Try to massage your scalp using your fingertips for at least 5 minutes at a time, several times a day.

HeatherWoolery-Lloyd, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in Florida and the creator of Specific Beauty, a skincare line designed to treat hyperpigmentation. It probably comes as no surprise that healthy hair starts with a clean, healthy scalp. And for those who struggle with dandruff flakes and product buildup (we're looking at you, dry shampoo), scalp massagers can help by simultaneously exfoliating away grime and stimulating blood flow to the hair follicles. "Improved delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the hair follicles can help them function to the best of their ability, which means optimal growth of hair," says Joshua Zeichner, MD, director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. The researchers collected questionnaires from 327 people with AGA. All of them had used or were still using scalp massages to treat their hair loss. 296 were men and 29 women. All participants massaged using their own hands. They did not have the help of a professional or use any sort of device. Pour 3-5 drops of oil onto the center of your crown. Part your hair down the middle as best you can, then add 3-5 drops of your oil mixture to the very top of your head, where you parted your hair. [10] X Research source Keep your head tipped forward slightly when you pour to avoid having the oil drip into your eyes.

It is also used by people with healthy hair. Research has found that it can give stronger hair even when there is no pathological hair loss. The handle is ergonomic and comfortable, and it’s especially hygienic given that the bristles can be popped out for cleaning. An attached tassel makes hanging storage a breeze. Most importantly, look for a massager with soft bristles, suggests Rebecca Marcus, MD, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Maei MD. If you want an electric model, opt for one with gentle vibration, she adds. The graph below shows the results. Each dot is one participant. The vertical axis is the self-reported results. The horizontal axis is the total number of hours invested in scalp massages (SSM). The dashed line is the statistical trend line. Its upward shape suggests more massage leads to better results.

According to the self-reported findings, approximately 69 percent of participants reported that their alopecia had improved. If you’re pressed for time, you can use the traditional scalp massage method outlined above while you’re washing your hair. Incorporating scalp brushes and massagers helps relax the scalp andincrease suppleness," says Bridgette Hill, certified trichologist and founder of Root Cause Scalp Analysis."We know stress tightens the scalp and impedes circulation and hair growth." With regular massage, you can release that tension and encourage blood flow to the area—which, in turn, delivers oxygen and hair-healthy nutrients to the follicles. Normal blood flow is essential to all human tissue, including the scalp. Blood carries the oxygen and nutrients the hair follicles need. It also removes cellular waste like CO2. Without sufficient blood, the follicles cannot carry out their activities. As a result, they cannot sustain their healthy (non-miniaturized) growth cycle. AGA and Blood Flow

Overall, more research is warranted to determine the extent of a scalp massager’s benefits. With that being said, anyone who finds scalp massage relaxing can most benefit from using one, says Dr. Marcus. “Those who suffer from tension headaches may find that a scalp massager offers relief,” she adds. Scalp massagers may also relieve symptoms of itch and help remove excess dandruff or flakes, says Dr. Zeichner.

We love the way this massager feels in our hands — its comfortable grip won’t slip in the shower or increase finger tension, letting all the focus rest on your zen-like moment of relaxation. “The bristles are a great balance of being firm yet pliable,” reports our tester. She tried the tool with conditioner and noticed an increased level of penetration. Though, she notes, “when I used it with shampoo, I didn’t feel that same level of absorption.” If you use hair oils or serums, it performs especially well on both wet and dry hair. And, it adds a pretty design touch to your shower. “Personally, I appreciate that it looks nice,” adds our tester. One thing that would make the tool even better was if there was some variation in the size and shape of the bristles for more sensory benefits.

The effects of stress on hair have been studied for a long time. For example, a recent 2017 study looked at 33 female medical students. Eighteen of these were in the midst of exams and 15 were not ( 14). Apply the massager to the scalp (on wet and sudsy or dry hair) using firm pressure, but not to the point where it causes discomfort. Move in circular motions or whatever feels best or most relaxing to you. “Using a scalp massager in the shower is ideal because dead skin cells that are loosened can then be rinsed away,” adds Dr. Marcus.