Japanese Secrets to a Healthy Scalp

On the 100-acre farm in Australia where I grew up, the main source of water was a tank that collected rainwater. We have a huge eucalyptus tree next to our water tank. Even though the tank is sealed, the eucalyptus leaves somehow find their way into the water tank. This meant that when I was younger, I spent most of my time washing my hair with eucalyptus-infused water. The antioxidant and moisturizing properties of eucalyptus are so powerful that my hair naturally grew well.

After moving to Tokyo, I experienced city water for the first time, my scalp started to become oily and flaky, and my hair became (nasty). I was happy to discover that Tokyo’s hair community is home to many unique products and solutions designed to keep your hair healthy and dandruff-free. Now that summer is here, let’s explore Japan’s options for helping you maintain a healthy scalp.

Head Spa

Have you ever looked at your scalp under a microscope? Well, this is a major wake-up call to rethink your scalp care routine. I first heard about head spas in 2020 through ASMR YouTube videos. YouTuber ASMR Twix has helped propel head spas to fame in Japan, with head spa content having been viewed over 200 million times. Recently, Twix opened its own ASMR head spa in Tokyo, using the wealth of knowledge gained from past head spa experiences to offer luxurious, custom hair care treatments and classes suitable for all hair types.

As a long-time fan, I decided to visit ASMR Twix Tokyo Head SpaWalking in, I was greeted by rich scents of berries, oak, and orange blossom, then led to a room for a refreshing cup of tea. After changing into a soft robe, my head spa therapist gave me a warm, floral foot bath to relax while they examined my scalp under a microscope. With oil buildup, clogged pores, and damaged dry skin, it was no wonder my hair lacked volume. A three-hour treatment session awaited me, including a full-body massage, a carbonated waterfall cleanse, a shampoo and steam cap treatment, and a Scraping Lymphatic drainage. As I drifted off to sleep, all I felt was pure relaxation.

After the steaming, scrubbing, massaging, polishing, and refreshing, I had another cup of tea while my scalp was assessed under a microscope. This assessment revealed my well-maintained scalp to be very clean and my hair to be healthy and voluminous. If you want a similarly restorative experience, be sure to visit the ASMR Twix Tokyo Head Spa.

Scalp sunscreen

Sun protection is essential, even for your scalp. Zero Hole protects your hair. UV exposure to the scalpdeveloped specifically for golfers. This SPF 50+ PA++++ sunscreen protects against UV rays, heat and insects, making it a must-have before you step onto the green or anywhere else. Unlike regular sunscreens that can leave your hair greasy, this special formula ensures your scalp is protected without damaging the look of your hair.

Scalp UV Shot contains 13 special ingredients, including grapefruit fruit extract and creatine, to nourish the scalp, promote hair growth and help fight signs of aging. Scalp UV Shot also contains eucalyptus leaf oil to help repel pesky insects, making it a great choice for campers and festival goers. If you find your head is sweating and overheating, you’ll love the instant cooling effect of menthol, which can refresh you and get you ready to take on the rest of the day.

The unique plastic tip applicator is also very useful as it allows for precise application of the product. Simply press the tip into your scalp to feel the cool sensation and in seconds the product dries – while maintaining your hair’s volume. Look for UV exposure on the scalp Golf shops in Tokyo and Daimaru Tokyo department store.

Scalp Brush

Japanese is rich in onomatopoeia, including Koshikoshi (“scrub scrub”), this is what I gave to me Scalp BrushScalp brushes are usually made of resin and silicone and are very popular in Japan. They are used to improve blood circulation, promote hair growth, remove dead skin cells and help unclog clogged pores. The scalp brush I use is concave to fit the shape of the skull, and its three pointed designs prevent hair damage. The pointed shapes are fork-shaped, ball-shaped and raised small flowers.

Scalp brushes come in a variety of styles, and you can buy brushes of varying hardness, size, and fork shape. The best part, though, is that you can buy your own goshi goshi for less than 1,000 yen, making it an affordable option for those who want to bring this lightweight device back home.

Using a scalp brush couldn’t be easier: After applying shampoo and conditioner, I let the products sit in my hair and then massaged my scalp with the goshi goshi. Getting a head massage in the comfort of your own home is an experience not to be missed. The day after washing with the scalp brush, my hair was noticeably more voluminous, and I was able to go longer without washing my hair. To purchase your own goshi goshi scalp brush, head to a Tokyo drugstore near you.

Scalp Serums and Lotions

Why go all in on your face when your scalp needs it, too? An easy way to keep your hair volumized while getting rid of dandruff is to moisturize your scalp daily. I find this simple action significantly reduces itchiness and dandruff during the summer heat. My favorite scalp serum is from Wicot Comes in a glass spray bottle and adds a luxurious feel to my scalp care routine.

Certified organic, eco-friendly and vegan, Wicot’s serum helps promote hair growth and prevent hair loss. The spray dispenser makes it easy to spray on freshly washed hair before blow-drying to visibly add volume. It can also be used on dry hair as it has a light, woody scent and a lightweight texture. Find Wicot’s Scalp Serum at Cosme Kitchen.

A simple drugstore alternative is Curel Scalp Moisturizing LotionUnscented and gentle, Curel’s lotion is an easy and affordable step in your scalp care routine. This product is best used on damp hair before blow-drying, as applying to dry hair can reduce volume.

related articles