Hair Spa vs Regular Hair Wash: What's the Difference?

How are a hair spa and a regular wash different?

They have different jobs. A wash is routine hygiene, and a hair spa is a treatment you choose occasionally.

What happens in a typical hair spa session?

Salons vary, but most sessions follow these steps. The hair spa page shows the process at Express Cuts.

1. Consultation. The professional looks at your hair and scalp and asks what you want from the session.
2. Cleanse. Your hair is washed to clear away oil and product.
3. Massage. The scalp is massaged, often with a nourishing product, which is the relaxing part.
4. Treatment. A conditioning treatment is applied through the hair and left for a while to work.
5. Finish. The treatment is rinsed out and your hair is dried and styled.

What can a hair spa do, and what can it not do?

A hair spa can leave hair feeling softer, smoother and easier to manage, and many people find the massage relaxing. Think of it as deep conditioning with a massage.

It is not a medical treatment. It should not be expected to stop hair loss, cure dandruff or a scalp condition, or permanently repair damaged hair. If you have significant hair loss, a sore scalp or persistent flaking, speak to a doctor or dermatologist rather than booking a treatment.

When is a regular wash enough?

For most people on most days, it is all you need. A regular wash is enough when your hair feels healthy and manageable, your scalp is comfortable, and you have no particular goal beyond being clean.

How often to wash depends on your hair. The American Academy of Dermatology says to base it on how oily your hair gets: straight hair with an oily scalp may need shampooing daily, while dry, curly or textured hair may need it much less. It also suggests applying shampoo to the scalp rather than the full length, and using conditioner after each wash.

When might a hair spa be worth it?

• Your hair feels dry or rough, and home conditioner is not doing much.
• Your hair looks dull or is hard to manage.
• You colour your hair or heat-style it often and want some extra conditioning.
• You want a relaxing grooming session, or a treat before an event.

What should you ask before booking a hair spa?

1. What does the session include, and what product will be used on my hair?
2. Is it suitable for my hair type, and for coloured hair if I have had it done?
3. How long will it take? This varies, so ask when you book.
4. How much does it cost, or is it included in a package? Ask the salon, as hair spa may be part of a package offer.
5. Is there anything I should tell you about my scalp first?

What mistakes should you avoid?

• Treating it as a cure. It is conditioning care, and it will not fix a medical problem.
• Skipping the conversation. Tell the professional about colouring, sensitivities or scalp issues.
• Washing with very hot water. Lukewarm water is more comfortable on the scalp.
• Scrubbing with your nails. Use your fingertips, at home and in any massage you do yourself.

Can you have a haircut and a hair spa together?

Yes. A hair spa can be combined with a haircut, and at Express Cuts, The King's Ritual package brings a haircut, beard trim, hair spa and other services together. See the offers page for what is currently included.