How to Release Tension From Your Head, Hair and Scalp

In these uncertain times, it’s good to have some tools to help release tension and de-stress. Yoga classes and online guided meditations are great ways to relax your body and mind, but if you’re looking for even more practical tips to help release tension (especially important if you’re now working from home), we’ve got just the thing.

Tension in the hair and scalp can lead to discomfort, headaches and even hair loss – and we can all agree that nobody needs anything else to worry about right now. Check out the following tips for our best advice on easy things you can do to reduce stress and strain on the scalp.

Stop Using Hair Elastics

Scrunchies are softer and gentler on your hair. Credit: Rupert Laycock

Anything that reduces friction and tension in the hair is a good thing. Traditional elastic hair ties can cause serious damage to the hair, as they’re often too tight and put all of the strain on a small area, leading to breakage. Instead, switch to scrunchies, those fabric hair bands that were all the rage in the 80s and made their triumphant return a few seasons ago.

Ribbons and bows can also help you create cute hairstyles without resorting to traditional elastic hairbands.

Editor’s Tip: To protect hair from breakage and help it grow longer, wash it with a strengthening wash and care system like the TRESemmé Biotin + Repair 7 Shampoo and Conditioner.

This range is formulated with a Biotin & Pro-Bond Complex to restore weakened strands and helps to prevent against further damage.

Sleep With Your Hair Down

Just like us, our hair also needs its beauty sleep. While we’re fans of air-drying our hair to cut down on heat damage, damp or wet hair is more vulnerable and prone to breakage, so try not to go to bed with it wet. Using a silk pillowcase or silk scarf to reduce friction will also help to protect your hair while you sleep.

Wear Relaxed Hairstyles

Try to avoid wearing too-tight hairstyles, which can put strain on your strands. Credit: Rupert Laycock

Another good way to release tension from the head and hair is to avoid tight hairstyles. This is a good time to get experimental with less polished, undone hairstyles like this effortless loose braid (above), messy buns and relaxed looped ponytails. The idea is that you are comfortable and aren’t pulling too tightly on your hair.

Try a Little Aromatherapy

Use products that smell rich in your beauty routine. Aromatherapy can help to alleviate anxiety and appeals to your olfactory memory: certain smells can bring up beautiful memories and make you smile. Immerse yourself in a sensory experience to create a moment of relaxation and it can help to release tension from the head.

Try using the Alberto Balsam Relax Shampoo and Conditioner, a washing system infused with Lavender and White Lily scents. Not only will it leave your hair clean and hydrated, but you’ll also feel super relaxed and revived after using it.

Give Yourself a Head Massage

The relaxing effect of a head massage is instant. Doing a hair massage on yourself is easier than you’d think, all you need is your fingers and it only takes a few minutes. Whenever you feel tension in your head or in your hair, gently use your fingertips to massage your scalp and you’ll soon feel the benefits. This has an extra advantage too, as the stimulation of the scalp improves and it receives more oxygen. In turn, any hair treatment (like a mask, for example) will penetrate in better after a scalp massage.