Head spa stations with gold-trimmed basins, treatment beds and bamboo at Rio Grande Spa NYC
Hair & Scalp

Relaxing head spa and scalp care in NYC

A head spa is more than a shampoo. It is a calming scalp-care ritual designed to cleanse buildup, refresh the hair and scalp, and release the tension we carry around the head, neck and shoulders.

Therapist cradling a guest's head during a warm-lit scalp massage at a New York City head spa
The Ritual

Thirty quiet minutes can change the whole day

At Rio Grande Spa, guests can choose from Classic, Herbal, Japanese Premium and Carbonated head spa experiences, each available in 30-, 45- and 60-minute options.

You lie back on a cushioned bed with your head resting in a warm basin. Water moves slowly through the hair while the scalp is cleansed section by section. There is no rush, no conversation you have to keep up with, and no screen to look at.

Most guests tell us the same thing afterwards: they did not realize how much tension they were holding above the shoulders until it was gone.

Choose Your Experience

Four head spa treatments

They share the same calm foundation — cleansing, water circulation and scalp massage. What changes is the product line, the depth of the treatment and how long you stay in that quiet state.

Listed prices are cash prices. Card payments may incur an additional fee.

What to Expect

How a head spa unfolds

Exact steps vary according to the treatment you select and the length of your appointment. A typical session moves through these stages.

Settle In

You change into comfortable spa wear if you wish, and we ask a few quick questions about your scalp, hair and any sensitivities before we begin.

Cleanse & Circulate

Scalp cleansing and hair washing in the warm basin, with gently circulating water working through the hair. Steam therapy is used with selected treatments.

Scalp Massage

Slow, methodical scalp massage that continues into the neck and shoulders — the part most guests remember, and the reason many fall asleep.

Finish & Rest

Herbal or premium scalp-care products, drying and finishing care, and a few unhurried minutes before you step back onto Ann Street.

Depending on the treatment selected, your session may include

  • Scalp cleansing and deep buildup removal
  • Hair washing in a warm treatment basin
  • Slow, full scalp massage
  • Enhanced water circulation
  • Steam therapy
  • Neck and shoulder relaxation
  • Herbal or premium scalp-care products
  • Drying and finishing care
Is It for Me?

Who may enjoy a head spa

A head spa is not a haircut and it is not a medical treatment — it is a wellness experience. It may be a good choice for guests who want to:

  • Enjoy a relaxing scalp-cleansing experience
  • Ease tension around the scalp, head, neck or shoulders
  • Refresh the scalp after using styling products
  • Unwind after long hours at a computer
  • Take a peaceful break from a busy schedule
  • Try a unique self-care experience in New York City
Two guests arriving at the Rio Grande Spa reception desk under neon signage in Lower Manhattan
Make It a Longer Escape

Pair your head spa with bodywork

Our most popular booking combines a 60-minute Back & Foot treatment with a 40-minute Head Spa — one hundred minutes for $99.

Rio Special

100 Minutes · $99

60-minute Back & Foot treatment followed by a 40-minute Head Spa.

Head Spa + Facial

Build Your Own

Add a 30- or 45-minute facial after your scalp treatment for a full reset.

Head Spa + Foot Only

Build Your Own

Scalp care above, tired feet below — a favorite after a long day of walking.

Candlelit private treatment room prepared for a head spa session in New York City
Ann Street, Lower Manhattan

Your scalp has had a long week

Head spa appointments are available every day from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Booking ahead is recommended, especially on weekends.

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