11 Hair Growth Secrets from India's Longest-Haired Communities

3. Scalp-first approach: massage and hygiene

Traditional hair care often begins at the scalp. In many homes, the saying is simple: take care of the scalp, and the hair follows. Gentle scalp massage increases blood flow and helps the hair follicles stay healthy, while careful cleansing removes buildup so roots can breathe. A common routine is short daily massages and a deeper oil massage once or twice a week. Technique matters: use the pads of your fingers, apply gentle pressure in circular motions, and keep movements slow. This gives the scalp a soothing boost without causing stress to the hair. For cleansing, many households alternate herbal cleansers with mild shampoos rather than stripping the scalp regularly. Overly aggressive cleaning and scratching can damage the skin and cause more hair loss. Keep products mild, rinse thoroughly, and listen to how your scalp responds. A scalp-first routine supports long, strong hair by addressing the root environment rather than only treating strand-level problems.