How to Make Shampoo

The Beauty of Homemade Products

Many individuals use all-natural products based on organic ingredients. They're renowned for being great for the skin, hair and body, and it's no secret that natural ingredients are often more suited to people who have sensitive skin. That's because many people simply can't tolerate harsh detergents and other additives that often sound as though they're better suited to a chemistry lab than your bathroom.

The desire to eliminate these chemicals from a beauty regimen often leads people to seek alternative products – in this case, ones that are formulated with the most pure ingredients. While all-natural products can be extremely beneficial, they can also be costly. Instead, more and more people are choosing to make their own beauty products at home. From soaps and body scrubs to lipsticks and shampoos, many standard beauty products can be formulated at home.

All it takes is a bit of time and patience – and, of course, some thorough instructions. The following recipes touch briefly upon the hundreds of shampoo recipes available. Many haven't even been brought to fruition yet; the possibilities are endless, and there's nothing more exciting for a shampoo-making novice to combine ingredients and create the perfect formula for his or her hair type.

How to Make Shampoo at Home

Consider yourself a beauty pioneer. You're about to embark on a whole new adventure – one that doesn't involve spending loads of money on products you're not even sure will work. No matter what your hair type, you'll likely find a recipe that will work for you.

Things to Keep in Mind

• It is important to note that most homemade shampoos do not have the same shelf life as those purchased in stores. Unlike store-bought shampoos (which typically last up to three years), they lack preservatives. These are often the culprit in causing irritation to individuals with sensitive skin.
• Unless otherwise specified, store homemade shampoos containing dairy ingredients, such as eggs and milk, in the fridge. This will prolong its shelf life, but the majority of homemade shampoos will not remain fresh longer than one week even with refrigeration.

The Recipes

The Internet is a virtual haven of recipes for shampoos, conditioners, tonics and other pampering hair treatments. Depending on your hair type and unique concerns, you can easily select one that is sure to benefit your mane - and find some new uses for those products you never thought you'd see in your bathroom!

Make Your Own Tea Tree Oil Shampoo

Tea tree oil is a veritable miracle worker when it comes to keeping the hair and scalp in great condition. Not only is it renowned for its ability to keep dandruff flakes and head lice at bay, it's also a natural scalp soother. Its naturally fresh, aromatic scent leaves the hair smelling clean, while its tendency to smooth flyaway hairs is a godsend for anyone with an unruly mane.

Unfortunately, tea tree oil doesn't come cheap. Making it at home is an option; however, it is important to exercise caution when using the oil. Don't use more than the recommended amount, and discontinue usage if you develop an allergic reaction.

You'll need:

• An 8 oz. bottle of unscented shampoo. A great choice is Aveda's Personal Blends Shampoo Formula, which is specially formulated to be mixed with the essential oil of your choice.
• Tea tree oil

Directions:

1. Add 15 drops of tea tree oil to the shampoo bottle.
2. Shake gently to allow the oil to disperse.

How to Make Shampoo for African-American Hair

Though it's not always the case, African-American hair tends to be brittle, dry, and coarse. This type of hair won't benefit from the most common ingredient in most store-bought shampoos, sodium laureth sulfate (SLS). SLS is a detergent that can cause dryness in certain individuals. Products containing moisturizing, soothing ingredients can drastically change the condition of the hair.

You'll need:

• 2 eggs, thoroughly beaten
• 1 bar grated castile soap
• 1 tsp. powdered borax
• 1 oz. bay rum
• 4 quarts water

Directions:

1. Bring water to a boil and add soap, letting it dissolve.
2. Allow mixture to cool.
3. Add eggs, borax and bay rum.
4. Stir thoroughly.

Egg Shampoo for Less Dry Hair

If your hair is dry (or even more on the normal side), but not considered coarse, try using this simple and effective egg shampoo recipe.

You'll need:

• 2 eggs (medium size)
• 2 oz. still mineral water
• 1 tbsp. lemon juice or apple cider vinegar

Directions:

1. Using a blender, mix the products together for 30 seconds on low speed.
2. After massaging into the hair and scalp, rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. Note: The egg will begin to set if the water is hot!

The Perfect Soothing Shampoo

You sip it in tea right before bedtime, so why not massage it into your hair? The soothing properties of chamomile are just as evident in shampoo as they are in a hot beverage. In addition to relaxing your senses with its aromatic fragrance, chamomile shampoos are gentle enough for all hair types. Individuals with light hair often turn to this herb when they want to enhance their highlights. Don't worry – chamomile won't color your hair, but it will provide you with an enviable shine.

You'll need:

• 4 Tbsp pure soap flakes
• 4 bags chamomile tea
• 1 ½ Tbsp glycerin
• 1 ½ cups water

Directions:

1. Bring the water to a boil and add the tea bags. Allow them to steep for 10 minutes.
2. Remove the bags add the soap flakes into the liquid. Let it rest until the soap softens.
3. Stir the glycerin into the liquid, blending until perfectly smooth.

Some Final Thoughts to Make Your Experience Perfect

Obviously, this is only a taste of the wonderful recipes available. There is no limit to what can be created, but as always it's important to be aware of what you are putting into your concoction. All ingredients should be skin safe (check labels of essential oils in particular). If your skin is hypersensitive, conduct a patch test of the shampoo on your inner elbow or behind the ear and keep an eye on it for irritation.

Regardless of your hair type and styling needs, you can discover how to make shampoo with a bit of patience, some experimentation, and a genuine desire to use only the best shampoo for your hair. Most shampoos can include essential oils and fragrances to completely personalize the product for the most vibrant locks imaginable.

Other Resources

Visit the following sites for more information on organic haircare and recipes:

• Styles 101
• Pioneer Thinking
• Health Recipes