Creating natural shampoo for colored-treated and sensitive hair

Learn how to make natural shampoo that leaves your feeling soft and healthy

My journey in creating natural and nourishing products for skin and hair has been truly exciting. It all began with a passion for understanding the ingredients we put on our bodies and a desire to move away from the harsh chemicals commonly found in commercial products. This curiosity led me to explore the world of natural skincare and haircare, where I discovered the incredible benefits of using wholesome, organic ingredients that are not only effective but also gentle on the skin and hair.

Initially, my focus was on developing a moisturizing and nourishing lotion. I spent hours researching various oils, butters, and essential oils, learning about their unique properties and how they could benefit the skin. After numerous experiments, I finally created a lotion that was rich in hydration, using ingredients like shea butter and coconut oil, which are known for their deep moisturizing capabilities. The satisfaction I felt when I applied my first batch to my skin was indescribable; I knew I was onto something special.

Encouraged by this success, I ventured into creating a natural deodorant. This was a challenging task, as I wanted to ensure it was not only effective in combating odor but also free from aluminum and synthetic fragrances. I experimented with various combinations of baking soda, tapioca starch, and essential oils, carefully balancing the ingredients to create a formula that felt good on the skin and provided long-lasting protection. The result was a deodorant that not only kept me fresh throughout the day but also left a subtle, pleasant aroma.

Next on my journey was lip balm. I wanted to create a product that would nourish and protect the delicate skin of the lips, especially during harsh weather conditions. I delved into the world of natural waxes and oils, ultimately selecting beeswax, butters for their hydrating properties. After several trials, I produced a lip balm that glided on smoothly and provided a protective barrier, keeping my lips soft and supple.

Now, I find myself excitedly working on my latest project: a natural shampoo. This endeavor has been particularly rewarding, as I have been able to incorporate a natural surfactants and other ingredients that promote scalp health and hair vitality. I have researched the benefits of each ingredient for its moisturizing and nourishing properties. The process of formulating a shampoo that cleanses effectively without stripping the hair of its natural oils has been both a challenge and a joy.

Throughout this journey, I have learned not only about the science behind each ingredient but also about the importance of sustainability and ethical sourcing. I am committed to using ingredients that are responsibly harvested and to creating products that are not only good for the body but also for the planet. Each product I create is a reflection of my values and my dedication to providing nourishing alternatives to conventional beauty products.

As I continue to develop natural skincare and haircare products, I am filled with excitement for what lies ahead. Each new formulation is an opportunity to innovate and to share the benefits of natural ingredients with others. I'm excited to share all my creations with my friends on my YouTube channel, aiming to help others appreciate the beauty of natural self-care.

I've been washing my hair with diluted castile soap, followed by a rinse with diluted apple cider vinegar, and the results have been fantastic. Using castile soap increases the alkalinity, causing the hair cuticles to open and making your hair feel sticky, heavy, and dull. Therefore, it's crucial to rinse with diluted apple cider vinegar, which is acidic and helps close the cuticles and eliminate any residue. You only need 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar per cup of water. I was content with my routine until I chose to dye my hair with natural henna.

However, after deciding to dye my hair with "Lush" Henna, a natural hair color, I realized while waiting the 3 to 4 hours for the color to set that I couldn't continue using the same washing solution, as it would strip the color. I urgently searched for a new formula but lacked one ingredient, so I had to rinse my dyed hair with diluted apple cider vinegar until I could make the new natural shampoo for colored-treated hair. The missing ingredient was Decyl Glucoside, a plant-derived surfactant. It's perfect for sensitive skin, helps with dandruff, and maintains the scalp's natural pH balance. It lathers easily and is mild and non-toxic.

The first time I created my shampoo, it turned into a light foam that lathered wonderfully in my hair. I was amazed at how clean my hair felt; I couldn't recall the last time it was so squeaky clean. Additionally, the color of my hair stayed vibrant for several weeks, even though Henna usually doesn't last long in my hair, regardless of the shampoo I use. This is because I hadn't used it for a while, and I hope that with more frequent use, the dye will adhere to the hair cuticles, offering a natural color.

When I told my mother about my success, she admitted that she didn't like her shampoo and was having problems. Her hair was thin, felt weighed down, and her scalp was constantly itchy with occasional dandruff. She asked if she could try the shampoo I developed, so I gave her a sample. After using it, she said she absolutely loved it. She couldn't stop talking about how beautiful and healthier her hair looked, and, in addition to that, her itchiness and dandruff vanished.

In my video, I demonstrate the process of making this shampoo.

Ingredients and Supplies

1 cup of distilled water (250 ml)

25 ml Decyl Glucoside

15 ml Organic Vegetable Glycerin

Xanthum Gum - sprinkle until you have reached the desire consistency

Germall Plus

Essential Oils (Optional): I used 4 drops of peppermint, 4 drops Rosemary, 4 drops of Patchouli

Bowl

Immersion blender

Spoons

Spatula

Graduated cylinder (You can weigh all of the ingredients as well)

Funnel

Containers for the shampoo

Instructions:

Step 1: Pour 1 cup of distilled water into your bowl.

Step 2: Measure 25 ml of Decyl Glucoside and mix it with the distilled water.

Step 3: Repeat step 2 using 15 ml of Organic Vegetable Glycerin.

Step 4: Add 1 ml or a single squirt of Germall Plus Preservative.

Step 5: Using an immersion blender, gradually incorporate Xanthum Gum until you achieve the desired consistency. Keep in mind that Xanthum Gum may clump when added to water, but the immersion blender will help dissolve it. Some suggest mixing it with glycerin to dissolve, but I found this method effective.

Step 6: Add 12 drops of essential oil, giving a dilution of less than 0.25% in a 291ml solution. Note that the final product is very fluffy, resulting in 721 ml of shampoo. This step is optional, and I found that 12 drops were sufficient, providing a refreshing fragrance.

Why did I use the following ingredients?

Distilled Water: Utilize distilled water to guarantee purity, as it is free from contaminants like minerals, chemicals, and microorganisms. This also ensures consistency in product production.

Decyl Glucoside: This plant-derived surfactant is commonly used in detergents, cleaning products, and emulsifiers. It is made from the fats, alcohols, and sugars found in palm kernel oils, corn, or coconut. Decyl Glucoside is eco-friendly, biodegradable, and effective at removing dirt and oil. It is gentle, lathers easily, and is non-toxic, making it ideal for those with sensitive skin. Note: Seek out sustainable palm oil, as large-scale palm oil production in some countries can lead to deforestation and habitat destruction. It can be challenging to find this information when purchasing this ingredient. Consider researching the company to determine if they are committed to sustainability and ethical practices.

Vegetable glycerin: is a highly effective humectant, attracting moisture to both the hair and scalp. It also helps form a barrier that prevents moisture loss from the skin and hair follicles.

Xanthan Gum: This is a typical food additive derived from sugar fermented by bacteria. It functions as a binder, thickener, and stabilizer to enhance texture and prevent ingredients from separating (emulsifier). I noticed that this batch separated slightly, so I plan to add a bit more next time.

Germall Plus: A highly effective broad-spectrum preservative and antimicrobial, perfect for products that contain water, including distilled water.

Peppermint, Mentha piperita :

Not suitable for children below 3 years old. It offers cooling and soothing effects, delivering itch relief and a refreshing sensation.

Rosemary, Salvia rosmarinus ct verbanone: Perfect for addressing dandruff and hair loss, this antibacterial herb enhances scalp health and may boost hair vitality.

Patchouli, Pogostamon cablin: Used for its fragrance and it is moistening and cooling to the dermal tissues.

I now need a hair moisturizer to nourish my hair while keeping my curls defined and healthy-looking. At the moment, I either use nothing or Argan oil, Argania spinosa, which is perfect for hair care. I love how my hair feels—clean and light, without any heavy residue—so I know creating this moisturizing hair product could be the most challenging task, as I dislike the oily sensation.

Stay tuned for my upcoming post and video to find out what I create for my hair. Wish me luck!

Natural Ingredients for Gentle Care: A shampoo delicately formulated to nourish dyed hair, presented amidst a floral and autumnal display.