Many people use hairspray on a daily basis to set their hair and keep it in place. However, conventional hairsprays are often loaded with harmful chemicals that can damage the hair and negatively impact your health. If you want to avoid these harmful chemicals, you can make your own natural hairspray at home using essential oils and carrier oils. In this article, we will discuss why you should switch to natural hairspray and how to make your own DIY natural hairspray.
Why You Should Switch to Natural Hairspray
Using conventional hairsprays can be harmful to your hair and your overall health. Common ingredients found in conventional hairsprays include alcohol, synthetic fragrances, and chemicals like phthalates, parabens, and formaldehyde. These chemicals can cause various issues, from dryness and irritation to hair loss and hormonal imbalances. Using natural hairsprays can help you avoid these harmful ingredients and can be gentler on your hair and scalp.
In addition to being gentler on your hair and scalp, natural hairsprays can also provide additional benefits. Many natural hairsprays contain ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, and lavender, which can help soothe and nourish your hair. These ingredients can also help to add shine and volume to your hair, without the use of harsh chemicals. Additionally, natural hairsprays are often more environmentally friendly, as they are made with biodegradable ingredients and are packaged in recyclable materials.
Understanding the Ingredients in Conventional Hairspray
Conventional hairsprays contain a variety of chemicals that can be harmful to your hair and health. Alcohol is commonly used in hairsprays as a solvent to help dissolve the other ingredients and allow them to dry quickly. However, alcohol can be very drying to the hair and scalp, leading to brittle and damaged hair. Synthetic fragrances are often added to hairsprays to make them smell nice, but these fragrances can contain phthalates, which have been linked to hormonal imbalances and reproductive issues. Formaldehyde, a known carcinogen, is sometimes used as a preservative in hairsprays.
In addition to alcohol, synthetic fragrances, and formaldehyde, conventional hairsprays may also contain other harmful chemicals such as parabens, which have been linked to breast cancer, and propylene glycol, which can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions. These chemicals can also be harmful to the environment, as they can pollute water sources and harm aquatic life.
Fortunately, there are alternative options for hairspray that are safer for both your hair and the environment. Look for hairsprays that use natural ingredients such as plant-based oils and extracts, and avoid products that contain synthetic fragrances, parabens, and other harmful chemicals. You can also make your own hairspray at home using simple ingredients like sugar, water, and essential oils.
The Benefits of Natural Ingredients for Your Hair
Using natural ingredients in your hairspray can have numerous benefits for your hair. Essential oils, for example, can help moisturize the hair and scalp, promote hair growth, and improve the overall health of your hair. Carrier oils, which are derived from plant-based sources, can also provide nourishment and hydration to the hair without the harshness of alcohol. Using natural ingredients can also help to reduce hair breakage and split ends, resulting in healthier and stronger hair.
In addition to the benefits mentioned above, using natural ingredients in your hair products can also be beneficial for the environment. Many commercial hair products contain synthetic chemicals that can be harmful to the environment and contribute to pollution. By using natural ingredients, you can reduce your carbon footprint and help to protect the planet.
Furthermore, natural ingredients can be a great option for those with sensitive skin or allergies. Synthetic chemicals in hair products can cause irritation and allergic reactions in some people. Natural ingredients, on the other hand, are less likely to cause adverse reactions and can be a gentler option for those with sensitive skin.
How to Choose the Right Essential Oils for Your Hair Type
Choosing the right essential oils for your hair type is important when making your own natural hairspray. Some essential oils are better suited for oily hair, while others are more beneficial for dry or damaged hair. For oily hair, try using peppermint, tea tree, or lemon essential oil. For dry or damaged hair, consider using lavender, rosemary, or sweet almond oil. You can also experiment with different essential oil blends to create your own customized hairspray.
It's important to note that essential oils should always be diluted before use, especially when applying them directly to your hair or scalp. You can dilute essential oils with a carrier oil, such as coconut or jojoba oil, to avoid any potential irritation or adverse reactions.
Additionally, when choosing essential oils for your hair, consider the scent and how it will blend with other ingredients in your hairspray. Some essential oils have a strong, overpowering scent that may not mix well with other oils or ingredients. It's best to start with small amounts and test the scent before adding more to your recipe.
The Best Carrier Oils for DIY Natural Hairspray
Carrier oils are an important ingredient in natural hairspray as they help to dilute the essential oils and provide nourishment to the hair. Some of the best carrier oils to use in your DIY natural hairspray include jojoba, argan, and grapeseed oil. These oils are lightweight and non-greasy, making them perfect for use in hairsprays. They also contain vitamins and antioxidants that can help to improve the health and strength of your hair.
In addition to jojoba, argan, and grapeseed oil, there are other carrier oils that you can use in your DIY natural hairspray. Sweet almond oil is a great option for those with dry or damaged hair, as it is rich in fatty acids and can help to moisturize and strengthen the hair. Coconut oil is another popular choice, as it has natural antibacterial properties and can help to prevent dandruff and other scalp issues. When choosing a carrier oil for your hairspray, consider your hair type and any specific concerns you may have, such as dryness or scalp irritation.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Your Own Natural Hairspray
Making your own natural hairspray is easy and fun. Here's how to do it:
- In a small spray bottle, combine 1/4 cup of distilled water and 1/4 cup of your chosen carrier oil.
- Add in 10-20 drops of your chosen essential oils, depending on your hair type and preferred scent.
- Shake the mixture well to combine all the ingredients.
- Use as needed to set your hair in place.
Not only is making your own natural hairspray a great way to avoid harsh chemicals, but it can also be a cost-effective solution. Many store-bought hairsprays can be expensive, and making your own allows you to save money while still achieving the desired hold and style.
Additionally, by making your own hairspray, you have the ability to customize the scent and strength of the spray. You can experiment with different essential oils to find the perfect scent for you, and adjust the amount of oil used to create a stronger or lighter hold.
Tips for Storing and Using Your DIY Hairspray
When storing your DIY hairspray, it's important to keep it in a cool, dark place to prevent the oils from going rancid. You can also add a natural preservative like vitamin E oil to help extend the shelf life of your hairspray. When using your hairspray, be sure to shake the bottle well before each use to ensure that the oils are well mixed. Spray the hairspray onto your hair from a distance of 6-8 inches, and then style your hair as desired.
Another important tip for storing your DIY hairspray is to use an airtight container to prevent air from getting in and causing the oils to oxidize. This can also help to maintain the fragrance of your hairspray for a longer period of time. Additionally, if you want to add some extra hold to your hairspray, you can mix in some natural ingredients like aloe vera gel or honey. These ingredients can help to keep your hair in place without making it feel stiff or crunchy.
It's also important to note that different hair types may require different formulations of DIY hairspray. For example, if you have fine hair, you may want to use a lighter oil like jojoba or grapeseed oil, while those with thicker hair may benefit from using heavier oils like coconut or avocado oil. Experimenting with different oils and ingredients can help you find the perfect formula for your hair type and styling needs.
Troubleshooting Common Issues with Homemade Hairspray
If you experience any issues with your homemade hairspray, such as clogged spray nozzles or separation of the ingredients, try shaking the bottle well before each use and use a fine-mist spray bottle to prevent clogging. Adding more carrier oil can also help to loosen any solidified essential oils. If you experience any skin irritation or allergic reactions, stop using the hairspray and consult a healthcare professional.
Another common issue with homemade hairspray is that it may not hold your hair as well as store-bought hairspray. To increase the hold, you can add more sugar or salt to the mixture. However, be careful not to add too much as it can make your hair sticky or crunchy.
It is also important to store your homemade hairspray properly to prevent spoilage. Keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If you notice any changes in color, texture, or smell, discard the hairspray and make a fresh batch.
Comparing the Cost of DIY Natural Hairspray to Store-Bought
Making your own natural hairspray can be significantly cheaper than buying store-bought products. The cost of essential oils and carrier oils can vary, but they are generally much more affordable than conventional hairsprays. Additionally, you can make your own customized blend of essential oils to create a personalized scent profile that you love.
Another advantage of making your own natural hairspray is that you can control the ingredients that go into it. Many store-bought hairsprays contain harmful chemicals such as parabens, sulfates, and synthetic fragrances. By making your own hairspray, you can ensure that you are using only natural and safe ingredients on your hair.
Furthermore, making your own hairspray can be a fun and creative process. You can experiment with different essential oil blends and carrier oils to find the perfect combination for your hair type and desired hold. It can also be a great way to reduce waste and be more environmentally friendly by reusing spray bottles and reducing packaging waste.
Other DIY Hair Products You Can Make at Home
Making your own DIY hair products can be a great way to reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals while also saving money. Some other DIY hair products you can make at home include shampoo, conditioner, and hair masks. By using natural ingredients, you can improve the health and appearance of your hair while avoiding the negative effects of synthetic chemicals.
In conclusion, making your own DIY natural hairspray can be a great way to avoid harmful chemicals while also improving the health and appearance of your hair. By choosing natural ingredients like essential oils and carrier oils, you can create a customized hairspray that is perfect for your hair type and preferences. With a few simple steps, you can make your own natural hairspray at home and enjoy the benefits of healthier and stronger hair.
Another DIY hair product you can make at home is dry shampoo. This is a great option for those who want to extend the time between washes or for those who want to add volume to their hair. You can make dry shampoo using ingredients like cornstarch, arrowroot powder, and cocoa powder, depending on your hair color.
You can also make your own hair oil using natural ingredients like coconut oil, argan oil, and jojoba oil. This can help to nourish and moisturize your hair, while also promoting hair growth and reducing frizz. Simply mix the oils together and apply to your hair as needed.
