The Luxurious 18-Step Korean Head Spa at Eco Jardin in Seoul | Personal Experience & Review

The 18-step Korean head spa is the first of its kind. Using specially developed tools, plant-based ingredients, human stem cell culture extract, and even minoxidil – it’s the single most comprehensive scalp treatment available in Seoul.

I finally got my chance to try it out at the brand new Eco Jardin in Jamsil, and it did not disappoint. I left feeling totally relaxed and rejuvenated, with a sparkling clean scalp, and super soft hair. This is one case where social media really cannot do justice to the actual experience I had.

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What is a Korean head spa?

You could think of a head spa in Korea as basically a facial for your scalp. Its purpose is to increase hair strength, and reduce hair loss by deep cleansing impurities, toxins, dandruff, oil, and dead skin cells from your scalp, using a combination of washing, exfoliation, and steaming

These are done in combination with a bunch of special products and devices, which I’ll cover in detail in this guide.

One crucial step of any head spa treatment in Seoul is a deep analysis of the current condition of your scalp. Usually, a camera is used to magnify your scalp, so all the gory details can be seen easily.

I’ve seen my scalp at 50x magnification, and 200x magnification, and trust me, it isn’t pretty (but also strangely addictive).

Korean head spas are great for anyone that dyes or colours their hair because they help to remove harmful chemicals that might impact scalp health, and in turn, the state of your hair.

If you’ve got a sensitive or itchy scalp, like I do, this can help to relieve that too.

What are the benefits of a Korean Scalp Treatment and Head Spa?

Aside from it being an incredibly relaxing and rejuvenating experience, there are some real benefits to getting one of these head spas done while you’re visiting Seoul.

First off, you’ll get to learn all the intimate details about the condition of your scalp. I had always thought my scalp was dry, because of the itchy feeling, but it turns out it’s actually oily. I now have a much better idea of what types of shampoo and conditioner to use in my daily life.

The head spa deep cleanses in a way that’s pretty much impossible at home. Even if you can only do this Korean scalp treatment once, it’s worth it to start with a clean canvas versus one that has layers of build-up on it.

The procedures and products used during a head spa are specifically designed to promote hair growth. This process is continually researched and adapted by salons like Eco Jardin Seoul to give you the best possible outcome.

The increase in blood circulation from scalp massages and head spas are even thought to give you a temporary facelift. I have to say this is true, because when I looked at myself in the mirror after my head spa, I looked completely different!

What’s the difference between a Korean scalp Treatment and Head spa?

My guess is that you saw the completely viral 15-step Korean head spa on social media, and knew you had to try it. I know that’s how I felt!

However, it’s important to know that not all head spas in Seoul are created equal. Some scalp treatments are really simple – not the elaborate multi-step affair you might be expecting. I’ll explain the basic differences as I understand them, so that you end up getting exactly what you signed up for.

Scalp Treatments in Korea

Scalp treatments aren’t new in Korea. You might see them called 탈모 (hair loss) or 두피 (scalp) clinics, and once you see them, you can’t really unsee them. I walk past them in my neighbourhood all the time. I mean they are literally everywhere.

The focus of these is detoxifying the scalp and dealing with hair loss issues. These treatments are usually done in a more clinical setting.

I’ve tried out a couple of these hair loss sessions myself, and while they’re great for what they are, the process can definitely feel a little impersonal, since they’re often done in an open room, along with several other clients. I definitely wouldn’t call it a spa-like experience.

Korean Head Spa

From a Western perspective, a Korean head spa would focus on both scalp care and nourishing the hair, while also being a luxe, relaxing experience. And while some are also conducted in open salon settings, attention is also paid to providing a rejuvenating experience, along with the scalp treatment.

The 15 or 18 step stem cell head spas at Eco Jardin or ParkJun Beautylab would definitely fall into this category… but more on my experience there later.

Side Note: All branches are different of these salons are different, so make sure you check before choosing which one you’ll visit. I’ve read reviews of some chaotic experiences (like maybe stay away from branches in really touristy areas).

Where to Book a Korean Head Spa?

There are quite a few places where you can try out a Korean head spa, not just in Seoul, but around the world. But with the major buzz surrounding them these days, many basic scalp treatments are being marketed as super relaxing head spas, when they’re actually more clinical style treatment sessions.

I’ve seen quite a few travelers disappointed by winding up in a chaotic salon or less than luxurious environment for what’s supposed to be a rejuvenating experience. Make sure to check the details of EXACTLY what’s involved in any head spa you choose to book in Seoul, so you get the treatment you’re looking for.

Why I chose to book at Eco Jardin in Jamsil

I’m a mom to a super-energetic 9 year old (omg, she makes me tired), and I wanted to have a restorative spa day, where I could recharge and relax at the same time. So when I was choosing exactly where to do my head spa in Seoul, I decided to go directly to the source.

That meant going to Eco Jardin. Why, you may ask?

Well, because the 15-step stem cell scalp treatment and head spa was first created at the Eco Jardin branches in Gongdeok and Aeogae. This service was so popular (understandably), that it was expanded to all branches (and even internationally to the Philippines) and new treatments, like the 18-step stem cell head spa were born.

Specifically, I chose to go to the Eco Jardin in Lotte World Mall and I’m so glad I did – not just because it’s close to home, but also because it offers luxurious private rooms for their Korean head spa treatments. Jiho, my stylist, and his assistant took such great care of me from start to finish, I honestly can’t remember the last time I felt so wholly pampered and focused on.

And just to be clear, not every Eco Jardin in Seoul has private treatment rooms and looks like this…

Side Note: Because of the added privacy, Eco Jardin Lotte World Tower branch is extremely hijab friendly – according to Jiho, quite a few travelers end up booking at this location for precisely this reason.

What happened during my Korean Head Spa at Eco Jardin Seoul

Eco Jardin offers both a 15 and an 18-step stem cell head spa.

The 15-step treatment takes 90 minutes, and the 18-step head spa takes 1 hour and 45 minutes.

I’ll cover what’s involved in the 18-step Korean head spa (since that’s the one I had), and also let you know which 3 stages are skipped during the shorter treatment.

1. Microscopic Consultation and Diagnosis

The first step of any head spa or scalp treatment in Korea is a microscopic diagnosis. At Eco Jardin in Seoul, they have an incredible system, where the images from their camera are relayed onto the mirror in front of you in real-time.

The images are magnified 200 times, so you can really see what the condition of your scalp is… however gross that may be. It was so detailed and clear that I was actually able to see dry, flaky skin and oil on my scalp, as well as the dead skin cells stuck to each of my individual hair shafts.

2: Cleaning and Exfoliation with Natural Aroma Oils

The treatment begins with a soothing blend of 5 enriching oils, that aids in preventing hair loss, and promoting hair growth. The blend includes lavender, cypress, and rosemary, and it smells absolutely divine, while also helping to remove dead skin cells, toxins, and impurities. It also stimulates blood circulation.

3: Proprietary Galvanic Sealing Brush

Their special Galvanic Sealing Brush uses both red and blue LED lights to help the scalp absorb the nourishing blend of aroma oils. The red light excites blood vessels to increase circulation, and the blue light moisturizes and soothes those recently opened blood vessels.

You night also feel some gentle vibration from electric currents that help release any tension in the fascia.

4: Invigorating Scalp Scrub

This specialized scrub made with 89% mint extract formula, fruit acids, and AHA exfoliates and detoxifies the scalp. I felt a major cooling sensation during this step of the head spa.

5: Scalp Soothing Pack (Omitted in 15 Step Head Spa)

A gel-like Cassia herb pack is then painted directly onto the scalp to soothe inflammation and cool down scalp fever. It’s packed with antioxidants, so it also strengthens the scalp against bacteria and other harmful toxins.

The Cassia scalp pack is left out of the 15 step head spa, but in my opinion, this was one of the steps I needed most. I flush really easily, and often feel hot, and this step was so incredibly refreshing.

6: Therapeutic Steam Mist

I’m sure you’ve seen videos of this contraption on social media, like I have. It’s essentially a hat that fully covers the head and saturates the scalp with heat and steam. This helps with the absorption of nutrients from all the previous steps.

7: Wrapping (Omitted in 15 Step Care)

The head is wrapped in a towel, so that the Cassia pack has more time to absorb into the scalp.

8: Neck Massage and Suction Machine

I bet you’d be surprised to get a neck massage during a scalp treatment, but at Eco Jardin, they believe that tension in this region can indirectly affect the health of the scalp. I personally carry a ton of tension in my neck and shoulders, so this was definitely one of my favourite parts of the Korean head spa.

They use a special machine that has thermal, galvanic, and suction functions that work together to enhance blood circulation.

The suction part is similar to cupping therapy and might leave a small circular mark on your skin, but it’s great for eliminating toxins from your system.

9: Relaxing Hot Towel

This might not seem like much of a step, but it was done with such care, that it only enhanced my entire head spa experience. It was a surprisingly lovely (and humble) step, that made me feel incredibly pampered.

10: Hair Nourishing Shampoo

At this stage, my hair was infused with a specially formulated mild acid shampoo that’s enriched with biotin, menthol, and panthenol. It also has an incredible 13% human stem cell culture to deeply promote hair growth.

11: Y-Stick Treatment

The Y-stick is a polarized magnetic tool that attracts and removes harmful metals from the scalp. This is perfect for anyone who’s previously had chemical hair treatments like perms or colouring.

12: Muscle Shampoo (Omitted in 15 step scalp care)

If there is one single reason to choose the 18 step stem cell Korean head spa over the 15 step one, this is it.

Once you lay down in Eco Jardin’s specially designed rinse bed, your hair is thoroughly and expertly washed, while you enjoy a massage. If you suffer from an itchy scalp feeling like I do, let’s just say you’re in for a treat.

The shampoo is then gently rinsed out of your hair using a very specific technique that increases circulation and removes waste from the scalp. This hair rinse literally goes on and on… in the best possible way.

To say that this is relaxing would be an understatement to the 1000th degree. I mean, Eco Jardin in Seoul actually had massage beds specially designed for this purpose!

13: Dohi Spa Bed Relaxation

I’m sure you’ve seen the waterfall cascading over people’s scalps during Korean head spas on social media.

Now, imagine the sound of trickling water and serene music in your own private spa room, while enjoying a full body massage at the same time, and you’ll be a little bit closer to understanding the Korean head spa experience at Eco Jardin in Jamsil.

14: Accupressure and Scalp Treatment

An accupressure massage using a treatment formula from Movata aligns meridians and protects the scalp from inflammation, dryness, and dandruff at the same time.

15: Re-diagnosis of Scalp

Finally, it’s time to check the condition of the scalp using Eco Jardin’s diagnostic system.

There was a definite difference, with my scalp clean and moisturized looking, and every hair follicle sparkling clean.

16: Hair Growth Tonic

The Korean head spa isn’t complete until a minoxidil tonic is applied to the detoxified scalp. It’s pharmaceutical grade, and you might know it more by its brand name – Rogaine.

17: T-Stick Infusion

A T-shaped metal tool is used to ensure even distribution of the hair growth tonic into the purified scalp.

18: Styling and Finish

This is the final step of the 18 step stem cell scalp treatment and head spa at Eco Jardin. It’s definitely necessary after the workout your hair and scalp get, and they do an amazing job.

My Korean Head Spa Results

Straight up – if I could afford to do this head spa at Eco Jardin once a month, I’d be all over it.

Aside from the obvious benefits to my scalp and hair, this was such a wonderfully rejuvenating experience. From their private rooms to quality ingredients to total attention and care, this is so much more than just a head spa.

Oh, and my hair and scalp? You know that itchy feeling you get on your scalp, despite regular shampooing? It all but disappeared for quite some time. My hair was also so incredibly soft and clean for way longer than normal.

I do want to stress however, that the results of a Korean head spa aren’t permanent. Life (along with all it’s build-up) does happen after all… so being able to have regular scalp treatments would definitely be the ideal scenario.

This doesn’t mean that I don’t recommend doing this at least once. Once is definitely better than never.

How to Get to Eco Jardin Lotte Tower Branch

Address: B1 level, 300 Olympic-ro, Songpa District, Seoul | 서울특별시 송파구 올림픽로 300, B1

While there are several Eco Jardin locations all over Seoul, the one I went to was the Lotte World Tower Branch in Jamsil.

There’s plenty to see and do in the immediate vicinity of the salon, so you could easily spend an entire day exploring the area at the same time.

While there, you could check out the spectacular Aquagarden Aquarium Cafe, stroll around Seokchon Lake, see panoramic views from Korea’s tallest skyscraper, or spend the day at Lotte World Adventure – Seoul’s biggest indoor amusement park.

All are within easy walking distance of the Eco Jardin in Jamsil.

Eco Jardin is easily accessible using public transit, with the closest subway station being Jamsil Station.

Once you arrive at Jamsil Station, use Exit 1 or 2, and walk straight through to Lotte World Mall. There’s plenty of signage around – just make sure you follow the signs to Lotte WORLD Mall, not Lotte Mall (which is across the street, and accessed using Exits 3 and 4.

Stay on the B1 level and walk through the mall until you see Krispi Kreme. If you’re coming from the Line 2 subway, make a left there, and you’ll see Eco Jardin at the end of this hallway.

Just remember that despite its branch name of Eco Jardin Lotte World Tower, it’s actually located inside Lotte World Mall (NOT Lotte Tower), so don’t make the mistake of trying to find it inside the giant skyscraper.

How to Book at Eco Jardin Seoul?

While you can book the 15 or 18 step stem cell Korean head spa at any Eco Jardin branch in Seoul by calling directly, only the Lotte World Tower branch is bookable online through Creatrip.

This location just opened last November, and it is sparkling clean, spacious, and ultra modern inside. They’re a full service hair salon, so you can also get a haircut, colour, or perm there if you wish.

Some of the staff does speak a little english at the Jamsil location, so you could try calling to make an appointment, but it’s really so much easier to book your Korean head spa at Eco Jardin on Creatrip.

Even better? You’ll get an additional 10% off your treatment price by booking it on there.

To ease your mind – Creatrip is a Korean-owned company that provides booking services to foreign visitors. You can really trust that they have the right ethos and partnerships, because Creatrip is the EXCLUSIVE booking agency for marquee Korean cultural experiences like the Gyeongbokgung Starlight tours.

If Korea’s Cultural Heritage Administration trusts them, you bet you can too.

If a Korean scalp treatment isn’t top of your Seoul beauty bucket list yet, it should be! and Eco Jardin in Lotte World Mall is the place to do it. Don’t hesitate!