Lying Down for Hair Washing Causes Insufficient Blood Flow to the Brain
Zhang Ling (pseudonym), a civil servant at a government agency, found a new favorite lunchtime spot when a Thai-style hair salon opened next to her workplace. The so-called Thai hair wash essentially involves lying down for a shampoo combined with massage, taking about 40 minutes—perfectly matching Zhang Ling's usual office nap time.Zhang Ling became utterly hooked on Thai-style hair washing. Not only could she enjoy a massage while napping, but it also saved her the trouble of washing her hair at home. She visited the salon every other day. Strangely, however, after the salon opened, more people in the office began complaining of neck pain or dizziness.One day, after a blissful session, Zhang Ling stood up only to feel the world spinning violently. Her limbs felt as if they'd been wrenched from her body, utterly drained of strength. Glancing in the mirror, she was horrified: her reflection showed stiff facial muscles and a bizarre expression, as if she'd suffered facial paralysis.
In truth, cases like Zhang Ling's—where hair washing leads to illness—are not uncommon.Nowadays, many hair salons offer customers the option to lie down for a shampoo. While this may provide temporary comfort, the position often places the head lower than the body, requiring customers to recline with their heads tilted back. This posture is particularly dangerous for office workers over 30.
Modern work pressures are immense. Data indicates cervical spondylosis affects 16% of the general population, with rates significantly higher among white-collar workers over 30. Prolonged supine hair washing compresses the arteries in the back of the neck, reducing blood flow to the brain.For individuals already suffering from cervical spondylosis, this posture further exacerbates the existing poor blood flow. Not only does it worsen the condition, but it can also cause symptoms like Zhang Ling's—dizziness, nausea, and a sensation of the world spinning after washing. In severe cases, it may lead to fainting on the spot or even blood clot formation, triggering a stroke.
Experts therefore advise that while occasional Thai-style hair washing is acceptable (except for those with heart disease or stroke history), it should never be adopted as a routine health practice.When lying down for a hair wash, it's best to have the stylist place a towel under your neck to prevent excessive head tilt. After the wash, avoid sudden movements—gently lift your head, slowly sit upright, and gently rotate your neck to restore normal blood flow.
Beyond posture, another major risk of frequent salon visits lies in stylists' long nails. As common knowledge dictates, nails are prime breeding grounds for bacteria. While ordinary people trim nails for hygiene, stylists often grow them long and sharp for professional reasons.