Salons in Singapore Revolutionize Hair Care with Scalp Treatments

The beauty industry in Singapore is witnessing a significant shift as salons increasingly prioritize scalp health alongside traditional hair treatments. Clients are now booking scalp treatments and hair spas as essential parts of their grooming routines, rather than as mere indulgences. This transformation has been largely driven by heightened awareness of scalp health issues and a growing number of concerns regarding hair and scalp conditions.

Ted Kim, founder of Suchehwa By Ted, a Korean salon rooted in Gangnam, Seoul, emphasizes that many establishments have integrated customized scalp and hair treatments into their core offerings. “It’s no longer seen as an optional add-on,” he stated. Clients recognize these treatments as crucial for maintaining overall scalp and hair health, often preferring the relaxing atmosphere of salons over clinical settings.

Comfort and Flexibility Drive Salon Choices

Many clients find discussing hair and scalp issues with a trusted hairstylist less daunting than with a dermatologist or trichologist. As Yann Beyrie, founder and director of Yann Beyrie Salon, points out, hairstylists often serve as “first responders,” identifying early signs of distress, such as dryness or thinning hair. “When clients come in for a haircut, we’re often the first to notice scalp issues,” he noted.

Flexibility is another factor influencing the shift towards salons. Unlike specialist hair clinics that require clients to commit to multiple sessions, many salons allow clients to try one treatment at a time. “Our clients tell us they dislike being locked into expensive packages,” Beyrie explained. This model enables clients to make informed decisions based on their hair analysis and personal experiences.

Technological Advancements Enhance Treatments

Recent technological advancements have enabled salons to offer treatments that rival those provided by specialized clinics. At Chez Vous: HideAway Hair Salon, for instance, chronic hair loss is addressed using Intensive Exosome Needle-free Mesotherapy. Brand Director Eugene Teo highlighted that this method utilizes low molecular weight exosomes, akin to those employed in Korean clinics, delivered through a non-invasive technique.

Teo noted that frequent chemical treatments can severely damage both hair and scalp. “Scalp protection is often overlooked, and once it’s damaged, recovery becomes difficult and costly,” he remarked. To combat these issues, Chez Vous has developed the 15-step Trichofusion Hair Service, which integrates trichology science and spa elements into a streamlined salon experience, all in just 15 extra minutes.

Dr. Eileen Tan, a dermatologist at Eileen Tan Skin Clinic & Associates, advises caution regarding salon treatments. While they can provide temporary relief for mild scalp issues, they may not resolve deeper medical problems. “If you experience persistent itching or excessive hair fall, it’s best to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis,” she cautioned, emphasizing that tests may be necessary for chronic conditions.

A Holistic Approach to Hair Health

As awareness of hair loss grows, seeking the expertise of a trichologist has become increasingly relevant. Leonica Kei, founder of Leonica K Trichology, has observed a notable increase in demand for hair-loss solutions over the past twenty years. “Social media, particularly influencers showcasing before-and-after results, has fueled interest,” she noted, although this can sometimes create unrealistic expectations.

Kei has noted a rise in cases of alopecia areata, an autoimmune condition leading to patchy hair loss, particularly during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. She remarked that even younger clients, some as young as 12 to 15, are experiencing thinning hair and excessive shedding. In response, her practice has expanded to include low-level laser therapy and advanced equipment, all while adopting a holistic approach that considers lifestyle factors and long-term care.

Bridging the gap between medical science and luxury salons, Anagen Scalp, which opened in 2024 at Pacific Plaza, offers a unique experience. Describing itself as a “regenerative-science scalp centre,” it combines medical-grade technologies with a spa-like environment. Consultant Elizabeth Leong noted that their treatments are drug-free and clinically backed, offering solutions for clients facing issues such as scalp sensitivity and thinning hair.

A New Era for Scalp Care

From high-end salons to specialized scalp centres, it is clear that scalp care is gaining the attention it deserves. The growing popularity of in-salon scalp treatments reflects a broader wellness trend that values prevention and holistic hair health. Today, scalp care is not merely an afterthought; it is becoming an essential component of overall grooming and self-care, paralleling traditional practices like washing, colouring, and styling.

As the beauty landscape continues to evolve, it is evident that scalp health is now recognized as fundamental to achieving truly healthy, beautiful hair.