Japanese Hair Washing Routine for Healthier Growth

A Vogue article explores Japanese hair washing techniques as a path to healthier hair growth, drawing on insights from hairstylist Maria Roberts, founder of Madrid's Madart x Studio 25 salon, who trained in Japan. The routine emphasizes scalp care, which is now the fastest-growing beauty category in the U.S., with ingredients like AHAs, BHAs, and exosomes gaining popularity. Roberts recommends using at least two silicone massaging brushes to stimulate blood circulation and deep-clean the scalp, starting at the back of the head and focusing on the crown, where nerve endings are concentrated. This method not only promotes growth but also relieves tension. Dermatologist Morgan Rabach of LM Medical compares the scalp to soil for hair, underscoring its importance. Pre-shampoo oiling is common in Japan, with oils like camellia (historically used by geishas) rebalancing the scalp and adding shine. Drying techniques also matter: squeezing excess water without twisting, using microfiber towels or cotton t-shirts to reduce frizz, and minimizing hairdryer contact to prevent scalp dryness and breakage. The article includes product recommendations, such as scalp exfoliators and microfiber towels, and invites readers to email Vogue's beauty editor with further questions.