The role of scalp therapy in promoting psychological well-being and health promotion: A narrative review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.53468/mifyr.2026.6.2.16Keywords:
Scalp Therapy, Psychological Well-being, Stress Management, Wellness, Quality of Life, Integrative Health MedicineAbstract
This narrative review explored the psychophysiological mechanisms of scalp therapy and its potential role in promoting psychological well-being within integrative health medicine. The scalp is rich in blood vessels, sensory nerves, and hair follicles, making it highly responsive to external stimulation and closely linked to autonomic and emotional regulation. The literature suggests that scalp therapy may support autonomic nervous system balance, regulate stress responses through the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, and improve blood circulation. Tactile, olfactory, and thermal stimulation may promote relaxation, emotional stability, and stress reduction through interactions with the limbic system. As a non-invasive and accessible intervention, scalp therapy may benefit individuals experiencing chronic stress and contribute to wellness and preventive health programs, particularly when combined with complementary approaches such as aromatherapy and meditation. Further studies using standardized protocols and objective measures are needed to confirm its effectiveness and broader applicability.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Jihye Park , Mihee Choi
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