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There are plenty of modern products and treatments that promise strong, beautiful and healthy hair. However, people in China have understood hair care’s importance for centuries and have developed techniques and treatments that have stood the test of time.
Keep reading to learn more about the beginnings of Chinese hair care, the traditional techniques and methods and how traditional Chinese medicine has played a role in hair care.
What is Chinese Hair Care?
Chinese hair care is focused on several aspects. First, Chinese hair care products are made from the local ingredients of the region. One of the main ingredients in Chinese hair care products is rice since this grain is widely available in China and has played an important role in society for centuries.
Yao Secret Chinese hair care products are made with local ingredients such as Longji rice, tea bran, pomelo peels, ginger and fleece flower root.
Chinese hair care is also centered around Asian hair, which is typically straight, coarse and thick, compared to other hair types. Chinese hair care incorporates hair care practices based on traditional Chinese medicine. Hair care tools like Yao Secret’s verawood hair sticks are also essential in Chinese hair care.
Why Did Ancient Chinese People Focus on Hair Care?
Hairstyles have played an important role in Chinese society for ages. For example, a hair bun was considered a status symbol in ancient China and Confucianism referred to hair as a gift that should only be cut under certain circumstances.
Hair care is also a time-honored tradition among the Red Yao women in China. Their hair care treatments have been passed down through the generations and they use natural ingredients that symbolize their connection with nature. Hair care importance among the Red Yao women is engrained in their culture.
When Did Chinese Hair Care Practices Originate?
While the exact date of Chinese hair care practices is hard to pinpoint, hair care and styling were a focal point in Chinese society as early as the Tang Dynasty (618-907). Natural treatments such as rice water for hair also originated during the Tang Dynasty.
Techniques and Methods in Chinese Hair Care
One of the most popular and effective methods in Chinese hair care is using rice water to treat the hair. Rice water was a cost-effective and natural way for people in ancient China to treat their hair.
Rice water is rich in vitamins, minerals and amino acids, all of which contribute to a healthy scalp and strong, beautiful healthy hair.
Herbal infusions also played an important role in Chinese hair care. Ginger, lemongrass and fleece flower root all have specific properties and can be used to treat specific hair conditions.
Traditional Tools and Implements
Hair sticks are a popular type of tool used in traditional Chinese hair care. Women use hair sticks to hold their hair in place and for ornamental purposes. Hair sticks made from natural materials like verawood slide easily into the hair, which prevents hair damage and split ends caused by tugging.
Combs are traditional hair care tools used around the world for centuries. In ancient China, women used combs to keep their long, straight hair healthy and untangled. Combs made from natural materials like verawood absorb essential oils from the hair and scalp and distribute them evenly throughout the hair.
The Role of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in Hair Care
Chinese hair care also incorporates elements of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), such as:
● Acupressure
A key component of TCM in hair care. During a scalp massage known as tui na, a practitioner massages acupressure points on the scalp, improving blood circulation to nourish the scalp.
● Acupuncture
Acupuncture is when practitioners insert small needles into points on the body to stimulate blood circulation in the scalp and promote hair growth. TCM also uses herbs like ginseng, fleece flower root and reishi to make stronger, healthier hair.
● Diet and lifestyle
TCM acknowledges the impact of diet and lifestyle on overall health, including hair health. TCM practitioners can help people identify diet or lifestyle changes that improve hair health. For example, eating foods such as dark leafy greens, sprouts and legumes can nourish the blood and support healthy hair.
In conclusion
While some people may dismiss ancient hair care practices and opt for more modern solutions, traditional Chinese hair care includes an abundance of knowledge, treatments and hair care tools that can make for strong, beautiful hair.
Hair care has played an important role in Chinese society for centuries. As a result, the people in ancient China developed hair care treatments like rice water for hair in combination with TCM. Ancient hair care is focused on natural products and methods to achieve healthy hair.
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