As the world becomes more conscious about the environment, more people are making the switch to eco-friendly alternatives to traditional products. One area where many people are making this change is in their hair care routines. Using plant-based hair products not only helps to reduce our carbon footprint, but it also can be better for our hair and scalp. Here are some eco-friendly alternatives to traditional hair products that are plant-based and effective.

Shampoo bars 🧼

Traditional liquid shampoos often come in plastic bottles that contribute to environmental waste. Shampoo bars have become increasingly popular as they come in minimal packaging and can be transported easily. Unlike liquid shampoos, shampoo bars are solid and contain no water so they can last longer and don’t need preservatives to prevent bacterial contamination.

Shampoo bars come in a variety of formulations depending on your hair type, from oily to dry, curly to straight. Some even have added ingredients like essential oils or biodegradable glitter, making your shower routine more fun and eco-friendly.

Image of shampoo bar options

Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse 🍎🍶

Apple cider vinegar isn’t just for salad dressings – it can also be a great hair care product. After shampooing and conditioning, you can pour a mix of apple cider vinegar and water over your hair to remove any buildup from hair products and to balance the pH levels of your scalp.

This natural rinse can do wonders for your hair, leaving it shinier and less prone to tangles and frizz. It can also help soothe itchy or inflamed scalps, making it an ideal solution for people with sensitive skin.

Image of apple cider vinegar bottle and mixing cup

Coconut Oil 🥥💆‍♀️

Coconut oil is a well-known natural hair product that can help nourish and strengthen hair, promote hair growth, and add shine to locks. It can also help protect hair from damage caused by pollution, sun, and chemical treatments.

To use coconut oil as a hair mask, simply apply a small amount to your hair, focusing on the ends and avoiding the scalp, leave in for a few hours or overnight, then rinse out. It’s important to note that coconut oil may not be suitable for everyone, and can actually weigh down hair or clog pores if used excessively, so use with moderation.

Image of coconut oil jar and hair strand to show before and after use

DIY Hair Gel 🥚🍵

Hair gels and sprays can contain harsh chemicals that can damage hair in the long run, so why not make your own natural hair gel from common household ingredients? With only three ingredients – water, honey, and gelatin or flaxseed – you can create your own styling gel that can hold hair in place without any stickiness or flakiness.

Whisk together the ingredients and apply to damp hair before styling as usual. The natural ingredients of this DIY gel are gentle on hair and environmentally-friendly, as there’s no unnecessary packaging or harsh chemicals.

Image of DIY hair gel ingredients and small glass jar

Dry Shampoo 🌾🌸

Dry shampoo is a hair care product that helps absorb excess oil and grease in between hair washes, giving your hair a refreshed and voluminous look. Traditional dry shampoos come in pressurized aerosol cans which can be harmful to the environment. Instead, you can opt for a plant-based dry shampoo, which comes in a powder form and can be made from ingredients like rice powder, arrowroot powder, or cornstarch.

To use, apply the powder to your scalp and massage into your hair and scalp until the powder is absorbed. Brush out excess powder and style as usual. A plant-based dry shampoo can be a great hair care product on the go, as it’s easy to carry in a small pouch or tin.

Image of plant-based dry shampoo powder and hair brush next to it

Going plant-based with your hair care products can be a great way to not only help reduce your carbon footprint but also to take good care of your hair and scalp. These eco-friendly alternatives are gentle on hair and help to minimize the use of harsh chemicals that can cause long-term damage. So why not give some of these plant-based options a try and see how they can transform your hair care routine?

An image of a happy person with beautiful hair in nature