Headaches have many causes, and massage helps some far more than others. Knowing the difference between a tension headache and a migraine will help you use massage safely and effectively.
Tension headaches are the most common type, and the ones massage helps most. They usually feel like a tight band around the head, often driven by tight muscles in the neck, shoulders and jaw. A massage that works the neck, shoulders and base of the skull can ease the tension and reduce both the frequency and intensity of these headaches.
Migraines are a neurological condition, not simply a bad headache, and they need different handling. Massage can help some people manage the muscle tension and stress that build up around migraine attacks, but a firm massage during an active migraine can sometimes make things worse. If you get migraines, gentle relaxation massage between attacks is usually safer than deep work during one.
See a GP promptly if your headaches are sudden and severe, follow a head injury, or come with symptoms like fever, vision changes, weakness or confusion. Recurring headaches are also worth a medical review rather than relying on massage alone.