I have long hair. When it comes to washing it, I focus mainly on my scalp and the top to make sure I get the oil out. I wash the rest of it too, but focus on those two areas the most. The key to washing long hair is to get a good lather going. As for the amount of showers someone has to take to control the oil, that’s going to be entirely dependent on each individual. Some people have naturally dry or oily hair, regardless of length. I myself have oily hair, so I like to wash it at least once a day. When it comes to conditioning, I only use a little more than a dime-sized amount and I apply it mostly to the ends – because my hair is naturally oily and the ends tend to be the most damaged. It does seems as if more hair falls out the longer it gets, but you hit it on the head. It only seems that way because it’s harder for short hair to get stuck in fingers, brushes, etc. However, if you truly think you’re losing quite a bit more hair than is usual for you, see a doctor. It can be a symptom for a few different things. Most likely though, you’re just not used to longer hair yet. I always brush my hair – combing it is out of the question. I have thick hair, as in a lot of it, but the strands are extremely thin. If I try to use a comb it results in horrifying knots. As for putting it up or leaving it down, it depends on my mood. Putting it up can be a little more difficult because it’s heavier and there’s more of it, but if you use the right kind of band, no damage to hair should result.