Best Scalp Massager for Hair Growth: Reviewed in 2024 - National Council on Aging

[Chaunie Brusie, Tiffany Young, Susan Stiles]

Oct 21, 2024 Print this page

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Regular scalp massage has been proven to help with some types of hair loss. Here are the best scalp massagers for hair loss we found, with input from a dermatologist on how to use them.

Why Trust NCOA



Our Reviews Team works to provide recommendations of products and services that we believe can add value to our readers’ lives. To give the most accurate overview of hair loss treatments, we spent hundreds of hours researching treatments and brands. To make our selections, we:

• Mystery-shopped eight online platforms offering hair loss treatments, testing four ourselves
• Interviewed dermatologists and trichologistsⓘ Health care professionals who study and treat hair and scalp conditions. about the causes and treatments of hair loss, especially for older adults
• Interviewed seven people who got hair loss treatments online to learn about their personal experiences with hair loss and treatment
• Compared online platforms and products, looking at costs, features, benefits, and drawbacks
• Identified key factors to consider when comparing hair loss treatments through independent research and expert advice
• Read real customer reviews from trusted sources like Trustpilot to understand real user experiences with products and platforms
• Read the latest resources from the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) and research articles to make sure our recommendations follow the best practices

Learn more about how we test hair loss products.

Key Takeaways​

• Our top scalp massager for hair loss is the Vegamor GRO Revitalizing Scalp Massager because it’s affordable, easy to use, and effective for scalp concerns like dandruff and psoriasis.
• Scalp massage has been clinically proven to help regrow hair in some types of hair loss, and scalp massagers offer an easy way to perform scalp massage at home.
• The scalp massagers we reviewed range in price from $10–$240, depending on the type and included features.
• The American Academy of Dermatology reports that nearly every person will experience some form of hair thinning during their lifetime. The most common type of hair loss, called androgenetic alopecia, affects 80 million Americans.
• If you’re experiencing hair loss, shedding, or thinning, be sure to speak to a doctor—the best results for regrowth will depend on the reason behind your hair loss.

Hair loss is one of the most common conditions that dermatologists treat, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). It can happen to anyone, but it is especially common as we age. There are many different factors that can cause or contribute to hair loss, like medications, chronic diseases, product use, and even hairstyle type.

One of the most common types of hair loss is a genetic condition called androgenetic alopecia. It is the type of hair loss most associated with male-pattern baldness, but it also affects around 30 million women in the United States.

Treatment for hair loss depends on the cause. For some types of hair loss, at-home treatments with a scalp massager can help. A study published in 2019 in Dermatology and Therapy found that people with genetic hair loss who did daily scalp massage perceived positive changes of their hair. A scalp massager may also help people who have lost hair due to telogen effluvium, a temporary form of hair loss that’s common with stress or hormonal shifts, like in women who have just given birth.

Although it’s normal to lose 50–100 hairs per day, some signs of hair loss include bald spots, a widening or thinning part, a receding hairline, or overall thinning. You should always talk to a dermatologist or your primary care physician if you are experiencing hair loss because it’s important to find the cause.

If you’re looking to add scalp massage to your hair care routine, consider our picks for the best scalp massagers for hair loss. We researched the topic, spoke with adults who have experienced hair loss, and consulted dermatologists for expert input on how to use a scalp massager for hair loss. You can also read our reviews of the best hair loss medications and best hair loss treatments for women for more options.

Best scalp massagers for hair growth in 2024​

What we look for in scalp massagers for hair growth​

There are different types of scalp massages, from manual or electric to wearable. The Reviews Team asked Christopher Chu, MD, board-certified dermatologist and dermatopathologist and founder at Pure Dermatology, what is most important when searching for a scalp massager for hair loss.

Design​

Chu recommends choosing a scalp massager that fits in one hand for ease of use. Choosing a one-hand design could also help reduce fatigue if you’re using a manual scalp massager.

Bristles​

“Soft, flexible bristles are preferred over hard or stiff bristles,” said Chu. Soft bristles can work more closely into the scalp and won’t cause damage. Soft bristles can also help other scalp concerns, such as dandruff, because they can gently loosen dandruff flakes. Bristles can also improve blood circulation to the hair follicle, a key part of hair regrowth.

Wet vs. dry use​

Some electric scalp massagers offer a vibrating feature, but Chu cautions that those are often just meant to be used with dry hair. If you’re looking for an option you can use in the shower, a manual massager may be a better choice.

Realistic results​

Scalp massagers for hair loss can help stimulate hair growth hair in certain types of hair loss, but they’re only one piece of the puzzle. Most types of hair loss will benefit from multiple treatments used together, so avoid any scalp massager that promises unrealistic results.

Vegamor GRO Revitalizing Scalp Massager: Best Overall​

Our expert take on the Vegamor GRO Revitalizing Scalp Massage​

Chu recommends scalp massagers that “are round with soft bristles and a handle for your hand,” which is exactly what you’ll find with the Vegamor GRO scalp massager. Some reviewers noted that the bristles weren’t quite as soft as they expected, so make sure you like the feel of the tool before committing to using it regularly.

Who may love it

• Anyone experiencing hair loss
• People who want a relaxing scalp massage
• Left- and right-handed people

Who may want to avoid it

• Anyone with limited hand mobility, such as someone with arthritis
• Someone who prefers electric massagers
• Someone with extreme scalp irritation

Customer reviews​

The Vegamour GRO Revilitazing Scalp Massager has a 4.9-star rating with more than 322 reviews on its website. Many reviewers mention that the scalp massager is very easy and comfortable to use, has helped regrow hair and improve overall hair texture, and provides a relaxing experience overall. A few others shared that the bristles discolored over time, which was off-putting even if it didn’t affect function, and at least one shopper said her long hair got tangled in the bristles.

“I love this massager (and I do finger massages and have had several massagers–traditional, modern). This is absolutely one of the best, if not the best. It is soft so that the spikes don’t injure yet flexible enough to do the job. The size is perfect.”

– Sandra A., verified buyer on Vegamor

“I have been using daily for about a month. My fine hair has more texture. Using this lifts my hair off of my scalp. Looks so much better. I have hair loss at the crown and along hairline in front. I am beginning to see new hair growth. I would be happy just with the improved texture, but with the added hair growth, I give the massaging brush five stars. I only use the brush, no serums.”

– Katherine D., verified buyer on Vegamor

Ovviovita Electric Head Massager: Best Electric Scalp Massager​

Our expert take on the Ovviovita Electric Head Massager​

Electric massagers could be more effective for hair growth than manual ones. Chu points to one study that found mechanical stimulation causes stretching in dermal papillae cells, which contain the specific cells for hair growth. “In these patients, the side of their scalp that received scalp massage demonstrated increased hair thickness (though no increased density),” said Chu. In other words, it’s possible that a scalp massager with electrical stimulation—more than manual massage alone—could be more effective.

Who may love it

• Someone with androgenetic alopecia
• Anyone with mobility issues who can’t do manual scalp massage
• Someone who prefers electrical scalp stimulation

Who may want to avoid it

• Anyone with scalp irritation
• Someone with a diagnosis of inflammatory scalp conditions
• People with sensitive scalps

Customer reviews​

There are currently no customer reviews of the Ovviovita Electric Head Massager online.

Breo S3 Scalp Massaging Brush: Best Scalp Massage Brush​

Our expert take on the Breo S3 Breo S3 Scalp Massaging Brush​

Although Chu didn’t comment specifically on the Breo scalp massaging brush, he did note that the most popular explanation for how a scalp massager can help relates to blood flow. “The theory is that a scalp massager stimulates blood circulation to the scalp,” Chu explained. “This improved blood flow enhances the delivery of nutrients to hair follicles promoting healthier hair.” With three different electrical massage modes, the Breo scalp massaging brush is a good way to stimulate blood circulation to large areas of the scalp.

Our expert’s take​

Who may love it

• Those who prefer electrical massage
• Anyone who wants to add hair oil to a scalp massage
• People with all-over hair thinning

Who may want to avoid it

• Someone on a budget
• Someone who prefers manual control
• Someone with extreme scalp irritation

Customer reviews​

The Breo S3 scalp massager brush has five out of five stars on its website, with a total of three written reviews. The reviewers all reported enjoying using the brush, while one noted that the oil function didn’t dispense the hair oil as hoped.

On Amazon, the brush has a rating of 4.1 out of five stars, with 89 ratings. Reviewers said they liked both the kneading massage feature and the bristles that really get into the scalp. Critical reviews mention the high price, the fact that the bristles can be uncomfortable, and problems with the oil dispensing.

“I have been using this brush for about 2 months now. […] I bought this brush back when it was on sale. And I truly believe it is worth it. It not only feels good and relaxing, BUT it also has a dedicated compartment to add oils so that it can distribute them into your scalp during treatment. I no longer use this compartment because the cap on the top does not stay on. This is the reason I knocked down 1 star. The cap should have a better design in order to prevent the oil from spilling everywhere. I now just use the dropper the hair oil comes with to distribute on my scalp and then use the brush.”

– GHK, verified buyer on Amazon

“I recently purchased the Breo Scalp Massager and it has been great for me. It provides a soothing and invigorating massage to my scalp, blood flow in order to promote hair growth esp on my edges.”


– R. Brown, verified buyer on Amazon

Wildling Empress Gua Sha Stimulating Scalp Comb: Best Scalp Massager Comb​

Our expert take on the Wildling Empress Gua Sha Stimulating Scalp Comb​

Scalp massage is clinically linked to hair regrowth with certain types of hair loss, and Chu notes that part of the benefit of scalp massage may also be in the simple relaxation a massage can provide. “One last potential mechanism is, of course, the relaxation that massaging your scalp can induce, which may subtly help with hair loss,” he noted. The Wilding scalp massager comb may be an especially relaxing since it combines acupressure therapy with a stone design that some people may find soothing. The downside: you need to be familiar with how to do acupressure for this to be effective.

Our expert’s take​

Who may love it

• Those who want a unique scalp massager
• Fans of acupressure
• People who prefer a simple design

Who may want to avoid it

• Someone who isn’t familiar with acupressure
• Someone who prefers electric massagers
• Someone with a sensitive scalp

Customer reviews​

The Wildling Empress Gua Sha stimulating scalp massager comb has a rating of 4.8 out of five stars on the Wilding website, with 116 reviews. Many the reviews mention how relaxing the comb is to use, and several reviewers mention how they use the stone on other parts of their body, such as to relieve tension in their neck and head. Others said that the comb may have trouble getting through thick hair.

“Such a beautiful and quality tool. I started incorporating scalp gua sha and find it super relaxing and not only a form of self-care but also it has helped my scalp health. Look forward to seeing how things improve over time. Customer service was also 10/10. Really happy with all of the tools I have purchased from this company.”

– Wiola P., verified buyer on Wildling

“This stone is amazing. It feels wonderful on my scalp and allows me to relax my mind after a chaotic day. I feel as if my hair is growing faster and a bit thicker, which is a great thing after post-baby hair loss.”

– Jessica C., verified buyer on Wildling

How we research scalp massagers for hair growth​

Our Reviews Team bases our recommendations on the best clinical guidelines and research on hair loss treatments. We talked with dermatologists and trichologists ⓘ people who specialize in treating hair and scalp conditions to get their expert recommendations for both prescription and over-the-counter products, including scalp massagers. We also surveyed hair loss treatment users and interviewed focus groups of users to better understand the experience of hair loss and hair loss treatment.

Our testers researched some of the most popular scalp massagers for hair growth, paying special attention to:

• Scalp massager costs
• Shipping times
• How easy it is to use the scalp massager or comb
• Treatment experience
• Customer service
• Customer reviews

All of our reviews are medically reviewed by a licensed and practicing medical expert to ensure the information is accurate and up to date.

Benefits of using a scalp massager​

“Regular scalp massage may help with hair regrowth in certain types of hair loss—primarily telogen effluvium, a stress-related temporary type of hair loss, and androgenetic alopecia, a genetically linked hair thinning condition,” said Chu. But the studies that have been done on scalp massages for hair regrowth aren’t 100% conclusive. More research needs to be done to say with authority that these products will make your hair grow.

What the studies do show is that scalp massage can help improve blood flow to the hair follicles to help stimulate hair growth. Scalp massagers may also help “open up” the hair follicles to allow hair that does grow in to grow thicker as well. For instance, a study published in 2016 found that regular scalp massage helped increase hair thickness—but not hair density—in males with hair loss.

Aside from potential hair regrowth, scalp massage also has other benefits, such the potential to help treat dandruff and psoriasis by gently exfoliating the scalp of skin flakes and reducing inflammation. Talk to a dermatologist or doctor for any type of hair loss or scalp problem you’re experiencing—the AAD warns that too much scrubbing or rubbing on your scalp can actually worsen some conditions, including psoriasis.

Additional features to look for in a scalp massager​

Choosing the best scalp massager for hair loss depends on what features you’re looking for. At the basic level, a scalp massager with a handle and flexible bristles can be used for manual stimulation of the scalp and, potentially, improved blood circulation to the area. If you’re someone who’s not too concerned with hair loss or just wants a relaxing at-home scalp massage, the basic features may be enough for you.

Adults who want additional features in a scalp massager should look for:

• Red light therapy, which has been associated with hair regrowth in a clinical study
• Electrical massage to allow for a more hands-off experience
• Different massage modes to boost blood circulation and provide more comfort options
• Layered bristles to stimulate both upper and deeper levels of the scalp
• Waterproof function for in-shower use
• Hair oil additions to nourish the scalp
• Size flexibility to let you tailor specific areas of the scalp or perform an all-over scalp massage

Table 1, Compare the best scalp massagers for hair growth as of 2024​

Bottom line​

The best scalp massagers for hair loss can help improve blood flow to hair follicles to promote hair regrowth and increase hair thickness. There are many different types of hair loss, so the first step to take if you have any kind of hair loss is to talk to a medical professional. Your primary care doctor or a dermatologist can diagnose what might be causing your hair loss and help you choose the right treatment.

For many people with telogen effluvium and androgenetic alopecia, two common types of hair loss, scalp massagers may help with hair regrowth. Scalp massagers can also have other benefits, like improving conditions like dandruff and psoriasis. You should not use a scalp massager with inflammatory hair loss conditions such as alopecia areata or other scarring alopecias, according to Chu.

“A scalp massager is absolutely not a replacement for medical therapy or other therapies for hair loss,” Chu added. “This is a nice adjunct therapy, but ultimately, if you are dealing with a significant amount of hair loss, medical therapy is recommended. Also, since this only works for certain types of hair loss, if you are not sure, speak with a dermatologist to ensure you have the correct diagnosis and reason for your hair loss.”

Frequently asked questions​

How often should you use a scalp massager for hair growth?


“There’s no hard data on how long you should perform the massage, but anywhere between 5–10 minutes is reasonable,” Chu said. You’ll want to perform daily scalp massage for the best results and keep in mind you’ll need time to see hair growth.. Chu also cautions that you should take a break if scalp irritation occurs.

What is the best way to massage your head for hair growth?


You can perform a scalp massage on dry or wet hair. Wet hair tends to break or damage more easily, though. If your hair is dry, Chu notes that applying a scalp oil may be helpful to provide with glide. “Apply gentle pressure, and focus on areas where scaling is particularly problematic,” he suggested. Electric scalp massagers will do the work for you, but if you’re using a manual scalp massager, massage each area of the scalp in a circular direction.

What are the disadvantages of scalp massagers?


Overuse or excessive pressure could cause irritation, and aggressive use could lead to hair breakage. Overall, the dermatologist we spoke to assured us that scalp massagers are safe for at-home use if used as instructed.

Have questions about this review? Email us at reviewsteam@ncoa.org.

Sources​

1. American Academy of Dermatology Association. Hair Loss: Overview. Found on the internet at Hair loss: Overview
2. American Academy of Dermatology. Skin Conditions by the Numbers. Found on the internet at Skin conditions by the numbers
3. English RS, Barazesh JM. Self-Assessments of Standardized Scalp Massages for Androgenic Alopecia: Survey Results. Dermatology and Therapy. Jan. 2, 2019. Found on the internet at https://doi.org/10.1007/s13555-019-0281-6
4. Yang K, et al. Hair Growth Promoting Effects of 650 nm Red Light Stimulation on Human Hair Follicles and Study of Its Mechanisms via RNA Sequencing Transcriptome Analysis. Annals of Dermatology. Nov. 4, 2021. Found on the internet at Hair Growth Promoting Effects of 650 nm Red Light Stimulation on Human Hair Follicles and Study of Its Mechanisms via RNA Sequencing Transcriptome Analysis - PMC

1. Koyama T, et al. Standardized Scalp Massage Results in Increased Hair Thickness by Inducing Stretching Forces to Dermal Papilla Cells in the Subcutaneous Tissue. Eplasty. Jan. 25, 2016. Found on the internet at Standardized Scalp Massage Results in Increased Hair Thickness by Inducing Stretching Forces to Dermal Papilla Cells in the Subcutaneous Tissue - PMC
2. Kim I, et al. The Effect of a Scalp Massage on Stress Hormone, Blood Pressure, and Heart Rate of Healthy Female. Journal of Physical Therapy Science. Oct. 28, 2016. Found on the internet at The effect of a scalp massage on stress hormone, blood pressure, and heart rate of healthy female - PMC
3. National Institutes of Health. How Stress Causes Hair Loss. April 13, 2021. Found on the internet at How stress causes hair loss
4. American Academy of Dermatology. Scalp Psoriasis: Shampoos, Scale Softeners, and Other Treatments. Found on the internet at Scalp psoriasis: Shampoos, scale softeners, and other treatments

Susan Stiles, PhD, provides leadership in the design and development of consumer products that inspire, educate, and activate older adults. She’s been instrumental in bringing the Aging Mastery Program® to market and scaling it nationwide via strategic alliances and business partnerships. Stiles has 20+ years of experience in design thinking, multimedia, strategic communications, and management consulting.