If you’re like me, you hate spending money on items you can easily make at home for a fraction of the cost. For me, shampoo is one of those things (especially because it can also be made with environmentally friendly ingredients in no time).

Because I’m “blessed” with baby fine hair my blow dryer is my best friend. Believe it or not, making your own shampoo and customizing the scent based on your preference is a simple process (and I used to spend a fair amount on costly store-bought shampoo). Before I share a recipe that won’t strip away your natural oils, let’s first talk a little about why a balanced pH is so important for the health of your scalp.

Why restoring the pH of your scalp is important

Your scalp, like your skin, ranges in pH between a 4 and 7. There is some amazing information on the importance of a proper pH for your scalp on the web. In fact, problems with fungi or bacteria on your scalp are likely due to it being too alkaline. This is often the result of using a product with a pH higher than 7, as it strips away your naturally acidic sebum that fights against bacteria. That sebum can help prevent hair loss, dandruff, bacteria or fungus (ew).

And  now the goods! Here’s my pH balanced and effective shampoo recipe that you wont have to make every week.

The ingredients:

• 1 can of coconut milk (preferably organic)
• 3/4 cup pure aloe vera gel
• Optional: essential oil of your choice (a few drops)

Directions:

• Mix all ingredients in a bowl using a wire whisk to fully incorporate.
• Pour mixture into ice cube trays (recipe fills two full trays) and put in freezer. Wait a few hours until completely frozen, then transfer the cubes into a bag or container, or just keep them in the trays.

To use:

• Take one cube out the night before you want to use it and keep it in a small container or bowl in the fridge until you are ready to wash your hair. Use as you would any other shampoo (about a quarter size amount).
• Work into the scalp and then move toward the ends of your hair. Let sit for about 30 seconds, then rinse completely. It will not lather… so you don’t need to add more to get cleaner hair. Like all good things in life, a little goes a long way.
• Put any remaining mixture back in the fridge to use the next time you wash your hair. The shelf life of each cube is about one week. Just be sure to take a new cube out once you’ve used up the last one.

I would also highly recommend using an apple cider vinegar rinse, especially if you experience a sensitive scalp and suggest using this recipe a few times before judging its effectiveness. Even if you’ve been doing “no poo” (a.k.a. no shampoo) there can be a detox phase. This is usually much shorter than the original switch from conventional shampoos. I found that my hair was a little greasy and my scalp slightly flaky for the first couple of uses, but by the fourth time, it was great! My hair is now so fresh and so clean the chemically-free (and frugal) way. It’s also fun to make, especially if you change up the essential oils you use for a different smell.

And now for a fun disclaimer:

This blog post provides general information only, and does not constitute financial, accounting, tax, legal or other professional advice. We encourage you to obtain personalized advice from qualified professionals regarding your particular circumstances. Please see our Terms of Use.