
What Is Vietnamese Hair Washing (Gội Đầu)? Complete Process & Double Relaxation Guide
7/14/2026
Vietnamese hair washing (Gội đầu) is not just about washing hair, but a 100-minute wellness experience that includes full-body massage, facial care, ear digging, and more. This article introduces you to the complete process and the unique Vietnamese「洗耳朵」culture.
Introduction: Vietnamese Hair Washing is More Than Just "Washing Hair"
When traveling in Vietnam, besides trying Pho and coffee, experiencing authentic 「Vietnamese hair washing」(Gội đầu dưỡng sinh)is definitely a highlight of your itinerary. Many first-time visitors might think it’s just a simple shampoo service, but actually, Vietnamese hair washing is an all-in-one wellness experience covering full-body relaxation, facial care, and deep cleansing.
In Ho Chi Minh City, authentic Vietnamese hair washing services typically last 100 or 120 minutes, elevating this seemingly ordinary daily act into an ultimate sensory pleasure.

Features of Vietnamese hair washing: Double manpower, multiply enjoyment
One of the most impressive features of Vietnamese hair washing is its flexible staffing. Depending on your chosen package, services can be divided into「two hands」(one massage therapist)or「four hands」(two therapists simultaneously)。
When you choose four-hand service, it means you will be taken care of by two professional therapists at the same time: while one performs detailed facial massage, the other can relax your leg muscles; when one trims your nails, the other can simultaneously perform the professional ear digging service.
This「double therapists」setup not only saves time but also allows different parts of your body to relax simultaneously, bringing quadruple the ultimate enjoyment.

Full process of Vietnamese hair washing revealed
Though called「hair washing」, it is actually the climax of the entire process. Take the well-known Win Royal Spa in Ho Chi Minh City as an example, a complete modern Vietnamese hair washing service includes the following rich items:
1. Customization of needs
Before starting the service, the professional staff will provide a service selection form for you to customize according to your preferences: relaxation intensity can be chosen as heavy (strong), normal, or light (gentle); on service preferences, you can select items to enhance or include, such as facial relaxation, shoulder and neck relaxation, hand and foot relaxation, back massage, facial mask, etc.; in terms of detailed care, men can opt for shaving, women or those with needs can choose nail trimming; you can also choose whether to chat with staff during the service to ensure the most comfortable atmosphere.

2. Deep relaxation for face and body
The process usually starts with facial care, including face washing, facial massage, followed by the application of a mask. While the mask is on, the massage therapists will perform shoulder, neck, hand, and foot relaxation massages, and even full-body stretching and back walking to thoroughly release travel fatigue.

3. Professional ear digging and the特色「洗耳朵」 (ear washing)
Ear digging is a very representative part of Vietnamese hair washing. The technician uses professional tools to gently clean the ear canal, often causing a tingling and deeply relaxing sensation. At the final hair washing stage, Vietnam has a very special文化「洗耳朵」(ear washing). During the shampooing process, the masseur will intentionally let fragrant soap bubbles enter the ear, which may be a very strange experience for many foreign travelers. When rinsing the hair, warm water will also rinse the ear canal. Don’t worry, this is completely part of the authentic process. When blow-drying the hair, the therapist will carefully use a cotton swab to thoroughly absorb any residual water inside your ears, ensuring a refreshing and comfortable feeling.
4. The climax: herbal shampoo and scalp care
After the whole body has been relaxed, the final step is hair washing. Authentic Vietnamese hair washing usually uses shampoos containing natural herbal ingredients (such as ginseng, green tea, aloe vera, etc.) and involves deep scalp massage with fingertips, not only cleaning your hair but also promoting scalp blood circulation.

5. Perfect conclusion
After the service, the massage therapist will apply skincare lotion, blow-dry your hair, and serve the beverage you chose before the service (such as tea or coffee), bringing this 100-minute relaxation journey to a perfect end.
Conclusion
Vietnamese hair washing is a comprehensive art combining beauty, massage, and cleansing. From the luxurious service of double masseurs to the unique「洗耳朵」culture, every detail reflects the meticulousness and care of Vietnam’s service industry. Next time you visit Ho Chi Minh City, consider stepping into a well-lit,正规 (formal/legitimate) establishment like Win Royal Spa and experience this all-over head-to-toe ultimate relaxation journey.