If you’ve been online looking for ways to grow your hair, chances are you’ve come across the inversion method. The inversion method is said to help you grow your hair an extra inch or two per month.

Proponents of the method believe that hanging your head upside down increases blood flow to the scalp, stimulating hair growth. Some methods even suggest doing a headstand, handstand, or using an inversion table.

The fact is, no studies have been done that either prove or disprove the inversion method’s ability to boost hair growth. However, some methods recommend massaging your scalp with essential oil before or during inversion. And there’s evidence that scalp massage can stimulate hair growth. In addition, certain essential oils have been shown to promote hair growth.

Read on to learn more about the inversion method for hair growth, and what the research says.

The inversion method for hair growth appears to be an internet phenomenon. However, there doesn’t appear to be any research available on the effect of inversion on hair growth.

That said, the method isn’t entirely without merit when combined with scalp massage. There’s some evidence that scalp massage may increase hair thickness in some people. A small, 2016 study found standardized scalp massage increased hair thickness in healthy men.

A more recent and larger survey showed that, of the 327 participants who massaged their scalp from 11 to 20 minutes per day for approximately 6 months, 68.9 percent reported stabilization in hair loss and regrowth. The results were similar in all ages and genders, but those with overall hair loss, rather than specific areas of thinning, showed slightly less improvement.

Some websites suggest massaging with a diluted essential oil, such as peppermint oil or lavender oil, into the scalp when using the inversion method. Both lavender and peppermint essential oils have been shown to stimulate hair growth in animal studies.

Essential oils should be diluted with carrier oil, such as grapeseed oil or jojoba oil before applying to the scalp. A number of other essential oils for hair have shown promise for hair growth, including rosemary oil and cedarwood oil.

The inversion method for hair growth hasn’t been studied so there are no safety guidelines available. While hanging your head between your legs to flip your hair isn’t likely to do any harm, hanging upside down can affect your body. The risks depend on your health and any underlying conditions. How long you hang your head also matters.

Your blood pressure increases and your heart rate slows when you hang upside down for more than a few minutes. Holding this position can also cause strain on your back and neck, and cause dizziness.

The inversion method isn’t recommended if you’re pregnant or have:

Here’s how to use the inversion method. The use of oil is optional, but since some oils have been shown to stimulate hair growth, they may be worth incorporating.

First, stimulate your hair follicles with an essential oil scalp massage:

  1. Dilute three to five drops of the essential oil of your choice with a carrier oil, such as argan oil, olive oil, or coconut oil.
  2. Apply the oil to your clean hair, focusing on the scalp, and then comb through to the ends.
  3. Gently massage your scalp with your fingers, using a circular motion and alternating between clockwise and counterclockwise for 4 to 5 minutes.

Second, hang your head upside down to increase blood to flow to your scalp:

  1. Sit on a chair with your knees apart and hang your head down below your heart.
  2. Use your hands to flip all of your hair forward so it’s hanging upside down.
  3. Hold this position for 4 minutes. If you begin to feel dizzy, weak, or any other discomfort, don’t continue.
  4. Sit up, raising your head slowly to avoid a head rush or dizziness.
  5. Wash your hair thoroughly to remove all of the oil.
  6. Repeat daily for one week each month.

If you’re looking to grow hair faster, maintaining a healthy scalp and hair can help reduce breakage and make hair appear fuller.

To maintain healthier, stronger hair:

  • Eat foods high in protein, such as lean meats, beans, and eggs.
  • Add more omega-3 fatty acid to your diet with foods like salmon, flaxseed, and walnuts.
  • Get more zinc with a supplement or foods high in zinc, such as leafy greens.
  • Avoid shampoos and hair products containing harsh chemicals.
  • Avoid exposing your hair to high heat, such as hot water, flat irons, and high-heat drying.
  • See your doctor about any excessive hair loss.

No research exists on the inversion method for hair growth. However, unless you have an underlying medical condition or are pregnant, it shouldn’t hurt to give it a try. There may be prescription or other options for hair growth your healthcare provider can suggest.

There’s evidence that massaging your scalp with certain oils can help improve your hair’s health and thickness. An aromatherapy massage can also be quite relaxing.

If you’re going to give the inversion method a try, be sure to stop if you feel any dizziness or discomfort.

Don’t hesitate to speak to a doctor or healthcare provider if you experience new or significant hair loss. They can rule out any underlying medical issues, such as a hormonal imbalance.