The ultimate guide to Japanese head spa
5th Mar 2025
The future of wellness: Japanese head spa
Beauty and wellness traditions have long been rooted in Japanese culture and are renowned for their holistic approach to self-care. One such hidden gem is the Japanese head spa — a luxurious and therapeutic treatment combining relaxation, scalp health, and overall wellbeing.
Having been introduced in Europe in 2021, Japanese head spa has now arrived in the UK through an exclusive partnership with Ellisons and Dutch head spa company, Hair and Nature.
As a salon or spa owner, offering Japanese head spa treatments can set your business apart, help attract new clients and increase revenue while providing an exceptional experience and value to customers.
In this article, Ellisons will delve into the world of Japanese head spas, exploring the benefits of offering the treatments in your salon and why they have become a global wellness trend.
What is a Japanese head spa?
A Japanese head spa is a specialised scalp treatment designed to cleanse, rejuvenate, and stimulate the scalp, while offering a profoundly relaxing experience.
A typical protocol consists of:
Step 1: Consultation and scalp analysis
The experience typically begins with a scalp analysis to assess your client’s scalp health. This is to identify concerns such as dryness, oiliness, product build-up or hair loss patterns, in order to create a bespoke service, tailored to your client.
Step 2: Neck, shoulder and décolleté massage
A soothing massage of the neck, shoulders and décolleté is performed for relaxation and to improve circulation.
Step 3: Cleansing and exfoliation
A gentle yet thorough cleansing and exfoliation process ensures that the scalp is fresh and ready to absorb nutrients.
Step 4: Steam therapy
A warm steam treatment with aromatherapy oils prepares the scalp for deeper nourishment.
Step 5: Relaxing head massage
Using precise pressure points, a soothing head and neck massage is then performed, followed by deep relaxation under the rainbow shower.
Step 6: Hair and scalp treatment
A tailored hair mask or conditioning treatment is then applied to strengthen and hydrate the hair.
Perfect add-on treatments...
Deeply restore and replenish dry, rough skin with the +maskology professional foot treatment.
+maskology intensely moisturising hand mask treatment deeply hydrates the skin for soft, supple hands
Benefits of offering Japanese head spa treatments in your salon
Increase client retention and attraction
Adding a Japanese head spa service can bring in new clients who are looking for new, unique or and luxurious treatments, with exclusivity and wellness benefits, making it a sought-after experience.
Higher revenue potential
Offering head spa treatments allows your salon to provide additional, premium services. Bundling this service with face, hand and foot care can further increase your profitability per hour.
Expands your service menu
A head spa service sets your salon or spa apart from competitors and can help to position your business as a destination for holistic beauty and wellness, giving clients more reasons to visit regularly.
Improves overall client satisfaction
Providing a deeply relaxing and beneficial treatment enhances the overall client experience, leading to more positive reviews, word-of-mouth marketing, and repeat business.
Opens opportunities for cross-selling products
Since scalp health plays a key role in hair growth and maintenance, spas and salons can grow their retail business by recommending premium scalp treatments and hair care products to their clients, to complement the head spa experience at home.
How quickly you can expect a return on investment
It's a highly profitable treatment. Based on a basic head spa service, with a minimum rate of around £85, at between 1 to 5 treatments per day, you could increase your salon or spa revenue from around £20,000 to £102,000 in just one year. Anticipated return on investment is 6 weeks or less.
Each Japanese head spa treatment takes between approximately 45 and 90 minutes. Based on a basic head spa service, with a minimum rate of around £85, at between 1 to 5 treatments per day, you could increase your salon or spa revenue from around £20,000 to £102,000 in just one year. Anticipated return on investment is 6 weeks or less.
Why are Japanese head spas becoming so popular?
The recent rise of videos showcasing Japanese head spa treatments on social media have gone viral worldwide. Luxury spas and salons have been offering their own variations of the experience. making it a must-try unique and luxurious treatment. With self-care, wellbeing and stress relief being a trending topic in recent years, people around the world are now discovering the incredible benefits of Japanese head spa and its holistic approach to hair health and wellness.
Benefits of Japanese head spa treatments for your clients
The effectiveness of a Japanese head spa lies in its blend of ancient techniques and modern science. So, whether your client struggles with hair loss, psoriasis, stress, or simply wants a deeply relaxing experience, a Japanese head spa treatment might be just what they need, not only for the hair, but for overall wellbeing. Here’s how they work, with some of the key advantages:
Promotes scalp health, through detoxification
The treatment deeply cleanses the scalp, removing dirt, product anoil build-up and dead skin cells. This helps prevent dandruff, scalp irritation, and clogged hair follicles, creating the perfect environment for healthy hair growth.
Encourages hair growth, through pressure point stimulation
By stimulating blood circulation through massage techniques, a Japanese head spa nourishes hair follicles, strengthening roots and promoting hair growth. It’s particularly beneficial for individuals struggling with thinning hair or excessive hair loss.
Encourages deep penetration of nutrients, through steam therapy
Warm steam opens up the pores, allowing for deep penetration of nutrients, hydrating and revitalising the scalp.
Relieves stress and tension, through massage
Japanese head spa massage focuses on acupressure points on the scalp which is filled with nerve endings. This helps relieve tension, headaches and stress levels by improving circulation. The experience is deeply relaxing and can even improve sleep quality.
Lymphatic drainage, through massage
The massage techniques used help drain toxins from the scalp and face, reducing puffiness and promoting a youthful glow.
Enhances hair texture and shine, through conditioning
Deep conditioning with a mask nourishes the hair from root to tip, making it softer, shinier, and more manageable. This is beneficial for clients with dry, damaged, or frizzy hair.
Boosts mental clarity and focus, through increasing oxygen flow
By relieving tension in the scalp and increasing oxygen flow to the brain, a head spa can help improve concentration, reduce mental fatigue, and boost overall cognitive function.
FAQs
1. Why don’t Hair and Nature sell head spas with water tanks?
Hair and Nature prioritise quality, reliability, and ease of use. A head spa with a water tank has several disadvantages that they aim to avoid, to give you and your customers the best experience:
- Hygiene issues
Water tanks require regular maintenance to prevent bacteria buildup and limescale. Since the interior is difficult to clean, hygiene risks increase. A direct water connection guarantees clean, flowing water, at all times. - Inconvenient and time-consuming
Constantly refilling a water tank is impractical and time-consuming, especially in busy salons, spas or hotels. A direct connection provides unlimited access to water with no extra effort. - High risk of malfunction
Water tanks use pump mechanisms that are prone to wear and blockages, which can lead to breakdowns and service interruptions. A direct water connection eliminates these risks entirely. - Durable and simple
The Hair and Nature head spa with a direct connection is more durable and low-maintenance. No leaks, no fragile parts - just reliable performance.
In summary: Hair and Nature offer a more practical, hygienic, and reliable product for all of their customers.
2. Is the Japanese head spa basin made of plastic or ceramic?
The basin of our Japanese head spa is made of high-quality ceramic, offering several benefits:
- Stain and scratch-resistant: Perfect for hair colouring treatments, ceramic maintains its appearance without discoloration or damage.
- Durability: Ceramic is extremely strong and resistant to wear and tear.
- Hygienic and easy to clean: The smooth, non-porous surface prevents bacteria build-up and is easy to sanitise.
- Luxury look and feel: The premium, professional finish exudes quality and sophistication.
- Heat and chemical resistant: Ideal for daily, intensive use.
3. How quickly can you deliver my Japanese head spa?
Hair and Nature Japanese head spa beds are delivered to the UK via ArrowXL, a diary-booked service which works on a date of your choosing, according to calendar availability in your area. Ellisons partner with Hair and Nature, based in Netherlands, who have warehouses across Europe.
4. Can I view the head spa in person?
Absolutely! You can book an appointment by emailing the Ellisons Furniture Team or Spa Partner Team.
5. Do you offer Japanese head spa training?
Yes, Japanese head spa training is available as an online course or by attending our training academy in Coventry. Ellisons academy courses are accredited by the Guild of Beauty Therapists and endorsed by HABIA.
For more information including prerequisites, training dates and availability, please contact [email protected]
You can also book your online course here.
6. Can I connect the head spa to my salon sink or tap?
Yes, you can! You’ll need the following connections:
- Cold water supply
- Hot water supply
- Drainage
Most salon sinks and taps already have these connections. Please note that you will require the services of a qualified plumber to install your Japanese head spa.
7. Can I use the head spa with only cold water?
Unfortunately, it won’t function optimally if cold water only is used. The treatment is designed to use lukewarm or warm water, which is essential for effective scalp care and cleansing. Warm water enhances the customer experience and the treatment’s effectiveness. Hair and Nature recommend installing a hot water solution, such as a boiler, if you do not have access to hot or warm water.
8. How many years’ warranty do I get with my purchase?
Your purchase includes a 1-year warranty that covers manufacturing defects.
9. Why should I order my Japanese head spa from Ellisons?
Hair and Nature understand you want to make an informed choice. Here’s why our head spas are the best option:
Quality and reliability: Japanese head spas are produced in the Netherlands by Hair and Nature, a leading European manufacturer.
Innovative features: Hair and Nature head spas include exclusive features like LED lighting, controlled by a remote, a scalp scanner that can be connected to an iPhone, iPad or laptop to store before and after photos, and a steam cap.
High quality, comfortable upholstery: The upholstery material is premium PU, or polyurethane, leather. This is 100% artificial leather made of thermoplastic polymer used for making furniture or shoes, and is also vegan-friendly too.
No side panel: No risk of clogs or defects caused by side panels, which are common issues with other brands.
Fast delivery and warranty: Delivered via ArrowXL, a diary-booked service which works on a date of your choosing, according to calendar availability in your area. For details on ArrowXL delivery click here. Japanese head spa beds are supplied with a 1-year warranty and excellent after-sales service.
Outstanding service: Ellisons offer transparent information, comprehensive support, and optional training if needed.
Choosing us means partnering with an experienced, knowledgeable and dependable company who can help to elevate your business.
10. Is the head spa complete upon delivery, or will I need extra parts?
Yes, the head spa is delivered fully assembled to your treatment room and ready to use, once installed by a qualified plumber. Your order includes:
- The head spa with a ceramic basin and direct water connection
- A steam cap and steamer with a remote control
- Two pillows for added comfort
A starter pack including a stool, scalp scanner and accessories
What you’ll need to arrange:
- A qualified plumber: For safe installation of the water connection and drainage.
- Water and power supply: Ensure access to warm water and sufficient power outlets.
11. What are the dimensions of the head spa?
The head spa dimensions are:
- Length: 2000 mm
- Width: 700 mm
- Height: 700 mm
These dimensions make the head spa suitable for most salon and spa spaces while ensuring optimal comfort and functionality.
Before...
Congestion, product build-up and ingrown hairs
After...
Clean, healthy scalp and hair
“Japanese head spa is fast becoming a huge global wellness trend”
Louise Moore, Head of Academy and Online Learning at Ellisons
The deluxe Japanese head spa bed
The cutting-edge deluxe Japanese head spa bed from Hair and Nature is specifically designed for you to perform Japanese head spa treatments, enabling you to deliver the ultimate relaxing scalp health treatment, tailored to your client. Now available in the UK exclusively through their partnership with Ellisons, the Hair and Nature Japanese head spa bed offers the latest in luxury, comfort and versatility, created with durable, high-quality materials.
Available in black and stone, the Japanese head spa bed features a ceramic treatment basin and the iconic rainbow shower, the package includes a starter kit, complete with head scanner, stool, along with a range of massage tools for each treatment.
N.B. One of the benefits of the Japanese head spa over other varieties is that it delivers a continuous supply of clean, hygienic water. The bed requires connections to warm and cold clean water sources, and drainage, so a qualified plumber is required to install it.
For the complete head spa experience, you will also need a shampoo, hair scrub and hair mask. You can choose the products you use, based on your clients’ hair type.
For normal hair, we recommend the following, but you can choose to use your own hair products.
• L’Oreal Professionel Serie Expert clarifying shampoo
• OSMO Scalp Therapy purifying scalp scrub
• OSMO Scalp Therapy replenishing hair mask
Please note: We strongly recommend engaging with a qualified plumber prior to ordering, and recommend a plumber installs the head spa bed. Ellisons is not responsible for installation, nor if the bed has been installed incorrectly. Taps on the pipes must be switched off at the end of each day, as well as the main sink taps.
The scalp scanner can plug into an iPhone, iPad or laptop to view the results of the scan, which the customer can then keep to show progress to the client. The scalp scanner must be stored in a clean, dry place.
A Japanese head spa treatment is more than just a scalp massage—it’s a full rejuvenation experience for your clients, while offering an excellent business-growth opportunity.
Whether you’re looking to attract new customers, boost revenue, or position your business as a leader in holistic hair care, incorporating this unique treatment can be a game-changer.
Revenue per hour can also be increased if additional treatments from your menu are included, such as facials, hand and foot care.
Japanese head spa training
By investing in quality training provided by the Ellisons Academy, state-of-the-art equipment and targeted marketing, your salon can provide an unforgettable head spa experience that keeps clients coming back for more. Don’t miss out on the chance to elevate your salon business with the power of Japanese head spa treatments.
After completing the training course, it is recommended that therapists ensure they have sufficient practice on colleagues or models before offering the service.
Interested? Check out Ellisons dedicated and comprehensive Japanese head spa courses. Available online and in-person at our training academy in Coventry. Learn how to perform Japanese head spa treatments in your own beauty salon or spa. Simply contact the Academy Team for more details on how to book your place. Or if you would simply like more information on the deluxe Japanese beauty bed including specification and pricing, our helpful Furniture Team and Spa Team would be happy to assist.