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Get Naturally Clean Hair With These Homemade Shampoo Hacks

Shampoo is one of those products that we all assume we have to get from the store. However, commercially-made shampoo has been available since the turn of the 20th century. Contrary to popular belief, people did wash before that, just not as frequently as we do now or with the same products. Before commercial shampoos were available, people used everything from herbs to boiled soap to wash their hair.

Today, there are plenty of homemade shampoo ideas you can try. You may have to experiment with several recipes to find one that works for your individual hair. These also work best when combined with homemade conditioners.

As a note, you’ll also probably have to put up with the “transition period,” which can take a month or two. During this time, your hair may feel dull and oily until it adjusts to the new regimen, but then it should normalize into looking lush and naturally shiny.

The Baking Soda Method

One of the most popular ways to wash hair is to use good old-fashioned baking soda. In fact, it’s the cornerstone of the “no poo” movement for tons of people, and many people swear it’s just as, if not more, effective than commercial shampoos.

Simply combine one part baking soda to three parts water in an old, rinsed out bottle. Shake the bottle before use and apply the mixture to your hair like you would with a shampoo. Scrub for about a minute or two. If you notice any drying, try to use this shampoo every other day. You can also let the baking soda sit for a minute or two if your hair is on the fragile side, rather than scrubbing.

Coconut Milk Recipe

You can also combine one part coconut milk to one part liquid Castile soap. Add essential oils to the amount of your choice for scent and moisture. Again, you can just combine the ingredients in a bottle and shake well before each use. A little dollop per use should be enough.

Castile Soap & Oil

You might be noticing by now that a common way to make a DIY shampoo is by using Castile soap. This method calls for one part distilled water to one part liquid Castile soap. Add a small splash of jojoba or light vegetable oil. Again, shake it before use, and it’s supposed to lather up pretty well.

Sweeten It Up With Honey

Honey is also a popular hair treatment for its moisturizing and purifying effects. You’ll need to use “raw” or unpasteurized honey for this. Combine one part raw honey to three parts filtered water. You may need to heat the mixture to dissolve the honey, and you should have a watery substance once done. Add essential oil as desired. Apply a palm full of the mixture to your hair and massage into your scalp. You’ll want to make this every time you use it to prevent it from spoiling.

Feel Free To Experiment

You can also make your own recipe based on your needs. If you have fine and very oily hair, you can slightly up the amount of Castile soap and minimize the natural oils. Or add honey and coconut oil for a moisturizing boost. Common ingredients in DIY shampoo recipes include honey, Castile soap, coconut milk, coconut oil, vitamin E oil and essential oils of your choice (great essential oils for hair include rosemary, jojoba, lavender, peppermint, carrot seed, tea tree and lemon).

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