Homemade Shampoo and Conditioner!

Cheap shampoo sucks. Expensive shampoo is...well, expensive. What to do? Wait for coupons to roll around while your hair slowly takes on the shape and consistency of deep fried shredded lettuce? No bueno. I'll say it now, and I'm sure I will say it again. Baking Soda is the way to go. In everything. Always. I could write a song for baking soda (ain't no stain deep enough, ain't no smell strong enough, baking soda is comin' for you!). 

In this case, baking soda is the active ingredient in the shampoo half of the dynamic duo. It acts as a degreaser, exfoliator and cleanser for your hair. I make a paste of baking soda, honey and water. Since it does not foam up, you have to massage it into your scalp. Scalp massages not only feel great, but they also stimulate circulation. Healthy scalp, faster hair growth. Need I say more?

To condition, use an apple cider vinegar rinse. It combines with the baking soda in your hair to cause a foaming reaction, causing the release of lots of oxygen. It's like Oxiclean for your hair! The vinegar also moisturizes, just like a conditioner. Since there is a reaction involved, your hair does not end up smelling like vinegar! It is refreshing and your hair will be cleaner than you've ever seen it before. No residue, no build up. Just naturally clean hair!

With a box of baking soda coming in just under a dollar, likewise for the vinegar and a small bottle of honey. This shampoo and conditioner is also very cost effective! Better AND cheaper? I'll take it!

How does this work on your hair? What sort of essential oils would you use to spice it up?

***UPDATE***

For dry or extra thick hair, try a hot oil treatment of coconut oil or olive oil before shampooing. Put a few tablespoons in a small ziploc bag and heat in a sink or bowl of hot water for 5-10 minutes. Massage into the ends of your hair working toward the root. Let the oil sit in your hair for 5-10 minutes. Shampoo and Condition as normal! (Thanks, Leila, for the tip!)

If you feel funny not having a conditioner to rub into your hair, only a rinse. Try mixing a little arrowroot powder in the vinegar. It thickens like cornstarch without heating!

For a flaky scalp, try mixing a tablespoon of Old Fashioned Rolled Oats in with the Shampoo. Those folks at Aveeno have the right idea!

Any more updates? What kind of add-ins would you recommend for different hair textures?