Hello, joyful homemaker!
Looking for a natural alternative to chemical-laden store-bought shampoo? If so, you’ve landed in the perfect spot!
Lately, I’ve been on a mission to embrace a more natural lifestyle—swapping out commercial products for homemade alternatives. One of my favorite recent projects? This simple, all-natural homemade shampoo.
In this post, I’m going to share how you can create your own natural shampoo right at home. This DIY recipe is not only good for your hair; it’s also gentle on the environment and incredibly easy to whip up. You’ll need just a few simple ingredients, many of which you might already have in your pantry.
When I first thought about switching from commercial shampoos to making this natural homemade version, I must admit, I was downright skeptical. Could I really create something that’s better than what I’d been buying off the shelves?
However, after giving it some thought, I took the plunge, and let me tell you, it has truly been one of the most rewarding choices I’ve ever made! Honestly, I couldn’t be happier about it.
If you’re on the fence about making this switch, let me assure you, you’re on the right track. Keep reading, and I’ll share a few compelling reasons why making the switch is worth it.
Why It’s Time to Ditch Your Commercial Shampoo
I decided to try making an all-natural homemade shampoo because I was overwhelmed by the countless commercial options—many of which are expensive, full of synthetic ingredients, and often underdeliver. Common additives like sulfates and parabens can strip hair of natural oils or disrupt hormones, and I didn’t want to keep exposing myself to those risks.
Making my own shampoo gives me full control over the ingredients and peace of mind knowing I’m using something safe and natural. Plus, it's a more eco-friendly choice. The beauty industry contributes heavily to plastic waste, and with only about 10% of plastic getting recycled, I felt compelled to reduce my footprint. Creating my own shampoo was a simple, conscious step toward healthier hair and a healthier planet.
Why Make the Switch to All-Natural Homemade Shampoo
This shampoo recipe is incredibly easy to make and smells amazing. Unlike the overpowering synthetic fragrances in store-bought products, this homemade version has a light, refreshing scent that’s pleasant without being overwhelming.
And yes—it actually lathers! Many natural shampoos fall short in that department, but this one produces a satisfying foam. I used to associate lather with cleanliness, and now I can enjoy that same feeling without the harsh chemicals that damage my hair.
Since making the switch, my hair care routine has transformed for the better. My hair feels noticeably softer and healthier, and the biggest surprise? I don’t need to wash it as often. I used to wash my hair every other day, worried it would become greasy or unruly. Now, I only need to wash it a few times a week—and it still looks fresh and manageable days later.
This simple change has given me a safer, healthier, and more sustainable way to care for my hair and scalp.
What You’ll Need
- ½ cup distilled water
- ¼ cup liquid Castile soap
- 2 teaspoons avocado oil
- ⅛ teaspoon peppermint essential oil
- ⅛ teaspoon tea tree essential oil
- 1 teaspoon vegetable glycerin (optional)
- 10-15 drops of essential oils (optional)
How to Make All-Natural Homemade Shampoo
Start with a clean bottle.
If you have an empty shampoo squeeze bottle lying around, reuse it! Not only is it practical, but it also gives your hair care routine an eco-friendly upgrade.
Gather and mix your ingredients.
Once you’ve assembled all the ingredients, pour them into the bottle. Give it a thorough shake to blend everything together. Be sure to shake well before each use—this keeps the mixture effective and ensures even distribution of the ingredients for best results.
Scale it up if needed.
This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily double or triple the batch—just make sure your container can handle the volume!
Time to lather up.
Massage the shampoo into your scalp for a minute or two. This not only cleanses your hair but also boosts blood circulation, which can support healthy hair growth. Take a moment to enjoy the process—this is your time to relax and pamper yourself. When you're done, rinse thoroughly.
Balance your scalp’s pH.
To prevent itchiness and enhance shine, follow up with a natural rinse. Mix one part apple cider vinegar or lemon juice with three parts water and pour it over your hair after shampooing. It helps restore your scalp’s pH and leaves your hair looking glossy. Feel free to adjust the ratio to suit your hair’s needs.
Bonus tip: Add aloe vera.
Want an extra hydration boost? Mix in a tablespoon of aloe vera gel with your shampoo. It’s soothing, nourishing, and can leave your hair feeling soft and silky.
Tips on How to Switch to Homemade Shampoo
Making the move from commercial to homemade shampoo is a refreshing step—but it does come with a short adjustment period. Here’s how to make the transition smoother:
1. Expect a Transition Phase
When you first ditch chemical-laden shampoos, your hair might feel greasy or heavy. Don’t worry—this is totally normal! Your scalp is recalibrating its oil production after being stripped by harsh detergents for so long.
2. Be Gentle with Your Hair
During this phase, treat your hair with extra care. Avoid aggressive brushing or heat styling. Your strands need time to adjust to the nourishing simplicity of natural ingredients.
3. Understand the Residue Buildup
Many commercial shampoos coat your hair with synthetic polymers or protein films. These create the illusion of smooth, healthy hair—but in reality, they act like plastic wraps, trapping residue and blocking moisture. Over time, this buildup makes hair more porous and harder to truly nourish.
4. Give It Time
Cleansing your hair of these residues takes time. Depending on the condition of your hair and how often you used commercial products, the detox period may last anywhere from a few washes to a few weeks.
5. Stay Patient and Consistent
Stick with your natural routine, and soon enough, you’ll start noticing the benefits—softer, healthier hair free from synthetic buildup.
Final Thoughts
Switching to an all-natural homemade shampoo is more than just a beauty routine—it's a step toward a healthier, more mindful lifestyle. By choosing natural ingredients, you're not only giving your hair the gentle care it deserves but also reducing your exposure to harmful chemicals and cutting down on plastic waste.
Yes, the transition may take a little patience, but the long-term benefits are worth it. Healthier hair, a balanced scalp, and peace of mind knowing exactly what you're using—what could be better?
Give it a try, listen to your hair, and enjoy the process of going natural. Your strands (and the planet) will thank you!
