Hair loss and dandruff are two of the most common scalp concerns faced by both men and women today. Many people turn to shampoos, tonics, or dietary supplements, only to find that the improvements are temporary. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a different perspective, addressing the root causes of these conditions by restoring the body’s internal balance rather than focusing solely on surface symptoms.
TCM Perspective on Hair Loss and Dandruff
In TCM, the condition of the hair reflects the state of the body’s internal systems, particularly the liver, kidney, and blood. Hair loss often arises from qi (energy) deficiency, blood stagnation, heat imbalance, or hormonal disruption. Persistent dandruff, on the other hand, is viewed as a sign of excess heat, dampness, or dryness within the body. Instead of merely treating the scalp, TCM focuses on correcting these internal disharmonies, helping to restore healthy hair growth and a balanced scalp naturally.
Common TCM Diagnosis Patterns
Kidney Yin or Yang Deficiency
A weakened kidney system may cause thinning hair, dryness, and premature greying. This imbalance affects the nourishment of the hair roots, leading to fragile strands and slow regrowth.
Blood Deficiency
When the body lacks sufficient blood or poor circulation exists, hair follicles become undernourished, resulting in weak roots and shedding.
Damp-Heat in the Scalp
This pattern is often associated with oily dandruff, scalp itchiness, and inflammation. It occurs when excess heat combines with moisture, disrupting scalp health and causing irritation.
Liver Qi Stagnation
Stress is a common trigger for this imbalance. When liver qi does not flow smoothly, it can lead to hormonal fluctuations and stress-related hair fall.
TCM practitioners diagnose based on these patterns to develop customised treatments suited to each individual’s body constitution and scalp condition.
TCM Treatment Methods for Hair Loss and Dandruff
Herbal Medicine
Chinese herbs such as He Shou Wu, Dang Gui, and Goji Berries are frequently prescribed to nourish blood, strengthen kidney energy, and improve circulation. Anti-inflammatory herbs may also be included to relieve itching and reduce seborrhoeic dandruff.
Herbal Hair Wash or Topical Application
Herbal rinses made from natural plant blends help calm scalp irritation, balance oil secretion, and encourage follicle growth. These treatments gently detoxify the scalp while improving microcirculation.
Meridian Massage
The Meridian massage stimulates blood flow to the scalp, reduces muscle tension, and regulates hormonal activity. Promoting qi and blood movement, it helps awaken dormant follicles and supports healthier hair growth.
Moxibustion or Gua Sha
These warming and scraping therapies help remove stagnation, enhance circulation, and restore energy flow. They are often used on acupoints near the scalp and neck to relieve tension and encourage regeneration.
Scalp Tuina Massage
This specialised massage technique enhances oxygen delivery to the follicles, improves nutrient absorption, and supports natural hair regrowth. It is also deeply relaxing, helping to reduce stress, a major factor in both dandruff and hair loss.
Lifestyle and Diet Recommendations
In TCM, recovery doesn’t end with treatments; daily habits play a vital role in maintaining scalp health. Practitioners often recommend managing stress, ensuring adequate sleep, and following a balanced diet. Foods such as black sesame, walnuts, seaweed, eggs, leafy greens, and bone broth nourish the blood and kidneys. It’s best to avoid spicy, fried, or sugary foods that can aggravate damp-heat and worsen dandruff. Staying hydrated and engaging in moderate exercise further supports healthy circulation and scalp balance.
Expected Results and Treatment Duration
Results depend on individual health and the severity of the condition. Some patients notice reduced scalp irritation, less shedding, and improved hair texture within several weeks, while others may require a few months of consistent treatment. TCM emphasises gradual, long-term recovery through personalised care rather than quick fixes.
Restore Scalp Balance the Natural Way
Unlike conventional treatments that only mask symptoms, TCM provides holistic, root-cause solutions for both hair loss and dandruff. By nourishing the body from within, it helps restore balance, improve scalp health, and promote natural regrowth.
If you’ve been struggling with persistent hair or scalp issues, consult Beijing 101 to discover a customised treatment plan designed for your unique needs. Schedule a consultation today and take the first step towards naturally healthy, beautiful hair.
