What You Actually Need to Start Offering Headspa Services

March 12, 2023

If you’ve been watching the rise of scalp care, “detox shampoos,” and early headspa-inspired videos floating around Instagram and TikTok, you’ve probably wondered:

“What do I actually need to start offering headspa services?”

The truth is:
You don’t need a fancy spa chair, a waterfall unit, or thousands of dollars in equipment to begin experimenting with scalp rituals.

In 2023, the headspa trend in the U.S. is still new. Most stylists are doing simple versions at the shampoo bowl — and clients absolutely love it.

Here’s a simple, no-pressure guide to what you need (and what you really don’t need) to get started.

Industry Insight 

As scalp-focused products grow in popularity, the demand for deeper cleansing, relaxation, and wellness-style experiences at the bowl is slowly increasing in U.S. salons. Major beauty publications are reporting a rise in “scalpification” and hair wellness trends, signaling that scalp care is becoming a more mainstream priority for clients .

While the full Japanese headspa experience requires specialized equipment, the U.S. market in 2023 is still in its early stages. Most stylists begin with simple scalp rituals that fit into their existing shampoo area before upgrading their setup over time.

Slow Care Vertical™ Perspective (early-phase)

In 2023, the idea of “slow services” is just starting to take shape, but one thing is already clear:

Headspa-style services require time, space, and a calm workflow.

When you’re just beginning:

• your movements will be slower

• cleanup and reset might take longer

• you’ll still be learning how to sequence steps

• you might need extra space around the bowl

This is normal.
A simple setup helps you stay organized as you learn.

Scalp & Nervous System Basics (beginner-friendly)

At its core, a headspa-style service usually includes:

• gentle exfoliation

• deeper cleansing

• a nourishing mask or treatment

• slow, rhythmic scalp massage

These steps help:

• break down buildup

• support a cleaner, healthier scalp environment

• increase circulation

• calm tension

You don’t need advanced tools to deliver these benefits — just consistency, warm water, and intentional touch.

What You Actually Need to Start (The Simple List)

Here’s the beginner-friendly setup that fits almost any salon or suite:

1. A Basic Shampoo Bowl & Comfortable Chair

Your existing bowl setup is enough.
Just make sure the client’s neck is supported.

2. A Scalp Scrub or Gentle Exfoliant

Preferably:

• not harsh

• not gritty

• easy to emulsify

No need for specialized products yet.

3. A Clarifying Shampoo

Something you already trust works fine.

4. A Hydrating Mask or Treatment

Clients expect softness and comfort afterward.

5. A Scalp Massage Brush (Optional)

Silicone brushes work great.
No need for gadgets yet.

6. Towels — preferably warm

Warmth reinforces relaxation.

7. A Calm, Clean Setup

Even without a spa unit, small touches help:

• soft lighting

• a towel under the shoulders

• no rush

8. Extra Time Between Clients

When you’re new:

• allow 10–30 minutes

• cleanup takes longer

• you’re still learning your rhythm

This keeps the experience smooth.

What You Don’t Need at the Beginning

Let’s save you money:

❌ A waterfall headspa basin
❌ A reclining spa bed
❌ A micromist steamer
❌ Expensive scalp analyzers
❌ Specialized tools or devices
❌ A whole new product line

You can add those later if you want — but stylists often start strong with the basics.

Pricing & Profit Perspective (2023)

Even simple scalp rituals can be profitable.

In salons across the country, stylists are beginning to charge $45–$85 for basic scalp services — and clients enjoy the experience enough to rebook.

Because product cost is relatively low, headspa-style appointments are already becoming high-margin add-ons or standalone wellness services.

As the trend grows (and it will), pricing will follow.

Final Thoughts

Starting headspa-inspired services doesn’t require a big investment.
With basic tools, your existing bowl setup, and a little extra time, you can begin offering relaxing, beneficial scalp rituals today.

If you want deeper education, structured rituals, and a clear beginner-friendly framework, explore Headspa 101 — a gentle foundation for stylists entering the world of scalp wellness