Acupressure Points for Hair Growth: Benefits And How To Do It

Acupressure is the method of applying pressure on certain points of the body to achieve particular benefits. But can you use these acupressure points for hair growth? Science tells us that a good scalp massage can promote blood flow and stimulate hair growth (1). However, does this work for acupressure as well? Keep reading to know if acupressure can improve hair growth.

Acupressure is a technique present in traditional Chinese medicine (like acupuncture without pointy needles). It uses the flow of energy to resolve various issues. It is based on the principle that there exist certain acupoints (pressure points) on the body’s meridian (2). Energy, known as qi or chi, passes through these meridiansⁱ  Energy pathways in the body that allow the energy (qi) to flow through the body. connecting certain organs to each other.

Trivia

The legend is that 5,000 years ago, the Chinese discovered that putting weight on specific areas of the body relieved pain and started pressure point massages from then on.

How Does Acupressure Promote Hair Growth?

1. A 2016 study showed that massaging the scalp can improve hair thickness (1). Massaging boosts blood circulation and stimulates the hair follicles. Acupressure is a reflexologyⁱ  Massages focusing on the reflex points in the hands, feet, back, and head to treat illnesses and release tension massage therapy and may have similar benefits.
2. The pressure points at the fingernail beds can be pressed to stimulate hair growth and improve scalp health (3). The nerve endings under the fingernails are connected to the hair roots.
3. Acupuncture may promote hair growth (4), (5), (6). It uses acupressure paired with needles to relieve blood flow and reduce hair loss (7). It is said to relieve stress that may otherwise cause different types of alopeciaⁱ  A medical condition characterized by loss of scalp or body hair that leads to partial or full baldness . Anecdotal evidence suggests that even the practice of acupressure without needles may stimulate hair growth.
4. There are two points on the middle finger of the left hand known as the acupressure points for hair fall that may slow down hair graying and loss. Acupressure on the top of the palm (between the middle and ring finger) may reduce excess sebum production and inflammation.

Acupressure is specific to a few points on the body that control energy flow. Listed below are the best pressure points for stimulating hair growth.

Key Takeaways

• Massaging the acupressure points at the fingernail beds can stimulate hair growth and scalp health.
• The acupressure points on your scalp can be stimulated as an alternative medicine form to improve hair thickness.
• Some people feel lightheaded or sore after an acupressure session if this is the case, less is more. There should be pressure when receiving acupressure, but not pain. The body responds just as much if not more to a little pressure as heavy pressure.

Infographic: Steps To Perform An Acupressure Massage

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Best Acupressure Points For Hair Growth

There are said to be ten acupressure meridian points for hair growth stimulation. You need to apply pressure to these locations.

• LI 1: Located at the right-hand index finger, just below the left side of the nail, stimulating blood circulation to the scalp, and supporting hair growth.
• GV 12, GV 14: Located at the top and bottom of the shoulder blades, right on the spine, enhancing the immune system and vitality, benefiting hair health.
• LU 6: Located on the inside of the forearm. It is a point in the middle of the forearm, closer to the top, promoting blood flow to the scalp and helps in aiding hair follicle health.
• B 13: Located between the shoulder blades, on either side of the spine. This point strengthens immune health, indirectly supporting hair growth.
• LU 9: Located at the joint between the thumb and wrist, nourishing hair follicles by improving blood flow.
• GV 20: Located at the top of the head, precisely where the hair whorls. Also known as ‘Baihui.’ This acupressure point balances energy and enhances scalp blood flow, promoting hair growth.
• LU 7: Located on the wrist’s radial side between the tendons. This is usually referred to as ‘Lieque’ or the lung acupuncture point. This point stimulates overall energy.
• GB 20: Located at the base of the skull, in the hollows between the neck muscles. It is also known as ‘Fengchi.’ It relieves tension and encourages hair growth.
• EX-HN5: Located at the temples, at the midpoint between the outer canthus of the eye and the hairline. It is also called ‘Taiyang.’ This pressure point enhances blood flow to relieve stress, aiding in hair growth.

Acupressure provides benefits for not only hair growth but also a host of other health issues. It can treat respiratory issues and migraines and help promote relaxation and stress relief (8), (9), (10), (11). So, do you want to try doing an acupressure reflexology massage at home? Scroll down to learn how.

How To Perform An Acupressure Massage A Step-By-Step Tutorial

1. At The Fingernails

• Place your hands together in the front with the fingernails of each hand touching each other.
• Your elbows should be approximately 90 degrees.
• Your thumbs should be straight out, resting on your index fingers.
• Rub your fingernails up and down in quick and short movements.
• Repeat this exercise for 15 minutes regularly three times a day, for three months.

2. At The Scalp

• Twirl your hair strands with your fingers, pulling gently at the roots to stimulate the scalp nerves.
• Use both your hands to mark a distance of 6 to 8 fingers above your eyebrows.
• Massage the area in small circular motions and slowly move to the rest of the scalp.
• Make sure you apply some pressure on the scalp without being too hard.
• Massage the occipital ridgeⁱ  The little region on the rear side of your head where the skull connects with the spine located at the hairline above the neck. This acupressure point is said to reduce stress instantly. Apply pressure to the area for a few minutes and release to achieve deep relaxation. It is also said to improve blood flow.
• Draw a finger from the occipital ridge to the middle of the scalp. Apply mild pressure as you move back and forth. Then massage the scalp along the front and back hairlines. FInish with a general scalp massage for hair growth.

Quick Tip

Acupressure would never hurt. Therefore, if you feel pain while doing it, you must immediately stop it as it may be due to the wrong method.

Is Acupressure Safe?

Acupressure is generally considered safe though it has a few side effects. Some people may feel lightheaded or sore after an acupressure session. Individuals with arthritisⁱ  Joint pain and stiffness that occurs because of swelling and tenderness of one or more joints. , those recovering from cancer, and pregnant women must consult a doctor before trying acupressure. As acupressure focuses on specific pressure points that connect the nerves, getting it done by a professional is recommended.

Apart from acupressure massage, there are multiple other effective natural remedies too for boosting hair growth and enhancing hair texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can acupressure cure baldness?

While acupressure may not cure baldness, regular practice can help stimulate the hair follicles resulting in hair growth, and preventing and delaying baldness.

Can you get nerve damage from acupuncture?

Since acupressure deals with pressure points and nerve endings, it is essential to do it under the supervision of a trained professional to avoid any possible damage.

What are Marma points for hair growth?

According to Ayurveda, our bodies have 108 important pressure points known as the “Marmas,” 31 of which are located in the head area. They are the pressure points where the cranial nerves, arteries, and veins meet. These Marma points help to drain, cool, and release pressure in the area around the head. Massaging these pressure points can improve blood circulation and promote healthy, stronger hair growth.

Are Marma points the same as acupressure points?

Marma points and acupressure points are similar, in that they are both points on the body that are believed to have a significant impact on overall health and wellbeing. However, they have different origins, and there are differences in the number and location of points.

What other natural remedies can be used in combination with acupressure to promote hair growth?

There are several natural remedies along with acupressure to promote hair growth such as essential oils—lavender, rosemary, peppermint, and cedarwood, aloe vera gel, onion juice, and more.

Can acupressure be used to treat hair loss caused by medical conditions?

Acupressure may be a useful supplemental therapy for addressing hair loss caused by medical conditions. It is crucial to remember, however, that acupressure should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment. Acupressure may be contraindicated in some circumstances, so contact a healthcare practitioner before using it to address hair loss caused by medical conditions.

How long does it typically take to see results from acupressure for hair growth?

Visible results from acupressure for hair growth can vary depending on various factors, such as the underlying cause of the hair loss, the frequency and consistency of acupressure treatments, and individual differences in response. In general, it may take several weeks or even months of consistent acupressure treatments to see significant results.

Illustration: Acupressure Points for Hair Growth: Benefits And How To Do It

Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team

If you are struggling with hair issues like hair loss and premature graying, acupressure may help. Check out the video below for the best acupressure points that may keep all some hair concerns at bay and improve your hair health!

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Madison DufourBarber & Cosmetologist

     

Madison Dufour is a licensed and practicing barber and cosmetologist with 10 years of experience, as well as an entrepreneur running several hair businesses, including MadisonD Barbering and The Exquisite Find Hair Blog. After working behind the chair for several years, she felt the calling to start the non-profit Barber in a Bag that teaches basic hair cutting skills in street and slum communities in South America.

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Anjali is an associate editor at StyleCraze. She specializes in hairstyles and hair and skin care and has written over 200 articles in these domains. She has 7 years of experience, and her philosophy about hair and skin care is simple: if you love and care for it, it will be healthy.

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