I Tried London’s Viral 17-Step Head Spa Treatment
Over the last few months, Japanese head spas have been all over our social media feeds, and it’s easy to understand why. The 15+ step treatments look relaxing enough to send you to sleep, while the ASMR-esque audio lends itself to the internet’s cravings. So when we found a place in London offering a luxe head spa, it was only a matter of time before we booked in. Cloud Twelve in Notting Hill is *the* place to go for a scalp refresh so, naturally, this Editor decided to road test and report back…
What is the viral head spa?
The head spa package describes itself as a facial for your hair and scalp. More than just an elevated hair wash and massage, the treatment goes one step further by taking a closer look at what’s happening on your scalp’s surface – identifying issues like dryness, build-up, and flaking – and tailoring the products used accordingly.
More than just an elevated hair wash and massage, the treatment goes one step further by taking a closer look at what’s happening on your scalp’s surface.
The appointment starts with a close-up camera analysis of your scalp (using a dermascope), followed by everything from clay scalp masks, to head and face massages, and, of course, the recognisable waterfall rinse. Then, to finish, you’re given another dermascope check to compare the results.
As for why it’s gone viral? Well, when you watch the process from start to finish, you immediately want to book in – which leads us to the next point.
What’s involved?
With 17 steps, maybe the quicker question to answer is what’s not included. Although to be honest, I’d be hard-pressed to name something that wasn’t already in the package listed below. One of the most notable elements of the treatment has to be the scalp analysis, where a fine camera is used to take a close look at your scalp, with the live stream displayed on a tablet in front of you. Seeing my scalp that close is probably something I’ve never really wanted or needed to do, but I accept it’s pretty cool nonetheless. My therapist, Carole, identified areas of dryness, along with powdery residue from dry shampoo.
With 17 steps, maybe the quicker question to answer is what’s not included.
The most recognisable step was the waterfall rinse, with a semi-circular shower head orbiting your head to wash away the products used. Other highlights include the LED scalp massage, which uses a small device (that they nickname ‘the crab’) to comb its way through your hair and scalp to help boost circulation. And, of course, the neck and facial stretching massage.
Here’s the full breakdown of steps:
1. Comprehensive scalp analysis with advanced dermascope technology
2. Detoxifying Brazilian clay scalp mask or invigorating purifying gel
3. Treatment
luxurious sensory scalp massage with specialised tools
4. Bespoke shampoo treatment
5. Face, neck & décolleté massage
6. Refreshing waterfall rinse
7. Hot face mask with pressure points
8. Medicinal herbal steam mist
9. Invigorating head and scalp massage
10. Heskiers OneTool face and neck fascia stretching massage
11. LED scalp brush
12. Highly potent super-active scalp treatment
13. Restorative homoeopathic hair vitality elixir
14. Re-analysis with dermascope (optional)
15. Personalised at-home hair care, supplement, diet & lifestyle recommendations
16. Hair tea in the brasserie to complete your treatment
17. Expert hair styling (optional)
Who it’s best for
Anybody can book in for The Head Spa. However, my practitioner, Carol, explains that visitors who might see the most benefit are those who have scalp conditions such as dandruff or psoriasis, and they could book in as often as every fortnight (budget permitting, of course).
Before Vs after
When looking at the before and after pics – something I don’t think I’ll ever get used to – my scalp appears more hydrated, and some of the product buildup had definitely gone away.
Without comparing directly, it’s hard to say how different the photos would be compared to a regular hair wash, but the experience was certainly more personalised and relaxing than the regular weekly routine.
Verdict
This treatment was an indulgent alternative to a regular massage/facial spa appointment. My hair felt clean and lighter following the treatment – it was bouncy and fresh, so I’d give it a 10/10 on the look and feel when I left The Head Spa.
I’d give it a 10/10 on the look and feel when I left The Head Spa.
My treatment took 90 minutes, followed by the optional blow dry. Since being in the spa isn’t something you want to rush, I’d recommend setting aside a few hours/half a day to use the facilities – such as the salt room, ice bath, rose sauna, and steam room – all included in the price, to get the most out of the experience.
How to book
Prices start at £190 for the Bespoke Head Spa Experience (70 mins) and £245 for the Ultimate Bespoke Head Spa Experience (90 mins). For more information and to book your head spa, visit www.cloudtwelve.co.uk.
