Yes, head spas are a thing in South Korea. Yes, they’re worth every Won.
Between international travel, LCC economy seats, and extra work projects, I’ve been feeling a bit more frazzled and stiff than usual. So when I found myself in Seoul with a couple free hours in between appointments, I knew exactly where I wanted to go.
Months ago, I had seen an Instagram ad for Slow Head Spa, and naturally, it piqued my interest. After realizing it was close to Gimpo International Airport, I saved it in my Naver map for when I would fly in or out of Gimpo, which normally serves domestic routes and nearby Asian cities. Because the spa is only two metro stops or ten minutes from Gimpo, it would be a great stop to or from the airport if you’re traveling light (there’s no elevator in this building; see my accessibility notes below).
Environment
I got my treatment done on the private second floor which had a muted and modern interior. It was dimly lit and quiet, with the occasional street noise seeping through. The space is air-conditioned, and I was given an incredibly soft and thick blanket to use in case I got chilly.
Service
You’ll be led to a small changing room where you’ll change out of your clothes and change into a robe for the treatment. The aesthetician will examine your hair and scalp, and depending on your scalp type, she may make some recommendations for different types of oils. My scalp is pretty conventional, so I was offered a choice of oils. The shortest and most basic treatment is the “70-minute organic oils head spa” (오가닉/친환경 헤드스파 70분) which doesn’t include the iconic carbonated “head bath” that you see featured in their marketing videos. (But you can always opt for the add-on for 12,000 KRW if you have the time.)
As you can see from the Reel I made, the sound of water flowing and dripping was incredibly relaxing and just what I needed to decompress after a hectic day. The movements, and even the voice of the aesthetician were all slow and intentional, adding to the quiet and relaxing ambiance.
After the treatment, the aesthetician will simply blow dry your hair with a Dyson dryer, but keep in mind this isn’t a hair salon. If you’re particular about your hair style, I recommend bringing your own hair tools to style your hair to your liking before you leave the spa.
If you’re looking for a quiet 70-minute spa experience in Seoul for your head and hair, especially before or after a flight from Gimpo Airport, I can’t think of a better option than Slow Head Spa.
How to get there
Slow Head Spa (슬로우헤드스파)
- Address: 2–3 Floor, 66, Yangcheonro 24-gil, Gangseo-gu, Seoul (서울 강서구 양천로24길 66 2-3F)
- Tel: 02-1644-5690
- Closest station: Sinbanghwa Station (Line 9) (9호선 신방화역)
- Accessibility: No elevator; located on second and third floors. Requires one flight of stairs to the second floor.
- Languages spoken: Unknown. I didn’t ask because I didn’t know I would share this online, but I’ll ask next time!
- Good to know: They usually have some kind of promotion going on and currently all first-time visitors receive 5% off all services.