A great way to cut down on toxins in the home is by making your own shampoo. This all-natural shampoo is made with castile soap, essential oils, and jojoba oil. All of which can help restore damaged hair, hydrate your strands, and help to replenish natural oils.
Making your own homemade shampoo can be a very simple DIY project that will help restore your hair and promote hair growth.
With a combination of castile soap, water, and essential oils, you can make an all-natural shampoo for any hair type.
After trying a few natural shampoos, I decided to make my own because it is a whole lot cheaper! If you aren’t a DIYer, you can most definitely find natural recipes that work great, but not without a hefty price tag.
Another great option for your hair that is cost-effective would be shampoo bars. Shampoo bars can be very moisturizing, which is great for dry, damaged hair.
Ready to get toxins out of your home? Grab my ebook with my favorite DIY all-natural products.
WHY MAKE YOUR OWN SHAMPOO?
Traditional shampoos are made up of a number of ingredients you will want to avoid. They generally contain ingredients that have been known to mimic estrogen, causing hormone imbalances as well as carcinogens and allergens.
Plus, essential oils can be used to strengthen and help with hair growth. I love using these same essential oils in serums, hair masks, and even hair sprays.
WHAT ARE THE BEST INGREDIENTS FOR DIY SHAMPOO?
This post contains affiliate links, which means I make a small commission at no extra cost to you. Get my full disclosure here.
CASTILE SOAP
Castile soap is a very concentrated, vegetable-based soap. It is typically made out of olive oil or coconut oil. It has natural antibacterial properties that can help kill infections on the skin and is also known to help with skin imperfections, such as acne.
Castile soap is a gentle soap that can be used on sensitive skin, and it is very beneficial for the face. You can buy it scented or unscented; I prefer unscented because I will be adding essential oils to this recipe.
JOJOBA OIL
Jojoba oil is very moisturizing and can protect the scalp against dry, flaky skin and dandruff. It is rich in vitamins and minerals like vitamins A, B, and C, as well as zinc. All of which are amazing for the hair. If you have greasy hair, you can leave this out of the recipe.
ESSENTIAL OILS
Essential oils can be very beneficial for the hair. For example, lavender and rosemary essential oil can be used to thicken, strengthen, and lengthen hair.
Other oils like sandalwood or cedarwood can stimulate hair follicles and help with hair loss.
Adding essential oils to your homemade shampoo will also add scent without synthetic fragrances.
- Lavender– Studies have shown that lavender produces more hair follicles to help thicken and strengthen hair. Lavender has a beautiful floral scent that can promote calmness and reduce stress; stress can be the biggest reason for hair loss.
- Rosemary– Rosemary essential oil is the top oil for hair growth and thickness. It helps to treat dry hair as well as overly oily hair and can help prevent split ends.
- Tea Tree– Tea Tree promotes a healthy, clean-looking scalp. It can be used to help with a dry, itchy scalp and protect against lice.
- Cedarwood– This woodsy oil is excellent when you are making products for men because it has a very masculine scent. In fact, I use cedarwood in all the DIY products I make for my husband, and he approves. In addition, it stimulates hair follicles and increases circulation to the scalp making it a top oil for hair loss prevention.
- Peppermint– Peppermint oil is known for its cooling effect on the skin when used topically and for its refreshing minty scent. Peppermint is also great for the hair as it promotes hair growth and thickness.
HOW TO MAKE ALL-NATURAL SHAMPOO
INGREDIENTS
- 1/4 cup of water (can substitute the water for coconut milk with a preservative)
- 1/4 cup of castile soap (I use Dr. Bronner’s unscented.)
- 1/2 teaspoon of jojoba oil (for dry hair, OPTIONAL)
- 10-15 drops of essential oils (I have my favorite blends listed below.)
HOW TO MAKE ALL-NATURAL SHAMPOO
- Add the water, castile soap, and jojoba oil to a glass container. (Use an old shampoo bottle, foaming soap dispenser, or a mason jar)
- Add in essential oils. (I used wild orange, lime, bergamot, and peppermint)
- Thoroughly mix ingredients.
NOTES:
- This shampoo is thinner than typical shampoo, but it does lather up a ton! Be sure to follow up with an all-natural conditioner.
- This shampoo will last for a month when stored in an airtight container.
BEST ESSENTIAL OIL BLENDS FOR ALL-NATURAL SHAMPOO
MY FAVORITE SCENT
- 6 drops wild orange essential oil
- 5 drops lime essential oil
- 4 drops bergamot essential oil
- 2 drops peppermint essential oil
BLEND FOR HAIR LOSS
- 6 drops rosemary essential oil
- 5 drops lavender essential oil
- 4 drops thyme essential oil
- 2 drops peppermint essential oil
BEST SCENT FOR MEN
- 6 drops lemongrass essential oil
- 4 drops sandalwood essential oil
- 4 drops melaleuca essential oil
- 2 drops bergamot essential oil
Get my lemon cedar beard oil recipe here.
BEST SCENT FOR CHILDREN
- 5 drops lavender essential oil
- 3 drops roman chamomile essential oil
- 2 drops wild orange essential oil
Get my baby shampoo and body wash recipe here.
HOW TO TRANSITION TO NATURAL SHAMPOO
If you are used to conventional shampoo, you may not like this homemade shampoo in the beginning. It takes some getting used to for you and your hair.
When you first start using a natural shampoo, you may notice your hair seems greasy, flat, fluffy, or just not quite right.
Regular shampoos and over-washing your hair will alter the natural oil balance and pH levels in your scalp. Your scalp produces oils; this is a good thing.
The oils help your hair to remain smooth, as well as keep your hair from drying out and breaking off.
When you wash your hair, you remove these oils, and your scalp produces more oils, so the more you wash, the more oils your scalp is going to produce.
The less you wash your hair, and as your hair gets used to the new homemade shampoo, your oil levels will balance out. Promise!
I used to be one of those people that had to wash my hair daily, and by the end of the day, it was already looking greasy. Now I only wash my hair twice a week, and it never gets greasy. It’s amazing!
While you are “training” your hair, dry shampoo can be your best friend! You can make your own dry shampoo powder or dry shampoo spray to help you during this transition.
TIPS FOR THICKENING HOMEMADE SHAMPOO
- Add in arrowroot powder or cornstarch to naturally thicken your shampoo. Start with 1/2 of a teaspoon and add more until the desired thickness is reached.
- Oat flour can be used to thicken homemade shampoo. Make your own oat flour by blending up oatmeal in a blender until it has the consistency of flour. Add a small amount to your shampoo and shake well to incorporate.
- Add one tablespoon of baking soda to the shampoo and mix well.
- Vegetable glycerin can help to thicken shampoo and add lather. Start with 1 teaspoon and add more until the desired texture is met.
IS HOMEMADE SHAMPOO SAFE FOR ALL HAIR TYPES?
The ingredients found in this shampoo recipe are safe to use on all hair types. If you notice your hair is tangly, try making the recipe with coconut milk instead of water.
Some hair types do better with a coconut milk shampoo.
HOW TO ADD SHINE TO HAIR?
After washing your hair, try rinsing with a mixture of water and apple cider vinegar to increase shine. The mixture can be made with two parts water to one part ACV.
This is a great way to cleanse the hair and balance pH levels too!
How long does this shampoo last?
This shampoo will last for up to one month.
You can add a preservative such as linatural cosmetic preservative to extend the shelf life.
MORE DIY HAIR CARE PRODUCTS TO TRY
PIN IT FOR LATER
How to Make All Natural Shampoo
A great way to cut down on toxins in the home is by making your own shampoo. This all-natural shampoo can help restore damaged hair, hydrate your strands, and replenish natural oils.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup castile soap
- 1/2 teaspoon jojoba oil (for dry hair)
- 10-15 drops of essential oils
Instructions
- Add the water, castile soap and jojoba oil to a glass container. (Use an old shampoo bottle, foaming soap dispenser, or a mason jar)
- Stir well.
- Add in essential oils. (I used wild orange, lime, bergamot and peppermint)
- Thoroughly mix the oils in.
Notes
This shampoo is thinner than the typical shampoo, but it does lather up a ton.
To thicken the shampoo add 1/2 tsp of arrowroot powder.
Add 2 drops of Linatural Broad Spectrum Preservative to further extend the shelf life.
Savanna says
I’m so excited to try this!! Once you have adjusted is there just no need for conditioner then?
lauraascher says
My hair is really fine and straight so I don’t need conditioner but I think some hair types might. I am working on a conditioner recipe now!
Shirley says
Was curious if there is an essential oil for grey hair.
I embrace my grey and would love to treat it kindly.
Laura says
Rosemary and lavender are the best for hair!
Lucille mcgilllivray says
I love this shampoo. Will thicken the next batch tho. Even as thin as it is it does lather up good. Thank you for all your great recipes. I have tried most of them and I’m hooked on these wonderful “clean* products
Laura says
I am so glad you are enjoying it!
Kelin says
Great tutorial on making shampoo! Thanks for sharing
lauraascher says
You’re welcome! It is so simple and works great!
Susan says
I’ve really been wanting to try natural shampoo. This seems like a great recipe to start with. Thanks!
lauraascher says
You’re welcome!
Peyton says
Does this recipe cause any fading in colored hair?
Jayden says
I love this! I just bought an organic and all natural shampoo brand, but am definitely going to try this when I run out. And yessss, I used to have to wash my have EVERY day and it would get greasy by the end of the day. But switched to about 2-3 times a week and was so surprised when it just adjusted! And its much healthier now <3 thanks for the awesome post and tutorial I can't wait to give it a try.
lauraascher says
You’re welcome! I wish I would of learned about this earlier, I love that I don’t have to wash it as often and it looks so much better!
Misty says
I am already using toxin free shampoo, but it is not working on my daughter. I am going to make this soon to try for both of us!
YEN says
Thanks for this great natural recipe!! I have just started using essential oils due to their benefits and only have a few basic ones. I’m so glad to have found your page 🙂
Marisa says
Great recipe idea! Your favorite scent option sounds like it would smell so good!
lauraascher says
Thank you!
Maria Allen says
Hi, thanks for this great recipe. Is it okay to replace jojoba oil to olive oil or coconut oil? Thanks.
Laura says
Yes
Hannah Witherwax says
I’m curious about what the benefits of using coconut milk in place of water are?
lauraascher says
It just makes a different texture and more like conditioner. Coconut milk has a lot of benefits for the hair, but some people don’t like it and prefer water.
Emily says
Do you still use conditioner as well?
lauraascher says
I am working on a homemade conditioner recipe now and will be posting it soon! My hair is really fine and straight so conditioner isn’t a must for me, but because I have had so many request I am working on it now!
Rosie says
Hello! Can Vegetable Glycerin be added in for a more lather type? I’ve been using the shampoo for a couple of weeks but it’s very liquidity.
lauraascher says
Yes it can! I add that into my baby wash and it does help with lather.
Tina says
Hi! How much glycerin should I add?
Thanks!
Laura says
One tablespoon
Kathleen says
From your article “How to Make All Natural Shampoo”, could you use xanthum gum to make the shampoo a little thicker?
Thank you!
lauraascher says
I have not tired that, but you can add glycerin to make it lather more and a little thicker. I will experiment with the xanthum gum.
Apri says
I know I use kosher salt to thick my dish soap so I’m sure you could add it in to this as well as I know they make salt body scrubs. Good luck!
Laura says
Thanks for the tip!
Rosalie says
I’m wondering why this mixture only lasts 1 month. I am the only user and very short hair so I’m sure I won’t use it all in one month. Of course I know I could make a half recipe, but I don’t want to be making it often either. What makes it spoil in one month?
lauraascher says
After doing some research I decided to put it at one month, I have personally had it longer and had no issues. I like to be overly cautions when telling my readers how long things lasts just to be safe.
Jessica says
How do you know it has gone bad?
Laura says
I make enough for one month and that amount works great. I would smell it to see if it is still good.
Lindsay Cotter says
Excited to try this shampoo! Love how easy it is to make!
April says
Love this! I’m already making my own dish soap and laundry soup and dryer sheets. Just needed hand soap, shampoo and conditioner. Looking forward to trying this shampoo. Thanks so much!!!!!!
Laura says
That’s great! Glad you are replacing everything with more natural options!
Anna says
HI!! do you know if this can be used on color treated hair? Also what oils promote hair growth? My son who is so young has very fine hair and I would like to make this for him.? Blessings..Anna
Laura says
Castile soap—even though it’s chemical-free—can be harsh on dyed or highlighted hair, stripping follicles of color. To protect your colored hair, it’s probably best to stick with a color-safe shampoo.
Rosemary and lavender can be used to help promote hair growth.
Elaine says
Great tutorials! I think I will try it.
Do you have links for where you buy your products please?
Laura says
Thank you! Yes, everything is linked in the post.
wilhelmina says
This is such an informative and easy to follow guide. I love all of the options and your advice is invaluable! Thank you!
Ta Jauna Rhodes says
I was wondering if I wanted to thicken up the shampoo what could I use?
Laura says
Vegetable glycerin will thicken it a bit, you can add a tablespoon.
Angel says
Hi, I would love to try your all-natural shampoo with the essential oils. One thing that I’m wondering, I have newly rebonded hair, do you think it safe to apply on my hair? I am a bit skeptical about this. Please enlighten me. Let me share another post that I found recently, perhaps it may help those who seek for hair DIY conditioner, my friends used this as well I hope it helps the others too, https://juvetress.com/shampoo-recipes/
Jelsey S says
Hi Laura. How does this work on your husband’s hair? I know you’ve mentioned that he has curly hair compared to your straight hair. Or I can’t remember if it was the body wash or shampoo you mentioned that you both use… I have curly and thick hair and I am really interested in this shampoo. Could you tell me what I could add or do to make it more for curly hair? Thank you.
Myranda says
Hello!
I just used this recipe last night and it left my hair with a waxy film on it. It was not brushable, a tangled mess, and I couldn’t even blow dry it. I had to use my old shampoo to wash it out. Do you recommend anything to combat this?
Laura says
I will say that it can take a little time for your hair to get used to natural shampoos, I talk a little bit about this in the post.It took my hair several washes before my hair adjusted. Mine didn’t get tangling, but it felt greasy. Now it works perfect!
Michelle says
I just made this all-natural shampoo today! It was so much fun making the recipe. So I just want to say that I just shampooed for the first time with it and I experienced less hair shedding during the shampoo. Usually there’s a lot of strands but not with this! I also made your leave-in conditioner and once my hair towel dries some I will apply it. Like you’ve mentioned, it didn’t have a lather. I have long hair and I may have used too much but we will see lol I will comment again once I complete this new shampoo/conditioner regime. Can’t wait! Thank you so much for sharing this. So great!
Laura says
YAY! I am so glad you are making your own and trying natural solutions. Glad you liked it!
Thelma krager says
How do you make conditioner ?
Thanks in advance , my hair is thin and wavy it has natural curls I love my curls Any idea to keep curls bouncy ? Thanks
Laura says
I have a couple of different conditioner recipes on my blog that you can check out.
Nancy says
Hi excited to try out this shampoo but I have a question I want to add lavender oil, rosemary oil and cedar wood oil how much of each oil for this recipe? Also how often can this shampoo be used? Thanks
Laura says
I would do about 5 drops of each. I wash my hair twice a week.
Alan says
I made my shampoo, using your recipe. It works great, have to give it a few more tries to see what happens .
Laura says
I am glad you like it!
Madelene says
I would exclude the water. Not so runny and it would last longer (before it spoils).
Nadira says
Thanks great recipe
Laura says
Thank you!
Kendra says
Would this be suitable for a sensitive and oily scalp?
Laura says
You can add in lemon for oily scalp.
Barb says
This safe for color treated hair?
Laura says
I personally don’t have color-treated hair but many followers and readers said that it works well with for that.
Toni Arielle says
hi! do I need to use a foamer bottle?
Laura says
Yes that works best!
Heidi says
I realize this is an old post so don’t know if you reply to comments still but I had a question about these diy body care products. I am just new to the essential oil world and am excited about making my own products that are clean and natural. Anyway is it really necessary to have 3 different products for hair, face, and the rest of the body? I’d like to simplify the number of bottles in the shower.
Laura says
You can use the shampoo for body wash if you wish.
Anna says
I have made this many times and it generally works! It smells good with the blend that I like to use (ylang-ylang and lavender) but I have found a few issues that I need help with. I store them in a small, clear container and half the recipe, which is perfect for me but I noticed that something in the recipe separates which is the color of light brown and the rest is clear. The brown substance is very thick and is hard to get out. Do you know what this is? I have tried to thicken it with a few things that you have recommended but that really isn’t much of a problem to me and still enjoy the consistency, just something to notice. I might try a foamer bottle as well. This recipe is still very good and is super fun to make when I am bored I just want to know if there is a way to change this. Thank you!
Laura says
I am so glad you like the recipe! I find it to work best in a foaming soap container.
Anna says
I realized that it was my mistake for the separation between the layers. I used an old shampoo bottle and there was still some residue from the old shampoo! Thank you for the recommendation of the foaming bottle! I have made many of your products and they always turn out swell! Thanks again!
Laura says
I am so glad!
Bridget says
Hey found this recipe about three weeks ago and I was so excited to give it a try! Ever time I use it my scalp burns right after application and continues to burn for a few hours. I thought this was just my scalp getting use to it at first but it’s been three weeks and it still happens. Is this normal or should I try another shampoo/ shampoo recipe?
Laura says
I have never had that issue. Maybe don’t add in the essential oils?
Cindy Doda says
Hi Laura,
Have some itching on my scalp. No dandruff, maybe allergies? Wondering if you can add aloe Vera gel?
Laura says
I just posted scalp scrubs for dandruff and an aloe vera hair mask! Check those recipes out!
Karol says
I’m reading that the Ph level of Castile can be an issue for hair and that you must rinse with ACV or something very acidic?
Laura says
Yes, I reccomend a ACV rinse! I have a blog post on this.
Lauren says
Hi! this looks great and I am super interested to try making it! How long does it stay fresh? Do you store in the fridge or just your shower??
Laura says
I recommend leaving it in the shower for 1 month and then make a new batch.
Gail says
I am very allergic to coconut oil. Castile soap has it. Is there anything you can recommend? SLS is in almost everything I can find.
Thank you
Nina B says
I love the foam bottle. Where can I get it?
Laura says
It is from amazon, I have it linked!
Vivi says
Hi! I made this today but it’s super thin and not gel like, like regular shampoo. Is this how it’s supposed to be? I also noticed my hands feel kinda sticky when washing my hand with Castile soap and water
Laura says
Yes, that is normal.
Deanne Eden says
Just thought I’d mention – Castile has a very high natural pH (10-11) so without any counter-acting ingredients this recipe may interrupt the scalp’s natural pH (4.5-5.5) over time and cause itching and flaking. The same goes when you “shock” the scalp using an acidic rinse. The high pH is also not good for coloured hair and may strip colour quicker. Great recipe additions with a lower pH include ACV (ph 3.1) and raw honey (ph 3.9). Although to counteract the Castile you may need to use a very large amount….
Barbara says
I made this a few days ago, and LOVE IT. My hair has body again!
Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge with us.
Laura says
Awesome, thank you so much for sharing!
Melissa Waetjen says
If I use Quinn’s castile soap, it already has Jojoba oil in it, do I still add the 1/2 tsp. that the recipe calls for? Thank you
Laura says
No, you don’t
Patsy Vicek says
I made the All Natural Shampoo and my hair is not good. I know you said it would be different but my hair doesn’t even look or feel even a little bit clean. It’s “mucky” feeling. I’m 69 years old so my hair is obviously older and drier. It’s also naturally curly. I can’t get a comb through my hair when it’s dry and now it’s very difficult to get a comb through it when it’s wet.
Did I put too much Arrowroot in it? Is it just my hair? What did I do wrong?
Help me! I’d really like to make my own shampoo.
Laura says
It takes time for your hair to adjust to natural shampoo. Try doing an apple cider vinegar rinse!
Allyssa says
Hello,
I was wanting to know if you can use Argan oil or apricot kernel oil as a substitute for jojoba when making shampoo?
Laura says
Yes!
Flor M Reyes says
I’m trying this shampoo
My hair needs it
I have thin hair and damaged
Tired of the different shampoos that keep damaging my hair.
Claudia says
Thank you for your recipes, Laura!
I was wondering if I could replace castile soap with marseille soap. It’s pretty more common here in Italy.
Thanks!
Claudia
Laura says
I have never tried that so I am not sure.
Mick says
Any idea how this would work if you’re a summer constantly in pool water? I never see anything about that and swimmers can’t just not wash their hair for several days.
Susan smith says
Is this safe for coloured hair? I read that the soap can strip the colour. I wash my hair weekly and use dry shampoo in between if needed
Signe says
Hi Laura. Can’t wait to try this. I’m just curious – do you prefer this liquid kind of shampoo or your shampoo bars for your hair?
Becky says
I want to try this but one question. Can you use a regular pump shampoo bottle?
Laura says
It needs to be a foaming pump or it will be very liquidy.
Jeanie says
My husband and I love this shampoo but I would like to know if I double the recipe do I double the amount of oil drips.
Laura says
Yes!
Tessa says
About how much does this make, like 5.5oz maybe? Just wondering what size glass jar I’d want to have on hand before making it. Thanks!
Laura says
Yes, that is correct!
Jewels says
Hi! If I use coconut milk instead of water, do I need to store it in the fridge? Or will it hold in a dispensing container in the shower?
Laura says
Yes, you can store in the fridge to make it last longer.
Paige Brown says
I am wondering if I need to add a preservative for this if I was to gift it.
Pat says
I’m definitely going to try this…I have Celiac, so the thyroid is off…everything is off. As a kid, I never washed our hair as much as I do, now. And, yes; (we didn’t have Apple Cider Vinegar)we always rinsed our hair in water/vinegar solution. We never used conditioners or leave in products. Of course, as we get older, things change especially our hair; but I think we just need to get back to the basics. Thank you for this info. Sincerely Pat
Alejandro says
You are amazing. You made my day. This is easy, natural and environmently friendly.
You made my day.
Laura says
Thank you so much!
Sarah says
Thanks so much for this recipe! I tried it, used it for the first time, and I really like the results! I am working toward making a lot more of my and my family’s cosmetic/toiletry products because we want to waste less plastic and avoid harmful chemicals on our skin, and I am so excited that I’ve found your blog!
Laura says
I am so glad you like it, thanks for sharing!
Caroline says
I’ve been looking for a DIY Natural product to try on my hair. I have fine hair that is oily the next day when I wake up. I wash my hair every day because I work out 5 times a week. I’m nervous to try this for fear of my hair looking greasy during the day at work.
Any help for the transition process or advice since I work out and sweat a lot?
Laura says
Yes, I have a lot of information about transitioning to natural shampoo in the post.
MR says
I’ve been making the transition to natural shampoo. I’ve been using shampoo bars. It was going ok, but my hair still wasn’t as soft as I wanted. I tried this recipe and I finally have that silky feel back in my hair! I love it!!!! It is also very satisfying making your own hair products.
Laura says
I am so glad you are enjoying this recipe! Glad it is working well for you!
Shari Rogers says
Hi I just wanted to know how many pumps to dispense for medium length hair?
Emily says
Can I use olive oil instead of jojoba?
Michelle says
it is not clear how to use the castile soap
You show a bar of soap but describe a measurement.
Do you cut the bar of soap up and put chunks of it in with the water to dissolve?
Are you grating the soap with a cheese grater?
Does it come in a powder form?
Laura says
The recipe is called for 1/4 cup liquid castile soap. I don’t use any bars in this recipe.
Tracy says
After using more or less the same hair care products for years, I’ve recently started breaking out in a burning red rash from the hairspray I was using. That’s when I decided it was time to find natural organic options! I purchased a few organic hair products, but, I was not a fan of how they smelled… and they weren’t cheap.
So I searched online and stumbled across your site!! I’m so glad I did! I made a batch of your shampoo and tried it this morning… omg… I love it! It lathers up so nicely, smells wonderful and you don’t need much.
I was so pleased with it that I had to make a batch of your conditioner tonight – I can’t wait to try it. It smells DIVINE!!!!
I’m now quite eager to try all of your natural recipes. Thank you for providing so many! Compared to store bought hair care products, your organic versions are very inexpensive to make and sooooo much better because there are no toxic chemicals!! Thank You!!
Laura says
I am so glad you are enjoying my recipes! Thanks for sharing!
Aastha says
Hi I make my own liquid Castile soap with olive oil. Do I use the same recipe as mentioned for homemade liquid Castile soap?
Laura says
Yes
Desiree says
Is this safe for color-treated hair? My question refers to the shampoo, the conditioner, and also the ACV rinse.
Thank you!
Tammy says
I have been using the homemade shampoo for months now. I love it and it’s less expensive than commercial shampoos! However I adjusted the recipe some, I use 1/2 cup coconut milk with 1/4 cup Castile soap. I have the essential oils on my to do list and will add them once purchased.
Laura says
I am so glad you are enjoying this recipe! Thanks so much for sharing!
Hannah says
Hi! Thank you for All of this! Can I put this in a regular comtainer or does it need to be put into a foaming soap dispenser?
Laura says
The foaming container is best for this recipe.
Lys says
Could you add rosemary water instead of oil? And if so, can you give suggestions on how to do that please? Thank you. I was thinking of boiling the rosemary with the water, letting it cool, than adding that as said the water
Joann says
I tried making this shampoo with some cornstarch to thicken and it didn’t lather for me at all. Did I do something wrong?
Laura says
I have never added cornstrach. I would try adding vegetable glycerin to thicken and lather.
Lisa says
I just made and used this last night. It works wonderfully! I have also made the face wash, under eye serum, face serum, face toner, face cream and hand soap. I’ve been using these for a few months and I highly recommend them all! I just turned 59 and everyone is always telling me how good I look!
I have also made the laundry soap and all purpose cleaner. Everything so far has been amazing. Thank you so much Laura for all of your recipes!
Laura says
I am so glad you are enjoying the recipes! Thanks for sharing!
Maddie says
If I use coconut milk rather than water does the shampoo need to be kept in the fridge? Also, do the essential oils need a carrier oil if you leave jojoba oil out of this? Any recommendations for using vanilla essential oils? 🙂 thanks!
Laura says
The coconut oil will dilute them where it will be OK to use without the carrier oil. You can store in the fridge for a longer shelf life.
Maddie says
Thanks for the reply! But the recipe says coconut milk, not coconut oil. Which is supposed to be used?
Laura says
The coconut milk is optional. I explain this in the post.
Janice says
Thank you so much for the shampoo recipe AND the vinegar rinse. I tried both this morning and am very happy w/ the results. My hair is clean, soft , and shiny! This is my new and only shampoo and rinse going forward.
Again, thank you for all you do.
Laura says
I am so glad!!
Jami w says
I just whipped this up and I am so excited to try it! I opted for the coconut milk instead of water but now I’m concerned, is the shelf life shorter or still one month? Also, is this safe for kids? I did coconut milk, dr bronners, jojoba, lavender, rosemary, and tea tree! Thanks!
Laura says
I use it on my kids! You can store it in the fridge to extend its shelf life.
cheryl dolan says
Hi, just made this and your conditioner yesterday, I have 2 questions- 1 the conditioner didn’t become solid its milky, did I do something wrong and 2 can I add apple cider vinegar to the shampoo to skip the rinse step or would that effect the shampoo?
Laura says
I would not add apple cider vinegar to the shampoo because you shouldn’t use that as often as you wash your hair. The conditioner should not be solid.
Jennifer King says
Hello!!! I’m on month 3 of this recipe!!! However, I thought my hair was adjusting, but it’s soooo greasy looking 🙁 help! Because I really love the recipe and smell and natural ingredients! I just don’t want to always look like I don’t shower.
Laura says
Have you tried doing an apple cider vinegar rinse? I have a blog post all about it!
Hijade Yeshua says
Me too! I followed recipe and it lathers and smells great. My issue is the “adjusting time” has not passed. I read comments and maybe I need a different recipe or more time… not sure. I use the ACV rinse but it has not made a difference. I also tried the DIY dry shampoo recipe but that was even worse. I looked like I had dandruff. I am Hispanic with long black straight hair (if this info makes a difference or helps anyone). Also I color my roots but haven’t in over a month because of the adjustment period which has caused my gray roots to show even more. I’m giving this the rest of December until I try another recipe.
Emily says
Hello! I was wondering if one could add a natural preservative to make it last longer? Thanks!
Laura says
You can add an antioxidant like vitamin E antioxidant or rosemary antioxidant to help extend the shelf life of the product if desired.
Corrie Horstman says
Hi so I’ve tried this recipe for about a week now. I haven’t felt anything different other then my hair feeling very waxy and leaving a film in my hair. Is this normal? I can see when I brush my hair there’s a nasty film all over the hair in my hairbrush.
Laura says
It can take a month or so for hair to adjust to a natural product. You can also try an apple cider vinegar rinse, I have a recipe on my blog for that. I also have a video on youtube with more tips for transitioning to natural hair products.
Jayne says
Hi, I need a little help. I’ve been using this shampoo recipe for over a month. I made it without any carrier oils and I use rosemary and lavender for the essential oils. I use the ACV rinse afterwards as conditioner. But my hair is still oily after I wash it. Am I doing something wrong? Thanks.
Genevieve D Ross says
Can you share the link for your favorite pump container for your shampoo and conditioners?
Laura says
The pump I use is discontinued, but I have a similar one linked in the post.
Kadynce says
Hey yall! So I am 18 and started my transition into natural living a few months ago. And this website was the very first thing I stumbled upon. I made the shampoo, conditioner, bodywash, and whipped Lotion. My thoughts on the shampoo is very iffy. All the ingredients r very healthy for your hair and my hair has grown a lot since using. But, it has some problems. So first thing I notices was what everyone else is saying, and that is abut the waxy film residue left after washing. I first thought it was my hair transitioning …but yall it shouldn’t take 2 months. Not to mention it dosnt make sense for your whole head to be “transitioning”. Bc your hair is dead skin it has no life lol. So the only part that should be transitioning is your roots. The hair closest to your scalp…this is where the hair oils and all that builds up hence the reasoning for using shampoo. Now, this recipe is very hard to rinse out. I used the arrowroot powder to thicken and it didn’t rly thicken. And I also tried the vegetable Glycerin and that made the waxy film worse. But my problem wasn’t my roots, it was the rest of my hair. The film wld not come off. And using the conditioner made it worse. The only thing tht helped with the film was adding in a Lil baking soda, and ACV rinse. I had to make sure I drenched my whole head. I parted my hair in layers and drenched each layer. And that seemed to help counteract the film. If I didn’t drench enough it wld still b waxy and unbrushable. Also I would sleep in heatless Curls and that seemed to make it less noticeable. Straight and flat hair textures seem to be affected most. But even after the changes it didn’t help much and still left my brush covered in the disgusting residue. Then I tried just using the castile soap, and found where the problem was. It’s the castile soap that causes the film…as well as the Glycerin. So if ur wanting to use castile soap tht is the price to b paid for healthy hair. Also the conditioner is great, but I would only use on ends of hair and use very little amount…this conditioner is very moisturizing, and i think it would probably be great for extremely dry or curly hair. But I don’t have either of those so I don’t use it. I will be getting a Perm soon so I will try that since I will b frying my hair. The bodywash is great…I love it. And the Lotion is also a bit iffy. I made the whipped version…and it’s the only Lotion tht helps with my Ecxema. But it also has a price to pay, it leaves your skin feeling kind of oily ish. I put it on at night and when I wake up the oiliness is gone. But I am probably not gonna use that anymore bc it only helps the ecxema…the rest of my skin still stays dry which I found out is because it is more like a body butter…which locks in moisture. But my skin is dry and has no moisture. So I need a Lotion that puts in moisture and then follow up with this to lock it in. Overall…these r good recipes if your looking to make ur hair healthier…and I am but this dosnt work for my hair type and I will be trying out organic and natural shampoo and conditioner bars instead. I feel it would work best for me. But this recipe is very good for hair growth. For now I am using just main and tail shampoo and the ACV rinse along with some jojoba oil and essential oils raked through the ends…my hair is very soft. Hope this helps…love this website and the recipes!! My skin and hair has thanked me for it! But I do have to b in public daily and need my hair to b lookin a bit more presentable. But if you want hair growth then this is it!!
Dar says
What size jar do we need to make the shampoo?
Laura says
8 oz jar
Sara Weslow says
Hello Laura,
I love your site, and make many of my own soap products I use at home. I think you are amazing to help people learn how to do this. There are so much harmful substances in purchased products, and the good ones are expensive. your foaming hand soap is the best I have ever used. I also use your moisturizing body wash, and again, the best I have ever used. The essential oils are so pleasant. I like your links for buying ingredients. Can you develop a rice water bar shampoo, such as VIORI? Last question, I HATE those ads that pop up all the time. It interferes with my ability to focus on the information you give us. Very distracting. How can I get rid of the pop up ads. I have ried several things on my computer, and went to links at the bottom of your page. Please tell me how to stop the ads. Be blessed Sara Weslow
Laura says
Thank you so much for following and I am so glad you are enjoying my recipes! The ads are the way that I get paid and can keep the blog going. I appreciate all of my readers so much and this blog wouldn’t be possible without you!
Jill says
A few questions:
Would replacing the water with coconut milk make it not lather as much? Will using the coconut milk make the hair softer/less tangly?
I have made this recipe and I have been using it for a couple of weeks. I was quite surprised at how well my hair took to it! I usually only wash my hair twice a week anyway so maybe that has given my hair a little advantage in switching from conventional shampoo. The top of my head always comes out so soft and clean…but the bottom half of my hair is really grimy/tangly. I will say that I do put regular/conventional conditioner on the bottom half of my hair to try and use up the rest of it (it was expensive) and I’m wondering if it just doesn’t play nice with the natural shampoo and that’s why the bottom half of my hair is yucky? Or is this my hair just adjusting?
Alex says
Is it safe to leave the diy shampoo sit in shower? What is your suggestion as to how long the shampoo becomes bad? I was reading somewhere that the diy shampoo can go bad & be bad for hair & scalp.
Laura says
It will last about a month.
See the notes section on adding in a preservative.
Sarah says
I have been using a diy cowash: 2pts conditioner, 1pt shampoo. Just realized, I can use shampoo safely, since I only use it every other day. Still dislike some of the ickies in commercially sold shampoo, found this. Used coconut oil soap liquid instead of Castile soap, to avoid hair color stripping. Looking forward to trying this, after I make a good natural conditioner for my fine=thinning hair.Thanks for sharing your recipe. I think it yielded about 8oz of shampoo, when I made it.
Sarah says
I used this today; I used coconut oil soap liquid instead of Castile soap to avoid hair color problems. First time, I used a shampoo in months! Foamed up really well through foaming bottle!
Dana says
Hi I wanted to make a cleaning antibacterial spray for kitchen and washing dishes using essential oil but I just read a comment that essential oils are dangerous for skin or if digested even that it burn holes in your stomach so to use it to make shampoo or soap is dangerous
Janelle McGregor says
How much vegetable glycerine would I add to thicken the shampoo?
Laura says
Start with stirring in 1 teaspoon at a time until you get the results your after.
I also have a section above to help guide you through thickening the shampoo!
Carol says
So thankful to have found your info and website. Going to make some shampoo.
Stacia says
Thank you for this recipe! For the most part, I’m loving it so far. My only problem is it doesn’t feel like it rinses out of my hair. I did end up using the ACV rinse after about the third use cause it was really building up. But I’d prefer to not have to use that every time I shampoo.
I used coconut milk, pure liquid coconut oil (I could not find jojoba oil locally), Castile, rosemary, lavender, and peppermint essential oils.
Do you have this problem and have ideas on what I can do differently to get it to rinse out? Thank you!
Gwen says
Can you substitute another oil for the jojoba oil in this recipe?
Laura says
Yes, you can use any carrier oil.
Gus Parks says
Awesome recipe! I have some more severe dandruff issues and apparently aspirin, tea tree oil, baking soda, green tea, honey, garlic, and lemon all have anti fungal and antimicrobial properties – would you suggest adding any of these? If so, how should I incorporate them? Thank you so much!
Lui says
Can I add cornstarch instead of arrowroot powder?To thicken it?Has anyone tried it?
Gabriela says
Thank you for this recipe! I have allergies and I’m looking for to making this. Does it need to be refrigerated to last a month?
Doris Bourbonnais says
Hi, I love your homemade shampoo! I have tried two different recipes but both seem to clog up my foaming dispenser which I purchased from Amazon per your recommendation. Why is this?
Regards,
Doris
Laura says
Hi Doris, I’m sorry that dispenser is not working out.
They no longer offer the heavy duty one I have.
You may try using an old foaming soap dispenser.