Don't break the bank with your Natural Hair

Natural hair is beginning to look like the expensive option to hair care. Everyday there is a new product launched and the prices get ridiculous each time. I ask myself, who can afford this? Us YouTubers and bloggers come on social media and hype these pricey products and no one seems to be aware of the fact that we can't all afford it. Coming from a rehabilitated product junkie...Here are a few tips on how to be natural on a budget.




Shampoos/Cleansers
I know natural hair products are expensive  and the amount you get for the price is small. Who can afford that? Its just not realistic for the average pocket and natural hair is for everyone right?. So my suggestion is that you make your own shampoo. Get your hands on some African black soap, a couple essential oils, an empty plastic bottle and you're good to go.

Here's a tutorial I did on how to make your own shampoo: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qVi-iGq40Mc

I recently learned that cactus can be used for cleansing your hair. I have not explored it just yet. As soon as i do i will be sure to share.

If you are not that handy with making stuff try a sulfate free shampoo. Still beyond your budget? Try a shampoo that is labeled "moisturizing" and limit your shampooing to twice per month with co-washes in between

Conditioners
Amazingly, products that are typically made for white/Caucasian hair  works wonders on Afro textured hair. I believe this is because the products were not made for chemically treated hair. Whatever the reasons for this responsiveness, I guarantee that you will like at least ONE on this list:

Vo5, Suave, Garnier Fructis,  Pantene(relaxed&natural), Herbal Essences, Aussie Moist, Tresemme, ORS

Deep conditioners
Again you can make your own. Here are some ingredients you may find in your home for a great hair recipe:

• Honey
• Avocado(Jamaican Pear)
• Coconut oil/milk
• Olive oil
• Mayonnaise
• Banana
• Yogurt
• Aloe Vera(Sinkle bible)
• Eggs

Leave-In Conditioners

• Garnier
• Hawaiian Silky 14 in 1
• Make your own: Aloe Vera juice, glycerin, castor oil, honey, essential oil

Oils/Butters

• Castor oil
• Coconut oil
• Olive oil
• Shea butter
• mango butter
• coco butter

Gels

• Eco Styler (a great substitute for kinky curly. It also works as a 2-in-1 as it makes a great edge tamer). 
• You can make you own gel using flax seeds by boiling flax seeds in water until water becomes solid. Search YouTube for a tutorial.

Cremes & Custards

• Shea Moisture curl enhancing smoothie
• Eco Custard
• Make a whipped Shea butter mix - Aloe Vera juice, glycerin, oils
• Make a custard with gel and Shea/oil

Essential oils
These are pretty pricey and they come in very small packages. Still, they are good investments. One bottle will last a very long time and it can be used for so many different things.
A great alternative to essential oils is oil infusions. Fill a clear glass bottle/jar with your favorite oil. Put few pieces of a herb of your choice (Sage, Lavender  Rosemary  Peppermint). Leave the bottle to sit for 2 weeks. Preferably in a warm place like the window sill where the sun shines. The longer it stays, the more potent it is. 

Have any tips for our naturalistas on a budget? Please share below!


Blessed Love!