The Scalp

The soft tissue envelope of the cranial vault is called the scalp. The scalp extends from the external occipital protuberance and superior nuchal lines to the supraorbital margins. The scalp consists of 5 layers the skin, connective tissue, epicranial aponeurosis, loose areolar tissue, and pericranium. The first 3 layers are bound together as a single unit. This single unit can move along the loose areolar tissue over the pericranium, which is adherent to the calvaria.

Skin

The skin of the scalp is thick and hair bearing and contains numerous sebaceous glands. As a result, the scalp is a common site for sebaceous cysts.

Connective tissue (superficial fascia)

The superficial fascia is a fibrofatty layer that connects skin to the underlying aponeurosis of the occipitofrontalis muscle and provides a passageway for nerves and blood vessels. Blood vessels are attached to this fibrous connective tissue. If the vessels are cut, this attachment prevents vasospasm, which could lead to profuse bleeding after injury.

Epicranial aponeurosis (galea aponeurotica)

The epicranial aponeurosis is a thin, tendinous structure that provides an insertion site for the occipitofrontalis muscle. Posterolaterally, the epicranial aponeurosis attachment extends from the superior nuchal line to the superior temporal line. Laterally, the epicranial aponeurosis continues as the temporal fascia. Anteriorly, the subaponeurotic space extends to the upper eyelids due to the lack of a bony insertion. This loose areolar tissue provides a potential subaponeurotic space that allows fluids and blood to pass from the scalp to the upper eyelids.

Loose areolar tissue

Areolar tissue loosely connects the epicranial aponeurosis to the pericranium and allows the superficial 3 layers of the scalp to move over the pericranium. Scalp flaps are elevated along a relatively avascular plane in craniofacial and neurosurgical procedures. However, certain emissary veins traverse this layer, which connects the scalp veins to the diploic veins and intracranial venous sinuses.

Pericranium

The pericranium is the periosteum of the skull bones. Along the suture lines, the pericranium becomes continuous with the endosteum. A subperiosteal hematoma, therefore, forms in the shape of the skull bones.

Occipitofrontalis muscle

The occipitofrontalis muscle consists of 2 occipital bellies and 2 frontal bellies. The occipital bellies arise from the superior nuchal lines on the occipital bone. The frontal bellies originate from the skin and superficial fascia of the upper eyelids. The occipital and frontal bellies insert into the epicranial aponeurosis.

Each occipital belly is innervated by the posterior auricular branch of the facial nerve, and each frontal belly is innervated by the frontal branch of the facial nerve. The frontal bellies can raise the eyebrows.

Reference : http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/834808-overview

Scalp Massage Benifits

A scalp massage is ahead massage designed to relax the mind and encourage circulation. Many times, tension is felt within the head and neck, so scalp massages can be very much effective as a stress reducer. Warm oil is massaged throughout the scalp, working to relax tight muscles in the temple and neck regions.

Benefits:

Scalp massage is said to offer a variety of benefits, which may include stress relief, reduction in headaches and migraines, and boost in blood flow stimulation. The increase in blood flow aids in feeding and strengthening the hair follicles, which may cause the hair to grow at a faster rate, as well as aid in the fight to avoid hair loss.  

When your scalp is massaged, the rest of you relax, too. That spillover effect may explain why the scalp massage is gaining popularity at many spas.

A simple shampoo has always included some kneading and stroking, but today many spas are offering services that focus exclusively on the scalp and are even sneaking scalp rubs into treatments for the body.

Origins:

Traditional scalp massages were accompaniments to oil-rich scalp treatments that conditioned the tresses and stimulated the hair follicles for healthy growth. But today’s massages are meant more for relieving tension. You might enjoy an oil-free 20-minute scalp rub while waiting for the moisturizing effects of a body wrap to set in. Or your spa may combine a scalp massage with a reflexology treatment or a facial. Others offer scalp massages with neck-and-shoulder rubs or on their own—with oil optional.

As with any good massage, a scalp massage with tried-and-true techniques can turn a feel-good rub into something with greater benefits. Experts suggest massaging with fingertips and palms as well as using acupressure, which involves applying finger pressure on certain points on the head. Like acupuncture, acupressure is based on the idea that lines of energy (called meridians) run throughout the body and that blockages along these lines cause discomfort, fatigue, and even illness. It’s thought that applying pressure on key points along the lines releases the blocked energy, remedying the problem. To enhance the relaxation effects of the massage, breathe deeply.

Many spas feature scalp massage as an à la carte service on their menu, however, it is also a popular add-on with hair and styling treatments.

Good to know:

Clients should note that oils used during scalp massage are different than what masseurs use while performing a full-body body or back massage. Scalp massage oils may include jojoba oil, olive oil, or sweet almond oil, topped off with an essential oil such as peppermint, rosemary, or lavend