Did you know that getting a regular foot massage that focuses on the pressure points on the feet offers a host of health benefits, including healthy hair? It stimulates the blood vessels to ensure sufficient nutrients reach the hair follicle to support hair regrowth. Excessive loss of hair can be caused by one or more of several factors, including nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalance and a certain type of hair loss condition. This guide explains the mechanism and effects of foot reflexology on hair regrowth.
What is Reflexology?
Reflexology is a form of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) whose principles are based on the reflexive action of organs, tissues, glands and other body parts. The practice sees the body as divided into ten different zones represented across the ears, feet and hands. These zones contain specific acupressure points that correlate to different parts of the body. When these points are stimulated by pressure, that may increase blood circulation, nutrient absorption, nerve impulses and energy in that particular zone. As a result, any tension or stress upon the area is relieved, allowing for a natural healing process to take place within the body.
Reflexology is an effective tool for reducing chronic pain, increasing blood flow to the body's cells, tissues and organs, eliminating waste and toxins, alleviating headaches and improving nerve function. Doing all of these will help restore homeostasis in the body and keep all kinds of health conditions at bay.
One of the ultimate health benefits of reflexology is the improvement in blood circulation. Cold feet and hands, as well as dry hair that breaks and falls out easily, are all signs of a poor circulation system. Regular foot massage, or foot reflexology if you want to be technically correct, is considered an effective hair loss treatment. It supports the creation of hair follicle cells from which healthy hair grows.
What is Hair Loss and its Causes?
Shedding 50 to a hundred strands of hair a day is part of the normal hair growth cycle. However, losing more hair than you should could be an indication of alopecia, the medical term for hair loss. When hair loss is permanent, it is usually caused by genetic factors, though certain autoimmune conditions, like alopecia areata, can also lead to irreversible hair loss. On the other hand, temporary hair loss may be the result of illness, diet deficiencies, stress, hormonal imbalance, fatigue or traction alopecia, all of whose symptoms may be alleviated with reflexology.
How Does Reflexology Prevent Hair Loss (Studies / Evidence)?
The effects of reflexology on hair regrowth, particularly in women with chemotherapy-induced alopecia, are well documented. The results of a 2020 study (Ghavami et al.) showed that cancer patients who developed alopecia as a side effect of cancer drugs showed better hair regrowth after receiving reflexology massage for three consecutive months.
A reflexologist will aim to restore equilibrium in the body and consequently encourage a natural healing process to take place on the scalp, stimulating hair growth.
Reflexologists also work to stimulate certain acupressure points on the ears, feet and hands to reconcile energetic imbalances that may be causing hair loss or preventing hair growth.
How Can Reflexology Lower Stress Levels Responsible for Hair Loss?
Stress is a well-known cause for temporary hair loss. Reflexology can help combat hair loss by reducing the physical effects of stress on the body. It does so by:
- Promoting feelings of deep relaxation in the body
- Relieving muscle tension
- Improving lymphatic drainage
- Improving venous circulation
- Stimulating nerve pathways
- Stimulating the release of the body’s natural feel-good hormones - endorphins
What Reflexology Points Promote Hair Growth?
When pressure is applied to the reflexology acupressure points, internal organs are stimulated, resulting in increased blood circulation throughout the body.
The points under the fingernail beds are strongly associated with scalp health and hair growth, as the nerve endings underneath each fingernail are said to be connected directly to the roots of your hair. When pressure is applied to the nail beds, circulation of blood and energy to the scalp is increased. This allows the hair roots to be replenished with nutrition, strengthening the hair follicles and allowing hair to grow.
Massaging the Baihu point, which is located on the right side of the scalp, is another way to reduce shedding. Place your fingertips on this point and gently massage it in circular motion to improve blood circulation in the head and stimulate hair growth. Applying gentle pressure to the Tai Yang, the point located in your temple, will help alleviate stress which is the main cause of hair loss.
As for foot reflexology, apply firm pressure to the points that correspond to the liver, gallbladder, adrenal glands, bowel and ovary or testicle to correct the imbalances in these organs and stop hair from falling out. In addition to massage oil, a reflexologist may also use a foot roller, ball, brush or other tools to ensure optimal outcomes of the treatment.
The Connection between Reflexology and Hormonal Balance.
Hormones play a crucial role in hair growth and loss. Imbalances in hormones such as thyroid hormones, androgens, and estrogens can lead to hair loss. Reflexology may help regulate these imbalances by stimulating specific reflex points on the feet, hands, and ears associated with the endocrine system.
By applying pressure to these reflex points, reflexology can help balance hormone levels, reduce inflammation, and improve blood flow to the scalp. This process can ultimately promote hair growth and reduce hair loss. Regular reflexology sessions, along with a healthy lifestyle, may assist in maintaining optimal hormonal balance, which is essential for healthy hair.
The Role of Nutrition In Hair Growth and Reflexology
Proper nutrition is vital for hair growth, as hair follicles require essential nutrients to grow and remain healthy. Reflexology can aid in nutrient absorption by improving circulation throughout the body, ensuring that vital nutrients reach the hair follicles.
Stimulating reflex points associated with the digestive system can improve digestion and nutrient absorption, helping the body make better use of nutrients essential for hair growth and overall health. In addition to a balanced diet, reflexology can be a complementary therapy to promote healthy hair growth and prevent hair loss.
Reflexology for Hair Loss Prevention in Men
Men experiencing hair loss may also benefit from reflexology. Focusing on specific reflex points and techniques can be particularly beneficial for this demographic. For instance, reflex points associated with the endocrine system, including the pituitary, thyroid, and adrenal glands, may help address hormonal imbalances that contribute to male pattern baldness.
Potential differences between male and female hair loss, such as the influence of androgens, can be taken into account when tailoring reflexology sessions. A qualified reflexologist can create a customized treatment plan to address individual needs and concerns related to hair loss in men.
Can I perform reflexology on myself to address hair loss?
While it is possible to perform reflexology on yourself, it may not be as effective as receiving treatment from a qualified reflexologist. A professional reflexologist has the knowledge and expertise to locate and stimulate the appropriate reflex points, tailoring the treatment to your specific needs. However, self-reflexology can still be a useful supplementary practice to support overall health and well-being.
Combining Reflexology with Other Holistic Approaches for Hair Loss
For optimal results, reflexology can be combined with other holistic approaches, such as essential oils, scalp massage, and stress management techniques. These methods can work synergistically to promote hair growth and overall well-being.
Essential oils, such as rosemary, lavender, and cedarwood, may promote hair growth when applied topically to the scalp. Scalp massage can further enhance circulation and promote relaxation. Stress management techniques, such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga, can help reduce stress-related hair loss.
In conclusion, reflexology, when combined with other holistic approaches, can be an effective component of a comprehensive hair loss prevention and treatment plan. By addressing hormonal imbalances, promoting proper nutrition, and reducing stress, reflexology can help improve hair health and promote regrowth. Always consult with a qualified reflexologist and healthcare professional before beginning any new treatment plan for hair loss.
To get more information about reflexology and how it may assist with hair loss, speak to your local qualified reflexologist.
Find out about other effective natural hair loss treatments.
Originally published on Apr 20, 2010
