If you’re diving into the world of DIY hair care, you might be making a few mistakes that could be affecting your hair’s health without even realizing it.
Transitioning from commercial products to natural, homemade alternatives can be a game-changer, but it comes with a learning curve. In this blog, we’ll dive into the top 5 DIY hair care mistakes and show you exactly how to fix them. With a few simple adjustments, you’ll be well on your way to mastering your natural hair care routine and enjoying all the benefits of clean, nourished hair. Let’s get started!
🚫 Mistake #1: Using Too Much or Too Little Product
Why it Happens:
Many DIY hair care recipes are more concentrated than store-bought versions, which means it’s easy to overuse or underuse the products. Using too much can leave your hair greasy, while using too little may not give you the results you’re hoping for.
The Fix:
- Shampoo Bars: If your hair feels greasy quickly, you may not be lathering enough. If it feels dry, try using less product and rinse thoroughly.
- Conditioner Bars: A little goes a long way! Start with a light application on the ends and add more if needed.
- Hair Masks & Leave-In Treatments: Start sparingly; fine hair needs less, while thicker or curly hair may need more moisture.
💡 Pro Tip: If your hair feels weighed down, rinse with apple cider vinegar to remove any excess product buildup.
🚫 Mistake #2: Skipping the Transition Period
Why it Happens:
Switching to natural shampoo can often leave your hair feeling waxy or heavy. Many commercial shampoos strip away natural oils, and when you switch to DIY, your scalp needs time to readjust and balance its oil production.
The Fix:
- Use an apple cider vinegar rinse once a week to help remove buildup and balance your scalp.
- Be patient—this transition can last 2-4 weeks. Your hair will adjust and feel better soon!
🚫 Mistake #3: Not Balancing Moisture & Protein
Why it Happens:
Your hair needs both moisture and protein to stay healthy. Too much moisture can leave it limp and greasy, while too much protein can make it dry and brittle.
The Fix:
- Dry, frizzy hair? It may need more hydration. Try a deep conditioning hair mask.
- Weak, limp hair? You might need more protein. Hydrolyzed Rice Protein (included in our Shampoo Kit!) strengthens your strands without making them stiff.
- Rotate between moisture and protein treatments to keep your hair balanced and strong.
🚫 Mistake #4: Improper Storage & Not Using a Preservative
Why it Happens:
Even though DIY shampoo and conditioner bars don’t contain water, they still come into contact with water every time you use them. This creates the perfect environment for microbial growth, making proper storage and preservation crucial.
The Fix:
- Use Geogard ECT – This broad-spectrum, eco-certified preservative will help extend shelf life and prevent bacteria buildup.
- Keep your bars dry – Store them on a draining soap dish or drying rack to prevent mushiness.
- Store oils & masks properly – Keep them in a cool, dark place to prevent oxidation.
- Label your products – Write the date they were made, so you know when to replace them.
💡 Pro Tip: If you notice any changes in smell, texture, or color, it may be time to make a fresh batch.
🚫 Mistake #5: Using the Wrong Essential Oils
Why it Happens:
Not all essential oils are suitable for your hair. Some oils can cause scalp irritation or even make the problem worse. It’s important to stick to oils that are safe and beneficial for your scalp and hair health.
The Fix:
- Rosemary Essential Oil – Supports scalp health and stimulates hair growth.
- Spearmint Essential Oil – Cleanses the scalp and promotes shine.
- Lavender Essential Oil – Balances oil production and soothes the scalp.
- Tea Tree Essential Oil – Great for dandruff and maintaining a clean scalp.
❌ Avoid: Cinnamon, Clove, and other skin-irritating oils.
💡 Pro Tip: Always dilute essential oils properly before applying them to your scalp. Too much can cause irritation.
Ready to Show Your Hair Some Love?
By avoiding these 5 common DIY hair care mistakes, you’re setting yourself up for healthier, shinier, and more manageable hair. With just a few simple tweaks, you’ll unlock the full potential of your natural hair care routine. Imagine your hair feeling softer, stronger, and looking its best—all while knowing exactly what’s in your products!
Want to dive deeper into the world of DIY hair care? Download our FREE DIY Natural Hair Care Guide today for even more tips, tricks, and recipes to perfect your hair care routine. Plus, subscribe to the Simply Earth Recipe Box and get monthly shipments of high-quality ingredients and step-by-step instructions to keep your DIY journey going strong!
Your dream hair is just a few simple fixes away – let’s make it happen!