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Shampoo: a scam? -

The amount of plastic waste generated by shampoo and conditioner bottles is startling. And are these products even necessary? Proponents of the "no poo" trend don't think so.

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Shampoo: a scam? -

Shampoo as we now know it has only been around for about 100 years. It wasn't until 1933 that the first synthetic, detergent-based, soap-free liquid was created to cleanse the hair.

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Reasons to go no poo: harsh chemicals -

Shampoo often contains harsh chemicals that can irritate the scalp and cause dandruff. Many shampoos contain synthetic fragrances that can cause allergic reactions and skin irritation.

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Reasons to go no poo: dry, distressed hair -

Some shampoos contain sulfates, which can strip the hair of its natural color and shine. Over time, these kinds of shampoo can weaken the hair shaft and lead to increased breakage.

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Reasons to go no poo: oil balance is out of whack -

If that wasn't enough, shampooing too frequently can disrupt the natural balance of oils on the scalp. This can lead to increased oil production, as the scalp overcompensates.

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Going no poo: what you need to know -

Ditching shampoo to go "no poo" can benefit most people. However, there are certain hair types that are more likely to experience much better results from the method.

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Going no poo: curly hair -

Curly hair is more susceptible to dryness. The shape of the hair makes it harder for oils to travel down, so going no poo can really help curls become more defined and retain moisture.

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Going no poo: oily hair -

Oily hair could benefit from the no poo method, even if things seem worse initially. The hair is likely overproducing oil due to the continued stripping of the hair's natural oils by shampoo. By breaking the vicious cycle and regulating oil production, your scalp can become more balanced.

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Going no poo: thin hair -

For those with fine, brittle hair, the no poo method can help improve the hair's bounce. Detergents in shampoos can strip the hair, causing it to appear dull or lank.

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Adjustment phase -

The no poo trend has an army of followers, particularly on social media, but there is an important caveat when trying the method. There is no instant gratification.

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Adjustment phase -

Patience is required. This adjustment phase can last anywhere between two to six weeks. But while your hair may look oily initially, it will eventually recalibrate.

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Pollution and coloring -

If you live somewhere with a lot of pollution, or you have colored hair, this can impact the frequency of cleaning your hair needs.

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Activity levels -

Similarly, your levels of physical activity will dictate how often your hair requires freshening up, especially if you exercise most days.

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Water only -

If you decide to go no poo, there are many ways to do it. No one way is the "correct" method. Some people use cleansing alternatives, while others just use water.

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Water only -

It might take some trial and error in the beginning, to see how your hair and scalp are responding to the no poo method. If you don't feel like water is enough, there are other options to help cleanse and condition your hair.

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Boar bristle brush -

Using a boar bristle brush can help you redistribute the oil throughout your hair as you switch to no poo. These brushes allow for gentle detangling of the hair while improving elasticity.

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Ayurvedic practices -

Traditional Indian medicine system Ayurveda recommends brushing the hair twice a day using a wooden blunt-toothed comb, to improve scalp circulation. Hair masks using herbal powders are also recommended once a week or fortnight.

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Rhassoul clay -

Rhassoul clay is softening and clarifying, gently absorbing oil without stripping the scalp to bring back balance. Mix it with water; it's suitable for use on oily or sensitive scalps.

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Baking soda -

A more abrasive option, if you have particularly greasy hair. Mix one part baking soda to three or four parts water, covering the hair from root to tip and letting it sit for one minute before rinsing. Don't use this method every day; once per week at most.

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Rice water -

Rice water is packed with nutrients your hair loves. You can use it as a shampoo or rinse for your hair. It's replenishing, helping to repair damage, and a great detangler.

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Apple cider vinegar -

Apple cider vinegar can help remove buildup in your hair. Make a rinse by adding two to three tablespoons of ACV to water and letting it sit in the hair before rinsing.

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Argan oil -

To deeply condition the hair strands, apply oils once per week/fortnight, focusing on the ends of the hair. Moroccan Argan oil helps moisturize the hair and protect it from damage. The downside? It's a little expensive.

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Coconut oil -

For a more affordable but still deeply-hydrating option, choose coconut oil. It's nourishing, helping to tame frizz—and it smells good, too!

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Rosemary essential oil -

Rosemary oil gained notoriety thanks to a viral TikTok trend. The oil should be rubbed directly into the scalp and hair, and it's claimed anecdotally to stimulate hair growth. Rinsing is optional.

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Make your own rinse or oil blend -

Shampoo can be expensive, especially if you need to use it frequently. Creating your own herbal hair wash or conditioning oil blend when you go no poo is a great way to save money in the long run.

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Food to support your hair -

You can support your switchover to the no poo lifestyle by consuming a diet rich in foods that support your hair. Essential fats and protein feed your hair, to keep it looking its healthiest.

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Supplements to support your no poo journey -

Targeted supplements that support your hair's health and vitality can also help as you make the changeover to a no poo lifestyle. Adequate amounts of minerals like biotin, selenium, zinc, and iron are necessary for healthy hair.

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Shampoo bars: another alternative - If going no poo is too extreme for you, plastic packaging-free shampoo bars made with natural ingredients are one way to reduce your plastic consumption and support sustainability (and your hair health), without giving up shampoo completely.

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Will you try it? -

Going no poo promises a host of benefits including a healthier scalp, better hair volume, improved texture so less heat styling is required, less plastic waste, and reduced exposure to harmful chemicals. Will you give it a try?

Sources: (Healthline) (Consumer Reports) (WebMD) (Medical News Today) (Forbes)

See also: The surprising benefits of letting your hair go gray

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