June 20, 2011

• Going Natural – the Shampoo story

  I’ve often heard that shampoo is a waste of money.  I’ve also heard that it is actually bad for you because of the chemicals it contains.  But as much as I figured there was some truth to this, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to risk trying to go without it…or the lovely fragrance it gives my hair    It wasn’t until I had a reaction to one of the chemicals in the shampoo/conditioner that I use that I decided it was time for a change.  I broke out with red bumps all over my upper back, shoulders and arms; a reaction to the Sodium Laureth Sulfate (a foaming agent in shampoos)  I looked into some of the expensive ‘natural’ shampoos and discovered that many of them had Sodium Laureth sulfate as well (so what’s the point of paying $10 a bottle for the same chemically laden products??!!) 

  Finally, I decided to try the no ‘poo method which my friend had recommended to me.  Basically, it means you don’t use shampoo at all.  A little bit jarring to someone who typically has dry frizzy hair. All the curls make for a tangly mess too, without the use of conditioner.  I have felt that the only way to keep it from being dry and frizzy is to load on the heavy products.  However, it turns out that these fancy fragrant shampoos may actually be causing dry hair because the harsh chemicals strip the hair of it’s natural oils and damage it.  After reading up on the no poo method, I mixed up the simple concoction they recommended and tried it out.  Here’s the mixture I used:

  Shampoo: Roughly 1 Tablespoon of Baking Soda to 1 cup of warm water; store in a squirt bottle.  Shake well before using.  Squirt along scalp and massage throughout hair and scalp.

  Conditioner: Mix in a spray bottle, 1Tablespoon of Apple Cider Vinegar to 1 cup of warm water.  I also added honey, because my hair is dry. I added a little Lavendar oil, for fragrance and because it helps you relax. (and I always take my showers at night, so relaxing is a good thing If you have oily hair, you should avoid the honey; in fact, you may be able to skip the conditioner altogether since the baking soda shampoo is so much gentler on your hair.  Shake the bottle and spray throughout hair.  Let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing.

  I’ve only used it twice so far, but I must say I am VERY impressed!  My hair is not dry at all!  It is soft, pliable, and cooperative.  And no tangling!  Hopefully the bumps on my back and arms will clear up shortly, now that I have rid myself of Sodium Laureth Sulfate  

  The only other product I use on my hair is a spray gel, to help the curls hold their shape throughout the day.  It’s a little pricy, especially considering the amount I have to use on my long, thick hair.  I’m considering trying something more natural…I wonder if I could use aloe vera gel?  I’ll give it a try someday when I’m staying home   I hope you give this natural shampoo a try…it will save you loads of money and it’s much better for you!

  • 9:51 am
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