Significance

• According to the Encyclopedia of Hair, the hair is traditionally considered an important part of the appearance in China. Neglect of the hair might signify extreme grief or illness. Cutting the hair could be regarded as disfiguring and disrespectful, since Confucianism regards the entire body as a gift from one's parents. It is traditional to shave an infant's hair in the first few months, however. This is thought to encourage thicker, sturdier growth afterward. Ancient styles tended to encourage long hair, but China is made up of many ethnic groups, and hair care techniques can vary significantly within the country.
  
  

Combing

• Careful hair grooming is considered important in China. Traditionally, the hair is combed regularly, with up to 500 strokes. Rhino horn combs have been thought to remove excess heat and toxins from the top of the head and may be used to treat hair loss, dullness or headaches. These are generally no longer in use, but sheep and ox horn are still used. Extensive combing is still practiced by traditional Chinese women who wear their hair very long.
  
  

Ginger

• Ginger juice or fresh sliced ginger may be applied directly to the scalp to stimulate healthy hair growth. The tingling sensation is thought to encourage blood flow to the scalp and prevent aging-related hair loss. Vinegar, stinging nettle juice and red chili peppers soaked in wine have also been used, as their "spicy" elements encourage dilation of blood vessels in a way similar to that of ginger.
  
  

Diet

• Walnuts, black sesame seeds and black beans are all eaten for shiny, dark hair and to reverse graying. Dr. Maoshing Ni also recommends flaxseed oil, sesame oil, virgin coconut oil and avocado for people with graying or thinning hair. Other foods rich in essential fatty acids may also be of benefit. Traditional Chinese medicine states that liver problems are the source of hair loss, and that herbal treatments like baked licorice root, red peony and cinnamon bark may help restore the body's internal balance.
  
  

Rice Water

• Women in Huangluo, China, as well as throughout Southeast Asia, traditionally avoid shampoo. Instead, they wash their hair once every two to three days using water which has previously been used to rinse rice. Rice water is also used on the face and is thought to prevent premature aging. Its helpful properties may be due to antioxidants naturally present in rice or simply to its cool temperature, encourages smooth hair follicles and smaller pores.