Backing soda is one that all of us have used in the kitchen before, either baking or to clean with, but not many of us realize that baking soda is an incredible natural remedy and effective hair care product. Baking soda could be an ideal solution for those looking for an easy wash and clarify, especially for curly hair, coily hair, natural hair, or chemically treated hair.
What is Baking Soda?
Baking soda, also known as Sodium Bicarbonate, is a natural mineral that is formed from the reaction of carbon dioxide and ammonia with the solubility of sodium salts. It’s an essential ingredient in many recipe, it is also great for cleaning, deodorizing and unclogging. It can also be used as a DIY beauty ingredient, to make hair masks, shampoos and other hair care products.
Benefits of Baking Soda for Hair
Washing your hair with baking soda may provide a number of benefits, including:
- Deep cleanses scalp and hair- Baking soda is a powerful cleansing agent that can penetrate deep into the scalp and hair follicles to remove dirt, oil, and product buildup. It can also help to gently remove dead skin cells and soothe any irritation.
- Clarifies and refreshes hair- Baking soda is an effective clarifying and refreshing agent that can help to strip away any buildup or residue from styling products, and leave hair feeling lighter and free of product.
- Natural moisturizer- Baking soda can help to replenish moisture and nutrients to the hair and scalp, preventing dryness and breakage.
- Boosts shine- Baking soda can help to give hair a glossy sheen, leaving hair looking soft and refreshed.
Using Baking Soda for Hair: Wash and Clarify in Easy Steps
-
Mix baking soda with shampoo- Add 1 teaspoon baking soda to your favorite shampoo, and mix until completely incorporated.
-
Wet your hair- Before applying the baking soda mixture to your hair, you’ll need to wet it with warm water to ensure it is fully saturated.
-
Apply baking soda mixture- Start at the crown of your head and gradually work your way down, making sure to evenly distribute the product throughout your hair.
-
Massage- Massage the baking soda mixture into your scalp and hair to ensure thorough coverage and to promote circulation.
-
Leave on for 3-5 minutes- Allow the baking soda mixture to sit in your hair for 3-5 minutes for maximum effectiveness.
-
Rinse- Rinse the baking soda mixture out of your hair with lukewarm water, followed by a cool water rinse to close the hair cuticles and boost shine.
-
Follow with conditioner- Once you’ve rinsed out the baking soda, it’s important to follow up with a conditioner to help replenish moisture and protect color-treated hair.
Alternatives to Baking Soda
Although baking soda can be an effective wash and clarify for your hair, there are other alternatives if you want to avoid baking soda. Here are some of the most popular alternatives:
- Apple Cider Vinegar- Apple cider vinegar is a great alternative to baking soda and can be used as a natural clarifying agent.
- Lemon Juice- Lemon juice can help to break down product buildup, freshen up the scalp and hair and restore moisture.
- Baking Powder- Baking powder can be used as a gentle exfoliating cleanser to remove dirt, oil and product buildup.
- White Vinegar- White vinegar can help to balance the pH of your scalp and restore the acidity of your hair.
- Henna- Henna is a natural dye and exfoliant that can help to restore moisture, add shine and revive damaged hair.
Baking soda is an incredibly versatile ingredient that can be used in the kitchen, for cleaning and in beauty recipes. When it comes to hair, baking soda is a great natural remedy to help cleanse and clarify, especially for curly, coily, natural and chemically treated hair. There are other alternatives too, like apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, baking powder, white vinegar, or henna. Baking soda is an effective and easy way to give your hair a natural wash and clarify.