After-shampoo vinegar rinses are an important part of using homemade shampoos and shampoo bars. They help restore pH, remove shampoo residue, soften hair and can be beneficial for flaky or irritated scalp conditions. While several types of vinegars are available and have similar effect on the hair, apple cider vinegar is preferred because it’s less processed and contains more nutrients than standard white vinegar.
Use the following formula to custom-tailor a vinegar hair rinse specifically suited to your hair type. If you don’t have fresh plants on hand, you can use half as much dried instead.
Yield: About 8 Applications (10 Cups [2.4 L])
Ingredients:
- 2 cups (500ml) apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup (15 to 20g) coarsely chopped fresh herbs or flowers
- 8 cups (1.9L) water
Cover courtesy of Page Street Publishing
Instructions:
- Infuse the vinegar and herbs for two weeks, then strain.
- To make the hair rinse, combine 1 ⁄4 cup (60 ml) of vinegar with 1 cup (250 ml) of water. Depending on your hair type, you may want to adjust the ratios of vinegar and water to make the rinse stronger or milder.
- Pour the diluted rinse over your hair and scalp after shampooing. There’s no need to rinse, though you can if you’d like.
- For a more convenient alternative, you can fill a small spray bottle with the undiluted infused vinegar and store it in your shower. Spritz it all over your scalp and hair after shampooing, then follow with a rinse of plain water.
Herbs and flowers to consider using in your hair rinse include:
Basil – antimicrobial
Calendula – soothes scalp
Catnip – for flaky scalp
Chamomile – reputed to lighten blond hair
Mint – increases scalp circulation
Nettle – stimulates hair growth
Roses – uplifting and soothing
Rosemary – improves scalp circulation
Sage – cleansing
Sunflower – makes hair shiny
Thyme – antiseptic
Violets – soothes and won’t strip moisture
