What Are the Benefits of a Scalp Massage for Hair Restoration?
Hair loss is an issue that will affect 80 percent of the population at some point to varying degrees. With the endless parade of pseudo-scientific treatments for hair loss and the ever-increasing costs of medical treatments, the problem can seem overwhelming and hopeless; however, an increasing number of people are turning to natural remedies such as herbs, essential oils, acupuncture, holistic therapies and massage. Does this Spark an idea?
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Causes
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The most common type of permanent baldness (male-pattern baldness) is caused by the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT), but hair loss can also be caused by stress, other hormones, medication, infections and illnesses.
Misconceptions
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Myths about hair loss persist are still held as fact. Some of the most common myths are the beliefs that wearing hats contributes to hair loss, hair loss comes from your mother's side and styling products, shampoos and chemicals cause your hair to fall out.
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Mental Benefits of Scalp Massage
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One of the benefits of a scalp massage is that it helps reduce stress, which increases the body's ability to heal itself.
Physical Benefits of Scalp Massage
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The physical benefits of a massage are numerous and well-documented, one of which is the improvement of the circulation of blood and the movement of lymph fluids, which enhances the health and nourishment of the skin and hair.
Warning
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As with any type of massage, a scalp massage has contraindications, such as hurting open sores or wounds in the area; causing redness, swelling or inflammation; causing unusual sensitivity; or affecting recent hair replacement procedures.
Scalp Massage Technique
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For a traditional scalp massage, you can use the oil or dry technique. If oil is used, warm it up slightly to avoid tensing of the muscles initially and improve the relaxing effect of the treatment. Begin just behind the hairline with the little fingers, and position each finger along the crown of the head, ending with the thumb on the back of the skull. Make small circular movements with your fingers down the head toward the ears. With the same small circular movements, continue in a free-form pattern in your hairline for no more than 10 minutes. You can do this every day, but if your scalp is tender or irritated due to overstimulation, discontinue treatment for several days until your scalp feels better.
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References
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of nutmeg) (megan soh
