When I did the big chop about 5 years ago, I started searching for ways to take better care of my hair and my body. Part of that involved cutting out products that conduct ingredients which were harmful to my curls as well as my health. But that meant a higher price tag than I was used to. Enter the world of DIY haircare. I learned real quick that I could make a reliable hair serum on my own at home for much less. I share all the ingredients and my routine below.
DIY Hair Oil
When I make my hair oil, I tend to use what I have on-hand. Since I have quite a few essential oils right now, I got to experiment a bit. It’s my favorite combination yet.
Carrier Oils
A carrier oil is what you use as the base. They tend to be less potent in terms of smell and are safe to use at full strength. Think of natural oils that you use to cook with. Many of these can be used as carriers. Here are the ones I put in my latest hair oil.
- 1/8 Cup Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 1/4 Cup Organic Avocado Oil
- 1/4 Cup Organic Virgin Coconut Oil
If you choose to use these same oils, make sure to give it a quick smell before you use it. EVOO tends to have an herby scent. The last thing you want is to walk around smelling like a salad 😜 As for the coconut oil, since it’s solid at room temperature, you’ll have to heat it at a low temp before you mix it into the rest.
Essential Oils
In comparison to carrier oils, essential oils are more potent. They have strong properties. Apply them directly and they may be too strong for your body to handle. The result can be an adverse reaction, such as a rash. But mix them in using small doses and they are safe. These were the ones I used in my hair serum.
- Organic Lavendar Oil
- Eucalyptus Oil
- Tea Trea Oil
- Sweet Orange Oil
- Organic Lemongrass Oil
I didn’t measure the exact amount of each oil I added. It really depends on which smells you prefer, but about 20 drops should do you right. Once you add all the ingredients together, stir it well and leave it to sit for about 30 minutes or more before use.
Most Important: The Pre-Wash Routine
The recipe I shared above is simple enough, but if you really want your hair to feel soft and look shiny, having the right oiling routine is key. Once you’ve made the oil, use it as pre-wash conditioner. Here’s how:
- Loosen your hair and apply generous amounts of oil. Make sure to be thorough. If you have enough oil, you can even pour it over your scalp. Just make sure not to drop any. It can make a huge mess!
- Tie your hair up in buns or cover with a hair wrap. Leave it like this for up to 4 hours. This will allow the oils to soak in and work their magic on your hair and scalp.
- Untie/Unwrap and water wash. Rinse your hair out with warm water. Take this opportunity to scrub your scalp with your finger pads. Also, make sure to run your fingers through it to release some of the loose knots. This step will make detangling SO much easier!
- Shampoo 2-3 times (or more depending on your hair type).
- Detangle. Your hair should still be pretty moist from the oils. Use I large tooth comb to get out any tighter knots.
- Squeeze dry. Try to avoid using a towel to dry your hair, since that will suck up the moisture. Instead, wring out well with your hands. If you feel that it’s need, apply a small amount of oil afterward to add shine.
Hair Care Is Nutrition
As a nutrition coach, I know that nutrition is not just about what you put in your body. It’s also about what you put ON your body. Making your own hair oil might not be EASY, but it’s better for you. Once you get in the habit of making this recipe, feel free to experiment with your own. And let me know what you think by liking, sharing, and leaving a comment below!
Light,
Nadia