Salon treatment
Korean scalp treatment
A salon protocol that typically combines scalp analysis, exfoliation, targeted ampoules, steam or LED and massage, with a strong focus on scalp condition rather than hair styling.
Grew out of Korean scalp-care and salon culture · Korea
Indicative cost
£50.00–£150.00 per session
Where it's done
Salon · Clinic
How long
45–75 minutes
Intensity
Gentle
Downtime
None. Occasional tingling from active ampoules.
Typical course
Courses of four to eight sessions are commonly recommended
Total course cost
£400–£1,200 for a full course
When people notice a change
Comfort and flaking often improve within one to three sessions. Density changes are not something to expect.
Keeping it up
Every four to six weeks
What it's used for
Used with the aim of a balanced, comfortable scalp and a healthier-looking base for the hair.
How it works
Exfoliation lifts build-up and dead skin, ampoules deliver soothing or sebum-balancing ingredients, and heat or light steps are used to aid absorption and comfort.
What a session actually involves
After a scalp assessment, the scalp is cleansed and exfoliated, an ampoule is applied section by section, and steam or an LED step follows. Massage and a rinse finish. It feels clinical and precise rather than spa-like.
What people usually consider it for
- Oily scalp
- Dry or itchy scalp
- Flakes or dandruff
- Sensitive scalp
- Thinning or shedding
This reflects what the treatment is commonly used for — not a claim that it will work for you.
Who tends to find it worthwhile
- — People with flaking, oiliness or scalp discomfort
When it may not be suitable
- You have undiagnosed hair loss or a scalp condition — see a GP or trichologist first
- You have an active scalp infection or open sores
This list is not exhaustive. A qualified practitioner should assess you before any treatment.
Risks and side effects
- Irritation from active ampoules
- Dryness if over-exfoliated
Things to weigh up
- — Course pricing can be significant — check what is guaranteed
- — Not a diagnosis
What the evidence looks like
Scalp exfoliation and sebum management are plausible for comfort and flaking. Claims about regrowth from salon protocols are not established.
Questions worth asking first
Ask what is in the ampoules and whether the course price is fixed. Persistent flaking or hair loss deserves a GP or trichologist first.
If you'd rather not book
- — A scalp exfoliant once a week and a leave-on scalp serum a few times a week
Products that sit alongside it
- scalp exfoliator
- scalp serum
- gentle shampoo
What tends to sit alongside it
- Scalp serum
- Scalp exfoliator
Others people compare it with
Treatments and devices are listed for information only. Nothing here is medical advice, a diagnosis, or a promise of a result. Suitability depends on your health, skin and the specific device or practitioner — always check with a qualified professional first. We don't take bookings or refer you to providers. Last reviewed 2026-09-09.