DIY Natural Hair Care: How to Create Your Own Products for Nigerian Hair
Nigerian hair, often characterised by its beautiful kinks, curls, and coils, requires special care to maintain its health and vibrancy.
Commercial hair products can be expensive and sometimes contain harsh chemicals that may not be ideal for natural hair. Creating your own hair care products at home allows you to control the ingredients and cater to your hair’s specific needs. Here’s a guide to making natural hair care products using ingredients that are readily available in Nigeria.
Moisturizing Shea Butter Hair Cream
Shea butter is a staple in Nigerian hair care due to its excellent moisturising properties. It helps to lock in moisture, making hair softer and more manageable.
Ingredients:
1/2 cup of raw shea butter
2 tablespoons of coconut oil
2 tablespoons of olive oil or almond oil
10-15 drops of essential oil (e.g., lavender or peppermint for fragrance)
Instructions:
Melt the shea butter in a double boiler or microwave until it becomes liquid.
Add the coconut oil and olive oil to the melted shea butter and stir until fully combined.
Let the mixture cool until it starts to solidify but is still soft.
Use a hand mixer to whip the mixture until it becomes fluffy and creamy.
Add the essential oil for fragrance and mix thoroughly.
Transfer the whipped hair cream into a clean jar. Use it to moisturise your hair daily, focusing on the ends to prevent dryness and breakage.
Nourishing Deep Conditioner
Deep conditioning is essential for maintaining the health of natural hair, especially after exposure to the sun or styling. A DIY avocado and honey conditioner provides intense moisture and nourishment.
Ingredients:
1 ripe avocado
2 tablespoons of honey
2 tablespoons of olive oil
1 tablespoon of yoghourt (optional, for added protein)
Instructions:
Mash the avocado in a bowl until smooth.
Add the honey, olive oil, and yoghurt (if using) to the mashed avocado and mix well.
Apply the mixture to damp hair, starting from the roots and working your way to the ends.
Cover your hair with a plastic cap and let the conditioner sit for 30 minutes to an hour.
Rinse thoroughly with warm water, and follow with your regular shampoo and conditioner.
This deep conditioner will leave your hair soft, hydrated, and shiny.
Refreshing Aloe Vera Leave-In Spray
Aloe vera is known for its soothing and hydrating properties, making it an excellent ingredient for a leave-in conditioner. This spray helps to refresh your curls and add moisture throughout the day.
Ingredients:
1/2 cup of aloe vera juice
1/2 cup of water
1 tablespoon of glycerin (optional, for added moisture)
5-10 drops of essential oil (e.g., rosemary or tea tree for scalp health)
Instructions:
Combine the aloe vera juice, water, and glycerin in a spray bottle.
Add the essential oil and shake well to mix.
Spray the mixture onto your hair as needed, focusing on dry areas or when your curls need refreshing.
This leave-in spray is perfect for daily use and can help maintain your hair’s moisture balance.
Exfoliating Scalp Scrub
A healthy scalp is crucial for hair growth. An exfoliating scrub made with sugar and olive oil helps remove dead skin cells and product buildup, promoting a healthy scalp.
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons of brown sugar
1 tablespoon of olive oil
1 tablespoon of honey
Instructions:
Mix the brown sugar, olive oil, and honey in a bowl until well combined.
Apply the scrub to your damp scalp, gently massaging it in circular motions.
Rinse thoroughly with warm water and follow with your regular shampoo.
Use this scalp scrub once a month to keep your scalp clean and invigorated.
Creating your own natural hair care products at home is a fantastic way to nourish and maintain the health of your Nigerian hair. By using simple, natural ingredients like shea butter, avocado, and aloe vera, you can craft personalised products that cater to your hair’s unique needs. These DIY solutions are not only effective but also affordable, making it easier to care for your hair without relying on commercial products. Embrace your natural hair journey with confidence, knowing you’re using the best ingredients nature has to offer.
