Why I Don't Use Shampoo (And What I Use Instead)

Before you freak out and call me a dirty hippie, let me explain...

I chose to STOP using shampoo for a variety of reasons, many of which were harmful to the health of my beautiful head of curls.

So, in this post I will be explaining my own personal reasons as to why I don't use shampoo, and what I use instead. And to keep it factual (and because I love you), I will be using scientifically PROVEN benefits to my "holy grail" shampoo alternative.

Let us begin with the WHY, why did I ditch shampoo (including cleansing conditioners).

Simply put, the lather was TOO much for my precious curls. Personally, that super sudsy feel that I experience when I wash my hair (even when I was using Dr. Bronners) was a MAJOR turn off...

It was also TOO drying for my scalp, I would at times, scratch my head and watch as the tiny "snow dusting" billowed upon my lap... not cute.

And lastly, I found that any shampoo or cleansing conditioner I used RUINED my curl pattern. It would become harder to style because I was stripping my hair from its natural oils/protective coating. It became brittle and straw-like.

So then I did some researching and came across something bizarre, and I was almost scared to give it a try. And let me tell ya, the first st time I tried it...I was hooked.

I'm sure you all are tired of reading and want me to get to the damn product already, so here it is...

Apple Cider Vinegar!

Yes, I put that stinky sh*t in my hair and it does wonders!

Here is how I use it, including ways that you can "spice it up".

• First, I take about 1/2-1 cup of ACV (depending on how icky my hair is) and put it in a pour-able container.

• Then, I add equal parts water to the same container.

• This part is optional, but I add a few drops of any essential oils that I am feeling... such as Frankincense, lavender, bergamot, ylang ylang, etc. This is a good step to NOT skip if you are not too crazy about the smell of ACV. This step is fun, and makes for a more luxurious and therapeutic shower experience!

• Next, I shake my container around to mix my hair potion altogether and drench my hair in warm water making sure that my hair is sopping wet. I also massage my scalp a bit to lift some of the dirt and/or buildup.

• Finally, I move my hair away from the running water, and pour my potion all over my SCALP first, working my way through and massaging it in thoroughly for a minute or two. Then I work my way down the hair shaft until I feel that I have massaged and distributed all of the mixture into my hair.

• Then... I rinse... like 3 times. At this time you will notice that the mixture has softened your hair, it will feel as though you coated your hair in conditioner!

That's it folks! That is how I "shampoo" my hair. Now for the benefits of using this hair-washing method...

It balances the scalp pH level

Yes, your precious hair and scalp has a pH level between 4 and 5. And the reason why the majority of us experience dry, breaking hair is because most shampoos on the market have a very high alkalinity (your hair doesn't react well to this, hence your breaking ends). The pH of 4-5 is a happy medium for your hair, and ACV has been proven to do the trick.

It smooths the hair cuticle

Indeed it does, and not just because I felt it, but because the acidity in the apple cider vinegar actually DOES smooth down your hair cuticle . This smoothing of the hair cuticle encourages "slip", or manageability, making it easier to detangle your hair strands.

Removes dandruff and treats dry, itchy scalp

The enzymes and high acidity in ACV kills the bad bacteria that actually cause the dandruff in the first place! In addition, it allows your hair secrete its natural oils more efficiently. eliminating the itch-and the the potential hair thinning.

Defines curls and adds body (anecdotal)

Although their is not any sufficient evidence to support this claim, many of those who have used this method (including myself) claim that it makes their styling process much easier because of the smoothed cuticles, as well as adding definition to their curl pattern. And I would have to agree, because my Wash n' Go's have been absolutely amazing since using this method!

That's all for now... If any of you end up trying this method of shampooing yourselves, Let me know how it works for you!

#hair #curls