Whether you’re looking for relaxation or hair growth, your follicles deserve a little R&R
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Ask just about any hair expert, and they’ll likely agree that healthy hair starts with a healthy scalp. The scalp, after all, is an extension of the skin on our face, and needs just as much TLC to flourish—which is where the best scalp massagers come in. These tools deliver many of the same benefits as a good gua sha to the face, and on top of feeling deeply relaxing, can also help with hair thinning and overall loss. Plus, most scalp massagers can be used on any hair texture, making them a must-have.
At minimum, scalp massagers are key in helping to boost circulation and reduce blood pressure. Medical physiologist and WeThrivv co-founder Sanjay Batra tells Bazaar that scalp massages are key for relaxing tiny muscles that tense under daily stress. “Those small muscles pull on the scalp when they get tense, which can lead to reduced oxygen and nutrient supply, and prevent free radicals and other byproducts from escaping the scalp,” he explains. “By practicing regular massage, focusing on the sides mostly, the muscles relax, and circulation is restored.”
If you’re hoping to enhance relaxation or jump-start a thicker, fuller hair routine, look no further than our list of the best scalp massagers, below.
Aveda is well known for its robust offering of hair care and maintenance staples, so it’s no surprise they’ve also designed one of the most effective scalp massagers for beauty lovers. This version uses ultra thin bristles of different lengths, with rounded ball tips that promote gentle microcirculation and help you relax.
One satisfied customer writes: “I like using this product as the directions says, but I also use it to gently massage my scalp when my hair is dry. It’s gentle, durable, and very comfortable to hold. I can tell that it’s not missing any areas of my scalp because of the bristles different lengths. It was a great purchase in my opinion.” —Naavisd
The grooved, ergonomic base on Vegamour’s Gro Scalp massager makes for an easy grip for extra stability and when working through curly and thicker hair. Several reviewers note that they also love using the tool after showering, to evenly distribute hair serums and scalp oils.
One satisfied customer writes: “I really like the plastic rubbery material. It creates heat when I do a round circle motion. I use it on my scalp on dry hair as a massager. Or when I wash my hair for a deeper scalp cleansing.” —Reka J.
The rubber teeth on this massager may look sharp, but have no fear. Instead of painfully digging into your scalp, Ceremonia’s best-selling tool helps break up flaky skin seamlessly without feeling uncomfortable.
One satisfied customer writes: “I love using this scalp massager every time i wash my hair. It really makes a difference. My hair/scalp feel so much cleaner after every use. I truly love it!” —MaribelJay0623
The firm, silicone bristles on Briogeo’s scalp massager make it ideal for any self-care routine, and can be used on either wet or dry hair. If you decide to use it in the shower, the tool even nicely includes a hanging string to make storage a breeze.
One satisfied customer writes: “My scalp is so dry and itchy during the winter months, so I’m so glad I found this product! It not only feels good as I’m shampooing my hair but it has decreased the overall itchiness and dryness of my scalp!” —Vanessa C.
If you have a sensitive scalp or are prone to hair breakage, this dense and flexible scalp massager practically has your name written all over it. The tool even bends to mold to the shape of your hand and head as you work it across your scalp—talk about customization.
This literal gua sha tool for your scalp is made of jade, and like other massagers on this list, helps boost scalp circulation and provide better product absorption. Plus, its classic comb design also makes for a familiar grip during your massage.
One satisfied customer writes: “This cute little comb is just the right size and feels so good on my scalp. The little felt storage sleeve is a plus.” —Anonymous
This device does all the heavy lifting (and massaging) for you. In addition to four rotating heads that vibrate as they turn for pure luxury, this high-tech massager also uses red LED light therapy to encourage blood flow and ultimately hair growth.
One satisfied customer writes: “I thought this product looked gimmicky and overpriced but honestly it is such a nice item to have. It’s so easy to use and it just works really well, I was doing scalp massages with my fingers(which I got tired of fast) but this is so so so much easier to use and I can use it for longer plus it has the led lights. I was unsure about this product at first but I am so glad I got it it has really helped with my hair growth. I absolutely love it!!” —JoyfulJan
The hourglass shape of Tangle Teezer’s Scalp Exfoliator and Massager Brush makes the tool incredibly easy to use. Plus, its slimmer bristles are brushlike, making them ideal for scrubbing away product buildup and flaky skin with little to no effort.
One satisfied customer writes: “I use this in the shower to rub in my shampoo and massage my scalp. I have a very very sensitive scalp and fine long blonde hair so shampooing normally can be quite painful as I struggle with the tangles and weight of the wet hair. This helps me get all the product in and massages my scalp without tugging. I recommend it!” —Rachel A.
Small circular motions are suggested when using this coveted massager from the experts at Grow Gorgeous. Its rubber teeth are just flexible enough to exfoliate dead skin on the scalp while providing a gentle—but not too gentle—scrub.
One satisfied customer writes: “I use this on my scalp in the shower. It helps increase blood flow and exfoliates my scalp. Love it!” —HG
The extra-long handle on Conair’s scalp massager brush makes it simple to quickly maneuver across your entire scalp. And since the tool doubles as a detangler, you can also knock out two hair care steps at once, for an added beauty bonus.
One satisfied customer writes: “It helps to massage those tender spots after wearing a tight ponytail all day! But also it helps to clean the scalp of any extra debris or left over product from initial shampoo scrub.” —Bionca
A good scalp massage can not only bring down the stress from a jammed day, the practice can also play a big role in improving your overall hair health. Essentially, the best scalp massagers help with circulation and can alter the amount of oxygen pumping in and out of your hair follicles.
“Scientists have discovered oxygen may be limited in scalps with thinning hair or hair loss,” Dr. Batra explains. Without the proper airflow, he says, certain hormones that need to pass through the scalp can build up in the follicle, adding stress and possibly even causing the follicle to die.
Batra notes that you shouldn’t use a scalp massager if you have any active inflammation from, say, seborrheic dermatitis or any other irritating scalp conditions. He advises waiting until the inflammation lessens, and double-checking with your dermatologist before adding a scalp massager to your regimen.
For more than 150 years, Harper’s Bazaar has been the preeminent fashion and beauty resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in beauty by working with the world’s leading authorities in dermatology, plastic surgery, cosmetics, skincare, hair care, and fragrance. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of beauty editors and industry experts.
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