Have you noticed that people from Kerala often seem to have thick, healthy, well-maintained hair? A curious viewer named Babu asked exactly this — and the answer is more interesting than coincidence.
In this article based on his educational video, Dr. John Watts — dermatologist, trichologist and hair transplant surgeon in Hyderabad with over 2,000 transplant procedures behind him — explores the secrets of Kerala hair and the habits behind it.
Genetics plays a role
Dr. Watts begins with the genetic makeup of a population in a specific area. "This is a factor that needs to be taken into account in the case of Kerala people but this is not all as they are known to have unique food and hair care habits as well," he explained.
However, genetics cuts both ways. Genetic baldness does not distinguish between people in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Telangana or the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. "Wherever they are, genetic baldness can happen and the only way to treat is through preventive steps or a hair transplant procedure," he said.
The fresh coconut oil ritual
Among Kerala's unique hair care habits, Dr. Watts highlighted the use of fresh coconut oil. "Fresh coconut hair oil is useful in protecting the hair from external damage from dust, sunlight, wind and smoke," he explained.
Keralites habitually apply coconut oil before and after their daily bath as part of their regular regimen. According to Dr. Watts, this protects the hair from the harmful effects of chemical shampoos.
"They apply the coconut oil to their hair strands. Such application of hair oil before taking bath also helps the hair from losing essential protein," he informed.
Food habits that support hair health
Kerala's food culture also strengthens its hair care advantage — from using coconut oil in cooking to regularly consuming both fresh and saltwater fish.
"In fish, we find Omega Fatty acids which are very important in hair health," explained Dr. Watts.
They act early, not late
Perhaps the most underrated secret: attention and timing. "They also face hair loss problems but they seem to attend to the hair issues early and do not neglect the hair health," explained Dr. Watts. Kerala people, in general, pay attention to their hair care rather than ignoring early warning signs.
The bottom line
Kerala's famously healthy hair comes from a combination of genetics, a fresh coconut oil routine that shields hair from dust, sun and chemical shampoos, a fish-rich diet supplying omega fatty acids, and — crucially — the habit of treating hair problems early. Genetic baldness can still strike anyone, anywhere, but consistent care and early action make a visible difference.
This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Consult a qualified dermatologist for diagnosis and treatment.
Frequently asked questions
Why do people in Kerala tend to have healthy hair?
It is a combination of the genetic makeup of the population, unique hair care habits like applying fresh coconut oil, fish-rich food habits, and the tendency to address hair problems early.
How does coconut oil help Kerala hair?
Fresh coconut oil protects hair from external damage caused by dust, sunlight, wind and smoke. Applying it before a bath also helps the hair retain essential protein and protects it from chemical shampoos.
Do Keralites also get genetic baldness?
Yes. Genetic baldness does not distinguish by region — it can happen anywhere, and the only treatments are preventive steps or a hair transplant procedure.
What food habits in Kerala support hair health?
Using coconut oil in food preparation and regularly eating fresh and saltwater fish, which provide omega fatty acids that are very important for hair health.
