designed hand grip will allow you to maneuver the head massager better, which will help keep the muscles firing for the entire duration of use. But that’s not all. One of the primary benefits of scalp massagers is just how relaxing they feel as they promote blood circulation and blood flow, which in turn can potentially boost not only your mood but hair growth, too.

“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.

Suffice to say, if you don’t have a scalp massager in your hair-care routine yet, there’s no time like the present to add one in for deep cleaning. Instead of buying the first one you see at your local drugstore, consider opting for one of the top-rated options below, and pair it with your favorite hair products for a soothing shower routine and healthier hair.