The 9 Best Scalp Massagers, Tested by Real People

Mar. 15, 2025

In This ArticleView AllIn This ArticleOur Top PicksReviewsAdd to CartWhat to KnowBehind the ScenesFAQWhy Trust PEOPLE?What Is PEOPLE Tested?

In This ArticleView All

In This Article

View All

Our Top Picks

Reviews

Add to Cart

What to Know

Behind the Scenes

FAQ

Why Trust PEOPLE?

What Is PEOPLE Tested?

Photo:People / Victoria Phillips

People / Victoria Phillips

One of the best parts about a trip to the hair salon is the good old-fashioned scalp massage that often accompanies a hair wash in the salon sink. And we have good news: You can have a relaxing, stimulating massage at home with the help of a scalp massager. Beyond a relaxing head scratch, scalp massagers also help promote blood circulation andstimulate hair growth, NYC-based trichologistShab Casparatells PEOPLE.Experts SayUse a scalp massager to scrub the scalp directly after applying shampoo for “a deeper, more effective clean," trichologistShab Casparasays.To find the best scalp massagers that relieve tension and help hair treatments penetrate the scalp, our PEOPLE Tested team tried 24 of the most popular scalp massaging tools on the market. We evaluated each product for comfort and feel, and assessed how good each one was at shampooing and massaging the scalp.Read on to discover the best scalp massagers PEOPLE Tested.Our Top PicksBest Overall:Leonor Greyl Massaging Scalp Brush at Amazon$28Jump to ReviewBest Stimulating:Vegamour GRO Revitalizing Scalp Massager at Amazon$18Jump to ReviewBest Multi-Use:Denman Palm Styler at Amazon$12Jump to ReviewBest Budget:Maxsoft Hair Scalp Massager at Amazon$8Jump to ReviewBest Comb:Mount Lai Jade Massaging Comb at Amazon$52Jump to ReviewBest Absorption:SALEJupiter Scalp Brush at Amazon$20$15Jump to ReviewBest for Thick Hair:SALEFlathead Products Scalp Massager at Amazon$12$8Jump to ReviewBest Lightweight:Briogeo Scalp Revival Therapy Massager at Amazon$18Jump to ReviewBest Electric:SALEComfier Cordless Hair Scalp Massager at Amazon$40$33Jump to ReviewBest Hair Growth Oil:Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Strengthening Oil at Amazon$10Jump to Review

One of the best parts about a trip to the hair salon is the good old-fashioned scalp massage that often accompanies a hair wash in the salon sink. And we have good news: You can have a relaxing, stimulating massage at home with the help of a scalp massager. Beyond a relaxing head scratch, scalp massagers also help promote blood circulation andstimulate hair growth, NYC-based trichologistShab Casparatells PEOPLE.

Experts SayUse a scalp massager to scrub the scalp directly after applying shampoo for “a deeper, more effective clean," trichologistShab Casparasays.

Experts Say

Use a scalp massager to scrub the scalp directly after applying shampoo for “a deeper, more effective clean," trichologistShab Casparasays.

To find the best scalp massagers that relieve tension and help hair treatments penetrate the scalp, our PEOPLE Tested team tried 24 of the most popular scalp massaging tools on the market. We evaluated each product for comfort and feel, and assessed how good each one was at shampooing and massaging the scalp.

Read on to discover the best scalp massagers PEOPLE Tested.

Our Top PicksBest Overall:Leonor Greyl Massaging Scalp Brush at Amazon$28Jump to ReviewBest Stimulating:Vegamour GRO Revitalizing Scalp Massager at Amazon$18Jump to ReviewBest Multi-Use:Denman Palm Styler at Amazon$12Jump to ReviewBest Budget:Maxsoft Hair Scalp Massager at Amazon$8Jump to ReviewBest Comb:Mount Lai Jade Massaging Comb at Amazon$52Jump to ReviewBest Absorption:SALEJupiter Scalp Brush at Amazon$20$15Jump to ReviewBest for Thick Hair:SALEFlathead Products Scalp Massager at Amazon$12$8Jump to ReviewBest Lightweight:Briogeo Scalp Revival Therapy Massager at Amazon$18Jump to ReviewBest Electric:SALEComfier Cordless Hair Scalp Massager at Amazon$40$33Jump to ReviewBest Hair Growth Oil:Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Strengthening Oil at Amazon$10Jump to Review

Best Overall:Leonor Greyl Massaging Scalp Brush at Amazon$28Jump to ReviewBest Stimulating:Vegamour GRO Revitalizing Scalp Massager at Amazon$18Jump to ReviewBest Multi-Use:Denman Palm Styler at Amazon$12Jump to ReviewBest Budget:Maxsoft Hair Scalp Massager at Amazon$8Jump to ReviewBest Comb:Mount Lai Jade Massaging Comb at Amazon$52Jump to ReviewBest Absorption:SALEJupiter Scalp Brush at Amazon$20$15Jump to ReviewBest for Thick Hair:SALEFlathead Products Scalp Massager at Amazon$12$8Jump to ReviewBest Lightweight:Briogeo Scalp Revival Therapy Massager at Amazon$18Jump to ReviewBest Electric:SALEComfier Cordless Hair Scalp Massager at Amazon$40$33Jump to ReviewBest Hair Growth Oil:Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Strengthening Oil at Amazon$10Jump to Review

Best Overall:Leonor Greyl Massaging Scalp Brush at Amazon$28Jump to Review

Best Overall:Leonor Greyl Massaging Scalp Brush at Amazon$28

Best Overall:

Best Stimulating:Vegamour GRO Revitalizing Scalp Massager at Amazon$18Jump to Review

Best Stimulating:Vegamour GRO Revitalizing Scalp Massager at Amazon$18

Best Stimulating:

Best Multi-Use:Denman Palm Styler at Amazon$12Jump to Review

Best Multi-Use:Denman Palm Styler at Amazon$12

Best Multi-Use:

Best Budget:Maxsoft Hair Scalp Massager at Amazon$8Jump to Review

Best Budget:Maxsoft Hair Scalp Massager at Amazon$8

Best Budget:

Best Comb:Mount Lai Jade Massaging Comb at Amazon$52Jump to Review

Best Comb:Mount Lai Jade Massaging Comb at Amazon$52

Best Comb:

Best Absorption:SALEJupiter Scalp Brush at Amazon$20$15Jump to Review

Best Absorption:SALEJupiter Scalp Brush at Amazon$20$15

Best Absorption:

SALE

Best for Thick Hair:SALEFlathead Products Scalp Massager at Amazon$12$8Jump to Review

Best for Thick Hair:SALEFlathead Products Scalp Massager at Amazon$12$8

Best for Thick Hair:

Best Lightweight:Briogeo Scalp Revival Therapy Massager at Amazon$18Jump to Review

Best Lightweight:Briogeo Scalp Revival Therapy Massager at Amazon$18

Best Lightweight:

Best Electric:SALEComfier Cordless Hair Scalp Massager at Amazon$40$33Jump to Review

Best Electric:SALEComfier Cordless Hair Scalp Massager at Amazon$40$33

Best Electric:

Best Hair Growth Oil:Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Strengthening Oil at Amazon$10Jump to Review

Best Hair Growth Oil:Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Strengthening Oil at Amazon$10

Best Hair Growth Oil:

Best OverallLeonor Greyl Massaging Scalp BrushPHOTO: People / Allie Merriam$28 at AmazonView on Lovelyskin.comView on Leonorgreyl-usa.comStar QualitiesGentle yet effective silicone bristlesErgonomic handle made it easy to maneuverConditioning treatment penetrated our hair betterRed FlagsWe love everything about this scalp massagerLooking for a realistic substitute for a day at the spa? The Leonor Greyl Massaging Scalp Brush made us feel like we were having a luxury treatment in our bathroom.Soft yet gentle bristlesto stimulate hair follicles, a thoughtfully designed handle grip, and an adorable storage box set this massager apart from the rest.We were able to achieve a beautiful lather while applying shampoo with this brush, whichleft our scalp feeling cleanercompared to our usual application. This brush was also a game-changer when it came to massaging our conditioning treatment into our hair, and we noticed much more thorough absorption of product on the side of our scalp that we used the brush on. Plus, the brush didn’t tangle our hair at all.The entire experience of using the Leonor Greyl brush — from the pretty packaging to the relaxing massage to the swoon-worthy results — felt so luxurious that we were shocked to discover how affordable this scalp scrubber is.Materials:Silicone and plastic |Hair Types:All hair types

Best OverallLeonor Greyl Massaging Scalp BrushPHOTO: People / Allie Merriam$28 at AmazonView on Lovelyskin.comView on Leonorgreyl-usa.com

Best OverallLeonor Greyl Massaging Scalp Brush

Best Overall

Leonor Greyl Massaging Scalp Brush

PHOTO: People / Allie Merriam

$28 at AmazonView on Lovelyskin.comView on Leonorgreyl-usa.com

Star QualitiesGentle yet effective silicone bristlesErgonomic handle made it easy to maneuverConditioning treatment penetrated our hair betterRed FlagsWe love everything about this scalp massager

Star QualitiesGentle yet effective silicone bristlesErgonomic handle made it easy to maneuverConditioning treatment penetrated our hair better

Gentle yet effective silicone bristles

Ergonomic handle made it easy to maneuver

Conditioning treatment penetrated our hair better

Red FlagsWe love everything about this scalp massager

We love everything about this scalp massager

Looking for a realistic substitute for a day at the spa? The Leonor Greyl Massaging Scalp Brush made us feel like we were having a luxury treatment in our bathroom.Soft yet gentle bristlesto stimulate hair follicles, a thoughtfully designed handle grip, and an adorable storage box set this massager apart from the rest.

We were able to achieve a beautiful lather while applying shampoo with this brush, whichleft our scalp feeling cleanercompared to our usual application. This brush was also a game-changer when it came to massaging our conditioning treatment into our hair, and we noticed much more thorough absorption of product on the side of our scalp that we used the brush on. Plus, the brush didn’t tangle our hair at all.

The entire experience of using the Leonor Greyl brush — from the pretty packaging to the relaxing massage to the swoon-worthy results — felt so luxurious that we were shocked to discover how affordable this scalp scrubber is.

Materials:Silicone and plastic |Hair Types:All hair types

Best StimulatingVegamour GRO Revitalizing Scalp MassagerPHOTO: People / Ashleigh Morley$18 at Amazon$18 at Sephora$18 at Vegamour.com

Best StimulatingVegamour GRO Revitalizing Scalp Massager

Best Stimulating

Vegamour GRO Revitalizing Scalp Massager

PHOTO: People / Ashleigh Morley

$18 at Amazon$18 at Sephora$18 at Vegamour.com

Star QualitiesOver-the-hand strap and finger ridges made it comfortable to holdWorked well on both dry and wet scalpsProvided stimulating massage without tangling hairRed FlagsOne of the more expensive silicone options we tested

Star QualitiesOver-the-hand strap and finger ridges made it comfortable to holdWorked well on both dry and wet scalpsProvided stimulating massage without tangling hair

Over-the-hand strap and finger ridges made it comfortable to hold

Worked well on both dry and wet scalps

Provided stimulating massage without tangling hair

Red FlagsOne of the more expensive silicone options we tested

One of the more expensive silicone options we tested

This aesthetically pleasing little brush does more than just look pretty on your shower shelf — the Gro Revitalizing Scalp Massager provides a deep stimulation massage and has a particulartalent for foaming up shampoo, even bar shampoo. We used this brush on both dry and wet hair, both of whichfelt relaxing and painless.

Best Multi-UseDenman Palm StylerPHOTO: People / Darcy Lenz$12 at Amazon$12 at UltaStar QualitiesProvided a relaxing scalp massage along with a combing functionFirm yet flexible bristles held up to regular useBristles were easy to cleanRed FlagsStrap only fits three fingers comfortablyIf you’ve shopped forbrushes for curly hair, then you’re probably familiar with the Denman brand. The bristles on this scalp massager brush are firm yet flexible, with round ends to prevent scratching the scalp. The Denman’s bristles arefirmer than many of our other favorites, which makes itgreat for combing through the hair to detanglebut can also create some snags at the root without enough combing. The massager is very lightweight, with a stiff plastic top handle that can fit three fingers comfortably. We wish that the handle was a bit larger so that we could fit more of our fingers under the strap for better control.The product absorption test is where the Denman really shone. After just one week of using the Denman to apply hair oil to one side of our scalp, we noticed a clear difference on the side that benefited from the Denman tool. Ourhair felt more nourished and looked healthierin the area where we used the Denman massaging brush. Safe to say, we’ll continue to reach for this brush to applyhair growth oils and serums.Materials:Plastic |Hair Types:All hair types, especially thick hair

Best Multi-UseDenman Palm StylerPHOTO: People / Darcy Lenz$12 at Amazon$12 at Ulta

Best Multi-UseDenman Palm Styler

Best Multi-Use

Denman Palm Styler

PHOTO: People / Darcy Lenz

$12 at Amazon$12 at Ulta

Star QualitiesProvided a relaxing scalp massage along with a combing functionFirm yet flexible bristles held up to regular useBristles were easy to cleanRed FlagsStrap only fits three fingers comfortably

Star QualitiesProvided a relaxing scalp massage along with a combing functionFirm yet flexible bristles held up to regular useBristles were easy to clean

Provided a relaxing scalp massage along with a combing function

Firm yet flexible bristles held up to regular use

Bristles were easy to clean

Red FlagsStrap only fits three fingers comfortably

Strap only fits three fingers comfortably

If you’ve shopped forbrushes for curly hair, then you’re probably familiar with the Denman brand. The bristles on this scalp massager brush are firm yet flexible, with round ends to prevent scratching the scalp. The Denman’s bristles arefirmer than many of our other favorites, which makes itgreat for combing through the hair to detanglebut can also create some snags at the root without enough combing. The massager is very lightweight, with a stiff plastic top handle that can fit three fingers comfortably. We wish that the handle was a bit larger so that we could fit more of our fingers under the strap for better control.

The product absorption test is where the Denman really shone. After just one week of using the Denman to apply hair oil to one side of our scalp, we noticed a clear difference on the side that benefited from the Denman tool. Ourhair felt more nourished and looked healthierin the area where we used the Denman massaging brush. Safe to say, we’ll continue to reach for this brush to applyhair growth oils and serums.

Materials:Plastic |Hair Types:All hair types, especially thick hair

Best BudgetMaxsoft Hair Scalp MassagerPHOTO: People / Maria Rowella$8$7 at AmazonStar QualitiesLeft our hair smoother and tangle-freeIntuitive oblong shapeRed FlagsMight not be effective with thick or coarse hairThe Maxsoft Hair Scalp Massager feels much more luxurious than its price tag would suggest. The silicone bristles are evenly spaced and have a comfortable level of firmness to provide hair follicle stimulation without pain. We were pleasantly surprised that the slightly squishy siliconebristles didn’t snag or tangle our hair— it actually left our tresses feeling smoother and helped detangle the knots that already existed. The Maxsoft brush created a nice lather when used with shampoo, and we also found that it helped our leave-on hair mask absorb better compared to when we didn’t use the brush.The brush is well-designed with an easy-to-grip handle and an intuitive, oblong shape with a thumb divot on the side that makes it easy to control. Our only gripe with this scalp massager is that the soft bristles might not penetrate very thick or coarse hair as easily as a brush with harder, longer bristles.Materials:Silicone and plastic |Hair Types:All hair types, especially fine to medium-thick hairPeople / Maria Rowella

Best BudgetMaxsoft Hair Scalp MassagerPHOTO: People / Maria Rowella$8$7 at Amazon

Best BudgetMaxsoft Hair Scalp Massager

Best Budget

Maxsoft Hair Scalp Massager

PHOTO: People / Maria Rowella

$8$7 at Amazon

Star QualitiesLeft our hair smoother and tangle-freeIntuitive oblong shapeRed FlagsMight not be effective with thick or coarse hair

Star QualitiesLeft our hair smoother and tangle-freeIntuitive oblong shape

Left our hair smoother and tangle-free

Intuitive oblong shape

Red FlagsMight not be effective with thick or coarse hair

Might not be effective with thick or coarse hair

The Maxsoft Hair Scalp Massager feels much more luxurious than its price tag would suggest. The silicone bristles are evenly spaced and have a comfortable level of firmness to provide hair follicle stimulation without pain. We were pleasantly surprised that the slightly squishy siliconebristles didn’t snag or tangle our hair— it actually left our tresses feeling smoother and helped detangle the knots that already existed. The Maxsoft brush created a nice lather when used with shampoo, and we also found that it helped our leave-on hair mask absorb better compared to when we didn’t use the brush.

The brush is well-designed with an easy-to-grip handle and an intuitive, oblong shape with a thumb divot on the side that makes it easy to control. Our only gripe with this scalp massager is that the soft bristles might not penetrate very thick or coarse hair as easily as a brush with harder, longer bristles.

Materials:Silicone and plastic |Hair Types:All hair types, especially fine to medium-thick hair

People / Maria Rowella

Best CombMount Lai Jade Massaging CombPHOTO: People / Caitlyn Martyn$52 at AmazonView on Mountlai.com$52 at BloomingdalesStar QualitiesIntricate design looked beautiful sitting out on a vanityGlided easily through our hair without causing discomfortHelped oils absorb into our hairLeft our scalps feeling cleanRed FlagsPricey jade stone materialYou may have heard ofgua sha— the traditional Chinese practice of gliding a piece of jade over the skin, which can provide benefits such as increased blood flow and reduced puffiness and promote the appearance of a chiseled face. But you may not know that gua shas can also promote scalp health. The Mount Lai Jade Massaging Comb is ahand-carved jade gua sha designed specifically to provide gentle scalp massagethat can promote blood circulation and just generally make you feel so darn good.We worried that the firm stone bristles might be uncomfortable to drag across the scalp, but we couldn’t have been more wrong. Thecomb glided easily across the scalp without tuggingat our strands and didn’t ever cause us any discomfort, even on the bonier parts of the head. It’s great to use with your favorite detangler. Oils sank into our hair quicker and more thoroughly, and the light exfoliation left our scalp feeling surprisingly clean. The weight of the hand-carved tool in the hand feels as luxurious as the results, so we would recommend this tool as a splurge or even as an elegant gift.Materials:Jade stone |Hair Types:All hair types

Best CombMount Lai Jade Massaging CombPHOTO: People / Caitlyn Martyn$52 at AmazonView on Mountlai.com$52 at Bloomingdales

Best CombMount Lai Jade Massaging Comb

Best Comb

Mount Lai Jade Massaging Comb

PHOTO: People / Caitlyn Martyn

$52 at AmazonView on Mountlai.com$52 at Bloomingdales

Star QualitiesIntricate design looked beautiful sitting out on a vanityGlided easily through our hair without causing discomfortHelped oils absorb into our hairLeft our scalps feeling cleanRed FlagsPricey jade stone material

Star QualitiesIntricate design looked beautiful sitting out on a vanityGlided easily through our hair without causing discomfortHelped oils absorb into our hairLeft our scalps feeling clean

Intricate design looked beautiful sitting out on a vanity

Glided easily through our hair without causing discomfort

Helped oils absorb into our hair

Left our scalps feeling clean

Red FlagsPricey jade stone material

Pricey jade stone material

You may have heard ofgua sha— the traditional Chinese practice of gliding a piece of jade over the skin, which can provide benefits such as increased blood flow and reduced puffiness and promote the appearance of a chiseled face. But you may not know that gua shas can also promote scalp health. The Mount Lai Jade Massaging Comb is ahand-carved jade gua sha designed specifically to provide gentle scalp massagethat can promote blood circulation and just generally make you feel so darn good.

We worried that the firm stone bristles might be uncomfortable to drag across the scalp, but we couldn’t have been more wrong. Thecomb glided easily across the scalp without tuggingat our strands and didn’t ever cause us any discomfort, even on the bonier parts of the head. It’s great to use with your favorite detangler. Oils sank into our hair quicker and more thoroughly, and the light exfoliation left our scalp feeling surprisingly clean. The weight of the hand-carved tool in the hand feels as luxurious as the results, so we would recommend this tool as a splurge or even as an elegant gift.

Materials:Jade stone |Hair Types:All hair types

Best AbsorptionJupiter Scalp BrushPHOTO: People / Alessandra Amodio$20$15 at Amazon$21 at DermstoreView on Hellojupiter.comStar QualitiesLong, thin bristles worked well for thick hairIncludes extra chain loop to hangProvided a relaxing head-scratching sensationRed FlagsMay be too rough for sensitive scalpsMade from a tight cluster of fine, yet firm bristles, the Jupiter Scalp Brush’s unique design differs from most of the others that we tried. The long, skinny bristles caneffectively exfoliate and stimulate the scalp, and we didn’t feel any pain in the process. Even on thick hair, this brush was able to reach through to the scalp and provide a relaxing and stimulating massage.Where this brush really shined in our testing was in aiding the absorption ofhair oilinto our scalp. We thoroughly rubbed the treatment into one side of our hair with our fingers, but we found that the side that was applied with the Jupiter brush was noticeably better absorbed. The brush shape made it easy to maneuver around the head and we also love that it comes with an extra chain loop to hang the brush for storage.Because the bristles are slightly firmer and pointier than others that we tried, it might not feel comfortable on particularly sensitive scalps. However, the long and thin bristles would work well for those with thick hair.Materials:Plastic |Hair Types:All hair types, especially thick hairPeople / Alessandra Amodio

Best AbsorptionJupiter Scalp BrushPHOTO: People / Alessandra Amodio$20$15 at Amazon$21 at DermstoreView on Hellojupiter.com

Best AbsorptionJupiter Scalp Brush

Best Absorption

Jupiter Scalp Brush

PHOTO: People / Alessandra Amodio

$20$15 at Amazon$21 at DermstoreView on Hellojupiter.com

Star QualitiesLong, thin bristles worked well for thick hairIncludes extra chain loop to hangProvided a relaxing head-scratching sensationRed FlagsMay be too rough for sensitive scalps

Star QualitiesLong, thin bristles worked well for thick hairIncludes extra chain loop to hangProvided a relaxing head-scratching sensation

Long, thin bristles worked well for thick hair

Includes extra chain loop to hang

Provided a relaxing head-scratching sensation

Red FlagsMay be too rough for sensitive scalps

May be too rough for sensitive scalps

Made from a tight cluster of fine, yet firm bristles, the Jupiter Scalp Brush’s unique design differs from most of the others that we tried. The long, skinny bristles caneffectively exfoliate and stimulate the scalp, and we didn’t feel any pain in the process. Even on thick hair, this brush was able to reach through to the scalp and provide a relaxing and stimulating massage.

Where this brush really shined in our testing was in aiding the absorption ofhair oilinto our scalp. We thoroughly rubbed the treatment into one side of our hair with our fingers, but we found that the side that was applied with the Jupiter brush was noticeably better absorbed. The brush shape made it easy to maneuver around the head and we also love that it comes with an extra chain loop to hang the brush for storage.

Because the bristles are slightly firmer and pointier than others that we tried, it might not feel comfortable on particularly sensitive scalps. However, the long and thin bristles would work well for those with thick hair.

People / Alessandra Amodio

Best for Thick HairFlathead Products Scalp MassagerPHOTO: People / Julia Warren$12$8 at Amazon$40 at TargetStar QualitiesIncludes two heads, one with long bristles and one with shortGentle enough for sensitive scalpsRed FlagsNot everyone may want two brush headsWhy settle for one scalp massaging head when you could havetwo? That’s the question that the Flathead Hair Scalp massager begs us to ask. The long, pointed bristle head is perfect for digging deep through thick hair to reach the scalp. Because the bristles are made from squishy silicone, thebrush feels gentle enough for sensitive scalps. The massagerhelped us get a fluffy lather with our shampoo, even on thick hair that usually has trouble getting suds to develop.The shorter bristled brush is great for those with fine or thinning hair and provides an ultra-gentle and relaxing massage. Changing out the brush heads is simple: Just twist the head to remove it and twist the new one on. Those with thick hair might find that the short-bristled head isn’t able to reach the scalp, but the price of both heads together is so reasonable that we think it’s worth a purchase even just for the long-bristled head alone.Materials:Plastic, silicone |Hair Types:All hair types, especially thick hair

Best for Thick HairFlathead Products Scalp MassagerPHOTO: People / Julia Warren$12$8 at Amazon$40 at Target

Best for Thick HairFlathead Products Scalp Massager

Best for Thick Hair

Flathead Products Scalp Massager

PHOTO: People / Julia Warren

$12$8 at Amazon$40 at Target

Star QualitiesIncludes two heads, one with long bristles and one with shortGentle enough for sensitive scalpsRed FlagsNot everyone may want two brush heads

Star QualitiesIncludes two heads, one with long bristles and one with shortGentle enough for sensitive scalps

Includes two heads, one with long bristles and one with short

Gentle enough for sensitive scalps

Red FlagsNot everyone may want two brush heads

Not everyone may want two brush heads

Why settle for one scalp massaging head when you could havetwo? That’s the question that the Flathead Hair Scalp massager begs us to ask. The long, pointed bristle head is perfect for digging deep through thick hair to reach the scalp. Because the bristles are made from squishy silicone, thebrush feels gentle enough for sensitive scalps. The massagerhelped us get a fluffy lather with our shampoo, even on thick hair that usually has trouble getting suds to develop.

The shorter bristled brush is great for those with fine or thinning hair and provides an ultra-gentle and relaxing massage. Changing out the brush heads is simple: Just twist the head to remove it and twist the new one on. Those with thick hair might find that the short-bristled head isn’t able to reach the scalp, but the price of both heads together is so reasonable that we think it’s worth a purchase even just for the long-bristled head alone.

Materials:Plastic, silicone |Hair Types:All hair types, especially thick hair

Best LightweightBriogeo Scalp Revival Therapy MassagerPHOTO: Amazon$18 at Amazon$18 at Nordstrom$18 at NordstromStar QualitiesBristles pop off for convenient cleaningLong bristles work well with thick hairHelped evenly distribute hair treatments, oils, and shampooRed FlagsWe didn’t notice improved hair oil absorptionOn wet hair or dry hair, the Briogeo Scalp Revival Therapy Massager impressed us. The long, thick bristles are neither too soft nor too hard and provide arelaxing and stimulating massage without tangling the hair. The handle is a comfortable size to grasp, and we found this scrubber to be exceptionally easy to maneuver because it’s very lightweight and didn’t tire out our arms in the scrubbing process.Because the silicone bristles are longer than many of the other massagers we tested, the Briogeo massager isespecially well-suited for thick or coarse hair. In our tests, this brush helped us toeffectively remove dry shampoo buildupfrom the scalp and create a beautiful soapy lather with shampoo. And, when you’re ready to clean the brush, the bristles pop off to make wiping down the brush and removing any buildup super easy. In terms of aesthetics, we do wish the brand offered more color options so we can match them to our bathroom decor.Materials:Plastic, silicone |Hair Types:All hair types, especially thick hair

Best LightweightBriogeo Scalp Revival Therapy MassagerPHOTO: Amazon$18 at Amazon$18 at Nordstrom$18 at Nordstrom

Best LightweightBriogeo Scalp Revival Therapy Massager

Best Lightweight

Briogeo Scalp Revival Therapy Massager

PHOTO: Amazon

$18 at Amazon$18 at Nordstrom$18 at Nordstrom

Star QualitiesBristles pop off for convenient cleaningLong bristles work well with thick hairHelped evenly distribute hair treatments, oils, and shampooRed FlagsWe didn’t notice improved hair oil absorption

Star QualitiesBristles pop off for convenient cleaningLong bristles work well with thick hairHelped evenly distribute hair treatments, oils, and shampoo

Bristles pop off for convenient cleaning

Long bristles work well with thick hair

Helped evenly distribute hair treatments, oils, and shampoo

Red FlagsWe didn’t notice improved hair oil absorption

We didn’t notice improved hair oil absorption

On wet hair or dry hair, the Briogeo Scalp Revival Therapy Massager impressed us. The long, thick bristles are neither too soft nor too hard and provide arelaxing and stimulating massage without tangling the hair. The handle is a comfortable size to grasp, and we found this scrubber to be exceptionally easy to maneuver because it’s very lightweight and didn’t tire out our arms in the scrubbing process.

Because the silicone bristles are longer than many of the other massagers we tested, the Briogeo massager isespecially well-suited for thick or coarse hair. In our tests, this brush helped us toeffectively remove dry shampoo buildupfrom the scalp and create a beautiful soapy lather with shampoo. And, when you’re ready to clean the brush, the bristles pop off to make wiping down the brush and removing any buildup super easy. In terms of aesthetics, we do wish the brand offered more color options so we can match them to our bathroom decor.

Best ElectricComfier Cordless Hair Scalp MassagerPHOTO: Amazon$40$33 at Amazon$40 at WalmartView on Comfier.comStar QualitiesProvided a relaxing massage with the press of a buttonSafe to use in the showerDidn’t pull at or tangle wet or dry hairCan also be used on other parts of the bodyRed FlagsNeeds to be recharged between usesGetting a relaxing scalp massage just got easier. The Comfier Cordless massager is a handheld electric scalp massager with four silicone-bristled massaging arms that rotate both clockwise and counterclockwise with the press of a button. The tips of the bristles felt soft against our scalp, but the weight of the device was sturdy enough to provide a relaxing massage without the need to press down hard.The Comfier massager is also waterproof, which means that you can safely use it on wet hair — which we did. The massagerevenly applied oil to the scalpandhelped to massage shampoo into the scalp without pulling or tangling our hair. While this is one of the most expensive scalp massagers we tested, the rechargeable, multi-setting device offers much more than a standard scalp massager. If you’re looking for a basic device, then any of our other top picks will do the job. But if you want a little extra relaxation without the extra work, then this electric massager is worth the cost.Materials:Plastic, silicone, rechargeable lithium-ion battery |Hair Types:All hair types

Best ElectricComfier Cordless Hair Scalp MassagerPHOTO: Amazon$40$33 at Amazon$40 at WalmartView on Comfier.com

Best ElectricComfier Cordless Hair Scalp Massager

Best Electric

Comfier Cordless Hair Scalp Massager

$40$33 at Amazon$40 at WalmartView on Comfier.com

Star QualitiesProvided a relaxing massage with the press of a buttonSafe to use in the showerDidn’t pull at or tangle wet or dry hairCan also be used on other parts of the bodyRed FlagsNeeds to be recharged between uses

Star QualitiesProvided a relaxing massage with the press of a buttonSafe to use in the showerDidn’t pull at or tangle wet or dry hairCan also be used on other parts of the body

Provided a relaxing massage with the press of a button

Safe to use in the shower

Didn’t pull at or tangle wet or dry hair

Can also be used on other parts of the body

Red FlagsNeeds to be recharged between uses

Needs to be recharged between uses

Getting a relaxing scalp massage just got easier. The Comfier Cordless massager is a handheld electric scalp massager with four silicone-bristled massaging arms that rotate both clockwise and counterclockwise with the press of a button. The tips of the bristles felt soft against our scalp, but the weight of the device was sturdy enough to provide a relaxing massage without the need to press down hard.

The Comfier massager is also waterproof, which means that you can safely use it on wet hair — which we did. The massagerevenly applied oil to the scalpandhelped to massage shampoo into the scalp without pulling or tangling our hair. While this is one of the most expensive scalp massagers we tested, the rechargeable, multi-setting device offers much more than a standard scalp massager. If you’re looking for a basic device, then any of our other top picks will do the job. But if you want a little extra relaxation without the extra work, then this electric massager is worth the cost.

Materials:Plastic, silicone, rechargeable lithium-ion battery |Hair Types:All hair types

While you’re picking out your next scalp massager, consider these other PEOPLE-Tested hair care must-haves. Our team of editors and independent testers put each product to the test and selected only the best of the best to showcase.

Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Strengthening Oil$10 at Amazon$10 at Target$10 at WalmartVegamour Gro Hair Serum$64 at Amazon$64 at Sephora$49 at Vegamour.comVegamour GRO+ Advanced Replenishing Shampoo$47 at Vegamour.comRedken Extreme Length Conditioner$54 at Amazon$27 at Ulta$27 at Jcpenney.com

Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Strengthening Oil$10 at Amazon$10 at Target$10 at Walmart

Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Strengthening Oil

$10 at Amazon$10 at Target$10 at Walmart

Vegamour Gro Hair Serum$64 at Amazon$64 at Sephora$49 at Vegamour.com

Vegamour Gro Hair Serum

$64 at Amazon$64 at Sephora$49 at Vegamour.com

Vegamour GRO+ Advanced Replenishing Shampoo$47 at Vegamour.com

Vegamour GRO+ Advanced Replenishing Shampoo

$47 at Vegamour.com

Redken Extreme Length Conditioner$54 at Amazon$27 at Ulta$27 at Jcpenney.com

Redken Extreme Length Conditioner

$54 at Amazon$27 at Ulta$27 at Jcpenney.com

What to Know About Scalp Massagers

Material

Scalp massagers are not one-size-fits-all — they come in a variety of materials that work best for different scalp types and concerns. If you have a more sensitive scalp, then softer bristles made from silicone, like those used in theLeonor Greyl Massaging Scalp Brush, tend to be gentler and have less potential for irritation. If you’re looking for something that will provide a nice scratching sensation, then thin plastic bristles will give you more of what you’re looking for.

Bristle Length

Another important factor in choosing the right scalp brush for you is considering your hair density, which can determine how well a scalp massager makes contact with your hair. If you have thick, fine, dense, or coarse hair, then a brush with longer bristles is more likely to reach your scalp to provide adequate stimulation and exfoliation. If you have shorter or finer hair, then a brush with shorter bristles should get the job done.

Price

Scalp massagers are available across most price points, with the more expensive options costing around $50. The priciest option we tested, theMount Lai Jade Massaging Gua Sha Comb, is made from real jade stone, which contributes to its higher cost. However, there are more budget-friendly options that still deliver great results, including theMaxsoft Hair Scalp Massager Shampoo Brushthat you can snag for just $10.

To find the best scalp massagers, we tested 24 of the best-selling scalp massaging tools on the market — first in the PEOPLE Tested lab, and then at home so we could integrate them into our daily routines. We evaluated them for these qualities.

We continued using each scalp massager at least twice a week for four weeks. At the end of our testing period, we rated each scalp massager on a scale of 1 to 5 for the feel of the bristles, ease of use, serum penetration, and effectiveness. We came away with nine of the best scalp massagers to provide a relaxing and invigorating massage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Cai Crameris a writer at PEOPLE, covering the best and buzziest products across the beauty, fashion, health, and lifestyle spaces. To inform this story, Cai used real-world insights from the PEOPLE Tested labs and spoke with Shab Caspara, NYC trichologist and founder of hair care platform Leona, who provided insight into the benefits of scalp massaging and how to most effectively use a scalp massager.

Our Expert PanelShab Casparais a New York-based trichologist and founder of the hair care platform Leona, which matches users with custom hair care routines.

Our Expert Panel

Shab Casparais a New York-based trichologist and founder of the hair care platform Leona, which matches users with custom hair care routines.

We created thePEOPLE Tested seal of approvalto help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.

In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust - every day, every purchase.

source: people.com