Homemade coconut oil shampoo is one way to incorporate the goodness of coconut oil in your hair care regimen and also give the commercial chemical laden shampoos a miss. Not only is a homemade shampoo a healthier alternative, it’s also pocket friendly and more beneficial.

Let us learn more about how to go about making your own homemade coconut oil shampoo and recipes for the same.

Amazing Things About Coconut Oil

If you think it’s one of the fads or latest trends, let us get this straight right off the bat – it’s NOT. Coconut oil and everything coconuts including coconut milk has been used in hair and skin care for centuries.

Did you know coconut oil is the key ingredient in hair care in several cultures? Ayurveda, a traditional medicine system lists several ways to use coconut oil for several hair and skin related issues or even general care.

Applying a touch of coconut oil to your dull hair can make it shiny and lustrous in no time.

Smoothen your frizzy locks with a good application of coconut oil and tame that unruly hair.

Coconut oil is a good conditioner for your hair and also a great moisturizer. Dry locks? Try coconut oil today!

Did you know coconut oil curbs hair breakage, hair thinning and also promotes hair growth?

Did you know you can use it to restore damaged hair back to health?

Rich in essential fatty acids and nutrients, coconut oil is also antimicrobial and can prevent and curb scalp issues including dandruff, dryness, itching, etc.

Things to Remember Before Starting

• There are different types of coconut oil these days. Stick with the good old cold pressed coconut oil that isn’t refined and natural or organic.
• Don’t forget to do a patch test and test for any sensitivity or allergies prior to using any ingredient or recipe.
• Remember we’re not using preservatives or additives so the shelf life of the shampoos are less compared to commercial shampoos and also, some might need refrigeration or should be consumed immediately. Follow the recipe instructions on the same.
• Without preservatives added some are for immediate use, some can be refrigerated. Read the storage instructions given in the recipe and follow them to avoid microbial infestations and other issues when using homemade shampoos.
• Don’t use any ingredients you’re allergic to.

Easy Vegan Coconut Oil Shampoo

This is a very easy coconut oil shampoo you can make and the ingredients are usually available in most homes. You can also use this as your base recipe and modify as you see fit.

Ingredients

Liquid Castile Soap – 3/4 Cup

Coconut Oil – 3 Tbsps.

Himalayan Salt – 2 Tsps.

Lily Essential Oil – 20 Drops

Step-by-step instructions

Add all the ingredients to a sterilized shampoo dispenser and shake gently to combine.

Benefits

It’s a nourishing and gentle shampoo that’s suitable for all hair and scalp types.

Notes

Finish off with an apple cider vinegar rinse for added shine and to restore the scalp’s pH levels.

You can use any floral or citrus essential oil when you make this natural shampoo.

Coconut milk is a good addition to this recipe. If you add coconut milk make sure to refrigerate and use within a few weeks.

You can also use solid castile soap. In that case it’s usually 1/2 cup castile soap for 3/4th cup of water – you can also melt it in your microwave, faster that way.

Moisturizing Coconut Oil and Honey Shampoo

Though not a vegan option, this shampoo is still very nourishing and moisturizing. Do give this a shot and swap honey for agave nectar or maple syrup for a vegan version.

Ingredients

Organic Wild Honey – 2 Tbsps.

Liquid Castile Soap – 1/2 Cup

Coconut Oil – 1 Cup

Lavender Essential Oil – 25 Drops

Aloe Vera Gel – 1 Cup

Water – 1/4 – 1/2 Cup

Step-by-step instructions

In a mixing bowl add the honey.

To the honey, slowly add in the water you’ve taken after warming it slightly.

Stir in the aloe vera gel, coconut oil, liquid castile soap and lavender essential oil.

Whisk to combine and transfer to a sterilized shampoo dispenser.

Benefits

This moisturizing shampoo is more suitable for dry and coarse hair types.

If your scalp is dry, itchy or dandruff-ridden this shampoo is just what you need. It nourishes hair, promotes hair growth, strengthens hair and leaves it healthy and lustrous.

Notes

You can add any essential oil of your choice.

You can also add in other oils especially avocado oil if you have dry hair.

Keep it refrigerated and shake well before every use. Use within 3 weeks or freeze it for a longer shelf life.

You can skip the castile soap and use as is if you’re looking for a no-poo shampoo.

Vegan No-Poo Coconut Milk Shampoo

A nourishing and pampering shampoo that’s also easy to make, it’s rich in nutrients and protein. It leaves your hair lustrous and your scalp healthy.

Ingredients

Coconut Milk – 1/2 Cup

Coconut Oil – 2 Tbsps.

Neroli Essential Oil – 7 Drops

Step-by-step instructions.

In a mixing bowl add all the ingredients one after the other – coconut oil and coconut milk and then essential oil chosen.

Whisk to combine and transfer to a sterilized shampoo dispenser.

Benefits

Suitable for all hair and scalp types, this shampoo is incredibly moisturizing, nourishing and strengthening.

It’s easy to rinse off with warm water and you don’t need to shampoo afterwards. It’s no-poo so it doesn’t lather. Feels more like a mask when applied on your hair but it rinses off easily and cleanses your hair and scalp gently and really well.

Notes

You can also use tea tree oil or any other essential oil of your choice.

You can add a dash of baking soda for clarifying your scalp.

You can also use olive oil instead of coconut oil or along with coconut oil in this recipe.

Vegan Glycerine Shampoo for Combatting Dandruff

Dandruff wreaking havoc on your hair, scalp and peace of mind? Try this shampoo and see how it works out for you – it’s easy, natural and safe.

Ingredients

Coconut Oil – 1 Tbsp

Liquid Castile Soap – 1 Cup

Coconut Milk – 1/2 Cup

Vegetable Glycerin – 1/2 Cup

Tea Tree Oil – 25 Drops

Step by Step Instructions

In one mixing bowl combine coconut milk and liquid castile soap and whisk to combine.

In another bowl add in the coconut oil and vegetable glycerin along with the essential oil. Whisk to combine.

Now, add in the coconut milk mixture slowly into the coconut oil mixture and whisk to combine,

Transfer to a sterilized shampoo dispenser.

Benefits

Richly moisturizing and creamy thanks to the glycerin that thickens the shampoo, this shampoo combats dandruff while giving you lustrous and soft hair.

You can use it twice or thrice a week and keep the shampoo refrigerated.

Notes

You can add any essential oil of your choice, though tea tree oil works wonders to combat oily hair and dandruff.

Glycerin can be skipped, though it helps keep the shampoo thick and also moisturizes your locks.

No Poo Coconut Oil & Baking Soda Shampoo

If you’re looking for a no-poo alternative and want to clarify your scalp or get rid of excess oil, this shampoo is your best friend.

Ingredients

Coconut Oil – 1 Tbsp

Baking Soda – 1/4 Cup

Water – 1 Cup

Lemon Essential Oil – a few drops

Step by Step Instructions

Dissolve the baking soda in water and add in the coconut oil and lemon essential oil.

Transfer to a sterilized shampoo dispenser and shake to combine.

Benefits

This shampoo is more beneficial for those with oily or greasy hair and scalp. It gently cleanses your hair and scalp and gets rid of the excess oil and leaves your hair and scalp clear and clean.

This is also a mild clarifying aid and helps get rid of scalp buildup.

It also restores the scalp’s pH balance.

Notes

You can use any essential oil in this recipe.

Always shake the bottle before every use to combine the ingredients that are separated while at rest.

Finish off with an apple cider vinegar rinse for added shine and sheen.

You can use this recipe once or twice a month for regular hair and once in two weeks or as needed for oily scalp and hair. 

Tips for Best Results

It’s a good idea to use the natural shampoos twice or thrice a week.

Don’t forget to condition your hair. Use natural conditions with natural shampoos for best results.

Natural doesn’t mean harmless – always check for allergies, sensitivities and don’t use any unknown ingredient or ingredients without checking prior.

Don’t overuse – even natural shampoos in excess can cause drying and other issues. Washing your hair twice a thrice a week is ideal in most cases.

Conclusion

As we always say, feel free to add your own tweaks to the recipe and see how you like the results. Don’t have time for DIY recipes? We’ve got your back with a premium range of vegan hair care cosmetics from Vitamins Revive. Do check out their online store to know more about their products.

Have any questions, doubts, requests or feedback to share? We love hearing from our readers. Do write back to us for any queries or concerns. As always, feel free to tweak the recipes and make it customized to suit your needs.

That’s the fun part of DIY – the trysts and experimenting different variations. Give these a go and let us know how you like them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will using excess coconut oil damage my hair?

No, using excess coconut oil will leave you with greasy hair. It will also lead to scalp buildup but doesn’t damage your hair.

Is coconut oil suitable for all hair types?

Coconut oil is usually suitable for everyone irrespective of their hair type. However, those with coarse and curly hair find it drying. So there are exceptions and you must check and see how it works for you and go based on that. You’re the best judge when it comes to your situation.

Can I use coconut oil on my hair?

Yes, you can use coconut oil for oiling your hair and scalp. You can use it individually or with other ingredients and use it as a hair mask, infused oil, or add coconut oil to your hair care products. 

Is it OK to refrigerate homemade shampoos?

Yes, it’s important to keep them refrigerated to prevent mold and microbial infestation. Without preservatives they can go stale so refrigeration keeps them usable longer.

Can I use coconut oil to tame my hair?

Yes, coconut oil makes your hair softer, easier to detangle and manageable. Just apply some coconut oil and wait for a couple of minutes before styling.

How long should I wait before seeing results when using coconut oil shampoo?

Any natural remedy takes a week to a month for obvious results. We suggest giving at least two weeks’ time, as long as there are no adverse reactions before taking a call.

Can I use witch hazel for oily or greasy hair?

Yes, you can add a few drops of witch hazel to your shampoo to combat excess oil.

What can I use to combat dandruff?

Coconut oil does help with dandruff, but what else can you add to the coconut oil shampoo to make it better? You can add a few drops of wintergreen oil or tea tree essential oil to combat dandruff.

What can we add to the coconut oil shampoo to help promote hair growth?

You can infuse the coconut oil with rosemary, horsetail, false daisy, water hyssop, hibiscus, etc. Alternatively, you can add essential oils that promote hair growth like rosemary essential oil, frankincense essential oil, etc.

How often can we use coconut oil shampoos?

It’s safe to use them twice or thrice a week in most cases. Do check the recipe instructions as each recipe may vary