Discover a new way to relax while taking care of your hair with the “head spa”, a well-being treatment and massage straight from Japan. This concept, which mixes treatment and massage inspired by shiatsu, now finds its place in France. Present in 95% of salons in Japan, according to the hair brand Tokyo Inkarami, the “head spa” became popular in France after conquering the United States and Canada. In several French cities, hair salons are starting to offer these services, particularly since the treatment has gone viral internationally on TikTok, with more than 840 million views under the hashtag #headspa. 20 Minutes went to meet Jessica Lesioux, head of hairdresser training for the hair brand Tokio Inkarami and Japanese head spa expert, to find out more about this probable future hair trend.
The head spa in 10 steps
Japanese treatment aims to “relieve tensions” and “maintain the scalp”, explains Jessica Lesioux to 20 Minutes. Offered in a variable form depending on the hairdresser or the brand of product used, the “head spa” maintains three clear objectives: hydration of the scalp, stimulation of blood circulation, and repair of lengths. In Paris, the training center of the hair brand Tokio Inkarami trains hairdressers from all over France in the 10 stages of head spa.
Step 1: In-Depth Scalp Analysis
The process begins with a careful analysis of the scalp using a microscope camera to detect reddish areas, dandruff and inflammation not visible to the naked eye.
Step 2: Scalp hydration with hyaluronic acid
Next, the scalp is deeply hydrated through the use of hyaluronic acid, which has the capacity to retain a thousand times its weight in water. Using a Japanese brush with numerous bristles, the client’s lengths are gently detangled and massaged to activate blood microcirculation.
Step 3: Gentle deep cleaning
A delicate wash with a mild, antibacterial and sulfate-free shampoo is carried out in order to preserve the benefits of the treatment and prolong its positive effects on the hair.
Step 4: First massage to stimulate blood flow
A first massage, inspired by shiatsu, is administered to promote blood circulation in the scalp area. These massages have been specially designed to effectively treat all areas of tension affecting hair health.
Step 5: Applying a Hot Towel
A warm towel is delicately placed on the front of the scalp to relieve cervical tension. Because the hair spa is not limited to a localized treatment, but is intended to be global, according to Jessica, trainer.
Step 6: Wash
Room temperature water flows slowly over the scalp to stimulate blood circulation.
Step 7: Second prolonged massage to reoxygenate the blood
A second massage, prolonged and inspired by shiatsu, is performed with the aim of reoxygenating the blood, eliminating impurities and stimulating microcirculation.
Step 8: Collagen Shampoo
A shampoo enriched with collagen is applied to provide firmness and resistance to the skin of the scalp.
Step 9: Extended massage
A final massage takes place, reoxygenating the blood and providing keratin and collagen, thus strengthening the hair.
Step 10: Final assessment with a microscope
A final assessment of scalp health is carried out using a microscope, revealing the disappearance of impurities and a revitalized, stimulated and visibly improved scalp.
A moment of relaxation to relieve stress
Beyond its aesthetic benefits, the Japanese “head spa” finds a French audience in search of well-being. It is also a source of comfort for people suffering from psoriasis, a disease that accelerates cell renewal in the scalp. The treatment supports the cell renewal process, helping to eliminate plaques, reducing itching and promoting the reconstruction of the skin barrier.
The Japanese head spa is establishing itself as an essential new trend in the world of hairdressing, offering both aesthetic benefits and a relaxing experience for those looking for a moment of well-being at the heart of their hair routine. Priced between 100 and 200 euros, this treatment is suitable for all hair types, including frizzy or curly hair.
Head Japanese Spa in Paris
16 rue Littré (Paris 06th arrondissement)
95 Rue Lemercier (Paris 17th arrondissement)
7 rue de Ponthieu, (Paris 08th arrondissement)