Staten Island salon adds wellness suite, offering viral TikTok scalp massage - SILive.com

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STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. – Jessica Porto and Jodi Maida have worked in the beauty business for more than 25 years -- cutting, coloring and styling hair for thousands of clients over that two-decade span -- but they are still continually looking for ways to reinvent.

Jessica Porto, left, and Jodi Maida recently expanded their boutique salon to include a popular – and viral – spa service. (Staten Island Advance/Jan Somma-Hammel) STATEN ISLAND ADVANCE



“We’re always looking to learn new things, try new products and stay updated on our education,” said Porto, who owns and operates Luna Hair Spa in Dongan Hills. “Wellness was the next logical step.”

That’s why the duo recently expanded their boutique salon to include a popular -- and viral -- spa service.

Steam, massage and light therapy are all part of the Japanese scalp massage treatment. (Staten Island Advance/Jan Somma-Hammel) STATEN ISLAND ADVANCE



“We did a lot of research on this, because scalp health is just as important as gut health,” noted Maida, speaking about the salon’s newest service: Japanese scalp massage. “This service not only stimulates all of your senses, it also addresses inflammation, lymphatic drainage and circulation -- there are benefits on so many levels.”

A relaxation room within the wellnes suite offers donuts, coffee and more. (Staten Island Advance/Jan Somma-Hammel)STATEN ISLAND ADVANCE



A holistic treatment that combines steam, massage, cleansing and light therapy to improve the health of your scalp and hair, the Japanese scalp massage has been promoted on TikTok as an effective way to reduce stress and promote healthy hair growth. But Porto said the service does so much more.

“It can help with headaches, fatigue and dandruff,” she said. “It’s not just a simple scalp massage; it is a customized scalp facial that cleanses, detoxifies, and nourishes the scalp while providing a soothing massage.”

Porto demonstrates the new service at Luna Hair Spa. (Staten Island Advance/Jan Somma-Hammel)STATEN ISLAND ADVANCE



The spa room at Luna features two tables for the service, each equipped with a halo device that continuously showers the head in warm water -- a part of the treatment intended to stimulate blood circulation and cleanse the scalp. Light therapy is also used to promote healing and stimulate hair follicles.

For Maida, a stage-three breast cancer survivor, the service has a very personal connection.

“Our ultimate goal is to make people feel good,” Maida said. (Staten Island Advance/Jan Somma-Hammel) STATEN ISLAND ADVANCE



“Anyone can benefit from this -- whether it’s just to relax or maintain healthy hair and scalp,” she said. “But I think it’s particularly beneficial for clients who need some Zen and peace in their lives. If you’re suffering fromhair loss due to disease, hormonal imbalance or illness, this is a treatment you should consider.”

The beauty gurus also said the treatment works well for those with dandruff or itchy and oily scalp. But you don’t need a reason to be pampered.

The Japanese scalp massage takes approximately 60 minutes and includes scalp analysis, treatment, cleansing and light therapy. (Staten Island Advance/Jan Somma-Hammel) STATEN ISLAND ADVANCE



“If you crave the shampoo service that comes along with your cut and color, this takes that experience to a whole new level,” Porto said.

Here’s what you can expect:

Scalp Analysis: A consultation to assess your scalp condition.

Steam treatment: Opens pores and helps nutrients penetrate the scalp.

Deep cleansing: Resets the scalp and removes impurities.

Light therapy: promotes healing, circulation, and stimulates hair follicles.

Exfoliation: Removes dead skin and build up from the scalp.

Massage: Stimulates acupressure points and promotes circulation.

Nourishing oils: The application of oils nourishes follicles.

“Our ultimate goal is to make people feel good,” Maida concluded. “This is a beautiful, peaceful experience -- something that you never knew you needed.”

Luna Hair Spa is located at 28 Hancock St. in Dongan Hills. (Staten Island Advance/Jan Somma-Hammel) STATEN ISLAND ADVANCE



New Businesses in Focus is a column that tells the stories of new Staten Island business owners. If you run a new business on Staten Island and would like to be featured, e-mail jgorman@siadvance.com.

Luna Hair Spa at a Glance

Address: 28 Hancock Street

Phone: 718-667-0314

Website: www.lunahairspa.com

Instagram: @lunahairspa