Category: Massage Tips

To do gua sha on your neck, apply a few drops of face oil to clean skin, hold a smooth gua sha tool almost flat against the skin, and make slow, light downward strokes on the back and sides of the neck, never on the front of the throat. A gentle routine takes about 5 minutes, and all you need is a smooth gua sha tool, a little oil and a mirror.

Part of the 10-Minute Wind-Down series: short, calm routines you can do at home.

Time needed: About 5 minutes.

The gentle, skin-care style of gua sha has become a popular part of evening routines, and many people enjoy it as a calm few minutes of self-care. This guide covers the tool angle, the strokes for each area, what to skip and how this light routine differs from traditional gua sha. If you prefer to use your hands, see our guide to facial massage at home.

What you need: a smooth tool and some oil

• A gua sha tool: a flat tool made of stone, ceramic or another smooth material, with rounded edges. Check that there are no chips or rough edges before each use.
• Oil: a few drops of a face oil or a facial cream you already use, so the tool glides instead of dragging. Check for allergies before trying anything new.
• Clean skin and a clean tool: wash your hands, cleanse the skin and wash the tool with mild soap and water before and after use.
• A mirror: helpful for the first few times so you can see the angle.

To follow along, watch our 5-minute gua sha face and neck follow-along (video by Tina Engeo on YouTube).

Hold the tool flat, not upright

Hold the tool so it lies almost flat against your skin, at a low angle. Holding it upright, like a scraper, concentrates the pressure on a thin edge and can feel harsh. Keeping it flat spreads the pressure and makes each stroke feel smoother.

Use the long, curved edge of the tool for the neck. Keep your grip relaxed and let the tool glide; you should not need to push.

Back of the neck: slow downward strokes

1. Apply a few drops of oil to the back of your neck.
2. Place the flat edge of the tool just below your hairline at the back of the neck, to one side of the spine.
3. Glide it slowly downwards towards the top of your shoulder, using light pressure.
4. Repeat 5 to 8 times, then move to the other side of the spine.
5. You can continue each stroke out along the top of the shoulder if that feels comfortable.

Keep the tool on the muscle either side of the spine, never on the bony ridge in the middle.

Sides of the neck: very light strokes

1. Turn your head slightly to the opposite side so the side of the neck is gently lengthened.
2. Place the tool just below the ear and glide it slowly down towards the collarbone, using only the lightest pressure, little more than the weight of the tool.
3. Repeat 5 times, then switch sides.

The side of the neck is more delicate than the back, so think of these strokes as a gentle glide rather than a massage.

Areas to skip

• The front of the throat: never use the tool here.
• The spine: stay off the bony ridge down the back of the neck.
• Broken or irritated skin: skip cuts, rashes, active breakouts, sunburn, moles and bruises.
• Swollen or tender areas: leave them alone.

Safety note: stop if you feel pain, numbness or dizziness. Skip gua sha and check with a doctor first if you bruise easily, take blood-thinning medicine, have a skin condition or a medical condition, or have recently had a procedure on your face or neck.

How long and how often

About 5 minutes in total is plenty for the neck. Many people use it two or three times a week as part of an evening routine, but there is no need to do it every day. Gentle gua sha should not leave marks. If you see redness that lingers or any marks, you are pressing too hard, so lighten up or take a break.

Gentle routine vs the traditional technique

The routine on this page is the light, skin-care style that has become popular in beauty routines. Traditional gua sha comes from Chinese traditional practice and is usually done with much firmer strokes that can leave temporary red marks on the skin. That firmer version is a different practice and is best left to trained practitioners. Do not try to copy it at home.

This is not medical advice; see a professional for pain.

Frequently asked questions

What not to massage on neck?

Avoid the front of the throat, the area just under the jaw near the windpipe and the bones of the spine. Keep any neck massage at home to light strokes on the back and sides of the neck. If you have ongoing neck pain, see a doctor or physiotherapist.

Can you provide a tutorial for using a gua sha?

Start with clean skin and a few drops of oil, hold the tool almost flat, and glide it slowly and lightly in one direction, repeating each stroke 5 to 8 times. On the neck, work downwards on the back and sides and skip the front of the throat. Our follow-along video above shows a full short routine.

What is the correct way to massage the neck?

Use light pressure on the muscles at the back of the neck and the tops of the shoulders, with slow strokes or small circles. Stay off the spine and the front and sides of the throat, and stop if anything feels sharp. A licensed massage therapist can show you more if you want hands-on guidance.

To massage your own shoulders, reach one hand across your chest to the top of the opposite shoulder, squeeze the muscle gently, hold for a breath and release, working from the neck out towards the shoulder, then switch sides. You can add fingertip circles or lean against a ball on a wall. A full session takes about 5 minutes, and all you need is your hands and, if you like, a tennis ball.

Part of the 10-Minute Wind-Down series: short, calm routines you can do at home.

Time needed: About 5 minutes.

What you need: Your hands and, if you like, a tennis ball.

Shoulders often feel tight after long hours at a desk or on a phone, and many people find a short self-massage a pleasant way to take a break. This guide covers three easy ways to do it, how to add shoulder rolls and breathing, and what to avoid. For a quick desk version, see our desk neck and shoulder self-massage routine.

Way 1: the cross-body squeeze

1. Sit or stand tall with your shoulders relaxed.
2. Reach your right hand across your body and rest it on top of your left shoulder, close to the neck.
3. Gently squeeze the muscle between your fingers and the heel of your hand. Hold for a slow breath, then release.
4. Move your hand a little further out towards the edge of the shoulder and repeat.
5. Work back in towards the neck, then switch to the other side.

Let your elbow rest on your chest or support it with your other hand if your arm starts to tire. Keep your head level and your jaw soft.

To follow along at your desk, watch our self-massage for the neck and shoulders video (video by Ann Swanson Wellness on YouTube).

Way 2: fingertip circles along the top of the shoulder

1. Place the pads of your index, middle and ring fingers on top of the opposite shoulder, near the base of your neck.
2. Press gently and make slow, small circles, moving the skin over the muscle rather than sliding across it.
3. After five circles, move your fingers a little further out along the shoulder and repeat.
4. You can also reach both hands over your shoulders at once and circle with both sets of fingertips, if that is comfortable.

This works well for the area close to the neck, which is hard to squeeze.

Way 3: a ball against the wall

A ball lets you reach the area around and between your shoulder blades without straining your arms.

1. Stand with your back to a wall and place a tennis ball between the wall and the muscle at the top of your shoulder blade, beside (not on) the spine.
2. Lean back gently until you feel comfortable pressure.
3. Bend and straighten your knees slowly to roll the ball up and down, and shift your weight to move it side to side.
4. Pause for a slow breath on any spot that feels tight, then keep rolling.

For more ideas, our upper back and neck self-massage with massage balls video shows a short ball routine for the upper back and neck. If you do not have a ball, hold the ends of a rolled towel over one shoulder and pull gently downwards with both hands for light, steady pressure.

Add shoulder rolls and slow breathing

After the massage, finish with a few gentle movements.

• Shoulder rolls: lift your shoulders up towards your ears, roll them back and let them drop. Do five slowly, then five in the other direction.
• Shoulder drops: breathe in and lift your shoulders, then breathe out and let them fall.
• Slow breathing: rest your hands on your thighs and take five slow breaths, letting your shoulders sink a little more each time you breathe out.

How firm and how long

Use gentle to medium pressure. It should feel firm enough to notice but never sharp, and you should be able to breathe slowly and stay relaxed. If you find yourself tensing up, ease off.

Spend about 1 to 2 minutes on each side, and around 5 minutes in total with the shoulder rolls. You can repeat it a few times a day, for example during work breaks. If your shoulders feel tender afterwards, use less pressure next time.

What to avoid

• Pressing on the front or sides of the neck.
• Rolling a ball directly over the spine or the bony top of the shoulder.
• Digging in with your nails or fingertips too hard.
• Massaging over a bruise, injury or swelling.
• Twisting or straining to reach a spot. Use a ball instead.

Safety note: if you have shoulder or neck pain that lasts, a recent injury, numbness or tingling down your arm, or a medical condition, stop and see a doctor or physiotherapist.

This is not medical advice; see a professional for pain.

Frequently asked questions

How to massage tension from shoulders?

Many people find that gentle squeezes on the tops of the shoulders, slow fingertip circles and a ball against the wall help them feel more relaxed. Finish with shoulder rolls and a few slow breaths. If tightness keeps coming back or turns into pain, a doctor, physiotherapist or licensed massage therapist can look at what is going on.

What not to do when massaging?

Do not press on the spine, the front or sides of the neck, bones or joints, and do not massage over injuries, bruises or broken skin. Avoid pressing so hard that it hurts or makes you hold your breath. Stop if you feel numbness, tingling or sharp pain.

How long should it take?

About 5 minutes is enough for a shoulder self-massage. Spend a minute or two on each side, then finish with shoulder rolls and slow breathing. Short, gentle sessions a few times a day tend to feel better than one long, hard one.

To massage your temples, place two or three fingertips on the soft, slightly hollow spot beside the outer corner of each eye, then make slow, small circles with light pressure, about ten in one direction and ten in the other. The basic method takes about 2 minutes, and all you need is clean hands and a quiet moment, sitting or lying down.

Part of the 10-Minute Wind-Down series: short, calm routines you can do at home.

Time needed: About 2 minutes.

What you need: Clean hands and a quiet moment, sitting or lying down.

Temple massage is one of the easiest ways to take a short, calm break, and many people find it relaxing at the end of a long screen day. This guide covers where your temples are, the basic method, how to add the forehead and jaw and some simple do’s and don’ts. For a longer routine, try our full 5-minute scalp massage.

Where your temples are

Your temples are the flat, soft areas on each side of your head, between the outer corner of your eye and the top of your ear. Place your fingertips beside your eyes and slide them back slightly; you will feel a small, shallow dip. If you clench your teeth gently, you may feel a muscle move under your fingers there. That is the area you will be working on.

For a quiet, no-talking session to watch afterwards, see our ASMR head massage video (video by ASMR SAKURA on YouTube).

The basic method: slow fingertip circles

1. Sit comfortably with your shoulders relaxed, or lie on your back. Close your eyes if you like.
2. Place the pads of your index, middle and ring fingers on each temple. Keep your nails off the skin.
3. Press very lightly, just enough to move the skin over the area beneath rather than sliding across it.
4. Make slow, small circles, about ten moving forward and ten moving back.
5. Pause with your fingers resting still and take three slow breaths.
6. Repeat once or twice, keeping the pressure light.

Breathe slowly through the whole routine. Many people find that matching the circles to their breathing makes it feel calmer.

Adding the forehead and jaw

If you have a few more minutes, extend the massage to the areas around the temples.

• Forehead: place your fingertips in the centre of your forehead and glide them slowly out to the temples. Repeat five times, moving up a little each time.
• Jaw: move your fingertips down to the muscle in front of your ears, just below the cheekbones. Let your mouth fall slightly open and make slow circles here.
• Behind the ears: finish with small circles just behind the ears, then glide your fingers back up to the temples and rest them there for a breath.

Lying down vs sitting up

Sitting up works well as a quick break at your desk. Rest your elbows on the table so your arms do not tire, and let your head lean slightly into your fingertips.

Lying down is better before bed. Your head is supported, so your neck and shoulders can relax fully. You can also ask a partner, friend or family member to sit at your head and do the circles for you.

How long and how often

Two minutes is enough for the basic method, and 5 minutes if you add the forehead and jaw. You can do it a few times a day, for example during work breaks and at bedtime. Keep each session gentle. Longer or harder is not better here.

It can help to attach the routine to something you already do, so it becomes a habit. Some people do it after closing their laptop for the day, others while a kettle boils or just after switching off the bedroom light. Dim the lights, put your phone face down and give yourself the full two minutes without checking anything. The quiet is part of what makes it feel restful.

Is it safe? Simple do’s and don’ts

For most people, gentle temple massage is a simple, low-risk way to relax. A few simple rules keep it comfortable.

• Do use light pressure and the pads of your fingers.
• Do wash your hands first and remove rings.
• Don’t press hard or dig in with your nails.
• Don’t press on your eyes or eyelids.
• Don’t massage over a cut, rash, bruise or recent injury.

Safety note: temple massage is for relaxation, and we cannot promise it will help with headaches. If you have frequent, severe or new headaches, or headaches with symptoms such as vision changes, numbness or confusion, see a doctor rather than relying on massage.

This is not medical advice; see a professional for pain.

Frequently asked questions

Is it safe to massage your temples?

For most people, a gentle temple massage with light fingertip pressure is a comfortable, low-risk way to relax. Keep the pressure soft, avoid the eyes and stop if anything feels painful. If you have a medical condition, a recent head injury or frequent headaches, check with a doctor first.

How do I massage my head myself?

Use the pads of your fingers to make slow, small circles across your scalp, starting at the hairline and working back over the crown, the sides and the back of the head. Finish with the temples and the base of the skull. Our relaxing facial massage at home guide pairs well with it if you want to include the face.

What areas of the neck should not be massaged?

Avoid pressing on the front and sides of the neck, including the throat and the area under the jaw, and never press on the bones of the spine. At home, keep any neck massage to gentle strokes on the muscles at the back of the neck and the tops of the shoulders. If you have neck pain that lasts, see a doctor or physiotherapist.

To massage your feet with a tennis ball, sit in a chair, place the ball under one bare foot and slowly roll it from your heel to your toes and back, pressing down only as hard as feels comfortable, then switch feet. A short session takes about 5 minutes, 2 to 3 minutes per foot, and all you need is a tennis ball, a chair and a few quiet minutes.

Part of the 10-Minute Wind-Down series: short, calm routines you can do at home.

Time needed: About 5 minutes, 2 to 3 minutes per foot.

What you need: A tennis ball, a chair and a few quiet minutes.

Rolling your feet on a ball is one of the simplest self-massage habits you can pick up, and many people find it a pleasant way to wind down after a long day on their feet. This guide covers sitting vs standing, each part of the sole and how hard to press. For a hands-on routine, read our guide on how to give a foot massage at home.

Sitting or standing: which to choose

Sitting is the best place to start. Only part of your body weight goes through your foot, so the pressure stays gentle and easy to control. You can do it at a desk, on the couch or at the edge of your bed.

Standing lets you press more firmly by shifting your weight onto the ball. If you try it, stand next to a wall, counter or sturdy chair and hold on for balance, and keep most of your weight on the other foot.

Whichever you choose, take your shoes and thick socks off. Bare feet or thin socks let you feel the ball properly.

For more ideas using your hands, watch our self foot massage tutorial (video by Yasuko Kawamura on YouTube).

Roll the arch

1. Place the ball under the middle of your foot, in the curve of the arch.
2. Press down gently and roll the ball slowly forward towards the ball of the foot, then back towards the heel.
3. Next, roll a little from side to side across the arch.
4. If you find a spot that feels tight, pause there for a slow breath or two with light, steady pressure, then keep rolling.

Spend about a minute here. The arch is usually the most comfortable place to start.

Heel and ball of the foot

Heel: move the ball back under the heel and make small, slow circles. The heel is firmer, so you can usually press a little more here, but stay within what feels pleasant.

Ball of the foot: roll the ball forward under the padded area just behind your toes. Make small side-to-side rolls across it, keeping the pressure light, as this area can be more sensitive.

Toes and the outer edge

With the ball under the base of your toes, gently curl your toes around it and then spread them out again, a few times. Then tilt your foot slightly so the ball rolls along the outer edge of the sole, from the heel to the little toe. Keep this part light. To finish, do a few long, slow rolls from heel to toes, then set your foot down flat and notice how it feels before switching to the other foot. If you would like to add some hand strokes afterwards, try our quick self foot massage follow-along.

How hard to press and for how long

Press firmly enough to feel the ball, but never so hard that it feels sharp or makes you tense up. A good test is whether you can breathe slowly and stay relaxed. If not, ease off.

Spend about 2 to 3 minutes on each foot. You can do it once or twice a day, for example while watching TV or before bed. If your feet feel tender afterwards, use lighter pressure next time.

Safety note: skip the ball if you have an open wound, swelling, a recent injury, numbness in your feet or a condition that affects feeling in your feet, such as diabetes, unless a doctor has said it is fine. If foot pain lasts or keeps coming back, see a doctor or podiatrist.

Tennis ball vs massage ball vs golf ball

• Tennis ball: soft and slightly springy. The gentlest option and the best for beginners.
• Massage ball: usually firmer than a tennis ball, and some have a textured surface. Good once a tennis ball feels too soft.
• Golf ball: small and hard, so it presses into a much smaller area. Use it seated, with light pressure, and only if a tennis ball feels comfortable.

A frozen water bottle is another option some people like on warm days. Wrap it in a thin cloth and roll gently.

This is not medical advice; see a professional for pain.

Frequently asked questions

How to roll out your feet with a tennis ball?

Sit in a chair with bare feet, place the ball under the arch of one foot and roll it slowly from heel to toes and back. Add small circles under the heel and side-to-side rolls under the ball of the foot. Spend 2 to 3 minutes per foot with comfortable pressure.

How to use a massage ball?

Place the ball between your body and a firm surface, such as the floor under your foot or a wall behind your back, and lean in gently. Roll slowly over soft muscle and keep away from bones and joints. Start light and increase pressure only if it feels comfortable.

How to massage feet when they hurt?

If your feet feel tired after a long day, gentle rolling with a soft ball and light hand strokes may feel soothing. Keep the pressure light and stop if anything feels sharp. If the pain is strong, lasts for more than a few days or keeps coming back, see a doctor or podiatrist rather than trying to massage it away.

To do effleurage massage, warm a little oil in your palms, place your hands flat and relaxed on the skin, and glide them slowly and smoothly along the muscle in long, even strokes, keeping steady contact the whole time. You can learn it in a few minutes, a short back sequence takes about 3 minutes, and all you need is a little massage oil or lotion and a comfortable surface.

Part of the 10-Minute Wind-Down series: short, calm routines you can do at home.

Time needed: About 3 minutes for a short back sequence.

What you need: A little massage oil or lotion and a comfortable surface.

Effleurage is the stroke that starts and finishes most relaxing massages, so it is the best place for a beginner to begin. This guide covers hand position, direction, rhythm and pressure, then puts it together in a simple sequence. For a full routine that uses it, see our guide to a relaxing back massage for beginners.

What effleurage is, in one sentence

Effleurage is a long, smooth, gliding stroke made with flat, relaxed hands, used to spread oil, warm up an area and link one part of a massage to the next.

The name comes from a French word meaning to skim or touch lightly. It is one of the five basic strokes of Swedish massage, alongside kneading (petrissage), small circles (friction), light tapping (tapotement) and gentle shaking (vibration).

To see the stroke in action, watch our effleurage and petrissage video (video by Soma Institute on YouTube).

Hand position and how much oil

• Flat, soft hands: keep your fingers together and relaxed, and let your whole palm touch the skin. Avoid pressing with your fingertips or the heel of the hand alone.
• Loose wrists: keep your wrists soft so your hands can follow the shape of the body.
• Use your body, not your arms: stand or kneel close, keep your back straight and lean gently from your hips for a little extra pressure.
• Oil: start with about half a teaspoon, warmed between your palms. Add a few drops whenever your hands begin to drag. Too much oil makes your hands slip and the stroke feel less steady.

Check for allergies before using any oil or lotion, and keep the room warm so the person receiving the massage stays comfortable.

Direction and rhythm

On the back, glide upwards along the muscles on either side of the spine, from the lower back to the shoulders, then fan your hands out across the shoulders and let them glide back down the sides of the body with lighter pressure. On the arms and legs, many massage courses teach gliding towards the heart with firmer pressure and returning with a lighter touch.

Rhythm matters as much as direction. Aim for slow, even strokes, roughly the pace of a calm breath in and out. Keep at least one hand in contact with the skin when you change direction so the massage feels continuous.

Light vs firmer effleurage

Light effleurage is a soft, skimming glide. It is used at the very start to introduce your touch and spread the oil, and at the end to wind the massage down.

Firmer effleurage uses a bit more body weight through flat palms or forearms. It is used once the area is warm. Even when firmer, the stroke should feel smooth and comfortable, never sharp. Ask the person to tell you if they would like it lighter or firmer, and adjust straight away.

A simple 3-minute back sequence

1. Rest (15 seconds): place both hands flat on the upper back and pause for a few breaths.
2. Spread the oil (30 seconds): use light, slow glides over the whole back.
3. Long glides (1 minute): with both hands either side of the spine, glide from the lower back to the shoulders, fan out and glide down the sides. Repeat slowly.
4. Alternating hands (45 seconds): working on one side of the back at a time, glide one hand up and then the other, like slow waves.
5. Wind down (30 seconds): return to the long glides, getting lighter and slower each time, then rest your hands still before lifting them off.

Effleurage vs petrissage

Effleurage glides over the surface with flat hands, while petrissage lifts, squeezes and rolls the soft tissue, a bit like kneading dough. In a typical relaxing massage, effleurage comes first to warm the area, petrissage follows to work the muscles a little more, and effleurage returns at the end to smooth everything out.

Common mistakes

• Pressing on the spine instead of the muscles beside it.
• Moving too fast, which feels more like rubbing than massage.
• Lifting your hands off between every stroke.
• Using stiff fingers or your fingertips instead of soft, flat palms.
• Pressing hard straight away without warming the area first.

Safety note: avoid bruises, broken skin, varicose veins and any area that is injured or painful. If the person has a medical condition, is pregnant or has pain or numbness, suggest they check with a doctor, physiotherapist or licensed massage therapist first.

This is not medical advice; see a professional for pain.

Frequently asked questions

What is the main use of effleurage in a massage?

Effleurage is mainly used to begin and end a massage and to link the other strokes together. It spreads the oil, lets the person get used to your touch and warms the area before firmer work. At the end, it helps the massage wind down gently.

How are effleurage and petrissage different?

Effleurage is a smooth gliding stroke with flat hands over the surface of the skin. Petrissage is a kneading stroke that lifts and squeezes the soft tissue. Most relaxing massages use effleurage first and last, with petrissage in the middle.

How do you massage properly?

Start by asking about comfort and any areas to avoid, keep the person warm and use enough oil. Begin with light gliding strokes, build pressure slowly, stay off bones and check in about pressure. For formal technique, a licensed massage therapist or accredited course is the best guide.

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A calm shampoo night does not need fancy gear. A soft silicone scalp massager (sometimes called a shampoo brush) simply sits in your palm and lets the bristles do the gentle circling that fingertips usually do. Many people use one in the shower; some also try a short dry pass when their scalp feels tense.

Below are five beginner-friendly manual silicone picks. Every detail comes from each product’s own Amazon listing. We use neutral product names here, even when a listing title mentions hair growth, dandruff removal or treatment language. Think of these brushes as a comfort tool that may help you relax during wash day — not as a treatment for any scalp or hair condition.

A note of honesty first: the NCCIH massage therapy overview describes massage as a complementary approach with a generally low risk of harm when used thoughtfully, while noting that research quality varies by condition. Separately, the American Academy of Dermatology’s guide on how to stop damaging your hair suggests gently massaging shampoo into the scalp rather than rubbing shampoo along the hair length. That is everyday hair-care advice, not proof that a silicone brush heals anything. Pair a brush with the steps in our scalp massage how-to if you want a slower, hands-on routine.

Quick comparison: scalp massagers for beginners

The five picks, one at a time

1. FREATECH Scalp Massager (Beige): a popular soft starter

FREATECH’s beige shampoo brush is a classic manual pick. The listing describes 100% food-grade silicone teeth that stay flexible enough to move through hair without tangling or pulling, a mouse-like handle with non-slip grooves, and a concave brush surface formed by 25 tips. It notes wet and dry use, and that rinsing with water and hanging to dry is enough for care.

Safety note: Use gentle pressure only. Stop if it hurts, stings or irritates. Avoid broken or inflamed scalp skin.

See the FREATECH beige scalp massager on Amazon

2. FREATECH Updated Dual-Bristle: two bristle types in one head

This updated FREATECH brush arranges 12 traditional bristles with 13 upgraded bristles, which the listing says create 77 independent nodes for multi-dimensional contact. It is manual (no battery), waterproof, with an ergonomic handle for left or right hands, a curved brush surface of different bristle lengths, and a perforation plus string for hanging dry. Wet and dry use and suitability across hair types are mentioned on the listing.

Safety note: Extra contact points are not a reason to press harder. Keep circles light, and stop if anything feels sharp or sore.

See the FREATECH updated dual-bristle brush on Amazon

3. AIMIKE Soft Silicone (Khaki): simple one-piece shower brush

AIMIKE’s soft silicone scrubber uses a solid one-piece structure so it will not fall apart in the shower and does not collect water for mold, according to the listing. It describes longer but flexible bristles that reach the scalp, a palm-sized shape that is easy to hold, and wet or dry use for thick or thin, curly or straight hair. The color on this listing is Morandi Khaki.

Safety note: Soft bristles still need a light hand. Skip irritated, infected or broken scalp skin, and rinse the brush after each wash.

See the AIMIKE soft silicone brush on Amazon

4. Meartchy One-Piece (Black): a larger palm-friendly shape

Meartchy’s black silicone scalp massager highlights an upgraded one-piece design that is fully waterproof and made of food-grade silicone. The listing says the brush is relatively large so it fits the palm better and covers a larger scalp area than smaller models, and that it works for both wet and dry scalp care.

Safety note: A larger head covers more area per pass — still use gentle pressure and short sessions at first.

See the Meartchy one-piece scalp massager on Amazon

5. Sndyi Silicone (Gray Blue): longer bristles for thicker hair

Sndyi’s gray-blue brush is a one-piece, 100% food-grade silicone design that the listing calls waterproof and moisture-proof. It describes bristles up to one inch long for reaching through thick hair, moderate hardness that will not hurt the scalp, an ergonomic non-slip handle, and a compact Morandi-style look. Wet and dry use and suitability for many hair types are noted.

Safety note: Longer bristles are for reach, not force. Keep the motion slow; stop if your scalp feels tender or looks red.

See the Sndyi silicone scalp massager on Amazon

How to choose a scalp massager, gently

• Manual first. All five picks here are manual silicone brushes with no battery to charge — simple for a beginner shower routine.
• Bristle length. Shorter tip designs (like the classic FREATECH) feel compact; longer-bristle options (like Sndyi’s ~1-inch tips) are listed for thicker hair.
• One-piece vs dual bristle. One-piece full-silicone models rinse clean with fewer seams. Dual-bristle heads mix tip shapes for more contact points.
• Palm fit. If you prefer a wider grip, the larger Meartchy shape is listed specifically for palm fit. Smaller palm-sized brushes tuck easily in a shower caddy.
• Wet and dry. Every pick above lists wet and dry use. Start in the shower with shampoo if that feels calmer; dry passes can wait until the sensation is familiar.
• Context. Our guide to self-massage tools explained shows how handheld brushes sit alongside balls, rollers and hands.

A calm five-minute shampoo massage

1. Wet your hair as usual. Put a little shampoo on the brush or on your scalp.
2. Hold the brush lightly. Make slow circles over the crown, then the sides and the nape — no scrubbing hard.
3. Rinse thoroughly. Let shampoo flow through the lengths rather than rubbing the strands, as the AAD hair-care tip suggests.
4. Optional: after towel-blotting, try thirty seconds of dry circles with no product if your scalp feels okay.
5. Finish with a quiet minute from our bedtime wind-down routine, or a few face strokes from facial massage at home if you like a fuller wind-down.

Safety notes

• Stop if it hurts, stings, burns or leaves the scalp red, broken or irritated.
• Gentle pressure only. Soft silicone is not an invitation to dig in.
• Skip broken, sunburned, infected or irritated scalp skin. Do not use the brush there.
• Ask a doctor first if you have a scalp condition, recent injury, infection, are pregnant, or have any health concern about massage on the head.
• Not a treatment. A scalp massager may help you relax during wash day. It does not heal, fix, treat or cure dandruff, hair loss, itching or any medical condition.
• Hygiene. Rinse after each use and let it dry. Do not share a brush when someone has an active scalp infection.
• Nails and pets. Several listings mention protecting manicured nails or optional pet bathing — still keep pressure soft and stop if an animal pulls away.

Frequently asked questions

Will a scalp massager make my hair grow?

We do not claim that. Listing titles often mention hair growth; we leave those claims on the listing. Use a brush for comfort and gentle cleansing feel only.

Can I use one on a dry scalp?

These five listings all mention wet and dry use. Start with short, light passes. If your scalp is dry, flaky or sore, ask a clinician before adding tools.

Do I need oil with a scalp massager?

Not for a basic shampoo massage. If you later try a dry oil pass, choose a gentle unscented option from our unscented massage oil picks and keep the amount tiny so hair does not feel heavy.

Is this the same as a massage gun for the head?

No. These are soft manual silicone shampoo brushes. Percussion guns are a different tool category and are not what this guide covers for the scalp.

Keep exploring

• How to Give a Scalp Massage (Beginner Steps)
• Self-Massage Tools Explained: Massage Balls vs Foam Rollers vs Hands
• Facial Massage at Home
• Best Unscented Massage Oil for Beginners
• 10-minute bedtime wind-down routine
• Best Acupressure Mats for Beginners
• Beginner massage tutorials

This article is for relaxation and general education, not medical advice. A scalp massager may help you unwind during wash day, but it is not a treatment for dandruff, hair loss, scalp disease or any other condition. Product details come from each maker’s Amazon listing and may change, so please check the listing before you buy. Stop if anything feels painful or irritating, and check with a doctor if you have an injury, scalp condition, infection, are pregnant or have a health concern.

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. If you buy through the Amazon links on this page, The Quiet Clip may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We do not list prices or ratings because they change often; please check them on Amazon.

Some evenings call for something quieter than a massage gun or a foam roller: a soft place to lie down, a few slow breaths, and a mat covered in small plastic points that press gently into your back. An acupressure mat (sometimes called a spike mat or a bed of nails) is simply that: a cushioned mat with many rounded plastic nubs. You rest on it for a short while and see how it feels.

Below are five calm picks for beginners, from affordable mat-and-pillow starter sets to a sharper premium mat that asks for extra care. Every feature comes from the product’s own Amazon listing. We use neutral product names here, even when a listing title mentions pain or treatment language.

A note of honesty first: Medical News Today reports that scientific evidence on the effectiveness of acupressure mats themselves is limited, with small studies and many claims based on anecdote. That is different from research on acupuncture needles or hand-applied acupressure points, which we do not treat as proof that spike mats work. Think of these mats as a comfort and wind-down tool that may help you relax, not as a treatment for any condition. The NCCIH massage therapy overview and the NCCIH acupuncture overview are useful background for complementary approaches in general, without turning a mat into medicine.

Quick comparison: acupressure mats for beginners

The five picks, one at a time

1. ProsourceFit Acupressure Mat and Pillow Set (Grey): a gentle starter

A classic mat-and-pillow set in grey. The listing describes a cushioned foam mat that covers the length of your back, a foam pillow for the neck, a cover of thick cotton over plant-based eco foam, and 8,910 acupressure points between the body mat and the neck pillow. It notes that the points apply pressure rather than puncturing the skin, and that thick clothing softens the feel.

Safety note: Start for a few minutes over a thin shirt. Stop if it hurts, stings sharply or leaves broken skin.

See the ProsourceFit Grey set on Amazon

2. Gaiam Acupressure Mat and Pillow Set: a brand many people already know

Gaiam’s set pairs an acupuncture-style mat with a matching neck pillow. The listing suggests beginners start with light pressure against a chair or couch for 10 to 15 minutes, and that intermediate users may later lie on the mat and pillow for longer. Spot cleaning with a damp towel and mild soap is mentioned for care.

Safety note: Follow that gentle start. Keep sessions short at first, and never push through sharp pain.

See the Gaiam set on Amazon

3. AJNA Eco Lite Mat and Pillow Set: mat, pillow and a tote

AJNA’s Eco Lite set in Sky Blue includes the mat, a matching pillow and a free tote bag for rolling everything up. The listing describes a 100% cotton cover and more than 7,000 specially designed spikes. Eco-friendly materials and biodegradable packaging are mentioned on the listing.

Safety note: Plastic spikes feel firm at first. Start clothed, keep the first sessions short, and stop if your skin looks irritated.

See the AJNA Eco Lite set on Amazon

4. Bed of Nails Original: denser nails, mat only

The Bed of Nails Original is a single mat (no pillow in this listing) measuring about 29 by 16 by 1 inches, in Jet Black, with 8,820 precision nails. The listing says each plate uses 42 non-toxic nails, that the rounded nails do not penetrate the skin, and that the plastic is secured to organic cotton without glue. A thin T-shirt or bare skin is mentioned as a common way people try it after they are used to the feel.

Safety note: Even with more nails per plate, begin slowly over clothing. Avoid open wounds and stop if anything feels wrong.

See the Bed of Nails Original on Amazon

5. ShaktiMat Premium Level 2 (Black): sharper — with a beginner caution

ShaktiMat’s Premium Level 2 in black is handmade with certified organic cotton, ABS spikes and organic Blissfoam. The listing itself calls Shakti spikes the sharpest around and notes that Level 1 is their most popular place to start, so treat Level 2 as a more intense option. A matching pillow is sold separately if you want to extend the mat.

Safety note: If you are new to spike mats, start with a gentler set above, or use this one only for very short sessions over a thin shirt. Sharp points are not a contest; comfort comes first.

See the ShaktiMat Premium Level 2 on Amazon

How to choose an acupressure mat, gently

• Intensity. Softer starter sets (like ProsourceFit or Gaiam) are usually kinder for a first try. Premium Level 2 mats with sharper spikes ask for more caution.
• Mat and pillow set. A matching pillow lets your neck rest at a similar feel to the mat. Mat-only picks leave the pillow optional.
• Fabric and foam. Listings commonly mention cotton or organic cotton covers over foam. Choose what feels soft against your skin once you are used to the points.
• Carry bag. Sets that include a tote are handy if you want to roll the mat away after a short lie-down.
• Beginner tip. Start over a thin shirt for a few minutes only. Bare skin can wait until the sensation feels familiar. Our guide to self-massage tools explained shows how mats sit alongside balls, rollers and hands.

A calm ten-minute lie-down

1. Lay the mat on a rug or carpet so it does not slide.
2. Put on a soft thin T-shirt. Sit down first, then lower your back onto the mat slowly.
3. Rest your head on the matching pillow if you have one, or on a regular pillow if not.
4. Breathe out slowly for one to three minutes. If it feels okay, stay up to about ten minutes. Get up sooner if it is sharp or unpleasant.
5. Roll to your side, sit up, and take a short walk. You can follow with a few quiet minutes from our bedtime wind-down routine.

Safety notes

• Stop if it hurts, stings sharply, or if your skin breaks, bruises or looks irritated.
• Start short and clothed. A thin shirt for a few minutes is a kind first step. Longer or bare-skin sessions can wait.
• Skip open wounds, rashes, sunburn or irritated skin. Do not use the mat there.
• Ask a doctor first if you are pregnant, take blood thinners or have a bleeding disorder, have diabetes or reduced sensation, poor circulation, a skin condition, a recent injury, or any health concern. Medical News Today notes that pregnant people should be cautious with acupressure approaches and speak with a clinician.
• Not for children or anyone who cannot easily tell you it feels too sharp.
• Back pain that needs a GP. If back pain is severe, lasting, or comes with other worrying signs, see a doctor. The NHS back pain page explains when to get help.
• Comfort, not cure. An acupressure mat is a relaxation tool. It is not a treatment for pain, sleep problems or any medical condition.

Frequently asked questions

Do acupressure mats actually work?

Evidence specifically on spike mats is limited. Some people find a short lie-down calming; others find the points too sharp. Treat it as a comfort experiment, not a proven therapy.

Should beginners start with a mat-and-pillow set?

Often yes. A matching pillow keeps your neck supported at a similar feel, and starter sets tend to be a softer introduction than the sharpest premium mats.

Can I use an acupressure mat with other self-massage tools?

Many people prefer the mat on its own for a quiet pause. If you also use balls or rollers, keep sessions gentle and separate. See our picks of massage balls for the back and foam rollers for beginners.

Keep exploring

• Self-Massage Tools Explained: Massage Balls vs Foam Rollers vs Hands
• Best Massage Balls for Back: 5 Gentle Picks for Beginners
• Best Foam Rollers for Beginners
• Best Heat Wraps for Neck and Shoulders
• Best Back Massagers for Desk Workers
• 10-minute bedtime wind-down routine
• Desk neck and shoulder self-massage routine
• Beginner massage tutorials

This article is for relaxation and general education, not medical advice. An acupressure mat may help you settle and unwind, but it is not a treatment for any condition. Product details come from each maker’s Amazon listing and may change, so please check the listing before you buy. Stop if anything feels painful or too sharp, and check with a doctor if you have an injury, ongoing pain, are pregnant or have a health condition.

To give someone a face massage, have them lie on their back with you sitting at their head, warm a few drops of oil or a little cream between your clean hands, and use slow, light strokes across the forehead, around the brows, over the cheeks and jaw, and finish at the temples. A relaxing session takes about 10 to 15 minutes, and all you need is clean hands, a towel and a gentle face oil or cream.

Part of the 10-Minute Wind-Down series: short, calm routines you can do at home.

Time needed: About 10 to 15 minutes.

What you need: Clean hands, a towel and a gentle face oil or cream.

Face massage is all about light touch and a slow pace. This guide walks you through the setup, each area of the face in order and how to keep the person comfortable. If you would like to try the strokes on yourself first, read our guide to a relaxing facial massage you can do on yourself.

Before you start: position, hands, oil or cream

Ask the person (a partner, friend or family member) to lie on their back on a bed or couch, with a pillow under their knees if that feels comfortable. Sit or kneel behind their head so you can reach the face without stretching.

• Hands: wash your hands, trim long nails and remove rings.
• Face: ask them to remove makeup and take off glasses or earrings.
• Oil or cream: use a product they already use on their face, or ask before trying anything new, since faces can be sensitive. Two or three drops of oil, or a pea-sized amount of cream, is enough.
• Hair: use a soft headband or a towel to keep hair off the face.

Warm the oil or cream between your palms, then rest your hands lightly on their cheeks for a couple of breaths before you start.

To see the strokes, watch our relaxing facial massage tutorial (video by Huyana Beauty on YouTube).

Forehead strokes

1. Place the pads of your fingers in the centre of the forehead, just above the brows.
2. Glide them slowly outwards to the temples. Repeat five or six times, moving up a little each time until you reach the hairline.
3. Then use alternating hands to make slow, light upward strokes from the brows to the hairline.

Around the eyes and brows (very light)

The skin around the eyes is delicate, so use your ring fingers, which tend to press more lightly than the others.

1. Gently press along the brow bone from the inner end to the outer end, a few small presses at a time.
2. Trace a slow, feather-light circle around the bony edge of each eye socket, staying on the bone and well away from the eyes themselves.
3. Never press on the eyelids or the eyes.

Cheeks and jaw

1. Place your fingertips beside the nose and glide them out across the cheekbones towards the ears.
2. Make small, slow circles over the cheeks with light pressure.
3. Move down to the jaw. Place your fingertips on the muscle in front of the ears, just below the cheekbone, and make slow circles. Many people hold tension here without noticing.
4. Glide your fingertips along the jawline from the chin out to the ears.

Temples and ears

Rest two or three fingertips on each temple, the soft area beside the outer corner of the eyes, and make slow, light circles. Then gently hold the outer edges of the ears between your thumbs and fingers and make small, slow presses from the top of the ear down to the lobe.

How to finish

Return to the long forehead strokes from the start, getting slower and lighter each time. Finish by resting your palms gently on the cheeks or over the forehead for a few breaths, then lift your hands away slowly. If you would like to build up to a longer routine, our step-by-step spa facial massage video shows a fuller sequence you can learn from over time. Hand them a soft towel or tissue in case there is any oil left on the skin.

Keeping it comfortable: pressure and skin checks

Ask once at the start whether the pressure feels right, and adjust straight away. The face needs much less pressure than the back or shoulders. Keep your strokes slow and even, and avoid pulling or stretching the skin.

Safety note: skip the massage, or avoid the area, if there is a rash, broken skin, active breakouts, sunburn, a recent cosmetic procedure or any eye irritation. If the oil or cream causes redness or itching, stop and rinse it off. For any ongoing skin or facial pain concern, suggest they see a doctor or dermatologist.

This is not medical advice; see a professional for pain.

Frequently asked questions

How to professionally massage someone?

Professional massage takes formal training, and in many places a licence, so the best route is a course at an accredited massage school. At home, you can borrow the basics professionals use: ask about comfort first, keep the person warm, use slow strokes and check in about pressure. If someone wants more than a relaxing session, book a licensed massage therapist.

What are the 5 basic steps of massage?

In Swedish massage, the five basic strokes are gliding, kneading, small circles, light tapping and gentle shaking. A face massage mostly uses gliding strokes and small circles with very light pressure. Tapping should be soft and quick, if you use it at all.

Is facial massage actually effective?

That depends on what you hope to get from it. Many people simply find a slow face massage relaxing and pleasant, and that is how we suggest you approach it. We do not make claims about skin results, so ask a dermatologist if you have a specific skin goal in mind.

To massage the base of your skull, find the soft hollow where the back of your neck meets your head, place your fingertips on either side of the centre and make slow, small circles with light pressure, moving outwards towards your ears. A gentle session takes about 3 to 5 minutes, and all you need is your hands, or a rolled-up towel if you would rather lie down.

Part of the 10-Minute Wind-Down series: short, calm routines you can do at home.

Time needed: About 3 to 5 minutes.

What you need: Your hands, or a rolled-up towel if you would rather lie down.

This area often feels tight after long hours at a screen, and many people find a few minutes of slow, gentle massage here calming. This guide covers how to find the spot, two easy methods, some slow neck movements to add and what to avoid. It works well alongside our 5-minute desk neck and shoulder routine.

Where exactly is the base of the skull?

Place your fingertips on the back of your head and slide them slowly down. You will feel the bony curve of the skull end and the softer muscles of the neck begin. That ridge, running from behind one ear around to behind the other, is the base of the skull. In the middle there is a small hollow, and on either side of it the muscles feel a little firmer.

You will be working on the soft muscle just under that bony edge, not on the bone itself and not on the front or sides of the neck.

For a slow follow-along that includes the head and shoulders, watch our 10-minute qigong self-massage for the head and shoulders (video by Qigong Meditation on YouTube).

Fingertip method, sitting up

1. Sit upright in a chair with your feet flat and your shoulders relaxed. Rest your elbows on a table if your arms tire easily.
2. Place the pads of your index and middle fingers just under the bony ridge, one hand on each side of the centre hollow.
3. Let your head tip forward very slightly so the muscles soften.
4. Make slow, small circles, about five in one direction and five in the other.
5. Move your fingers a little further out towards the ears and repeat, until you reach the area just behind each ear.
6. Work back towards the centre, then rest your hands still for a few slow breaths.

You can also use your thumbs: cradle your head in your hands with your thumbs under the ridge and make the same small circles.

Rolled-towel method, lying down

If your arms get tired, let gravity do the work.

1. Roll a hand towel tightly into a firm tube about the width of your wrist.
2. Lie on your back on a bed or a mat with your knees bent.
3. Place the rolled towel under the base of your skull so your head rests gently on it.
4. Let your head feel heavy and breathe slowly for a minute.
5. Very slowly turn your head a little to one side, then the other, so the towel moves along the ridge.

If the towel feels too firm, unroll it a turn. The pressure should feel soft and comfortable.

Adding slow neck movements

Once the muscles feel warmer, a few gentle movements can round off the session. Keep each one slow and small, and stay well within a comfortable range.

• Chin nods: keep your fingertips resting under the ridge and nod your chin down slightly, then back to level, five times.
• Gentle turns: turn your head slowly to look over one shoulder, as far as feels easy, then the other.
• Ear to shoulder: tilt one ear slowly towards the same shoulder without lifting the shoulder, hold for a breath, then switch.

How long and how firm

Three to five minutes is plenty. Use light to medium pressure, about as firm as you would press to check that a peach is ripe. The area should feel pleasant throughout. If you notice yourself clenching your jaw or holding your breath, ease off.

You can repeat the routine a couple of times a day, for example during a work break and before bed. If the area feels tender afterwards, use lighter pressure next time or take a break for a day.

What to avoid around the neck

• Do not press on the front or sides of the neck.
• Do not press hard into the centre hollow or dig in with your nails.
• Avoid fast, jerky movements or forcing your head into a stretch.
• Skip the massage if the area is bruised, swollen or injured.

When to see a professional

This routine is for relaxation and comfort only. Safety note: if you have neck or head pain that lasts, comes back often or is new and severe, or if you notice numbness, tingling, dizziness or changes in your vision, stop and see a doctor or physiotherapist. The same applies after any fall or neck injury. A licensed massage therapist can also help if you prefer hands-on work from someone trained.

This is not medical advice; see a professional for pain.

Frequently asked questions

What does massaging the base of your skull do?

For most people it is simply a calming, pleasant way to ease into a break, and many find it helps them feel more relaxed after screen time. We cannot promise a specific result, and how it feels varies from person to person. If you have ongoing pain in this area, a doctor or physiotherapist is the right person to ask.

How to stretch your neck at the base of your skull?

Sit tall and gently tuck your chin down a little, as if making a small double chin, then hold for a breath and release. You can also tilt one ear slowly towards the same shoulder. Keep every movement small and stop if anything feels sharp or uncomfortable.

How long should it take?

About 3 to 5 minutes is enough for a gentle base-of-skull massage. Spend a minute or two with your fingertips, then add a few slow neck movements. If you want a longer wind-down, follow with our scalp massage routine.

To do a Japanese head spa at home, start with a slow dry scalp massage and gentle brushing, rest a warm towel over your head for a few minutes, then wash and rinse your hair slowly with lukewarm water while massaging your scalp. The whole routine takes about 30 to 45 minutes, and you only need a hairbrush, a hand towel, your usual shampoo and a quiet, dimly lit bathroom.

Part of the 10-Minute Wind-Down series: short, calm routines you can do at home.

Time needed: About 30 to 45 minutes.

What you need: A hairbrush, a hand towel, your usual shampoo and a quiet, dimly lit bathroom.

A head spa at a salon usually combines scalp massage, warm towels and a careful wash in a calm setting. You cannot copy a salon exactly at home, but you can recreate the slow, unhurried feel. If you want to learn the basic scalp massage first, start with our 5-minute scalp massage routine.

What a Japanese head spa usually includes

Head spa services offered in Japanese-style salons vary from place to place, but most combine a few familiar elements: a consultation, a scalp massage, careful brushing or combing, warm towels, a slow wash and rinse, and a gentle finish such as a neck and shoulder massage. Some include a scalp check under magnification or extra products, which you will not need at home.

The feel is what makes it special: slow movements, low light, quiet sounds and plenty of time. That part is easy to bring home.

For a sense of the pace, watch this Japanese dry head spa ASMR video (video by benio店長 / ASMR屋さん on YouTube).

Set the mood: light, sound and a warm towel

• Light: turn off bright overhead lights and use a lamp or a candle placed safely away from towels.
• Sound: play soft rain, quiet music or nothing at all. Put your phone on silent.
• Warm towel: soak a hand towel in warm (not hot) water and wring it out well, or warm a dry towel on a radiator. Test it on the inside of your wrist first.
• Time: set aside 30 to 45 minutes when nobody needs you.

You can do this on yourself, or a partner, friend or family member can do it for you while you lie back.

Step 1: brush and a dry scalp massage

1. Brush your dry hair slowly from the roots to the ends to remove tangles. A wide-toothed comb works if you do not own a soft brush.
2. Place the pads of your fingers (not your nails) on your hairline and make small, slow circles, moving the scalp skin gently over the skull.
3. Work back over the crown, then the sides above your ears and finally the back of your head down to the base of the skull.
4. Finish with light, slow fingertip taps across the scalp.

Take about 10 minutes. Keep the pressure gentle and even.

Step 2: warm towel rest

Wrap the warm towel loosely around your head, or lay it across your forehead and the top of your head while you lie back. Close your eyes and breathe slowly for 3 to 5 minutes. Remove the towel if it starts to feel too warm or once it cools down.

Step 3: a slow, gentle wash

1. Wet your hair thoroughly with lukewarm water. Many people find lukewarm water more comfortable and calming than hot.
2. Lather a small amount of your usual shampoo in your hands before applying it.
3. Massage the shampoo in with slow fingertip circles, using the same order as the dry massage: hairline, crown, sides, back.
4. Take your time. Two to three minutes of slow massage feels very different from a quick scrub.

Step 4: rinse and finish

Rinse slowly and thoroughly, tilting your head so the water runs back and away from your face. Apply conditioner to the lengths if you normally use it, then rinse again. Pat your hair dry with a towel rather than rubbing. To finish, give your neck and the tops of your shoulders a few gentle squeezes and sit quietly for a minute.

Safety note: skip the massage and warm towel if your scalp is broken, irritated or has a rash, and see a doctor or dermatologist about any scalp concern. Stop if anything causes pain, dizziness or numbness.

Dry head spa vs wet head spa: which to try first

A dry head spa is just the massage, brushing and warm towel, with no washing. It is quick to set up, needs no bathroom and works well in the evening when you do not want to wet your hair. A wet head spa adds the slow wash and rinse, which takes longer and needs more space but feels more complete.

If you are new to this, try the dry version first. Once you know which strokes you enjoy, add the wash on a day when you have more time.

This is not medical advice; see a professional for pain.

Frequently asked questions

What is a head spa in Japan?

In Japan, a head spa is a salon service built around the scalp, usually combining scalp massage, a careful wash and relaxing touches such as warm towels. Exact steps and products vary by salon. Many people book it simply because they find it relaxing.

What is the difference between a head spa and a Japanese head spa?

“Head spa” is a general term for a scalp-focused salon service, and “Japanese head spa” usually refers to the style offered in Japanese salons and in Japanese-style salons elsewhere. There is no single official standard, so the details depend on the salon. In general, the Japanese style is known for a slow, quiet, unhurried pace.

Do I wash my hair before a hair spa?

For a salon visit, ask the salon, because each one has its own preference. At home, you can start with dry, unwashed hair, since the wash is part of the routine. If your hair has a lot of styling product in it, a quick rinse beforehand can make brushing easier.