Pre-Shampoo Treatments are not necessary, so if you're the type who hates any kind of extras, head straight for the shampoo section. If, however, you love luxuries (even inexpensive ones), or have a special hair-care need you'd like to address, keep reading. As the name implies, pre-shampoo treatments are performed before shampooing. Some incorporate feel-good elements, such as massage, while others are strictly business.

Scalp massage

There is a lot of controversy surrounding scalp massages. More specifically, there is a lot of controversy regarding whether or not scalp massage can help treat thinning hair. Proponents claim scalp massage stimulates blood flow to the scalp, which in turn helps nourish follicles, which in turn prevents hair loss and even prompts new growth. Massage has been proven to stimulate circulation, but whether or not it helps hair loss I don't know. But after having my first scalp massage, I no longer care. The treatment feels so good and leaves my hair looking so amazing that I am hooked.

The fanciest of scalp massages, often called scalp treatments, are given in salons or spas.

Specially prepared oils are massaged into your scalp, then brushed through the hair. These oils are specifically chosen to address your particular needs - perhaps oily scalp, sensitive scalp, dryness, or extreme hair damage. Next, your head is wrapped in a warm towel and you are encouraged to relax while the oil goes to work on your scalp and hair. If you're lucky, the treatment will also include a neck and even a shoulder massage. The service is then finished off With a shampoo and a deep-conditioning treatment for the hair.

Try it yourself

To give yourself a home treatment, purchase a specially formulated scalp oil (Rene Furterer, Phytologie, and Philip B make them). A cheaper option for those of you with normal to dry scalp and hair is to use 2 to 4 tablespoons of almond or sesame oil (which are much easier to shampoo out than any of your everyday kitchen oils).

Start with dry hair and part hair into four or more sections. Drizzle a little oil onto the exposed areas of scalp and start massaging it in with the pads of your fingertips, working the oil gently and thoroughly over your entire scalp.

Use a natural boar-bristle brush to work the oil through your hair. Then, wrap your hair in a warm or room-temperature towel and relax for at least half an hour before washing your hair with your favorite shampoo, gently massaging your scalp as you go. Rinse, rinse, and rinse some more, to remove all traces of the shampoo and then apply your favorite conditioner. If your hair is very dry, you might want to use a deep conditioner, leaving it in for the full amount of time recommended on the product. Then, you must rinse your hair thoroughly again and leave your hair to air dry. You should feel relaxed, refreshed and pampered!