Salons in Singapore Embrace Scalp Health as Essential Service

The beauty industry in Singapore is experiencing a significant transformation as salons increasingly prioritize scalp health alongside traditional hair treatments. Clients are now booking scalp treatments or hair spas, often as standalone services, reflecting a growing awareness of the importance of scalp care. According to Ted Kim, founder of Suchehwa By Ted, a Korean hair salon based in Gangnam, Seoul, “Many salons now offer customised scalp and hair treatments as part of their core services – it’s no longer seen as an optional add-on.” This shift signifies a fundamental change in how consumers approach hair health, moving from indulgence to necessity.

Changing Attitudes Toward Scalp Care

The conversation surrounding hair and scalp issues has become less intimidating for clients. Many now prefer discussing their concerns with a familiar hairstylist rather than an unfamiliar trichologist or dermatologist. Yann Beyrie, founder and director of Yann Beyrie Salon, notes that hairstylists frequently act as “first responders,” spotting early signs of scalp problems like dryness or thinning hair. He explains, “Most clients don’t even realise it until we point it out.”

Flexibility in treatment options is another reason for this salon shift. Specialist hair clinics often require clients to commit to multiple sessions, which can be financially burdensome. “Our clients tell us they dislike being locked into expensive packages,” Beyrie adds. Instead, his salon bases recommendations on individual hair analyses, allowing clients to try treatments on a session-by-session basis without long-term commitments.

Innovative Treatments Enhance Scalp Health

Technological advancements are further enhancing the services offered in salons. At Chez Vous: HideAway Hair Salon, chronic hair loss is addressed using Intensive Exosome Needle-free Mesotherapy. Eugene Teo, the salon’s brand director, explains, “We use low molecular weight exosomes – the same ones used in Korean hair clinics – but apply them through a pain-free, non-invasive method.” This approach acknowledges that frequent chemical treatments can damage both hair and scalp, an often-overlooked aspect of hair care.

To combat this issue, Chez Vous has introduced the 15-step Trichofusion Hair Service, designed to protect and repair the scalp during chemical treatments. Drawing inspiration from multi-step Korean scalp rituals, this comprehensive treatment integrates trichology science with spa elements, all within just 15 extra minutes. Teo emphasizes the importance of making scalp care routine, similar to using sunscreen, stating, “We want scalp care to become just as routine.”

While salon treatments can provide immediate relief for minor scalp issues, dermatologists urge caution. Dr. Eileen Tan, a dermatologist at Eileen Tan Skin Clinic & Associates, warns that these treatments may not address underlying medical issues. “If you experience persistent itching or excessive hair fall, it’s best to consult a doctor or dermatologist for proper diagnosis,” she advises. Testing, including blood work and scalp analysis, may be necessary for chronic conditions.

A Holistic Approach to Hair and Scalp Health

The increase in demand for hair-loss solutions has prompted trichologists like Leonica Kei to expand their offerings. Kei, founder of Leonica K Trichology, has observed significant changes over the past two decades. “Today, there are far more players offering hair-loss solutions, and demand for hair transplants has surged,” she notes. Social media plays a role in this trend, with influencers showcasing before-and-after results, although it can lead to unrealistic expectations.

Kei has noted a rise in cases of alopecia areata, particularly among younger clients aged 12 to 15, experiencing thinning hair or excessive shedding. In response, her clinic has introduced advanced treatments, such as low-level laser therapy, while maintaining a holistic approach that considers overall scalp health and lifestyle factors.

Another innovative establishment, Anagen Scalp, which opened in 2024 at Pacific Plaza, merges medical science with a luxurious salon experience. Consultant Elizabeth Leong describes Anagen as a “regenerative-science scalp centre,” offering drug-free and clinically backed treatments. The centre employs technologies like exosome therapy and plasma infusion to enhance scalp health.

Leong has noticed increasing scalp sensitivity and thinning, often triggered by stress, dietary changes, or over-processing from chemical treatments. “The good news is that many forms of hair loss are reversible if treated early,” she asserts.

The emergence of high-end salons and medical-grade scalp centres illustrates a growing recognition of the importance of scalp care. As the demand for in-salon scalp treatments rises, it reflects a broader wellness movement that values prevention and holistic health. Today, scalp care is becoming as fundamental as washing, colouring, or styling, laying the groundwork for truly healthy and beautiful hair.