Just like most hair products, there can be loads of toxins and harsh chemicals in your leave-in conditioner. So, why not make your own DIY All Natural Leave-In Conditioner with simple ingredients at home. It only takes 4 ingredients to make this amazing recipe. But first, let’s go over some common toxins found in leave-in conditioners.
Parabens
To extend the shelf life of hair products, companies add parabens. They are a preservative that helps bacteria from growing in shampoo. Parabens are known to mimic the functions of estrogen. It can increase the risks of breast cancer.
Phthalates
To increase the spreadability of a hair product and to retain the scent more, companies add in phthalates. They are endocrine disruptors and are harmful to the environment as well. They can cause early puberty in girls and low sperm count in men.
Dimethicone
Dimethicone is a type of silicone that’s added to hair products. It acts like a protective layer on the hair shaft. It can build up on your scalp preventing proper absorption of moisture.
Polyethene Glycols (PEGs)
PEGs come from petroleum and are used in hair products as a thickening agent. Depending on the manufacturing processes, these PEGs can be contaminated with ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane. Ethylene oxide is considered a human carcinogen and 1,4-dioxane is considered a possible carcinogen.
Fragrance & Dyes
Most fragrances and dyes in hair products are synthetic and made from chemicals. Synthetic fragrances can cause asthma attacks, cancer and reproductive issues. Colouring in hair products are made from petroleum and coal tar. You can spot synthetic dyes on the label by ‘FD&C’ or ‘D&C’.
Why Make Your Own DIY All Natural Leave-In Conditioner
I like making my own DIY All Natural Leave-In Conditioner because I like to know exactly what I’m putting onto my body and into my hair. It only has 4 ingredients, which means it’s very quick & easy to make. It also works great! Now, let’s go over why the ingredients in this recipe are good for your hair!
Coconut Milk (lite)
Coconut milk is very moisturizing. It deeply nourishes hair and contains many vitamins such as B1, B3, B5, B6, C, and E. The natural fatty acids are what make it so moisturizing. It also contains keratin which keeps hair strong.
Jojoba Oil
Jojoba oil contains many vitamins and nutrients that nourish for your hair, such as vitamins E, vitamin C, B vitamins, and zinc. It helps to moisturize your hair, which fights breakage and split ends. Since it strengthens hair, it may also help with hair loss and encourage hair thickness.
Essential Oils
This one is optional but you can add in benefits for your hair with essential oils. You can use about 10-15 drops depending on how strong you want the scent to be. I get mine at Well.ca. Here are some essential oils that are good to add and what they can do.
Rosemary – helps with hair growth
Lavender – soothes scalp and helps with dry hair
Lemongrass – helps with oil control
Cedarwood – can help with dry hair and hair loss
Chamomile – helps with scalp acne and inflammation
Tea tree – use for oily hair and dandruff
Rose – gives hair extra shine and fragrance
DIY All Natural Leave-In Conditioner Recipe
This recipe makes just over 150ml total. You don’t want to make too much at a time because it will go bad if not used within about a few months.
What You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup (118ml) Distilled or Filtered Water
- 2 Tbsps (30ml) Coconut Milk (lite)
- 1/2 tsp (2.5ml) Jojoba Oil
- 10-15 Essential Oils of Your Choice (Optional)
Simply mix all the ingredients together in a spray bottle and gently shake to mix before each use.
To Use: Spray thoroughly onto wet hair after a shower prior to drying and styling. Then, comb or brush through it and dry and style as usual.
