Quick answer: hold the massager so the fingers rest on your scalp, press lightly, and move in slow small circles. Spend about fifteen seconds each on the crown, the sides and the back of your head. That is the whole routine. Most people use it once a day on dry hair, or before washing.
For most of us the scalp only ever gets shampoo. A minute with a massager gives it some attention of its own, and for a lot of people it is simply the most relaxing minute of the day.
The one minute routine
- Crown, 15 seconds. Place the massager on top of your head. Slow circles, light pressure.
- Left and right sides, 15 seconds each. Work from the temples back toward the ears.
- Back of the head, 15 seconds. Finish at the nape of the neck, where tension tends to sit.
Move the massager rather than dragging it. Lift, place, circle, then lift again. That keeps it from pulling on your hair.
How much pressure?
Firm enough to feel it, never enough to hurt. The rounded wooden fingers do the work. If your scalp feels sore afterward, go lighter next time.
Wet or dry?
- Dry: the best choice for a wooden massager. Use it any time, morning or night.
- Before washing: a minute before you step in the shower is a good habit to build.
- In the shower: skip it with a wooden massager. Wood should stay out of water.
How often?
Once a day is plenty. Some people like it twice, morning and before bed. There is no benefit to pressing harder or going longer.
Pair it with your brush
A massager and a brush work well together: massage first, then brush from the ends up. Every HairGuard set includes both, a sandalwood brush and a five finger sandalwood scalp massager. Our detangling guide covers the brushing half.
Caring for a wooden massager
Wipe it with a dry cloth after use and keep it somewhere dry. Never soak it. See how to clean wooden hair tools for more.
Questions people ask
Can I use a scalp massager every day?
Yes. Once a day with light pressure is a comfortable routine for most people.
Does a scalp massager help hair grow?
We do not make that claim. Use it because it feels good and gives your scalp some care beyond shampoo. If you are worried about hair loss, speak to a doctor or dermatologist.
Can I use it on a sensitive scalp?
Use very light pressure and fewer circles. If anything feels uncomfortable, stop.
Wood or silicone massager?
Silicone massagers are made for the shower. A wooden massager is for dry use and has a firmer, warmer feel.
Want to try the routine? The sandalwood scalp massager comes in every HairGuard set, with free shipping.