DIY Hair Detox: Using Baking Soda and Shampoo to Remove Chlorine, Sunscreen, and Environmental Build-Up

Happy summer!

We hope you are enjoying all that fun in the sun!! But Do you ever feel like your hair is weighed down by chlorine, sunscreen, and environmental build-up? If so, you're not alone! These residues can make your hair feel heavy, dull, and lifeless. But don't worry, there's a simple and effective solution: use baking soda mixed with your regular shampoo. This easy DIY method can help detox your hair, leaving it clean, refreshed, and full of life. Let's dive into the step-by-step process.

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

Before you start, make sure you have everything you need:

• Baking soda

• Your regular shampoo

• A measuring spoon

• A small bowl or cup

• Water (optional for a more diluted mixture)

Step 2: Prepare the Mixture

1. Measure the Baking Soda: Depending on your hair length and thickness, you'll need 1 to 2 tablespoons of baking soda. If you have shorter hair, 1 tablespoon should suffice. For longer or thicker hair, go for 2 tablespoons.

2. Mix with Shampoo: Add the baking soda to your bowl or cup, then pour an equal amount of your regular shampoo. Adjust the ratio slightly if needed, but a 1:1 ratio is a good starting point.

3. Optional—Dilute with Water: If you have a sensitive scalp or hair, consider diluting the mixture with a bit of water. Mix until you achieve a smooth consistency.
   

Step 3: Apply the Mixture

1. Wet Your Hair: Start by thoroughly wetting your hair with lukewarm water.

2. Apply the Mixture: Scoop a small amount of the baking soda and shampoo mixture into your hands. Begin applying it to your scalp, working your way down to the ends. Ensure all areas are covered, especially those with noticeable build-up.

3. Massage: Gently massage the mixture into your scalp using your fingertips. Circular motions help ensure even distribution and effectively lift the build-up.

Step 4: Let it Sit

1. Wait: Allow the mixture to sit in your hair for 1 to 3 minutes. This gives the baking soda time to break down the chlorine, sunscreen, and other residues.

Step 5: Rinse Thoroughly

1. Rinse: Rinse your hair thoroughly with lukewarm water, ensuring all the mixture is washed out to prevent any residue.

Step 6: Condition Your Hair

1. Condition: Apply your regular conditioner to restore moisture. Since baking soda can be drying, conditioning is crucial to keep your hair hydrated and smooth.

2. Rinse Again: Rinse out the conditioner thoroughly with cool water to seal the hair cuticle and add shine.

Step 7: Dry and Style

1. Dry Your Hair: Gently towel dry your hair and style it as usual.

Tips and Warnings

• Frequency: Use this method once a week or as needed. Overuse can dry out your hair.

• Patch Test: If you have sensitive skin or scalp, do a patch test before using the mixture on your entire head to ensure you don't have an adverse reaction.

• Moisturize: Always follow up with a good conditioner or hair mask to keep your hair moisturized.

This simple DIY method will leave your hair feeling clean, refreshed, and ready to shine. Doing this once a week will also avoid the green cast that can sometimes occur from frequent dips in the pool.

Give it a try and see the difference for yourself!

Xo,

CHS