It’s been a while since I’ve done a natural living post, ay? I have a ton written on my to do list. A few things I’ve enjoyed doing for a while now and some things that I’ve picked up this year that help to make me feel a bit better. But for now, it’s all on a “must do when I have energy” list and for now, I figured it would be best to maybe call in a (wonderful) hand. I’ve asked the gentle soul, Ashley Neese if she wouldn’t mind contributing a DIY for you guys. She has so many to offer and everything she does is done SO beautifully, I figured she would be doing all of us a favor by taking over for a day. If you haven’t yes heard of Ashley, I absolutely recommend checking out her site and her blog. And if you’re local to her area (Los Angeles) and looking for a yoga teacher, breath work guide, or energy healing expert, then she’s your lady. Check out her offerings: here. And if you’re looking for more inspiring people to follow, she’s always a great feed to follow on instagram too!
If you didn’t already guess from the title, Ashley is sharing her DIY dry shampoo recipe here today. I’ve talked about my natural hair many times— I can go typically a good 7 days or so without a wash with no problems, but if I want to push it any longer, a dry shampoo is usually my option. And of course, no one wants chemicals seeping into their scalp— so a natural (and cruelty free) option is where it’s at. And this is super easy too— so don’t be overwhelmed! K?
Here’s Ashley….
After years of buying expensive dry shampoo at various natural beauty stores I decided it was time to make my own. Doing just a little research on the products I loved I was able to come up with a simple formula that works really well.
I started using dry shampoo years ago when I got into the habit of not washing my hair everyday. Since then my hair is much shiner, happier and healthier. Dry shampoo is amazing because it helps absorb the oil between shampoos and leaves hair looking clean without being stripped of its natural oils. If you’re not on the organic, sulfate and everything else free hair regime I suggest you start that first. Adjusting to natural shampoos can be tricky but once you have, this dry shampoo will be a great addition to your medicine cabinet.
Having darker hair I was always frustrated with how ashy my hair looked using store bought dry shampoos. A little trial and error lead me to add cacao powder to the mix and volia! A simple and yummy smelling solution was born. Also, I am super sensitive to smell and most of the ones I’ve found, even the most natural brands smell either way too flowery or like an old lady at a hair salon. Gross! The great thing about making your own is you can use your favorite essential oils and customize them to your preferences.
The basic principal with a dry shampoo is you need a starch to absorb the oil and an essential oil so it smells good. All the dry shampoo does is reduce the amount of oil in your hair and leave it smelling fresh. If you are new to using it apply it just to the roots, then massage with your fingers and gently pull it through the ends. Hair length, texture, and weight will determine exactly how much you need to use. Start small and experiment. You can always add more.
DIY Dry Shampoo
Light hair:
3 Tbsp. arrowroot powder
3 Tbsp. baking soda
25-30 drops essential oil
Dark hair:
3 Tbsp. arrowroot powder
3 Tbsp. baking soda
2-3 Tbsp. raw cacao powder
20 drops essential oil
To make:
Add the powders to a small mixing bowl and whisk together. While stirring, add the essential oil drops. Mix well. Set the bowl on a counter and cover with a towel. Let sit overnight to make sure that the oils absorb into the powder. The next day pour the mixture into a clean container or small jar.
Apply the dry shampoo with a makeup brush to your roots. Massage into your scalp with your fingers. Brush out your hair to remove excess. Dry shampoo will keep for months in a sealed container and makes an awesome DIY gift!
Enjoy!
xoAshley
————–
More About Ashley:
Ashley Neese is a bold soul who empowers women to take good care of themselves. Her holistic offerings, women’s classes, and lifestyle blog guide spirit seekers towards bringing their whole being into each moment so they can heal and be at peace. Ashley works with women all over the world and loves sharing self care tips, spiritual musings, and creative recipes on her blog and Instagram. Ashley is the Wellness Editor for The Everygirl and has been featured in The Chalkboard Mag, Freunde von Freunden and Pure Green Magazine. Her private wellness practice is located in the Los Feliz neighborhood of Los Angeles, California.
Photos by Asami Zenri | @zenriphotography
6 Comments
Can I ask where you found the make up brush?
This is brilliant! Thank you for sharing! I need to give it a go. <3
Brainchild
I'm a redhead, so instead of cacao, I use cinnamon for color when making my own dry shampoo and I love it!
I'm in the same boat – I make so many of my own face/hair products but have never thought to try a dry shampoo. Brilliant! This makes total sense, as the first ingredient is often a starch. Yes, the commercial products are much too smelly/chemically. Thanks for the inspiration!
I love that you have been making your own for years! Adding essential oil makes all the difference. Enjoy and have a beautiful weekend. xo ashley
I've been making my own dry shampoo with this method for a few years now (I never THOUGHT to add essential oil, though, which is kind of a brilliant move since it doesn't smell great). It works better than anything I've ever purchased. And believe me, I've tried more than my fair share of dry shampoos. 🙂