Baking Soda: Known for its mild abrasive properties, baking soda can help remove residue from hair care products like shampoos and conditioners. It acts as a cleansing agent, removing dirt and excess oils, leaving your hair feeling clean. However, because baking soda is alkaline, it can disturb the natural pH balance of your scalp if used too frequently, potentially causing dryness or irritation. It’s important to use it sparingly and be cautious if you have sensitive or dry scalp.
Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV): ACV is mildly acidic and can help balance the pH of your hair after using baking soda. It also has natural antibacterial and antifungal properties, which can support scalp health and promote shine. However, if you’re sensitive to strong smells, you might find the vinegar scent a bit overpowering, although it usually fades once your hair dries.
What Happens When You Combine Them?
- Cleanses and Refreshes: Baking soda helps to cleanse hair by removing buildup from products, while ACV restores pH balance, leaving your hair smooth and shiny.
- Maintains Healthy Scalp: Both ingredients can contribute to scalp health. While baking soda removes impurities, ACV helps maintain a healthy, balanced scalp environment by preventing fungal or bacterial overgrowth.
- Shiny, Healthy Hair: After using the baking soda and ACV combo, your hair may feel soft, shiny, and free from product buildup.
How to Make and Use the Shampoo
Ingredients:
- 1 part baking soda
- 3 parts water
- Small squeeze bottle
Steps:
- Mix 1 part baking soda with 3 parts water in a squeeze bottle. Adjust the amount depending on the length of your hair. For shoulder-length hair, use about 2–3 tablespoons of baking soda mixed with an equal amount of water.
- Apply the mixture to wet hair, starting at the roots and working down to the ends. Leave it on for 1-3 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly with warm water. Since baking soda doesn’t produce foam like traditional shampoo, the process might feel different at first, but you’ll get used to it.
The Finishing Touch: ACV Rinse
Ingredients:
- 1 part apple cider vinegar (ACV)
- 4 parts water
Steps:
- Mix 1 part ACV with 4 parts water in a squeeze bottle. If you’re sensitive to the smell, you can add a few drops of essential oil (like lavender or peppermint) to mask the vinegar scent.
- Tilt your head back to avoid getting the mixture in your eyes, and apply it evenly throughout your hair.
- Rinse it off thoroughly with water.
Conclusion
Using baking soda and ACV in your hair care routine can be a great natural alternative to commercial shampoos and conditioners. Baking soda helps remove buildup, while ACV restores pH balance, leaving your hair shiny and healthy. However, because baking soda is alkaline, it’s important to use it sparingly to avoid stripping your hair of its natural oils, especially if you have a dry or sensitive scalp. Always do a patch test before using these ingredients regularly to make sure they suit your hair type.
This simple, natural hair care routine can transform your hair, but it’s crucial to use it in moderation and adjust based on your individual needs. If you find that it dries out your hair or scalp, consider reducing the frequency of use or trying a gentler option.
