Best scalp massager

hand holding metal scalp scratcher massager

(Image credit: David Tonelsen/Shutterstock)

published 30 November 2020

The best scalp massager, regardless of design, should always feel pleasant. Modern-day scalp massagers have come a long way from the classic metal ones, the kind with a long handle and spidery tines that slide through your hair with a tingly sensation. Soft, supple silicone bristles can be found on most models, and the majority of these scalp massagers are manually operated. However, some are electric with multiple modes and rechargeable. Check out our list below and see which one of our favorites works for you too.

Best overall

MAXSOFT scalp massager shampoo brush

Staff pick

Coincidentally, I bought this exact scalp massager in teal by MAXSOFT for myself about a month or two ago—and it's been an absolute life-changer when shampooing my long, thick hair. Its slim, T-shaped handle fits between your index and middle fingers, and the arched top of the brush cups neatly into your palm. Conical silicone bristles are supple enough to detangle even fine hair tug-free but soft enough to soothe away a headache by relaxing your scalp. But, be aware of additional benefits, I experienced growth significant enough that I had to reschedule my roots appointment two weeks early.

Best value

CBIUMPRO 2-pack scalp massager and scrubber brush

Goodbye, pet fur tumbleweeds

Silicone scalp massagers are made for every hair type, so why not pick up a pair for you and your pet? CBIUMPRO's 2-pack of waterproof massagers have extra-long bristles and silicone wrapped handles you can grip from different angles—even with wet, soapy hands. This makes them ideal for scrubbing down a muddy dog, though they can be used dry for brushing. Any shed fur that would usually cling to unsuspecting couches or car seat is rinsed away along with the shampoo in moments.

Deep clean

Zyllion exfoliating scalp massager brush

Must-have scrub

Common skin disorders such as seborrhea, dandruff, or psoriasis benefit significantly from gentle but thorough exfoliation regularly. Zyllion's exfoliating scalp massager brush fits that bill perfectly; it's designed with two kinds of silicone bristles meant to break up plaques of dead skin. Some bristles are flat with bumpy tips and others are somewhat blunted. Combined, these bristle subtypes encourage a healthier scalp via microcirculation and gently sloughing off dead skin (and the sensation still helps you relax).

Time-trusted

USAGA scalp massager and scratcher, 20 fingers

Tingly tines

USAGA's scalp massager is classically designed, with a slender handle and twenty spindly fingers. Ten are long, and ten are short; they're arranged to follow the domed curve of our skull, so it will cover more scalp during use. Tiny rubber beads at the bottom of each tine slip into your hair and over your scalp to provide that tingly sensation. It's made of ultra-lightweight metal, making it more manageable to pack for travel.

Electric feel

LATME handheld rechargeable electric scalp massager

Go robot(ic)

LATME's handheld electric scalp massager is perfect for fans of the deep, powerful kneading sensation of Shiatsu massage. It has four modes, two directions, and can be used on the entire body, not just your scalp. Better yet, it's IPx7 waterproof and cordless, allowing you to use it dry or wet to release tension and encourage hair growth via better circulation. A full charge lasts two hours (just drop it back into its base), and each knobbly massage rotor pops off for cleaning. Tip: if your hair is fine and prone to tangling, LATME suggests using this scalp massager at its lowest speed.

Bottom line

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Our favorite scalp massagers offer varying levels of pressure, movement, and cost; we hope that at least one of them piques your interest. All-purpose silicone scalp massagers are excellent for shampooing, brushing, and detangling. MAXSOFT's brush is no exception—it's so relaxing, effective, and affordable that we think one should be in everyone's shower.

Scalp "tinglers" are generally metal, with multiple thin fingers meant to echo the feel of a professional massage therapist's hands. USAGA offers several models, with or without ergonomic wood handles depending on user preference. We loved the 20-finger, all-metal version highlighted above—it's feather-light at 1.5 ounces, and its finely-tipped tines have a delicate touch on a tense scalp.

Lili Angrisano is a Freelance Contributor for GardeningEtc and Real Homes. You'll find her designing her next cosplay, conquering her 700+ book (and counting!) Kindle library, or tending her apartment garden in her spare time.