Last summer, one of my girlfriends told me about a new hair and scalp treatment she had tried at a salon exclusively devoted to scalp health. Shortly after that conversation, I read an article in Newsday, our local paper, titled “Long Island head spas: What to expect at the trendy new experience.”
What Are Head Spas?
Rooted in Japanese culture, this unique treatment focuses on deeply cleansing and massaging the scalp, which not only improves scalp health and stimulates blood circulation but also may help to promote hair growth.
This treatment is often compared to a “facial for the scalp.” Typically, it includes scalp analysis, exfoliation, the use of targeted products, and a thorough scalp massage that employs tension-relieving acupressure techniques. Beyond promoting hair health, head spas offer significant relaxation benefits.
For all these reasons, head spas are gaining in popularity and opening across the country to meet the increasing demand. The article I read highlighted several spas on Long Island that offer these treatments.
With my interest piqued – and looking to unwind from a stressful workweek – I decided to give it a try. I called GuiFei Spa in Bethpage, Long Island (they have another location in Flushing, Queens), one of the spas featured in Newsday, for an appointment. Leah, who manages the front desk, booked me for a session that very day.
Procedures on Offer
GuiFei Spa offers a variety of services at different price points. For instance, a basic 40-minute scalp treatment and massage, which includes a wash and scalp massage but excludes hair steaming or herbal rinse, was priced at $48. In the upper range, the 90-minute specialized scalp treatment – which includes microcurrent and low-level light therapy – is targeted at hair loss prevention and is priced at $178. I opted for the 60-minute $78 Signature Herbal Scalp Treatment.
Preparation
As per the spa’s instructions, I arrived with unwashed hair. After checking in with Leah, I was introduced to Candy, my aesthetician, who ushered me into a softly lit comfortable cubicle. I removed my earrings, shoes, and blouse in preparation for the massage and lay down on the treatment table. Candy then covered me with two large bath towels up to just below my neck.
Prior to beginning the treatment, Candy offered me a choice between eight shampoos, each targeting a different hair concern. I chose one formulated to promote hair growth. Then she went to work, massaging the aromatic tea-tree oil shampoo into my hair.
My Experience
But it was not your average shampoo; it included a scalp massage that incorporated a series of acupressure moves and extended to a shoulder, neck, and upper back massage. During this, Candy remarked that my shoulders “felt tight.” She was right about that, and under her skilled hands, I could feel the knots – and almost hear them – pop and release.
An infusion of what the spa calls an herbal “soup bath” – a blend of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants derived from plants and mixed in hot water to create a nourishing broth – came next. My hair was allowed to soak for a time in this infusion so that the herbs could penetrate my scalp. This “soup bath” is designed to promote healthy hair growth by detoxifying the scalp and strengthening hair follicles in a natural way.
Then, a clear plastic hood was placed over my head for an aromatic round of hair steaming. Candy explained that this process is designed to help repair damage, infuse my hair with moisture, and improve hair elasticity, making it less prone to breakage and split ends.
While the steam worked its magic, Candy gave me a gentle arm and hand massage.
After a thorough rinse with warm water, Candy wrapped a towel snugly around my head and instructed me to change back into my clothes.
But That Wasn’t the End of It
She then led me into another room, which was the salon area of the spa. I settled into a salon chair in front of a large mirror for a light blow dry with cool air, followed by a few sprays of hair oil.
The final step included a brief scalp analysis. Candy utilized a digital microscope to examine my scalp and displayed the magnified image on the monitor, noting its cleanliness and the absence of product buildup.
The hour had passed so quickly – too quickly. I knew I wanted to do this again and asked Leah how long I should wait. For optimal hair health, Leah suggested three-week intervals.
I left with a scalp that felt squeaky clean, and soft hair. On top of that, I felt utterly relaxed.
Suggested Benefits of a Head Spa Treatment:
- Cleanses the scalp.
- Scalp massage stimulates blood flow and may aid in hair regrowth.
- Strengthens and nourishes the hair follicles.
- May enhance hair thickness.
- Helps to combat dandruff, scalp irritation and itch.
- Removes buildup and dead skin cells.
- Decreases stress and anxiety.
To experience this ancient rejuvenating treatment, simply search for a nearby Head Spa on Google.
Also read, 2 Surprising Tips for Minimizing Hair Issues in Your 50s and 60s.
Let’s Have a Conversation:
Have you tried a head spa procedure? What benefits have you noticed? Would you do it again?