Healthy and long hair like Rapunzel? There are many myths about their growth, from shampoos to home treatments. Indian girls are often talked about hair care routine and especially braids - are they the secret?

Dr. Sravya Tipirneni, dermatologist and cosmetics specialist at Columbia Asia Hospital explained to Doctor NDTV that it is simply a myth, although there is something real about the benefits of these hairstyles.

"This is a myth. Almost all of us in India as children have had braided hairstyles. "Most adult women still have braided hair, yet we encounter so many patients with hair loss."

But, as we said, there are some benefits.

"Braids reduce the chances of hair getting tangled, the need for frequent washing and there is less friction on the pillow due."

The rate of hair growth is mainly determined by genetics and lifestyle. So, braids do not guarantee you extraordinary hair growth, however if you catch them without tightening, you will have benefits because you will not wash them too often and you will comb them more easily, reducing their fall.