Jakarta, Indonesia – Could the secret to healthier, fuller hair lie in the way you wash it? Maria Roberts, a professional hair stylist and founder of Madart x Studio 25, discovered an intriguing hair-washing practice while attending a training program in Japan. According to Vogue, the focus of Japanese hair care is not just on the hair strands, but also on maintaining a healthy scalp—a crucial factor for hair growth.

Scalp Massage to Stimulate Blood Flow One of the key methods in Japanese hair care is massaging the scalp to boost circulation. Most stylists in Japan use two silicone scalp brushes, one on each side of the head, to create a systematic massage that cleans thoroughly and stimulates blood flow.

“The best way to perform a scalp massage is to start at the back of the head, move upwards, and focus on the crown, where nerve endings are denser,” Roberts explains. Using the two brushes in combination with shampoo provides a strong effect, not only promoting hair growth but also relieving tension in the scalp. Even at home, a gentle scalp massage can ease stress and leave hair feeling cleaner and healthier.

Hydrate the Scalp with Hair Oils Maintaining a hydrated scalp is another essential step for fuller hair. “The scalp is like soil for flowers—the healthier it is, the better the chances for strong hair,” says dermatology specialist Dr. Morgan Rabach. In Japan, it’s common to apply hair oil to the scalp before shampooing. This helps restore the scalp’s natural balance and keeps it cleaner for longer periods.

Hair oils are widely used in Japanese daily routines, not only before washing but also as part of regular hair care. Historically, Geishas applied camellia oil while combing their hair to add shine and nourishment. Modern Japanese practices continue this tradition, emphasizing scalp health as the foundation for beautiful hair.

Gentle Drying to Prevent Breakage Drying hair carefully is just as important. Roberts emphasizes avoiding harsh rubbing, which can cause breakage. In Japan, stylists often minimize the use of blow dryers, preferring to gently towel-dry hair first. Soft microfiber towels or cotton fabrics are commonly used to absorb moisture while keeping hair smooth and reducing frizz.

After the hair is partially dried, tangles are carefully combed out to prevent damage. This slow and deliberate approach helps maintain hair strength and supports long-term growth.

A Holistic Approach to Hair Health Japanese hair-washing techniques demonstrate a holistic approach to hair care—combining massage, hydration, and gentle handling to create a foundation for healthy, voluminous hair. For those seeking stronger, shinier locks, adopting these methods may offer a practical, science-backed path to better hair health without relying solely on commercial products.