Japanese Head Spas Are the Viral Wellness Trend You Need to Try

Essentially the equivalent to a 10-hour nap, a facelift, and a calming mental reset.
Published December 20, 2024

(Image: Courtesy of Atama Head Spa)

If you’re all about wellness hacks that actually deliver, then brace yourself: Japanese head spas are officially the next big thing—and trust us, you’re going to want in. Think of it as a spa day for your scalp that leaves you feeling like you’ve just been gifted a 10-hour nap, a facelift, and a calming mental reset, all in one. 

They’re nothing new, in fact, the origins of Japanese head spa treatments can be traced back to ancient times, deeply rooted in traditional Japanese and East Asian healing practices. But with social media blowing up with viral ASMR scalp massage videos, Japanese head spas are taking the Western beauty world by storm. And there’s one treatment in particular you need to know about: the Zudo method.

So why all the hype? We sat down with Gabriel Skalic, founder of Atama Head Spa and the only practitioner in Australia certified in the Zudo technique, who gave us the inside scoop. And to be clear, it’s not just about relaxation. This method works magic on your posture, skin, and overall well-being. 

See below why you need to add a head spa experience to your self-care routine. 

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What Are the Benefits Of Japanese Head Spas?

To be clear, Japanese head spas are not your average scalp massage. They go way deeper than that, targeting specific pressure points on your head, neck, and shoulders to do everything from boosting circulation to giving you that fresh, post-holiday glow.

“Japanese head spas are more than just a scalp massage—they’re a total mind-body reset. We target the muscles that often go dormant as we age,” Gabriel Skalic explains. And the results are nothing short of transformative.

Here’s a breakdown of the benefits you’ll get when you indulge in this relaxing (and rejuvenating) treatment:

Relaxation

 Feeling frazzled? A head spa treatment targets the scalp and neck, helping release all that built-up tension. It’s like meditation for your head—and we all know how good it feels to unwind after a massive week (year?).

Glowing skin

We’re all about that dewy, fresh-faced glow. By increasing blood flow to your scalp, these treatments stimulate circulation, giving your skin a natural boost. Who knew your scalp was the secret to clearer, smoother skin?

Aid posture

We’ve all been known to have a little slouch over our laptops, despite HRs well-intentioned ‘ergonomic chair’ initiative. With head spa treatments, you’re also targeting the muscles in your neck and upper back, helping correct your posture. It’s basically a reset for your spine—hello, increased confidence and better selfies!

A natural 'face lift'

Here’s where it gets juicy. Head spas, especially the Zudo method (don’t worry, we’ll get there), help lift and tone your face naturally by reactivating the muscles that weaken over time. No Botox, no fillers—just good, old-fashioned muscle activation.

Mental reset

And, of course, there’s the mental clarity you’ll walk out with. When your body’s relaxed, your mind follows suit. These treatments leave you feeling grounded and rejuvenated—just what you need for that all-important mental reset.

Why Are Japanese Head Spas Going Viral?

Okay, but let’s talk about why these treatments are exploding in popularity in Australia, shall we? Blame it on ASMR . You know those oddly satisfying videos of people getting a scalp massage or tapping their nails on a brush? Yeah, those are more than just soothing sounds—they’re tapping into our need for relaxation in a seriously satisfying way. Japanese head spas have been doing this for years, and now we’re finally catching on.

But it’s not just about the ASMR vibes. Japanese head spas offer a holistic approach to beauty and wellness—no needles, no expensive creams—just pure relaxation and a non-invasive treatment that works wonders for your skin, muscles, and mind. People are looking for alternatives to injectables, and this beauty treatment is serving up the real deal.

Introducing the Zudo Method: The Ultimate Head Spa Experience

If you’re wondering how this whole “Japanese head spa” thing works on a deeper level, let us introduce you to the Zudo method. Developed by renowned cosmetologist Tatsuya Yamasaki, the Zudo method isn’t just another relaxing scalp massage—it’s a transformative treatment designed to target the muscles that support your face. Over time, these muscles become dormant and weaker, leading to sagging skin and poor posture.

But with Zudo, it’s all about reactivating those muscles. Zudo works on the 26 key muscles in the head and neck that support the face, restoring blood flow and giving you that natural facelift without the needles. It’s a total game changer. 

Gabriel Skalic explains, “the difference between other Japanese Head Start treatments is that Zudo focuses on the head’s muscles, tendons, and membranes, with precision […] it’s possible to reliably target these areas.”

The Zudo method uses deep pressure points to stimulate your muscles and fascia, boosting circulation and reawakening the dormant muscles that become weak with age. The result? A lifted face, better posture, and more vitality—all from a treatment that feels as luxurious as it sounds.

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Why You Should Try the Zudo Method—and Where to Do It In Australia

So, if you’re ready to skip the injectables and try something that’s both natural and effective, the Zudo method is calling your name. It’s not just about a facial lift; it’s about taking a holistic approach to beauty and wellness. And the best part? It’s now available in Australia. When you’re next in Brisbane, make sure you make a booking at Atama Head Spa—the only place in Australia where you can experience Zudo.

“Zudo is all about awakening something within you—bringing balance, vitality, and beauty from the inside out,” says Gabriel. After experiencing it, you’ll walk out feeling more centred, confident, and—dare we say it—glowing.

Visit Atama to schedule your appointment and discover the transformative effects of the Zudo method. Trust us, your face (and your mind) will thank you.

Tessa Ogle
Tessa is the Editor in Chief at Cosmopolitan Australia. Following roles at The Age newspaper and The Conversation, Tessa moved from news to fashion and beauty, launching Harper’s BAZAAR and Esquire online in a Digital Director capacity. After a short time consulting and freelancing for titles including T-Magazine (NYT Style), Tessa began as Digital Managing Editor at Marie Claire and ELLE.
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