Homemade hair products offer many advantages over commercial varieties. Not only are they more affordable, they tend to be more gentle on the hair as well as environmentally friendly. The recipes for homemade products usually contain simple, natural ingredients. Control over the items used reduces exposure to additives and chemicals and gives the user the opportunity to choose organic or Green components. The use of fresh ingredients, mixed for immediate use, give the best results.
Deep Conditioner
Avocado, egg yolk and mayonnaise form the trio of most popular natural deep conditioners. They can be used in combination, by mixing similar amounts of each item, or alone. Once the hair is coated, a shower cap or covering of plastic wrap is applied, and a moist hot towel placed over the wrap. Allow this to work for 20 to 30 minutes before rinsing and washing the hair. The fatty acids in these food items seem to be the secret behind their success as conditioners.
Hot Oil
Oils make hair more soft and pliable, but can easily overwhelm hair, leaving it greasy. Hot oil treatments can be done once a week. Soybean and castor oils are common choices. To create, warm one to two teaspoons of oil in a hot water bath. Massage this into the hair, then wrap a hot, moist towel around the head for fifteen minutes. For an overnight treatment, coconut or olive oil can be used. Once applied, the hair is covered with a cap and allowed to sit overnight. A few drops of an essential oil can be added to lend a fragrant scent.
Dandruff Treatment
A homemade treatment for dandruff involves application of a rinse made from equal parts water and either apple cider vinegar or white vinegar. Apply this to the scalp twice a week. Wash the hair normally afterward. Vinegar helps relieve scalp itch and removes buildup of other commercial hair care products.
Highlights
Achieve natural highlights by rinsing hair with a lemon/water combination. A strong batch of brewed and cooled chamomile tea is also effective. These treatments work better on lighter colored hair. For darker hair, a strong batch of coffee or black tea brings out a warm glow. Just pour the cooled coffee repeatedly over dry hair. Allow it to remain for 20 minutes and then rinse with water for a lovely shine.
Hair Gel
Gels help the user manipulate hair into a particular shape or style. You can replicate this effect by using aloe vera, boiled flax seed, or unflavored gelatin. The gelatin is formed using 1 cup of warm water to 1/4 teaspoon of gelatin. Dissolve the powder in the water, bring it to a boil, cool it to room temperature, then whisk the mixture. Add aromatic herbs or essential oils for fragrance.
Tags: moist towel, strong batch