Would you try this $200 scalp massage? Here’s what it’s like. - QCity Metro

[Madeline Holly-Carothers]

A viral scalp massage has been making waves online across the Charlotte area. The ultra-luxurious shampoo service includes 60 minutes of hair cleansing and a scalp rub using Japanese techniques.

The catch? The service comes with a hefty price tag, starting at around $200.

One of the most popular places to get this service in the Charlotte area is The Head Spa Sanctuary in Pineville.

I went recently to see what the buzz was about — and to see whether the trendy service is really worth the price.

Inside the calm room, a quiet waiting and relaxing area at The Head Spa Sanctuary. February 21, 2025. (QCity Metro)

About The Head Spa Sanctuary​

The techniques used at many head spas—tension-releasing massages solely focused on the head or scalp — date back to Japan in the 1600s. In recent years, head spas have begun to pop up throughout the United States, including North Carolina.

Waterfall during a 90-minute service at The Head Spa Sanctuary. February 2025. (Photos courtesy of The Head Spa Sanctuary)

The Head Spa Sanctuary opened in April 2024, and owner Kecia Purser said it has been steadily increasing in popularity. While most of its clients are women looking for a hair-rejuvenation day, Purser says the space services everyone, including people without hair.

The business focuses on the scalp, and “everyone has one,” Purser says.

The Head Spa Sanctuary experience includes a scalp analysis followed by a 60- or 90-minute scalp massage and shampoo. The technician uses various rubbing, pressing and light scratching to cleanse the scalp and promote relaxation. After the experience, guests have the option to add a blowout, straighten or diffused curly style.

The spa also offers massages, foot soaks, facials and more.

The experience​

Inside, I encountered an elevated spa-like atmosphere, with monochromatic white, beige and tan features throughout the space.

There were multiple rooms across two floors, including a shared space for scalp analysis, several individual rooms where guests receive customized care, a foot soak room, hairstyling rooms and a quiet room with plush throws, eye masks and soft seating.

I booked The Head Spa Sactuary’s Rejuvenation package, a 90-minute experience with a scalp massage along with the “four-hands” option, an additional arm and leg massage.

Total cost: $350.

When I arrived, I received a towel, robe and gown to change into, along with fuzzy socks. I placed my personal items in the locker and proceeded into the quiet room before the start of my service. The quiet room is a lush waiting room with a mini waterfall and some very comfortable loungers.

After a few minutes, my service provider came in and introduced herself, offered me a cup of tea and led me to the scalp analysis room. There, using a microscopic camera, the technician took photos of my scalp and talked with me about the product buildup, circulation, and any scalp issues she saw.

Next, we went into an individual service room, where I lay on what looked like a hybrid massage chair and shampoo bowl. The technician gave me a plush blanket and a warm eye cover. Then the service started.

I’m not sure what I expected, but it immediately exceeded those expectations. The technician shampooed my hair gently but with precision for about 30 minutes and then used the remaining time to massage my scalp and neck.

Four hands service at The Head Spa Sanctuary. February 2025. (Photos courtesy of The Head Spa Sanctuary)

About midway through the service, a second person began massaging my arms, hands, legs and feet. Using a warm stone and what felt like a light massage oil, the masseuse rubbed my arms and legs with light pressure. That, combined with the scalp massage, was so relaxing I had to try my hardest not to fall asleep.

After the service, we went back to the scalp analysis room, and I could see the difference post-shampoo. My scalp was much cleaner, and I could see the increased circulation compared to my “before” photos.

I also felt amazing and began planning when my next visit might be.

What I loved​

It’s like a spa day focused almost entirely on the head.

The scalp massage was deeply relaxing it its own right, but the extra hands made it feel divine.

What I wish was different​

I wish it weren’t as expensive so that the service could be more accessible on a budget, but overall, I think it’s worth the price.

Final thought​

This is a luxury service that more people should experience. With such a hefty price tag, I can’t see myself becoming a regular, but I’d definitely save and splurge to repeat the experience.

For me, The Head Spa Sanctuary will likely become a go-to for a special occasion, like a birthday, anniversary or some other splurge-worthy, “treat yourself” vibe.

Inside the foot soak room at The Head Spa Sanctuary. February 21, 2025. (QCity Metro)