Many people choose to gradually replace their bathroom cabinet contents with more sustainable products. Unfortunately, it's not uncommon that when switching to an organic natural shampoo, your hair suddenly becomes unclean, greasy, and dull. But don't give up! There are some important things to consider when switching to a natural shampoo.
1) Avoid products with non-water-soluble chemicals
A natural, pure shampoo doesn't contain strong detergents like SLS/SL. Therefore, organic and natural shampoos cannot wash away non-water-soluble chemicals from your other hair products. This means you need to carefully read the ingredients of all your hair products, from styling products to conditioners. When using a natural shampoo, your other hair products must not contain silicones (dimethicone) or mineral oils (paraffin), i.e., substances that are not water-soluble.Since your new organic and natural shampoo cannot wash away these substances, they will eventually clog your scalp. Your hair will then become lifeless, stiff, and coated with chemicals.
2) Wash thoroughly with your old shampoo
Your old shampoo that lathers well and contains strong detergents such as SLS can wash away non-water-soluble substances from your other styling products. This way, you can "reset" your hair and scalp with your conventional shampoo and then use your organic shampoo for the next wash. Remember to keep your hair free from non-water-soluble chemicals afterward. Discard all non-natural products.
3) "Reset" your hair with a vinegar rinse
If your old shampoo contains non-water-soluble chemicals or silicones, or if things have progressed to where your scalp is itchy and you might even be losing hair, a conventional shampoo rarely helps to clean thoroughly. You must then rinse your hair and scalp with apple cider vinegar. This restores pH balance, removes chemicals, and gives your hair shine.
Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse
Dilute approximately 1-3 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water.
Rinse your hair with the diluted vinegar after shampooing.
Use conditioner as usual afterward.
4) Find the right shampoo for your hair type
Just like conventional shampoos, there is a wide variety of organic and natural shampoos. Therefore, the shampoo you've chosen might not work for your specific hair type. Feel free to ask us and we'll help you find a shampoo and conditioner that suits your hair and needs. Or you can experiment until you find the right one. It's good to continue testing until you find 2-3 different ones you like so you can alternate between shampoos.
