The treatment
While relaxation is a high priority, Cloud Twelve’s offering comes with an education piece, too. Prior to the treatment, my therapist took some time to explain how head massage boasts a variety of benefits. Given that the head has more touch receptors than other parts of the body, it is incredibly responsive to stimulation.The scalp in particular contains a lot of nerve endings, making it especially sensitive to touch. Having your scalp rubbed can also trigger the release of feel-good hormones like dopamine and serotonin, and can even induce ASMR. In short, the head is a great place to focus attention during wellness treatments.
After explaining the benefits, my therapist conducted a thorough scalp analysis to identify any problems and tailor my treatment accordingly. Issues like hair loss will require an energising treatment, while dry and sensitive scalps will benefit from a calming facial. The analysis is informed by findings from a dermascope technology (a scalp camera), which magnifies the scalp and shows things like overall health, hair density, and pores. It was fascinating to see the level of detail projected onto the iPad from the camera and ensured we had a really accurate picture of my main scalp concerns.
Since moving to London from Australia I have noticed mild hair loss as a result of the hard water. Through the camera, we also discovered areas suffering from buildup, which is caused by the limescale in hard water. With this in mind, my therapist opted for the energising scalp facial.
From here, the treatment began, and as I lay back on the bed and surrendered fully.
Each of the 17 steps play out in a careful, chronological order, designed for maximum results. A detoxifying clay scalp mask is washed away by a refreshing waterfall rinse, while the herbal steam mist opens the hair cuticles before an active scalp treatment is applied. This particular package also included a face, neck and décolleté massage which was a beautiful, added bonus.
Overall, the experience was incredibly sensory, with my therapist using her hands and a range of tools to invigorate my roots. My personal favourite was the electric scalp massagers which felt like multiple little hands melting all my troubles away.
By the end, my scalp both looked and felt squeaky clean - I was shown the results on the dermascope for proof!
I was also very kindly offered a blow-dry at the end of my experience, which can be added on for £40. This really left me with a salon-level finish and a bounce and shine which lasted for days afterwards.
