Will Turning Your Head Upside Down Boost Hair Growth? Hair Pros Weigh In On the Viral Inversion Method
Learn if this technique is too good to be true
We’ve all heard those crazy claims when it comes to hair growth that brands or people on the internet swear grew their hair 3 inches overnight (in case you were wondering, no, that’s just not possible). Sure, there absolutely are viral hair growth tips out there that do actually work, such as using Rogaine or rosemary oil, but not every trend you see is backed by science. One of the most popular hair trends that’s been circling the internet for years is the inversion method for hair growth. We wanted to settle the debate on whether the inversion method actually works, so we talked to two hair experts (a doctor and a nurse practitioner, each specializing in hair loss) to get their thoughts on the trend, if they recommend it and more.
What is the inversion method hair growth trend?
The inversion method is very buzzy on #hairtok (a.k.a. the hair content side of TikTok) at the moment, but it’s been a trend for quite a few years now. “I remember this gaining traction in the early 2010s—it really took off on YouTube and Reddit,” affirms Ross Kopelman, DO, a hair restoration surgeon.
Essentially, the inversion method centers around the idea of promoting blood flow to stimulate hair growth. “The inversion method involves tilting your head upside down for a few minutes each day to increase blood flow to the scalp,” says Dr. Kopelman.
Jodi LoGergo, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, a nurse practitioner certified in family medicine and dermatology, adds on, saying, “The thought is that it will enhance circulation to the scalp, possibly promoting hair growth and improving overall scalp health.”
Usually, the inversion method is accompanied by a scalp massage, often using oils like rosemary, jojoba or castor.
Some examples of how people have tried the inversion method are by tipping their head upside down over the edge of a bed, tilting their head back over a chair or even doing a headstand or handstand.
Does the inversion method actually work?
While you may hear your favorite influencers and other people online rave about the inversion method for hair growth, it’s important to know that it doesn’t have any clinical evidence. “I’ve had several patients bring it up thinking it might be a miracle fix, and while I appreciate the enthusiasm, I always guide them back to the science,” says Dr. Kopelman.
“It is nothing more than a viral trend. People go online and share their anecdotal stories without adequate scientific evidence backing it,” affirms LoGerfo. “Although we know that increased blood flow could potentially be helpful, the use of inversion for hair growth is anecdotal, unproven and unverified.”
That said, both of our experts are skeptical when it comes to the inversion method and are more likely to recommend treatments backed by studies and science.
Since the inversion method typically involves massaging the scalp, there could be some potential benefits. “I think the biggest benefit is that it encourages consistent scalp massage, which we know helps relax tension and may aid circulation,” says Dr. Kopelman. Plus, LoGerfo says that increased blood flow (which is the idea around the inversion method) can deliver more oxygen and nutrients to the scalp, which could potentially help with hair loss.
But again, “the method itself isn’t proven to boost hair growth,” advises Dr. Kopelman.
Is the inversion method safe?
The main con of the inversion method is that it’s not always the safest practice, especially if you have conditions like high blood pressure or vertigo. “The downsides include that those individuals with certain conditions, like high blood pressure, certain eye issues or spine or neck conditions, may be at risk when using the inversion method. You should always consult a healthcare professional before adopting a practice like the inversion method, especially if you have pre-existing health concerns,” warns LoGerfo.
How to do the inversion method
Both of our experts don’t recommend turning to the trend if you’re trying to grow out your hair. “The inversion method for hair growth is not a recommended treatment so I don’t suggest that anyone try it!” says LoGerfo. “The evidence suggests that you are better off using low-level laser therapy (LLLT) and platelet-rich plasma (PRP)–both have shown promise in treating androgenetic alopecia in recent studies.”
However, if you are determined to try it, it should be non-vigorous and more of a soothing form of self-care. “If someone really wants to try it, I suggest warming a bit of rosemary oil or a scalp serum and doing a 5-minute gentle massage before tipping their head forward—either while sitting in a chair or hanging over the edge of the bed,” says Dr. Kopelman. “It should feel relaxing, not intense. I always tell them: if you’re getting dizzy, stop. This shouldn’t feel extreme.”
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