Japanese Head Spa in Santa Monica
named one of LA's best head spas by the LA Times ✶Santa Monica's first Japanese Head Spa. Scalp Nirvana is a slow, multi-step scalp ritual: a microscope scalp check, a deep cleanse of the hair and scalp, a scalp gel with steam, a long relaxing scalp massage and a soothing scalp moisturizer, all with Milbon, Japan's leading professional hair care brand.
Skincare for your scalp.
Japanese head spa is a centuries-old ritual rooted in holistic wellness, with influences from Indian Ayurvedic practice. It treats the scalp the way a great facial treats your skin: clear away buildup, calm and hydrate, and give your mind a real rest. You leave with a clean, refreshed scalp and soft, healthy-looking hair.
SkinGuru was the first spa in Santa Monica to offer a Japanese Head Spa, and the Los Angeles Times named us one of the best head spas in LA. If you'd rather not be in a busy spa with rows of massage beds, this is for you. We welcome one guest at a time in a private suite, so your scalp specialist's attention is entirely on you, from the first scalp check to the last minute of massage.
Every session starts with a look at your scalp under a microscope, so we can see buildup, oiliness and overall scalp health and tailor the treatment to you. Before you leave, we'll recommend an at-home routine to keep your results going.
- Detoxifies the scalp and hair and lifts product buildup
- Restores volume and lightness at the roots
- Helps with flakes, oiliness and scalp odor
- Eases tension in the head, neck and around the eyes
- Deeply relaxes the body and mind
Just across from Tocaya Organica on Wilshire, an easy stop from anywhere on the Westside.
See the ritual.
The ritual, step by step.
-
01
Microscope scalp check
We look closely at buildup, oiliness and overall scalp health, then tailor your treatment.
-
02
Deep cleanse
A thorough cleanse of the hair and scalp to lift oil, impurities and product buildup.
-
03
Scalp gel & steam
A detoxifying scalp gel with warm steam softens buildup and boosts circulation while you relax.
-
04
Scalp massage
A slow, Japanese-style massage to release tension in the scalp, neck and shoulders.
-
05
Conditioning
Hair conditioning with Milbon. The Medium and Max add our 5-step deep conditioning treatment.
-
06
Scalp moisturizer
A soothing finish to calm and hydrate, plus at-home recommendations to keep results going.
Mini, Medium or Max.
Scalp Nirvana Mini
Microscope scalp check, deep cleanse, scalp gel and steam, relaxing massage, hair conditioning and a soothing scalp moisturizer.
Book Scalp Nirvana Mini →Scalp Nirvana Medium
Everything in the Mini, plus our 5-step deep conditioning treatment and a longer massage.
Book Scalp Nirvana Medium →Scalp Nirvana Max
Everything in the Medium, plus a mini iS Clinical facial.
Book Scalp Nirvana Max →One guest at a time in our private suite. Booking for two? We'll schedule you back-to-back. Milbon Gold scalp upgrade: $44.
Before your visit
What is a Japanese Head Spa?
A head spa treatment that began in Japan and draws on Ayurvedic tradition. It combines a deep scalp cleanse, a relaxing head massage and conditioning for both scalp and hair, so you leave with a clean, buildup-free scalp and a calm mind.
What are the benefits?
It detoxifies the scalp and hair, restores lightness and volume at the roots, helps with flakes, oiliness and odor, eases tension and eye strain, and deeply relaxes the body and mind.
Can two people come at the same time?
We treat one guest at a time in a private suite, so friends and family book back-to-back appointments. While one of you is being treated, the other is welcome to wait in our waiting area or relax in the treatment room.
Can I come with hair extensions?
Yes. We regularly work with tape-ins, hand-tied wefts and keratin bonds, and we avoid tension and product near the bonds. If yours were just installed, please wait 7 days before booking, and mention them when you book.
Will my hair be styled after?
We towel-dry and detangle, but we don't style hair. If you'd like a blow-dry, book one with our partner salon, Hair by Mr. Klein, downstairs.
What products do you use?
Milbon, Japan's leading professional hair care brand for more than 60 years. Ask about the Milbon Gold scalp upgrade ($44). The Scalp Nirvana Max also includes a mini iS Clinical facial.
Which level should I choose?
The Mini is a great first visit. Choose the Medium for deeper conditioning, or the Max to add a mini facial. Not sure? Book a free 30-minute Scalp Consultation and we'll look at your scalp under the microscope and recommend the best fit, including whether Keravive would help.