You can have the best raw ingredients in the world but if you do not know how to mix and measure them, or which ones to use for different hair situations, you may make your problems worse.
The best way to start making your own products is to first determine what it is you need and start with ONE product. Below I list the ingredients I think you need to consider using in order to start building your own array of hair products for you and your family.
ISSUE
Excess Dandruff and Dry Scalp: Dandruff is the result of the natural process of shedding skin cells of the scalp. Excess dandruff is when that shedding becomes problematic, irritating and maybe you have large flakes and redness associated with the irritation. This is when you need to act.
Old school remedies included sulphur – remember that? Well stay away from it. It stinks and it is toxic and it strips your scalp, making dandruff worse. It can work in the short term, but is it worth it if the dandruff just comes back again and again?
Excess dandruff is not always a simple condition of dry or unbalanced scalp. There is a yeast-like fungus called malassezia which can be the cause. It can cause your scalp to shed skin cells abnormally fast, causing excess dandruff and irritation. Dandruff can also be caused by allergies, scalp imbalances, damage, oily scalp or can be mistaken for exema or psoriasis. If you think you may have something other than simple excess dandruff, please see a dermatologist. For the purposes of this article I am going to discuss simple dandruff.
INGREDIENTS TO CONSIDER USING
BASES
Castile Soap – the only soap to use in natural homemade shampoos. VERY CONCENTRATED.
Jojoba Oil – a wax ester great for balancing the scalp and regulating sebum production.
Wheatgerm Oil – blending, neutral base
Kukui Oil - a small amount in a base will soothe and heal scalp conditions
Shea Butter – natural, unrefined shea butter on the scalp is an effective moisturizer.
Tea Tree – soothing, anti inflammatory and anti bacterial
Apple Cider Vinegar – balancing, cooling, astringent.
Pine Tar Bar Soap – can be effective for dandruff and psoriasis
Aloe Vera – cooling and soothing, moisturizing properties
ESSENTIAL OILS:
Rosemary EO – can be used as a scalp tincture, then rinsed out. Never leave in or use when pregnant.
Lavender EO – soothing, calming and anti-inflammatory. Used in conjunction with Jojoba Oil it can make a big difference in your scalp immediately.
Peppermint EO – cooling and soothes itchies. Can be left on in tiny amounts.
Eucalyptus EO – same general properties as TeaTree EO, but not as strong acting.
Clove EO – long acting, helps balance the scalp. Always rinse off, same restrictions as Rosemary EO.
NATURAL/RAW HERBS:
Chamomile / Lavender / Calendula / Rosemary / White Willow Bark / Thyme / Cedarwood / Horsetail / Marshmallow Root / Comfrey Leaf
ONE MORE SUGGESTION
Chlorine and minerals in your water can cause excess dryness and itchiness. A water filter can significantly improve the health of your hair and scalp.
Let us know how and what works for you!
