Scalp Care Revolution: Salons in Singapore Embrace Hair Health

The beauty industry in Singapore is witnessing a significant shift as salons increasingly prioritize scalp health alongside traditional hair services. Clients are no longer satisfied with just haircuts or color treatments; they are now actively seeking scalp treatments and hair spas, often as standalone services. This evolution reflects a heightened awareness of scalp health and a surge in related concerns, marking a new era in self-care.

Ted Kim, founder of Suchehwa By Ted, a renowned Korean hair salon, emphasizes that customized scalp and hair treatments have become essential components of salon services. “It’s no longer seen as an optional add-on,” Kim explained. “Clients view it as a key part of maintaining overall scalp and hair health.” Many individuals prefer visiting salons over specialized clinics due to the relaxed and familiar atmosphere they provide.

Trust and Flexibility Drive Salon Preferences

Discussing scalp issues with a trusted hairstylist often feels more comfortable than consulting with an unfamiliar trichologist or dermatologist. Yann Beyrie, founder and director of Yann Beyrie Salon, notes that hairstylists frequently identify early signs of scalp distress, such as dryness or thinning hair. “When clients come in for a haircut, we’re often the first to notice scalp issues,” Beyrie said.

Flexibility also plays a crucial role in this trend. Unlike specialist hair clinics that typically require clients to commit to multiple sessions, salons offer clients the opportunity to try treatments on a more casual basis. “Our clients dislike being locked into expensive packages,” Beyrie added. “At our salon, we base recommendations on hair analysis, allowing clients to decide if they want to continue after one session.”

Innovative Treatments Elevate Salon Offerings

Technological advancements have enabled salons to provide treatments that compete with those offered by specialist clinics. Eugene Teo, brand director of Chez Vous: HideAway Hair Salon, highlights the use of Intensive Exosome Needle-free Mesotherapy for chronic hair loss. “We use low molecular weight exosomes—similar to those in Korean hair clinics—applied through a pain-free, non-invasive method,” Teo explained.

Teo noted that frequent chemical treatments often damage hair and scalp health. “Scalp protection is often overlooked, and recovery can be challenging,” he said. To counter this, Chez Vous introduced the 15-step Trichofusion Hair Service, a comprehensive treatment designed to protect and repair the scalp before and during chemical processes. This service incorporates elements from multi-step Korean scalp rituals, blending science and spa experience.

“Clients already know scalp care is important, but few take action,” Teo remarked, drawing a parallel to the common knowledge of sunscreen’s importance. “We want scalp care to become just as routine.”

Expert Insights on Scalp Treatments

Despite the appeal of salon treatments, dermatologists advise caution. Dr. Eileen Tan, a dermatologist at Eileen Tan Skin Clinic & Associates, suggests that while salon treatments can alleviate mild issues, they may not address underlying medical problems. “In general, in-salon scalp and hair treatments provide temporary relief for mild problems such as dryness or itchiness,” she noted. Persistent issues should prompt consultation with a medical professional.

For chronic hair loss, options may include medication, low-level laser therapy, or surgical restoration, depending on the severity of the condition.

The Rise of Holistic Approaches

The demand for holistic solutions has led to increased interest in trichology. Leonica Kei, founder and principal trichologist of Leonica K Trichology, has witnessed a notable shift in attitudes towards hair loss treatments over the past two decades. “Today, there are far more players offering hair-loss solutions, and demand for hair transplants has surged,” Kei stated. Social media influencers showcasing transformations have further fueled this interest, although they can also set unrealistic expectations.

Kei has noticed an uptick in cases of alopecia areata, an autoimmune condition, particularly during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. “We’re also seeing younger clients, some as young as 12 to 15, experiencing thinning or excessive shedding,” she said. To meet this demand, Kei has expanded her services to include low-level laser therapy and other advanced techniques, all while maintaining a holistic focus on scalp health and long-term care.

Integration of Science and Wellness

Opening in March 2024, Anagen Scalp combines medical-grade technologies with a luxurious spa experience. Describing itself as a “regenerative-science scalp centre,” Anagen offers treatments that are drug-free and clinically validated. “Our treatments are developed in collaboration with doctors but delivered in a luxurious, private setting,” said Elizabeth Leong, consultant at Anagen.

Anagen employs technologies such as exosome therapy, plasma infusion, and scalp electroporation, all aimed at repairing the scalp’s ecosystem and promoting healthy hair growth. Leong reported increasing cases of scalp sensitivity and thinning, attributed to stress, dietary changes, and chemical over-processing. “The good news is that many forms of hair loss are reversible if treated early,” she added.

As the beauty landscape shifts, the emphasis on scalp care signifies a broader wellness movement that prioritizes prevention and holistic health. Scalp care is now regarded as a fundamental aspect of hair maintenance, comparable to washing, coloring, or styling. With a growing array of services and innovations, salons are transforming scalp care from a luxury into a necessity, making it a vital part of overall hair health.