As a beauty editor, I've tried my fair share of spa treatments over the years – some amazing, others forgettable – but few have left me as eager to try them as the 'head spa' videos that have been flooding my social media feeds this year.
Allegedly hailing from Japan or Korea, this soothing treatment involves similar steps you'd typically expect during a full body massage or facial, but focuses solely on your head, hair, neck and shoulders. This could include masks, steam and scalp massages, plus perhaps the most TikTok-famous part: a halo of waterfall-like jets of water that slowly moves back and forth over your head. The benefits include deeply cleansing the hair and scalp, plus delivering an incredibly relaxing treatment.
Eager to try one of these trending treatments myself, I headed to the newly-opened The Head Spa in Manchester...
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Founded by hair stylist Molly Mcilhatton, who previously worked at Manchester's Trevor Sorbie salon, The Head Spa exudes luxury and tranquillity from the moment you step through the door, reminiscent of a really exclusive spa, with dim lights, aesthetic decor and relaxing music. As I sipped on a welcome drink of fizzy iced tea, my bespoke treatment began with a scalp analysis using a special camera to determine which products would be used; as my scalp is a little dry and easily irritated, Molly used products specifically designed to soothe and calm from an organic haircare brand called Oway.
I nestled into the cosy treatment bed, designed to let your hair hang off the end into a small sink where the therapist sits. The tension started to melt away almost immediately.
I wasn't told what to expect during my treatment and we didn't talk throughout it, to really enhance the relaxation, but I quizzed Molly afterwards about exactly what it had involved. It started with a gentle shoulder, neck and scalp massage, followed by scalp oil application, reports the Mirror. Then came a double 'hair bath' with an exfoliating peel of herbs and clay, massaged gently into my lengths - a far cry from harsh scrubbing that can cause breakage.
A hair mask was applied next, along with steam (like a facial) to help the product penetrate deeper. This was left on for a few minutes; I think I dozed off at this point. The mask was rinsed off with the most 'viral' part of the treatment: the curved halo bar with water jets, moving slowly back and forth over my head. It felt amazing, like multiple people gently running their fingers through my hair simultaneously.
The treatment concluded with a blow dry and lasted two hours in total. As all therapists at The Head Spa are trained hairdressers, you can also book a haircut at this stage if you want.
After the 120-minute Euphoria treatment at The Head Spa Manchester, my hair and scalp never felt better – so clean, soft and healthy, and it stayed that way for days (usually I'm washing my hair every other day). But what really blew me away was how relaxing the experience was; honestly, it was more soothing than any body massage I've ever had. The serene environment, expert touch and meticulous service made this one of the best spa experiences to date.
At £150, which is what you'd pay for a 60-minute massage at a posh hotel spa, I think it's well worth the money; I'm already planning my next visit as a special indulgence.
How to recreate a head spa at home
For those looking to bring a bit of that head spa magic home, while we can't all have the luxury equipment and a pro stylist on hand, there are some fab products that can give your routine a boost.
Scalp oil
Mielle Rosemary Mint Scalp and Hair Oil, currently £8.99 from Amazon (was £11.25)
Rosemary oil is another TikTok hit for encouraging hair growth, with Amazon shoppers raving about its effectiveness, noting "it really works" and "a little goes a long way". Massage it into your scalp before bed or pre-shower for a lush treatment.
Scalp brush
Coco and Eve Shampoo Brush, currently £8 from Sephora (was £9)
While nothing can replicate the soothing sensation of the halo water streams and an expert scalp massage by a skilled therapist, using a spiky silicone brush such as this one is a great way to gently stimulate your scalp when you wash your hair, boosting circulation without tangling up the hair.
Hair mask
Kérastase Chroma Absolu Masque Chroma Filler, currently £42.30 from LookFantastic (was £47)
What hair mask you use will really depend on your hair and scalp types, so it's worth shopping around for the best one for you. Kérastase has lots of to choose from, but following the advice of my colourist I'll be trying this one as it's specially designed for coloured hair, and hydrating without being too heavy.
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