A recurring trend that seems to keep popping up on the internet is homemade eco shampoo bars- but just how can you make your own at home?
The team at NetVoucherCodes.co.uk says that Brits should consider switching to a natural homemade shampoo to improve their haircare and help combat environmental effects caused by purchasing packaged products.
Shampoo bars are said to be more gentle when it comes to nourishing hair, unlike potentially harmful chemicals that can be found in some hair care products.
When it comes to being environmentally friendly, homemade shampoo bars are a saviour as they eliminate the plastic waste resulting from shampoo packaging.
A spokesperson at NetVoucherCodes.co.uk said: “We can see eco-conscious products continue to be at the forefront of the health and beauty industry.
“People have decided to make homemade alternatives to not only save money but also to reduce their plastic consumption.
“Making your own products at home can be fun and if it benefits the environment as well as your hair, then why not give it a go?”
Here are NetVoucherCodes.co.uk’s simple steps to creating an all-natural shampoo bar.
Choose your base
Many people opt for a ready-made castile soap base which will usually contain the key ingredients of either coconut oil or olive or sometimes both. It also boasts antibacterial properties which are great for cleansing the hair. If you want to take a more sustainable approach use a mix of pure coconut oil and olive oil. 150-200 ml of your base will be enough for a standard shampoo bar but this can be adjusted depending on how much or little you want to make.
Volumise and soothe
In addition to the base adding, ingredients such as shea butter and apple cider vinegar can provide many nourishing benefits to your shampoo bar. Shea butter works well with curly hair and can also help soothe itchy scalps. Apple cider vinegar on the other hand can help reduce frizziness and make hair voluminous. Whatever one you decide to use, add a quarter of the amount that was used for the rest. So for example, a 200ml base would need 50ml of shea butter.
Heat the ingredients
This can be done in a similar way to melting chocolate. Use a glass mixing bowl placed on top of a saucepan filled with simmering water. Doing it this way will stop the ingredients from burning.
Essential oils
Adding essential oils is completely down to personal preference and certain combinations can complement different hair types. Rosemary, peppermint, and thyme have been known to help combat hair loss, whilst jojoba, lavender, and argan oils are perfect for hydrating lifeless hair. Add 6-12 drops of your desired oils to the mix and along with the other ingredients. Only do this once the mixture has cooled, otherwise, the oils may evaporate.
Choose your container
Silicone moulds are the most effective when it comes to moulding your shampoo bars as they make it easier to remove the bars once they are set. You can use a lollipop mould or even a cupcake tin, usually, a shape that is roughly the size of your palm will work best.
Place into the fridge until the mixture is set. Remove from the mould and there you have it your very own eco-friendly shampoo bar.