Understanding the Benefits of Adding Oils to Shampoo
Adding natural oils to your shampoo can provide numerous benefits for your hair. Oils can nourish and protect the hair, leaving it softer, shinier, and more manageable.
Moisturizing and Conditioning Properties
Many natural oils have excellent moisturizing and conditioning properties. When mixed into shampoo, they can help to hydrate dry, brittle strands and smooth the hair cuticle. This leads to hair that looks and feels healthier.
Some of the most moisturizing oils include:
- Coconut oil
- Argan oil
- Jojoba oil
- Avocado oil
- Olive oil
Strengthening and Repairing Damage
Certain oils can also help to strengthen hair and repair damage from heat styling, chemical treatments, and environmental stressors. By penetrating the hair shaft, they fortify strands from the inside out.
Oils known for their strengthening abilities include:
- Castor oil
- Black seed oil
- Almond oil
- Grapeseed oil
Promoting Scalp Health
A healthy scalp is the foundation for healthy hair growth. Many oils have properties that can benefit the scalp when incorporated into shampoo. For example:
- Tea tree oil has antimicrobial effects to combat dandruff and scalp infections
- Peppermint oil stimulates circulation for a healthy scalp
- Lavender oil soothes inflammation and irritation
Enhancing Shine and Manageability
Oils can add a glossy sheen to dull, lackluster hair. By smoothing the cuticle, they also make hair more manageable and less prone to tangles and frizz. Just a small amount of oil in shampoo can make a noticeable difference in hair’s appearance and texture.
Some shine-enhancing oils are:
- Argan oil
- Camellia oil
- Marula oil
- Monoi oil
How to Choose the Right Oils for Your Hair Type
With so many oils to choose from, it’s important to select ones that will work well with your specific hair type and concerns. Here’s a guide:
Fine/Thin Hair
Fine hair can easily get weighed down by heavy oils. Opt for lightweight oils that won’t leave hair looking greasy or flat. Good choices include:
- Argan oil
- Grapeseed oil
- Jojoba oil
- Camellia oil
Thick/Coarse Hair
Thicker, coarser hair textures can handle richer, more emollient oils. These help to deeply condition and make hair more manageable. Try:
- Coconut oil
- Avocado oil
- Olive oil
- Shea butter
Dry/Damaged Hair
Very dry, brittle, or damaged hair will drink up moisturizing oils. Focus on oils that penetrate the hair shaft to hydrate and repair. Some options are:
- Coconut oil
- Argan oil
- Macadamia nut oil
- Babassu oil
Oily Hair
If your hair tends to get oily quickly, you’ll want to choose oils that are less comedogenic (pore-clogging). Lighter oils can still provide benefits without contributing to greasiness. Consider:
- Jojoba oil
- Grapeseed oil
- Almond oil
- Apricot kernel oil
Color-Treated Hair
To maintain vibrant color and prevent fading, color-treated hair can benefit from oils high in antioxidants and UV-protectant properties. Good choices include:
- Cranberry seed oil
- Red raspberry seed oil
- Sunflower oil
How to Mix Oils With Shampoo: Step-by-Step Guide
Mixing oils into your shampoo is a simple process that can be customized based on your hair’s needs. Follow these steps:
- Start with a sulfate-free, natural shampoo as your base. Sulfates can strip oils from the hair and scalp.
- Choose your oil or blend of oils based on your hair type and goals (refer to the previous section for guidance).
- If using coconut oil, melt it first by placing the jar in a bowl of hot water. Other oils are usually already in liquid form.
- Pour the desired amount of shampoo into a bowl or empty bottle. For a single use, start with a quarter-size amount. If mixing a whole bottle, use about 1/2 cup of shampoo.
- Add the oil to the shampoo. Start with just a few drops for fine hair, or up to 1 teaspoon for thick/dry hair. You can always add more oil, but it’s harder to adjust if you add too much at first.
- Mix the oil and shampoo together thoroughly. If using a bottle, secure the lid and shake vigorously to combine.
- If mixing a full bottle, pour the oil-infused shampoo back into the original container or a new bottle.
- Use the oil-shampoo mix as you would regular shampoo. Be sure to rinse thoroughly, as the oils can make hair slippery.
- Follow with conditioner as usual, or skip it if your hair feels moisturized enough from the oils.
- Assess your hair after it dries, and adjust the amount of oil in future batches as needed. You may need to experiment a bit to find the perfect ratio for your hair.
What Are the Recommended Oil-to-Shampoo Ratios?
The ideal ratio of oil to shampoo will depend on your hair type, the specific oils used, and your desired results. However, here are some general guidelines to get you started:
Fine/Thin Hair
For fine or thin hair, use a light hand with oils to avoid weighing hair down. A good starting ratio is 1-3 drops of oil per quarter-size amount of shampoo. If using a whole bottle (about 1/2 cup), start with 1/4 teaspoon of oil and increase as needed.
Medium/Normal Hair
Those with medium thickness or “normal” hair can use slightly more oil. Begin with 3-5 drops per quarter-size amount of shampoo, or 1/2 to 1 teaspoon per 1/2 cup.
Thick/Coarse/Dry Hair
Thicker, coarser, or very dry hair may benefit from a more generous amount of oil. Start with 5-10 drops per quarter-size shampoo, or 1 to 2 teaspoons per 1/2 cup. You can always add more if your hair still feels dry.
Oily Hair
If your hair is oily, use oils sparingly to avoid exacerbating the issue. Stick to just 1-2 drops per quarter-size shampoo, or 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon per 1/2 cup. Focus the shampoo on your scalp only, and rinse very thoroughly.
Remember, these are just starting points. The perfect ratio for you may take some trial and error to discover. Pay attention to how your hair looks and feels after washing, and adjust accordingly. It’s also a good idea to start with less oil and gradually increase until you achieve your desired results.
What Are Some DIY Shampoo Recipes With Oils?
If you want to take your oil-infused shampoo to the next level, try making your own from scratch! Here are a few simple recipes to get you started:
Basic Castile Shampoo
- 1/2 cup liquid castile soap
- 1/2 cup distilled water
- 1 tablespoon vegetable glycerin
- 1 tablespoon jojoba oil
- 1 tablespoon almond oil
- 10-15 drops essential oil of choice (optional, for scent)
Combine all ingredients in a bottle and shake well to mix. Use as you would regular shampoo.
Coconut Milk Shampoo
- 1 can full-fat coconut milk
- 1/3 cup liquid castile soap
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon vitamin E oil
- 10-15 drops essential oil of choice (optional)
Whisk together the coconut milk and castile soap in a bowl. Stir in the coconut oil, vitamin E oil, and essential oils if using. Pour into a bottle or jar. Shake before each use, as the ingredients may separate over time.
Aloe Vera Shampoo
- 1/2 cup fresh aloe vera gel
- 1/4 cup liquid castile soap
- 1 tablespoon vegetable glycerin
- 1 teaspoon jojoba oil
- 1 teaspoon almond oil
- 10 drops peppermint essential oil (optional)
Blend the aloe vera gel until smooth. In a bowl, whisk together the aloe gel, castile soap, glycerin, jojoba oil, almond oil, and peppermint oil if using. Transfer to a bottle or jar.
Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo
- 1/2 cup liquid castile soap
- 1/4 cup distilled water
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon vegetable glycerin
- 1 tablespoon argan oil
- 10-15 drops essential oil of choice (optional)
Combine all ingredients in a bottle and shake vigorously to combine. The vinegar smell will dissipate after shampooing.
Feel free to customize these recipes based on your hair type and preferred oils. You can swap out or combine different carrier and essential oils to suit your needs.
How to Store Your Oil-Infused Shampoo
Proper storage is key to maintaining the quality and effectiveness of your oil-shampoo mixes. Here are some tips:
Choose the Right Container
Store your shampoo in a clean, airtight container. Glass or high-quality plastic bottles with secure lids work well. Avoid containers made from porous materials, as they can harbor bacteria.
Keep It Cool and Dry
Store your shampoo away from direct sunlight and heat, which can degrade the oils and other ingredients. A cool, dry place like a bathroom cabinet or drawer is ideal.
Use a Pump or Squeeze Bottle
Dispensing your shampoo from a pump or squeeze bottle minimizes exposure to air and potential contaminants. It also makes it easier to control the amount of product you use.
Label and Date Your Mixes
If you make multiple oil-shampoo blends, be sure to label each one clearly with the ingredients and date mixed. This will help you keep track of what’s what, and when it’s time to toss and replace.
Use Within 1-2 Months
Homemade oil-shampoo mixes are best used within 1-2 months for optimal freshness and effectiveness. After that, the oils can start to go rancid and the shampoo may lose its potency.
Shake Before Each Use
Natural ingredients like oils can separate from the shampoo over time. Give your bottle a good shake before each use to re-incorporate everything.
Avoid Contamination
To prevent bacteria growth, avoid getting water or other contaminants into your shampoo bottle. Dispense the product into your hand or onto a sponge, rather than dipping your fingers directly into the container.
By following these storage guidelines, you can ensure that your oil-infused shampoos stay fresh, effective, and safe to use.
What Are the Different Types of Oils and Their Benefits?
There are many types of natural oils that can be used to enhance shampoo, each with its own unique properties and benefits. Here’s a rundown of some of the most popular options:
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a highly moisturizing oil that can penetrate the hair shaft to hydrate and strengthen from within. It’s especially beneficial for dry, brittle, or damaged hair. Coconut oil also has antimicrobial properties that can help combat dandruff and scalp infections.
Argan Oil
Often called “liquid gold,” argan oil is a lightweight, non-greasy oil that’s rich in vitamin E and antioxidants. It helps to moisturize, soften, and add shine to hair without weighing it down. Argan oil is suitable for most hair types, but especially beneficial for dry, frizzy, or damaged hair.
Jojoba Oil
Jojoba oil is actually a liquid wax that closely mimics the sebum naturally produced by our scalps. This makes it an excellent moisturizer that won’t clog pores or leave hair greasy. Jojoba oil is lightweight, non-allergenic, and beneficial for all hair types, especially oily or sensitive scalps.
Castor Oil
Castor oil is a thick, viscous oil known for its ability to promote hair growth and thickness. It’s rich in ricinoleic acid, a fatty acid with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Castor oil can help to moisturize dry, brittle hair and soothe scalp conditions like dandruff and dermatitis.
Olive Oil
Olive oil is a rich, moisturizing oil packed with vitamins and antioxidants. It can help to hydrate and soften dry, coarse hair, and add shine and manageability. Olive oil also has mild cleansing properties that can help remove product buildup from the hair and scalp.
Avocado Oil
Avocado oil is a thick, nourishing oil rich in vitamins A, B, D, and E, as well as monounsaturated fatty acids. It can penetrate the hair shaft to deeply moisturize and strengthen, making it ideal for dry, damaged, or brittle hair. Avocado oil also contains biotin, which supports healthy hair growth.
Grapeseed Oil
Grapeseed oil is a lightweight, non-greasy oil that’s rich in vitamin E and linoleic acid. It can help to moisturize and condition hair without weighing it down, making it a good choice for fine or oily hair types. Grapeseed oil also has astringent properties that can help balance oily scalps.
Almond Oil
Almond oil is a mild, hypoallergenic oil that’s rich in vitamins A, B, and E, as well as monounsaturated fatty acids. It can help to moisturize and soften hair, tame frizz and flyaways, and add shine. Almond oil is suitable for most hair types, but especially beneficial for dry or damaged hair.
These are just a few examples of the many oils that can be used in shampoo. Other options include sunflower oil, sesame oil, macadamia nut oil, and more. Each oil has its own unique composition and benefits, so you can mix and match to create a custom blend that suits your hair’s specific needs.
What Are Common Mistakes to Avoid When Mixing Oils With Shampoo?
While mixing oils into your shampoo can offer many benefits, there are also some common mistakes to avoid. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Using Too Much Oil
One of the most common mistakes is using too much oil in your shampoo. This can leave hair looking and feeling greasy, weighed down, or difficult to style. Remember, a little oil goes a long way – start with just a few drops and gradually increase as needed.
Choosing the Wrong Oils for Your Hair Type
Another mistake is using oils that aren’t well-suited to your hair type or concerns. For example, using heavy oils like coconut or castor on fine, thin hair can cause it to look flat and lifeless. On the other hand, using lightweight oils like grapeseed on very dry, coarse hair may not provide enough moisture. Be sure to choose oils that are appropriate for your specific hair type and needs.
Not Emulsifying Properly
When mixing oils into shampoo, it’s important to emulsify them properly so that they distribute evenly throughout the product. If you don’t mix well, you may end up with pockets of oil that can make hair look greasy or uneven. Be sure to shake or stir your oil-shampoo mixture thoroughly before each use.
Using Poor-Quality or Rancid Oils
The quality of the oils you use can make a big difference in the effectiveness and safety of your shampoo. Always choose high-quality, pure, and preferably organic oils from reputable sources. Avoid oils that are old, rancid, or have a strong, off-putting smell, as these can irritate the scalp and cause more harm than good.
Not Adjusting for Protein Sensitivity
Some oils, like coconut and avocado, are rich in proteins that can strengthen and nourish the hair. However, if your hair is protein-sensitive, using too much of these oils can actually cause dryness, brittleness, and breakage. If you know your hair doesn’t respond well to protein, use these oils sparingly or opt for alternatives like jojoba or grapeseed.
Overusing Essential Oils
While essential oils can add beneficial properties and pleasant scents to your shampoo, it’s important not to overdo it. Essential oils are highly concentrated and can irritate the scalp if used in excess. Stick to just a few drops per batch of shampoo, and always dilute them in a carrier oil first.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your oil-infused shampoo is safe, effective, and tailored to your hair’s specific needs.
Are There Alternatives to Oils for Enhancing Shampoo?
Yes. While oils are a popular and effective way to enhance shampoo, they may not be suitable for everyone. Some people may have allergies or sensitivities to certain oils, while others may prefer a lighter, oil-free formula. Fortunately, there are several alternatives that can still provide moisturizing, strengthening, and nourishing benefits:
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is a natural moisturizer that can help to hydrate and soothe the scalp. It’s also rich in vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that can nourish and strengthen the hair. You can mix pure aloe vera gel into your shampoo, or look for shampoos that already contain it as an ingredient.
Honey
Honey is a natural humectant, meaning it can help to draw moisture into the hair and retain it. It’s also antibacterial, which can be beneficial for those with dandruff or scalp irritation. Mix a small amount of raw, organic honey into your shampoo, or look for honey-infused formulas.
Glycerin
Glycerin is another humectant that can help to moisturize and soften hair. It’s a common ingredient in many hair care products, but you can also add a small amount of pure vegetable glycerin to your shampoo for an extra boost of hydration.
Hydrolyzed Proteins
Hydrolyzed proteins, such as silk, wheat, or keratin, can help to strengthen and repair damaged hair. These proteins have been broken down into smaller molecules that can penetrate the hair shaft and fortify it from within. Look for shampoos that contain hydrolyzed proteins, or add a protein treatment to your hair care routine.
Herbal Infusions
Herbs like chamomile, lavender, rosemary, and nettle can provide various benefits for the hair and scalp when infused into shampoo. Chamomile can soothe inflammation, lavender can promote relaxation, rosemary can stimulate growth, and nettle can help to combat dandruff. You can make your own herbal infusions by steeping dried herbs in hot water, then mixing the strained liquid into your shampoo.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a natural clarifier that can help to remove product buildup, balance the scalp’s pH, and boost shine. Dilute a small amount of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar in water and mix it into your shampoo, or use it as a rinse after shampooing.
What to Expect During the Transition Period to Oil-Shampoo Mixes
When you first start incorporating oils into your shampoo, you may experience a transition period as your hair and scalp adjust to the new routine. Here’s what you can expect:
Greasiness or Heaviness
In the beginning, your hair may feel greasier or heavier than usual, especially if you’re using too much oil or the wrong types for your hair. This is normal and will usually subside within a week or two as you find the right balance. In the meantime, you can use dry shampoo or style your hair in updos to manage any excess oil.
Scalp Detox
If you’ve been using commercial shampoos with harsh sulfates or silicones, your scalp may go through a detox period when you switch to a gentler, oil-based formula. This can cause temporary itching, flaking, or even increased oil production as your scalp adjusts. Be patient and resist the urge to wash more frequently, as this can strip the natural oils and disrupt the process.
Improved Moisture and Softness
After the initial transition period, you should start to notice improvements in your hair’s moisture levels and overall softness. The oils will help to hydrate and nourish the hair, making it more manageable and less prone to frizz and tangles.
Increased Shine and Vibrancy
As your hair becomes healthier and more hydrated, you may also notice an increase in shine and vibrancy. The oils can help to smooth the cuticle and reflect light, giving your hair a glossy, radiant appearance.
Healthier Scalp
Over time, using oil-infused shampoos can help to balance your scalp’s natural oil production and improve overall scalp health. You may notice less flakiness, itching, or irritation, and a more balanced, comfortable scalp.
Stronger, More Resilient Hair
With consistent use, the nourishing and strengthening properties of the oils can help to fortify your hair from within. You may experience less breakage, split ends, and overall damage, leading to healthier, more resilient strands.
The transition period can vary from person to person, and may take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. Be patient and consistent with your new routine, and don’t hesitate to make adjustments as needed based on how your hair and scalp respond. With time and care, you should start to see the full benefits of your oil-infused shampoo.
Mixing oils into your shampoo can be a game-changer for your hair care routine. By choosing the right oils for your hair type, customizing your blends, and using them consistently, you can experience a wide range of benefits – from increased moisture and softness to improved scalp health and overall hair strength. While there may be a transition period as your hair adjusts, the long-term rewards are well worth it. So go ahead and experiment with different oils and ratios, and enjoy the journey to healthier, happier hair!
