<p>Keep scrolling for the full breakdown of the best scalp massagers, according to my own testing and product reviewers, along with expert tips from board-certified dermatologists Dr. Fahs and Dr. Green on what to look for before buying. </p>” />
We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we love. Promise.
Best Scalp Massager for Dandruff
Ceremonia Scalp Masajeador
Best Scalp Massager for Dandruff
Ceremonia Scalp Masajeador
Pros
- Reviewers love that the bristles are stiff enough to exfoliate, but soft enough to be comfortable
Cons
- Some might prefer a bigger handle for stability
This scalp massager is small but mighty thanks to its well-spaced, flexible bristles and concave design with shorter bristles in the center and longer ones around the edges. Made for all hair types, the Ceremonia scalp massager can be used with various hair products—both in and out of the shower. The brand recommends using it to help massage in any scalp treatments or work up a lather with your shampoo.
THE REVIEW: “If you’re thinking of buying a scalp massager this is it,” writes one reviewer. “It’s gentle yet stiff enough to get a good scrub in. It’s cute and very comfortable to hold.”
Best Scalp Massager for Curly Hair
Cbiumpro Scalp Massager Shampoo Brush
Best Scalp Massager for Curly Hair
Cbiumpro Scalp Massager Shampoo Brush
Now 54% Off
Pros
- Long bristles can reach the scalp of most hair types
Cons
- Might be too hard for thin hair and sensitive scalps
This scalp massager has hard bristles with flexible tips, making it ideal for people with thicker or curly hair. It can be used wet or dry, with or without product, and comes in packs of two, so you can leave one in the shower and the other by your bed.
THE REVIEW: “If you have natural hair and use butter and oils, one thing you have to worry about is product build-up. I have used this shampoo brush every washday since I bought it,” writes one reviewer. “It helps me scrub away all the products on my scalp while giving me a great massage. My scalp always feels extra clean, and my edges look great, cleansed from all the sweat and grime of the week.“
Best Scalp Massager for Shampooing
Wet Brush Exfoliating Scalp Massager
Best Scalp Massager for Shampooing
Wet Brush Exfoliating Scalp Massager
Now 20% Off
Pros
- Compatible with most shampoos and hair serums
Cons
- Some reviewers noted that the bristles weren’t long enough to reach their scalps
This jellyfish-looking bb has a removable cap that you can fill with your favorite shampoo or hair treatment and then massage it in. It also has small, soft bristles to minimize irritation on sensitive scalps.
THE REVIEW: “Practical, comfortable,” one reviewer writes, “and the best thing is that you do not dirty your hands.”
Best Scalp Massager for Stress Relief
COMFIER Electric Scalp Massager
Best Scalp Massager for Stress Relief
COMFIER Electric Scalp Massager
Now 20% Off
Pros
- Electric massage heads mean less work for your arm
Cons
- It can tangle your hair if you’re not careful
This electric scalp massager features four mini massage heads that rotate both clockwise and counterclockwise to create a kneading effect. It is waterproof and can be used in the shower. Plus, it’s easy to travel with and is rechargeable, so no batteries to worry about.
THE REVIEW: “This massager feels so soooo good,” writes one tester. “It really does move the scalp while massaging comfortably on the high setting… If you want or need a scalp massager you just need to hold, that does the work for you, then this is for you.”
Best Scalp Massager for Fine Hair
Vegamour GRO Revitalizing Scalp Massager
Best Scalp Massager for Fine Hair
Vegamour GRO Revitalizing Scalp Massager
Pros
- Thick bristles should help avoid any breakage
Cons
- It’s a bit bulky and more money than others on this list
This scalp massager might be bulky, but its long bristles and wide handle make it super easy to use, especially if you’re a beginner. It can be used on dry and wet scalps, with or without product, and is suitable for most hair types.
THE REVIEW: “It is perfect for my thin fine hair,” writes one reviewer. “Helps massage hair without shedding and breaking.”
Best Scalp Massager for Headaches
HOFASON Handheld Head
Best Scalp Massager for Headaches
HOFASON Handheld Head
Now 30% Off
Pros
- Can fit easily inside your purse for on-the-go use
Cons
- It will tangle your hair if used aggressively
If you’re looking for an easy, simple scalp massager to use sans products, this one is a great option. With 12 fingers, this tool can hit multiple areas of the scalp at once. Plus, the handle can be used to stimulate acupuncture points.
THE REVIEW: “It’s awesome,” writes one reviewer. “Basically triggers all the little nerve endings on your scalp that never get stimulated and gives you goosebumps in the most delightful way.”
Best Electric Scalp Massager
Queenwill Electric Scalp Scrubber
Best Electric Scalp Massager
Queenwill Electric Scalp Scrubber
Now 35% Off
Pros
- Two vibration settings to suit your needs
Cons
- Some reviewers noted that the handle vibrates—not the bristles
This battery powered electric massager has two vibration modes—regular and pulse—and can be used without vibration as well. The bristles are sturdy but relatively flexible and thinner than some other massagers on this list, and it’s waterproof.
THE REVIEW: “The brush is silicone, so it is soft on your scalp and hasn’t irritated my sensitive scalp, plus the vibrations feel amazing,” one reviewer writes.
Best Scalp Massager for Itchy Scalps
TANGLE TEEZER Scalp Exfoliator & Massager
Best Scalp Massager for Itchy Scalps
TANGLE TEEZER Scalp Exfoliator & Massager
Pros
- Firm, thin bristles allow you to target specific areas of the scalp
Cons
- Many reviewers say it wasn’t suitable for curly hair
This scalp massager sets itself apart from the rest with its very thin and hard bristles that should be able to reach that itch you can’t seem to scratch. Plus, it’s flat design also means you can use it while keeping your fingers extended, so if you cramp easily or your joints are stiff after a long day at the office, this could definitely be worth trying.
THE REVIEW: “I’ve had an itchy scalp for years,” one reviewer writes. “I’m telling you—the very first use—all the itching was gone!”
Best Luxury Scalp Massager
ACT+ ACRE Scalp Gua Sha
Best Luxury Scalp Massager
ACT+ ACRE Scalp Gua Sha
Pros
- Comb will help detangle your hair
Cons
- Not for shampooing
This scalp gua sha has wide teeth to target the scalp and comb easily through hair, as long as it’s not tangled first. And you’ll feel extra luxe breaking this comb out of its felt pouch when you feel like a massage.
THE REVIEW: “When I comb or brush my hair, usually so much hair falls out as my hair is very light and thin,” one tester writes. “This comb doesn’t pull any hair loose.”
Best Scalp Massager for Getting Rid of Product Buildup
Cosmopolitan Ergonomic Wet/Dry Scalp Massager
Best Scalp Massager for Getting Rid of Product Buildup
Cosmopolitan Ergonomic Wet/Dry Scalp Massager
Pros
- Ergonomic handle is comfortable to hold
Cons
- Some reviewers cautioned that hair can get tangled if used aggressively
OK, we may be a little biased, but hear us out: the ergonomic design on our Cosmo scalp massager is designed to fit comfortably and securely in the palm of your hand while silicone bristles help remove buildup and exfoliate your scalp.
THE REVIEW: “This little scrubber makes shampooing so much better, in that it gets to your scalp so much better than your fingers,” one tester writes. “The added benefits of getting the oil buildup out with a rich lather and a nice massage to boot are also big positives.”
Best Scalp Massager for Sensitive Scalps
Briogeo Scalp Revival™ Stimulating Therapy Massager
Best Scalp Massager for Sensitive Scalps
Briogeo Scalp Revival™ Stimulating Therapy Massager
Pros
- Super flexible bristles are gentle on the scalp
Cons
- Design lets water in, so you have to wash it regularly to avoid mold
Briogeo’s scalp massager features thick, flexible bristles that won’t poke your sensitive head. Meant to be used both wet and dry, this little scrubber is a hit with reviewers who prefer a lighter touch.
THE REVIEW: “Even when I have the worst eczema flare ups, using this scalp massager really helps clean the area without irritating it,” notes one reviewer. “Absolutely love this product!”
Best Scalp Massager with a Long Handle
Conair Scalp Massager and Detangling Brush
Best Scalp Massager with a Long Handle
Conair Scalp Massager and Detangling Brush
Pros
- Brush-like handle is easy to grip
Cons
- It’s only recommended for in-shower use
Learning how to use a new hair tool can be difficult (see: why I never use a hair curler). Skip the learning curve with this duo scalp massager and detangling brush, which features a longer handle than other scalp massagers. If you know how to brush your hair, then you know how to grip this tool.
THE REVIEW: “I find that using this brush diminishes the amount of hair loss in the shower, and it feels great on my scalp,” writes one reviewer.
Why should you use a scalp massager?
Why should you use a scalp massager?
No one has to use a scalp massager, but if you use a lot of product in your hair or suffer from a dry, itchy scalp, it could be worth trying. “Probably the biggest benefit to a scalp massager is to exfoliate the scalp and remove buildup of product or even flakes that contribute to dandruff,” Dr. Fahs says.
What are the disadvantages of scalp massagers?
What are the disadvantages of scalp massagers?
Scalp massagers can be great, but, when used incorrectly or on the wrong hair type, they can also cause knots and irritate scalps. Dr. Green recommends people with eczema, psoriasis, acne, and dermatitis beware of irritating their skin with a scalp massager. She warns that while a scalp massager “may provide temporary relief,” it can also “worsen the irritation and cause inflammation, leading to more redness and swelling.”
How do you use a scalp massager without tangling hair?
How do you use a scalp massager without tangling hair?
Before using your massager, always read the directions and note the intended usage of the product. Once you’ve done that, there are a few things you should keep in mind, especially if you want to avoid any damage.
As for avoiding tangles and breakage, Dr. Fahs advises that you “massage in small, circular motions while holding the lower half of your hair down to prevent tangling.” She adds, “Once you’re done in one section, lift the massager up and apply back down to another area instead of sliding it all across your scalp.” The dermatologist also advises you to use only light pressure to avoid any unwanted damage. “Being heavy handed can irritate your skin and contribute to breakage,” she cautions.
What products can you use with a scalp massager?
What products can you use with a scalp massager?
Most scalp massagers can be used with or without product, and can be used wet or dry. Dr. Green suggests using the tool while washing your hair. “The lather from the shampoo combined with the bristles of the scalp massager ensures a deep cleanse of dirt, debris, dead skin cells, and product buildup on the scalp,” she says. You can also use a massager with various scalp treatments, growth serums, or oils.
How to choose the best scalp massager for you
How to choose the best scalp massager for you
Before purchasing your scalp massager, ask yourself these questions to determine the best design and material for you.
Determine whether you’ll use your scalp massager in the shower.
Most scalp massagers on this list can be used in the shower alongside your haircare routine or on a dry scalp to get the blood flowing and relieve tension. If you plan on using your scalp massager in the shower, make sure you find a waterproof one with a good grip that’s easy to clean in order to prevent mold.
Figure out your bristle preference.
Dr. Green suggests soft, silicone bristles for a gentle massage but says that those who want to target product buildup might look for firmer plastic bristles.
Meet the experts
Meet the experts
- Michele Green, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist who works in New York City. She frequently sees patients with hair thinning and hair loss, and is a proponent of Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP Treatment) to treat hair loss.
- Fatima Fahs, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Dermy Doc Box, a dermatologist-curated skincare subscription box. You can frequently catch her investigating skincare ingredients on Instagram.
Editor
Olivia Truffaut-Wong is an entertainment and culture writer and editor who will never turn down a romance or superhero movie. Her work has been featured in The Cut, Refinery29, Teen Vogue, Polygon, Bustle, and more.
Watch Next
Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
Advertisement – Continue Reading Below