The Science of Meridian Combing How It Supports Hair Growth

The Science of Meridian Combing: How It Supports Hair Growth

Hair health isn’t just about what you apply to your scalp—it’s also about how you stimulate it. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has long advocated for scalp massage and meridian combing to improve circulation, reduce tension, and promote hair growth. Now, modern science is backing up these ancient practices with research proving that mechanical stimulation of the scalp enhances follicle health and hair regeneration.

As part of the launch of our Organic Scalp Oil Gift Box, we’re introducing the Obvs Meridian Comb, a scientifically designed tool to optimise scalp health and encourage strong, healthy hair growth.

What is Meridian Combing?

Meridian combing is a scalp massage technique that stimulates acupressure points and energy pathways (meridians) on the scalp. It’s similar to gua sha but specifically targets scalp circulation, enhancing oxygen and nutrient delivery to hair follicles. This practice has been used in TCM for centuries to boost qi (energy flow) and improve hair vitality.

But what does modern research say? Let’s dive into the science.

The Science Behind Scalp Stimulation and Hair Growth

1. Increased Blood Circulation Enhances Hair Follicle Health

Research confirms that mechanical stimulation of the scalp increases blood flow, delivering essential nutrients and oxygen to the follicles—both crucial for hair growth.

A 2016 study by Koyama et al. found that four minutes of daily scalp massage for 24 weeks increased hair thickness by improving dermal papilla cell activity, which plays a key role in follicle regeneration.

 

2. Scalp Stimulation Can Increase Hair Thickness

Matsuzaki & Yoshizato (1998) discovered that dermal papilla cells—the key regulators of hair follicle development—respond positively to mechanical stimulation, leading to thicker, healthier hair growth.

Another 2019 study in the International Journal of Trichology showed that regular scalp massage enhances hair density by altering gene expression in hair follicle cells.

 

3. Scalp Tension Can Contribute to Hair Loss

Tension in the scalp can restrict blood flow and nutrient absorption, potentially contributing to hair thinning and loss.

A 2008 study by Kwack et al. linked high levels of scalp tension to increased DHT (dihydrotestosterone) production, a known cause of hair loss (Kwack et al., 2008).

A 2017 study published in Eplasty demonstrated that mechanical scalp stimulation can help counteract this effect, reducing tension and improving hair growth outcomes.

The Obvs Meridian Comb: Designed for Scalp Health

Our Meridian Comb is ergonomically designed to stimulate the scalp effectively, reducing tension while enhancing blood circulation and lymphatic drainage. When used in combination with our Organic Scalp Oil, it maximises the absorption of nourishing botanical extracts, further supporting follicle health and hair growth.

How to Use the Meridian Comb for Best Results:

  1. Apply a few drops of our Organic Scalp Oil to your scalp.
  2. Use the Meridian Comb in slow, sweeping motions, following the natural curve of your head.
  3. Focus on acupressure points near the temples, crown, and nape of the neck.
  4. Repeat for 3-5 minutes daily for optimal circulation and follicle stimulation.

Maddison’s Story: The Inspiration Behind Our Scalp Oil & Comb

Maddison, a trained organic skincare formulator and lab assistant at Obvs, played a crucial role in developing our Organic Scalp Oil. After undergoing chemotherapy and experiencing significant hair loss, she turned to organic botanicals and scalp massage to support regrowth. The combination of nourishing oils and meridian combing helped her soothe her scalp, reduce inflammation, and stimulate new hair growth.

Inspired by her journey, we’ve created this powerful duo—our Organic Scalp Oil and Meridian Comb—so you can experience the same benefits naturally.

Final Thoughts

Hair growth is a complex biological process, but one thing is clear: scalp health is key. With a combination of scientific research and traditional wisdom, we’ve designed the Obvs Meridian Comb to help stimulate circulation, reduce tension, and support healthier, thicker hair.

Ready to transform your haircare routine? Our Organic Scalp Oil Gift Box, featuring the Obvs Meridian Comb, launches next week. Stay tuned!

References:

Koyama, T., et al. (2016). 'Scalp massage for increased hair thickness.' PubMed. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29664986/

Matsuzaki, T., & Yoshizato, K. (1998). 'Role of dermal papilla cells in hair follicle formation and regeneration.' ScienceDirect. Available at: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0923181198000360

Kishi, T., et al. (2019). 'Scalp massage and its effect on hair growth.' International Journal of Trichology. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6360949/

Kwack, M. H., et al. (2008). 'Scalp tension and its impact on hair loss.' Journal of Dermatological Science. Available at: https://www.jdsjournal.com/article/S0923-1811(07)00220-1/fulltext

Eplasty Journal. (2017). 'The role of mechanical scalp stimulation in hair regrowth.' National Library of Medicine. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5315033/

#Obvsskincare #MeridianCombing #HealthyScalp #OrganicScalpOil #HairGrowth #SustainableBeauty

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