R. Madhavan has always had a massive fan following, from his chocolate-boy days in Rehnaa Hai Terre Dil Mein to his powerful performance in Rocketry. But in his latest Netflix release Aap Jaisa Koi, fans can’t stop talking not just about his acting, but about how the 54-year-old star seems to be ageing like fine wine.
With his effortlessly cool salt-and-pepper look also seen in Kesari 2, R Madhavan has become a symbol of ageing gracefully. But what’s the secret behind his flawless skin and lustrous hair? In one of the interviews with GQ, he revealed that he’s doing it without following any specific treatments to hide ageing or grey hair. In fact, he is embracing ageing.
“I don’t believe in fighting age. I honour it,” he shared in an old interview with GQ. And that’s what makes him stand out. While many in the industry are turning to cosmetic fixes and anti-ageing procedures, Madhavan swears by natural, old-school wellness rituals, and they seem to be working well for him.
R Madhavan’s haircare routine: A traditional South Indian oil bath
One of Madhavan’s most consistent self-care routines, which he has been following since his childhood days, is his weekly oil bath. Every Sunday, he uses warm sesame oil (nalla ennai) for a full-body massage, especially focusing on the scalp. On other days, he turns to coconut oil, both known in Ayurveda to improve circulation, strengthen hair, and nourish the skin.
He revealed that he’s been doing this for over 20 years, and he believes it’s the key to his thick, healthy hair. No expensive serums, no salon treatments, just this ritual.
R Madhavan’s skincare routine: No expensive products
While celebrity skincare routines often involve 10-step regimens and expensive products, Madhavan keeps it simple. He enjoys early morning sun while playing golf, something he says helps tighten the skin and gives it a natural glow.
His skincare isn’t about creams, it’s about following a health lifestyle and natural things. He applies pure coconut oil to moisturise, drinks coconut water to stay hydrated, and follows a mostly vegetarian, home-cooked diet.
And until today he hasn’t touched Botox or fillers. “I’ve never done anything artificial to my face,” he once said. His glowing skin, he adds, is just a result of living clean, staying happy, and getting enough sun and rest.
At a time when ageing is often seen as something to “fix,” R. Madhavan is showing us another way: to grow older with grace.
