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If your hair is lacking volume and shine, you will love these four simple DIY hair mask recipes. They are easy to prepare and use common household ingredients. Best of all, they are affordable alternatives to expensive packaged deep conditioners and treatments.
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Coconut Oil
Many people use coconut oil for their skin during the dry months, but it can be an excellent deep conditioner for damaged hair as well. In fact, some of the most popular DIY leave in conditioner tutorials rely on coconut oil as a critical ingredient. On top of its moisturizing effect, coconut oil can actually prevent your hair from losing protein as well. This makes it an essential DIY hair treatment for anyone who uses hot styling tools.
Simply apply coconut oil to damp hair and allow it to sit for at least 20 minutes or longer before rinsing. This organic leave in conditioner recipe is used by many women who even leave it on overnight and rinse it off in the morning. You may also use a very small amount as a leave in treatment on the ends of your hair. However, be careful not to overdo it. Coconut oil can leave your hair feeling greasy if too much is applied.
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Lemon Juice and Olive Oil
Olive oil is another highly moisturizing oil that is safe for use on the hair and body. However, it is greasier than coconut oil, making it difficult to work with. Lemon juice can be mixed in with the olive oil hair mask to help it rinse off more easily. It also adds volume and shine to dull hair thanks to a chemical it contains called Limonene.
Simply combine one-part olive oil to two parts lemon juice and mix well before applying to damp hair. Comb the treatment through to ensure it is evenly distributed. You can leave this deep conditioning treatment on for as long as you want, just make sure it sits for at least 10 minutes to deeply saturate your hair. If left on too long, lemon juice can have a drying effect. Avoid leaving it on overnight to be safe.
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Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar, or ACV for short, is a popular digestive aid and is even used to tone uneven skin tone. Did you know it can also be used to help repair damaged hair? Apple cider vinegar is a natural anti-fungal agent which makes it an excellent option for dandruff prone hair and oily scalp.
It does not strip your hair of its natural oils and is even capable of keeping protein intact. You can use apple cider vinegar alone by rinsing your hair with it before conditioning in the shower or mix it with a moisturizing agent such as coconut oil or olive oil. For a quick and simple conditioner, mix equal parts apple cider vinegar, honey and your favorite oil and apply evenly to damp hair. Allow it to sit for a period of time or rinse immediately if desired. This conditioner is gentle enough to use twice a week and will not leave your hair feeling greasy or heavy.
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Egg Hair Mask
Egg hair masks have been used for countless years to restore shine, add bounce and increase protein in the hair. However, when used alone, eggs can actually leave your hair feeling dry despite the fact that it repairs damaged strands. This problem has a simple fix. Mix one egg with one cup of coconut milk, a squeeze of lemon and one tablespoon of coconut or olive oil and mix well until the conditioner is creamy and evenly blended.
Apply to damp hair and comb through to fully saturate all of your strands. This mask can be left on overnight if desired. Cover your hair with a shower cap or plastic grocery store bag to retain heat. Following this technique enables your hair cuticles to open more and fully absorb the nutrients from the hair conditioner. Try this mask once a week for the best results.
Damaged hair can leave you feeling unconfident about your look but fixing the problem may be easier than you think. With these four natural DIY hair deep conditioners, you can restore youth and volume to your strands quickly. You may notice results in as little as one use! Try them today to see for yourself.