Natural Alternatives to Shampoo
In recent years, many people have been hopping on board the “no-poo” train. Shampoos on store shelves are packed with harmful, irritating ingredients that can strip the hair of moisture and natural oils. Fortunately, there are easy and healthy alternatives out there.
Next hair washing day, try these natural hair cleansing products and DIYs:
Egg
Many DIY hair masks feature eggs as an ingredient. This is because eggs are packed with biotin and B12 which aids in hair growth. And this cleanser is one of the most cost-effective ones you can find! To make this cleanser, whisk together an egg yolk with a few tablespoons of water and essential oil of your choice (for scent). Make sure to rinse under lukewarm water as hot water will turn the shampoo into scrambled eggs. There is no need to use conditioner – the egg has nutrients that are often found in conditioners as well as shampoos.
Aloe Vera
This miracle plant has been used for centuries for medicinal purposes. Aloe vera is commonly used for sunburns because of its cooling properties, but it can also be used to relieve scalp itchiness and irritation that comes with dandruff. If you have an aloe vera plant at home, you can harvest the gel directly from the plant. If not, a store-bought pure aloe gel is fine. Mix 2 tablespoons with 2 cups of either water, coconut milk, or apple cider vinegar. This will make enough for a few washes. Store the shampoo in an air-tight glass or plastic container and refrigerate.
Coconut Milk
If there’s one thing hair needs the most, it’s moisture. Frizz, breakage and split ends are the consequences of dry hair. On the other hand, moisturized hair is healthy and shiny. Store-bought shampoos can be very drying. Coconut milk is a great source of moisture. Coconut milk shampoo requires ½ cup of unsweetened coconut milk (you can use the canned kind), ½ cup filtered water and 1 cup grated of either lye soap or olive oil soap. Refrigerate in a glass or plastic bottle and shake before using. Conditioner is not needed when washing with this shampoo.
Tea
Is there anything tea can’t do? Different types of tea have different benefits, so pick one that will be the most beneficial for you. Green tea stimulates hair growth. Peppermint tea stops dandruff. Black tea may darken your hair, but it will add shine. Lavender tea helps reduce stress – and thus hair loss. To do a tea rinse, place two tea bags of your choice into 2-3 cups of water. Let sit for an hour. Pour the tea over your hair and massage into the scalp – just as you would with regular shampoo.
Plain water
Sometimes a special product is not needed to wash hair. Hair can be cleaned with good old fashioned plain water. However, the hard water that usually comes out of showerheads may be harsh on hair. Rinsing with filtered or distilled water may be a better option. Before stepping into a shower or bath, comb hair thoroughly. This will help spread out the natural oils that protect your hair. Then, place your head under cool water. Condition the hair as usual. Scrub gently but thoroughly along the hairline, behind the ears, along the part, and around the neck. Using a scalp exfoliating brush will help tremendously with this process.
