A conditioner is an essential component of any hair care routine. It is a moisturizing agent that tends to contain cleansing ingredients that get rid of the oily elements of your hair. A great conditioner will also replenish the moisture lost during shampooing. Another major benefit of conditioning the hair is that it strengthens strands and gives them a protective coating, preventing breakage and encouraging hair growth.
The problem with a lot of store bought hair conditioners is that they contain ingredients that are unkind to your hair and scalp. The homemade conditioner in this article is free of silicones, alcohols, and other chemicals that can cause irritation, dryness, or damage to your hair and scalp. Fortunately for you, the ingredients in this homemade conditioner are optimal for hydration, cleansing, and nourishment. You can learn more about them below.
Coconut Oil
Offering many benefits for your hair, coconut oil may help relieve dandruff and restore shine and life to damaged hair. It is safe for most hair types and contains fatty acids that work to improve overall hair health. That is why coconut oil is a common ingredient in most shampoos, conditioners, and other hair care products. A 2015 study found that coconut oil is very similar to natural hair proteins and has a unique ability to penetrate the hair shaft, which is the part that shows just above the scalp. By penetrating the hair, coconut oil works to reduce the amount of water absorbed into the hair, which ultimately limits everyday damage.
Avocado Oil
Pressed from the flesh of avocados, avocado oil is rich in healthy fats that are easily absorbed by the skin and hair. It is one of the healthiest cooking oils and one of the best carrier oils for beauty applications. Avocado oil is much lighter than other oils, meaning you can apply it to your hair and scalp without worrying about build up. It doesn’t weigh your hair down or clog pores. Due to the oleic acid and monounsaturated fat content, avocado oil easily penetrates the hair shaft to moisturize and strengthen the hair. Regular use can also encourage a healthier scalp, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Rosemary Essential Oil
Rosemary is a classic culinary herb native to the Mediterranean region. Similar to oregano, peppermint, and cinnamon, rosemary is regularly found in essential oil form. Rosemary essential oil offers unique antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that nourish the hair and scalp. In recent years a lot of claims have been made that rosemary essential oil can promote hair growth. Historically, Mediterranean cultures used rosemary in hair rinses for hundreds of years to promote hair growth. Beyond hair growth, rosemary essential oil may help prevent premature graying and dandruff.
Lavender Essential Oil
Lavender essential oil is great for migraine relief and promoting relaxation and healthy sleep. It also has a place in DIY beauty, working to enhance skin and hair health. The antimicrobial properties in lavender essential oil work to prevent bacteria and fungi from growing on the scalp, which is great if you’re prone to dandruff or itchy scalp. A 2016 animal study confirmed that lavender essential oil works to stimulate hair growth. It was applied to mice and their hair grew thicker and faster than normal.
4-Ingredients Homemade Conditioner
Ingredients:
- 1 cup coconut oil
- 1/3 cup avocado oil
- 10-12 drops rosemary essential oil
- 10-12 drops lavender essential oil
Instructions:
- Combine all of the ingredients in the bowl of a hand or stand mixer.
- Whip the ingredients for three to four minutes to thoroughly mix the ingredients together.
- Transfer the whipped mixture into a glass jar or other container. Store in a cool, dark place.
To Use:
- After shampooing your hair, work the natural conditioner through your hair, beginning at the ends and going up to the scalp.
- Allow the conditioner to sit in your hair for two minutes before rinsing. Use this conditioner two to three times per week.
