Whether you’ve had the opportunity to travel the world or not, there’s no doubt that you’ve noticed the beautiful hair of men and women across the globe and wondered what their secret might be.

It seems as if every country has its own set of special ingredients and unique beauty routines. That’s why we did a little digging to discover some of the top natural haircare routines from around the world.

Fortunately, you don’t have to travel far to unlock these secrets as you can get all of these ingredients right where you live.

Eucalyptus oil

Eucalyptus isn’t just for the koalas anymore. Australian hair experts swear by this oil to keep your hair shiny and your scalp dandruff free. Just add a couple of drops to your favorite shampoo or give yourself a relaxing scalp massage with it.

The natural compounds in eucalyptus stimulate your scalp to promote blood flow and transport nutrients to your follicles. Just be sure to rinse it out thoroughly afterward as leaving eucalyptus oil on your head for too long can potentially cause irritation.

Coconut oil

In South Asia, you’ll find coconuts growing in abundance. Not only are they delicious, but they’re also great for your hair. Work a little raw, unrefined coconut oil into your scalp for a great-smelling massage. You can even sleep with it on and let it work its magic overnight.

Olive oil and yogurt

These ancient ingredients are now famously attributed to the Greeks and Italians, but they’re both so much more than a delicious snack. A cup of plain yogurt combined with one teaspoon of olive oil can make a wonderful, all-natural conditioner to nourish damaged hair. 

The protein and antioxidants in these ingredients work together perfectly to condition your hair and protect it from the stresses of the day.

Camellia oil

Popular in Japan, this hair trick is loaded with vitamins A, B, C and E. Camellia oil acts as a great conditioner and even promotes hair growth. It’s key to obtaining the long, silky-smooth locks you see in Japan.

Cactus

Now, this is a prickly one and takes some care, but a popular way to have fantastic hair in Jamaica is by using a peeled cactus. The oil can even be used in place of a shampoo.

Cactus oil is loaded with omega fatty acids that promote faster hair growth and prevent hair loss all while keeping your tresses soft and smooth.

Aloe vera

You’ve probably used aloe vera to help treat a sunburn before, but its healing properties go way beyond that. The antipruritic properties in aloe alleviate a dry itchy, scalp while moisturizing agents soothe and hydrate.

In the Philippines, women will rub aloe vera into their hair to create a sleek, glossy finish and provide valuable protection throughout the day.

Egg whites and avocado

More than just a great omelet, these ingredients are favored in Colombia for their ability to smooth and detangle hair. The high levels of vitamin B and E also help strengthen hair to protect it from damage. This gives it the resilience it needs to grow long and look lush.

Try combining two raw egg whites with half an avocado and applying it to your hair for 15 minutes. Then wash thoroughly and condition as usual.

Sardines

No, we’re not going to tell you to rub sardines on your head—this time we’re suggesting you actually eat them. Women in Guyana swear by this and they’re not the only ones. This article in Livestrong touts the benefits of eating sardines to help boost your hair health.

Final thoughts

You don’t need a passport to collect hair tips from around the world—we’ve compiled them for you! It’s okay if you find that some work better for you than others, and you might even combine a few to create your own personal, secret hair recipe.

Speaking of recipes. Are you wondering what to do with all that leftover avocado? Try this wonderfully delicious and healthy Creamy Greek Yogurt Guacamole. The recipe calls for 2 full avocados, but you can easily cut it in fourths to make a single serving batch. Enjoy!