I'm a self-confessed self-care tragic – whether it's a simple sheet mask in the tub or a bougie facial followed by a soak in a mineral springs pool, if there's a chance to grab five minutes of zen time, I'm going to grab it.
So obviously I jumped at the opportunity to visit Tokyo Headspa's very first standalone flagship salon in Melbourne. The brainchild of founder Nozomi Oshima – whose love for scalp and hair rituals developed as a teenager living in Japan – Tokyo Headspa first launched in Sydney in 2022. There are now three locations in the Harbour City (my colleagues are big fans of the Bondi Junction clinic) and two in Brisbane.
The Melbourne salon is situated on High Street in Armadale, and it's a calming, quiet sanctuary that feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of the busy shopping strip outside. Designed by Rebecca Vulic of X+O Design Studio, it boasts a timber fitout with warm lantern lighting and soft music playing. The team are immediately welcoming upon my arrival, and I'm invited to pick a traditional yukata (I opt for the pink floral one, duh) and comfy slippers to wear for the duration of my appointment.
Tokyo Headspa specialises in offering an authentic Japanese head spa experience that incorporates hair washing, scalp therapy, facial reflexology and upper body massage. The treatment beds and products have been imported direct from Japan, and all therapists have undergone extensive training in the centuries-old art by Oshima herself.
I'm here for the original head bath, which includes a double shampoo, condition and serum, followed by the most heavenly scalp massage and plenty of time luxuriating under the water fountain. All enjoyed while you're cosy and wrapped up in a plush blanket on a soft reclining bed. Natsuho is my therapist, and she is an expert in her craft – she's gentle but knows when to apply just the right amount of pressure to lull you into a whole new state of bliss. And even with my long, easy-to-knot hair there was no pulling or tugging as she combed out the tangles.
The treatment finishes with a simple blow dry (there's a DIY station with styling tools if you need) and a cup of herbal tea in the quiet tranquility lounge. It's the perfect opportunity to slowly come back down from whatever dream-like state you're guaranteed to be in, and run your fingers through your silky and uber-soft hair, of course.
As far as indulgent wellness treatments go, this is up there as one of my ultimate faves. The benefits of a visit to Tokyo Headspa include stress-relief, improved sleep quality and hair vitality – and it's even said to promote anti-aging. I can absolutely vouch for the first three, and it was undoubtedly the best hair wash of my entire life. Consider me converted.
For more information and to make a booking, visit the Tokyo Headspa website.
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