Hair conditioning is the process of applying a moisturizing agent to the hair after shampooing it in order to prevent damage, dryness, and frizz. A hair conditioner also helps smoothly detangle the hair, thereby preventing breakage.
Every beauty store comes with a vast selection of hair conditioners. You can choose the conditioner based on your hair type. But chemical-based conditioners contain their fair share of ingredients like silicones and sulfates, which might help achieve the desired result immediately.
It is important to note that they are ultimately bad for the hair in the long run. Some people might also have an allergic reaction to the chemicals used in conditioners
To keep hair healthy and hydrated for a long time, you can use natural ingredients that are easily available at the supermarket or in the kitchen to get soft, shiny hair without worrying about any damage.
Some everyday products that can be used as a substitute for store-bought hair conditioners are:
Bananas
This fruit is rich in potassium, carbohydrates, vitamins, and natural oils, and is therefore great as a conditioner. Though the rule of thumb is to not use conditioners on the scalp or near the roots, bananas can be applied on the scalp as they moisturize the roots without making them oily. They are also known to reduce dandruff.
Extra virgin oils
Oils like coconut, olive, argan, jojoba, tea tree, etc, provide the hair with essential nutrition and enrich the overall health of the hair. They also provide them with shine and make them softness. In fact, many of these oils are used as the staple ingredient in a lot of leading hair conditioners.
Honey
Honey is a moisturizing agent and it provides superior shine and softness when used as a conditioner. The sugar in honey sticks to the hair cuticle to give it a radiant shine. Dark-haired folks are advised to use honey in moderation as it also has bleaching properties.
Lemon juice
Lemon juice is packed with Vitamin C, which is essential for hair growth as it provides stronger hair follicles. When used along with essential oils, it results in hydrated, shiny hair with minimal damage.
Aloe vera
Gel made out of this plant can be used as a hair mask or conditioner. It provides relief from dandruff and itching as it has cooling properties. Aloe vera gel also supplies moisture and shine to dry and dull hair.
Curd
Curd contains vitamins like D5 and B, which helps in strengthening the roots. It is also filled with anti-bacterial properties that help fight dandruff and scalp infections. Curd also contains plenty of fatty acids that smoothen and add shine to the hair.
Eggs
Eggs are full of protein and vitamins and boost your hair health by repairing damage and split-ends. The yolk also contains biotin which is great for the healthy hair. Eggs also contain fatty acids that give hair the necessary moisture and shine.
Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is neither acidic nor alkaline and is brilliant at normalizing the pH levels of the scalp. It provides relief from dandruff, itching, and flaking due to its antifungal and antibacterial properties. It helps in locking the hair cuticle, leaving hair smooth, soft, and shiny.
