Hair Detoxing (& Why Its So Important!)

Hair Detoxing (& Why Its So Important!)

We put our hair through a lot every day. Hairspray, mousse, shampoos and other hair care products suck the health from our hair. However, giving up these products is pretty difficult for most when it comes to styling. Styling daily with these products damages your hair, making it limp and lackluster while it builds up in your hair follicles on your scalp. Even those that don’t use any hair care products are still subject to toxins and chemicals from the environment and food they eat. There’s good news though, you don’t have to give up your hair products. You can get rid of heavy metals and other toxins from conventional hair care with these hair detoxing tips. Yep, you can detox your hair.

Just like our skin, our hair reflects the health of our bodies. Being undernourished or full of toxins makes hair thin or dull. If you’ve used conventional hair care products, then you’ve exposed your hair to a variety of chemical toxins. Even if you opt for natural hair care, any toxins found in our food and environment will affect your hair and scalp’s health and appearance. By doing a hair detox you’re nourishing the scalp, and removing the toxic buildup.

Before we introduce the recipe, let’s dive a little deeper into how each ingredient helps your hair and scalp.

The power of bentonite clay

This ancient sediment has been used throughout history for its unique ability to pull and trap heavy metals from the body. It is also known as montmorillonite clay, and it is the MVP of hair detoxing. When mixed with water it draws out impurities and holds on to them all the way down the drain after rinsing it out.

Activated charcoal

Activated charcoal has become very well known for its detoxifying effects, so why not hair? This is often used in cases of food poisoning for its ability to gently absorb harmful toxins from the body. In the upcoming recipe activated charcoal cleanses and detoxes the scalp by doing what it’s known for, absorbing toxins. A word of caution, it will stain light colored fabrics and white sinks. The best practice is to immediately wash the drain out after use.

Essential oils

Remember, essential oils are super concentrated and potent. You only need a tiny bit for a powerful effect. Lavender oil calms scalp inflammation and improves hair growth. Cilantro isn’t just for cooking, it’s great for removing heavy metals and unwanted toxins. Rosemary stimulates circulation on the scalp for hair growth and health.

Nettle

This prickly plant is a nutrition powerhouse. It’s packed with nutrients that nourish and strengthen your hair. Nettle is high in Vitamin A carotenoids, Vitamins B, C, D and K, calcium, magnesium and many more. You won’t want to leave this extract out.

Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar does a whole lot of good for your hair and scalp. It balances the pH levels in your hair, Antibacterial, and Antifungal Properties, reduces frizz, cleanses, detangles, prevents breakage and so much more.

Now, let’s get down to business.

Ingredients

• 1 T Apple cider vinegar
• 1 drop rosemary essential oil
• 2 drops cilantro essential oil
• 3 drops lavender essential oil
• ½ cup Bentonite clay
• 1 t Activated charcoal powder
• 2 tsp dried nettle
• ½ cup filtered or distilled water

Rinse ingredients

• ½ cup apple cider vinegar
• ½ cup of filtered water
• 3 drops of your favorite essential oil for hair

Materials needed

• Glass bowl
• Wooden or plastic spoon
• Pot with lid

Preparation directions:

1. Place the ½ cup of water into your lidded pot, and heat it until boiling. Turn the heat off and add the nettle herb. After its steeped for 5-10 minutes with the lid on, strain out the herb and pour the water into a ½ measuring cup.
2. In another cup combine the ingredients for the rinse and set aside.
3. In your bowl add the apple cider vinegar, essential oils, and charcoal. Carefully stir to combine. Be careful with the charcoal!
4. Add the water and bentonite clay and stir well to combine. You may need to trade your spoon for a rubber spatula at this point to get it thoroughly mixed.

Using the Detox

1. Use your hands to scoop up some of the detox treatment and liberally apply it to sections of hair. After you’ve covered each section, spread some more over the head, spreading it on thickly. How much you use will depend on your hair length and thickness, but don’t be stingy with it!

2. Allow the clay mixture to stay on your hair for about 10 minutes. If you have longer hair, wrap it up in a bun to              keep it from getting everywhere. Do NOT let the clay dry or it will be very difficult to get out.

       3. Very thoroughly rinse your hair with warm water. It will take some time to get all of the clay out, just be                          patient with it. Gently work your fingers through the hair as you wish.

       4. Once you feel like the clay is out, give the vinegar hair rinse a quick stir with your finger. Tilt your head back                  and slowly pour the rinse over, making sure to cover the entire scalp. Rinse the vinegar out briefly and then                  allow the hair to dry naturally.