17 Easy DIY Hair Rinses for Shiny, Healthy Hair

Looking for an easy way to improve the health and shine of your hair? DIY hair rinses are a natural, cost-effective solution to restore your hair’s vitality. These rinses use common ingredients found at home, providing nourishment and shine without the need for harsh chemicals. Whether you’re dealing with dry, oily, or dull hair, there’s a rinse for every hair type. Regular use of these simple remedies can help hydrate your scalp, boost shine, and even promote healthier hair growth. Plus, they’re easy to make and gentle on your hair.

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Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a versatile ingredient that can balance the pH level of your scalp, which is essential for maintaining healthy hair. Its acidity helps to close the hair cuticles, making the hair smoother and shinier. It also works as a natural clarifier, helping to remove buildup from styling products, hard water, and oils, which can weigh the hair down and make it look dull. The antibacterial properties in apple cider vinegar can also help maintain a healthy scalp by keeping dandruff and other scalp issues at bay.

Ingredients: 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar – 1 cup of water

Instructions: Combine the apple cider vinegar with water in a clean bottle or bowl. After washing your hair with shampoo, pour the mixture over your hair, focusing on the scalp and the ends. Gently massage it into your scalp to stimulate circulation and distribute the rinse throughout your hair. Leave it on for 2-5 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with cool water to lock in shine. This rinse can be used once a week to maintain healthy, shiny hair without causing dryness.

Green Tea

Green tea is packed with antioxidants that protect the hair from environmental damage and oxidative stress. These antioxidants, particularly polyphenols, can also prevent hair loss by strengthening hair follicles and promoting healthy growth. Green tea is rich in vitamin E, which helps to nourish and rejuvenate both the scalp and hair. The rinse also has a calming effect on irritated skin, which can soothe scalp conditions like itchiness or dryness. Regular use of green tea can also add a natural shine and softness to your locks.

Ingredients: 1 cup of brewed green tea (cooled)

Instructions: Brew a cup of green tea and allow it to cool completely. After shampooing your hair, pour the cooled tea over your hair and scalp, making sure to cover all strands. Massage it gently into your scalp to promote circulation and even distribution. Leave the rinse on for about 5-10 minutes, allowing the nutrients to absorb, then rinse thoroughly with cool water. This rinse can be used regularly, two to three times a week, for improved scalp health and shiny hair.

Lemon and Honey

Lemon juice is a natural astringent that helps cleanse the scalp and remove excess oils, making it perfect for those with oily hair. It also brightens the hair, giving it a natural shine, and can even help lighten hair slightly over time. Honey, a natural humectant, helps attract and retain moisture, which balances the drying effect of lemon. Together, lemon and honey provide a rejuvenating, hydrating rinse that works well for all hair types, leaving your hair looking glossy and feeling soft.

Ingredients: 1 tablespoon of honey – 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice – 1 cup of water

Instructions: Combine honey, lemon juice, and water in a bowl until the honey dissolves completely. After shampooing, pour the mixture over your damp hair, ensuring it covers the scalp and the ends of the hair. Massage gently into your scalp to stimulate blood flow and let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with cool water to lock in the shine and hydration. This rinse works especially well for those with dry or dull hair and can be used once or twice a week.

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is known for its healing and moisturizing properties, making it perfect for hydrating dry or damaged hair. The gel is rich in vitamins, enzymes, and amino acids, which help nourish the scalp and promote healthy hair growth. Aloe vera also helps soothe the scalp and reduce irritation caused by dryness, dandruff, or chemical treatments. Regular use can leave your hair feeling soft, smooth, and shiny without the greasiness that other products may cause.

Ingredients: 2 tablespoons of fresh aloe vera gel – 1 cup of water

Instructions: Extract the gel from a fresh aloe vera leaf or use store-bought aloe vera gel. Mix the gel with water in a bottle and shake it well to combine. Apply the aloe vera mixture to your hair after shampooing, starting at the scalp and working down to the ends. Let the rinse sit for 5 minutes before rinsing it out thoroughly with cool water. This rinse can be used up to twice a week to help restore moisture and add shine to dry, brittle hair.

Rosemary

Rosemary has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for promoting hair growth and improving the health of the scalp. It stimulates blood circulation to the scalp, which encourages stronger hair follicles and healthier hair. Rosemary also helps regulate oil production, making it useful for those with oily scalps. It can also be beneficial in treating dandruff or an itchy scalp. Using rosemary as a rinse can leave your hair feeling fresh and looking full of vitality.

Ingredients: 2 tablespoons of dried rosemary – 2 cups of water

Instructions: Bring the water to a boil and add the dried rosemary. Let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the rosemary to infuse the water with its beneficial properties. Strain the liquid to remove any remaining herbs, then allow it to cool to room temperature. Pour the cooled rosemary water over your hair and gently massage it into your scalp. Leave it on for 5-10 minutes before rinsing out with cool water. This rinse can be used weekly to improve scalp health and promote hair growth.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is widely known for its deep moisturizing abilities and ability to repair damaged hair. It is rich in fatty acids that penetrate the hair shaft, providing nourishment from within. Coconut oil can help seal in moisture, leaving the hair soft and shiny without feeling greasy. It also helps reduce frizz and prevent split ends, making it an excellent choice for anyone with dry, frizzy, or coarse hair. The oil’s natural proteins also help strengthen the hair, preventing breakage.

Ingredients: 1 tablespoon of coconut oil – 1 cup of warm water

Instructions: Melt the coconut oil and mix it with warm water. Pour the mixture over your hair after shampooing, ensuring that it is evenly distributed from root to tip. Massage the oil into your scalp, paying special attention to the ends of your hair. Leave the rinse on for a few minutes to allow the oil to deeply condition and hydrate. Rinse thoroughly with warm water to remove any excess oil. This rinse can be used weekly for healthier, shinier hair.

Chamomile

Chamomile is a calming herb that not only soothes the scalp but can also help light hair take on a natural golden tone. This rinse can reduce irritation or itchiness on the scalp, making it great for those with sensitive skin. Chamomile also provides antioxidants that can protect hair from damage caused by environmental stressors like UV rays or pollution. For light-haired individuals, chamomile can gently enhance highlights and add warmth to the hair’s natural color.

Ingredients: 2 chamomile tea bags – 2 cups of boiling water

Instructions: Boil the water and steep the chamomile tea bags for about 10 minutes, allowing the herbs to infuse the water. Remove the tea bags and allow the liquid to cool down completely. Once cooled, pour the chamomile tea over your hair and scalp after shampooing. Massage it in, then let it sit for 5-10 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with cool water. This rinse can be used weekly to lighten hair naturally and keep the scalp healthy.

Peppermint

Peppermint oil is known for its cooling and invigorating properties, providing a refreshing feeling on the scalp. It stimulates circulation, which promotes hair growth and helps maintain a healthy scalp. Peppermint also has antiseptic properties that can prevent dandruff and other scalp irritations. This refreshing rinse adds shine to the hair and leaves it feeling revitalized and light.

Ingredients: 10 drops of peppermint essential oil – 1 cup of water

Instructions: Add peppermint essential oil to water and mix well. After shampooing, pour the mixture over your hair, making sure it reaches the scalp and hair ends. Massage the rinse into your scalp for a few minutes, then leave it on for 5 minutes to allow the peppermint to stimulate circulation. Rinse thoroughly with cool water. This rinse can be used once or twice a week for refreshed, shiny hair.

Coconut Milk

Coconut milk is rich in vitamins and essential fatty acids that help nourish both the scalp and hair. It deeply moisturizes and hydrates, making it ideal for dry and brittle hair. The natural oils in coconut milk help restore shine while softening the hair and preventing frizz. The fatty acids also protect the hair from damage caused by heat styling and environmental factors, such as pollution. Using coconut milk as a rinse will leave your hair feeling silky, smooth, and rejuvenated.

Ingredients: ½ cup of coconut milk – 1 cup of water

Instructions: Mix coconut milk with water to dilute it slightly. Apply the mixture to your damp hair after shampooing, making sure to distribute it evenly from the roots to the ends. Massage it gently into your scalp to nourish hair follicles and help the product absorb. Leave it on for about 5 minutes, allowing it to deeply hydrate your hair. Rinse with cool water to lock in the moisture, and enjoy shiny, soft hair.

Avocado Rinse

Avocados are packed with healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals that provide deep conditioning for dry or damaged hair. The rich oils in avocados nourish and restore moisture to the hair shaft, making it feel smooth and hydrated. Avocado also helps improve hair elasticity, preventing breakage and split ends. The antioxidants present in avocado protect the hair from damage caused by UV rays and free radicals, promoting overall hair health.

Ingredients: 1 ripe avocado – 1 cup of water

Instructions: Mash the avocado thoroughly to create a smooth paste. Mix the paste with water to form a creamy rinse, then apply it to your damp hair after shampooing. Massage it gently into your scalp, making sure to coat every strand. Leave the rinse on for 10-15 minutes, allowing the avocado’s nutrients to deeply condition your hair. Rinse thoroughly with warm water to remove all traces of avocado, leaving your hair soft and shiny.

Hibiscus

Hibiscus flowers are known for their ability to help promote hair growth and improve hair texture. They are rich in vitamin C, which strengthens hair and encourages thicker, fuller strands. Hibiscus is also great for adding shine and softness to hair while preventing dandruff. The antioxidants in hibiscus help protect the scalp from environmental damage, and the natural acids balance the scalp’s pH.

Ingredients: 3-4 dried hibiscus flowers – 2 cups of water

Instructions: Boil the hibiscus flowers in water for 10-15 minutes, allowing the liquid to take on the color and nutrients from the flowers. Strain the liquid to remove any flower bits and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, pour the hibiscus water over your hair and scalp after shampooing, ensuring it covers every section. Massage it gently into your scalp and leave it on for 5 minutes before rinsing with cool water. This rinse is ideal for promoting hair growth and adding a healthy shine.

Sage

Sage has long been used for its ability to improve hair health by stimulating circulation in the scalp. This herb encourages stronger hair growth and helps prevent hair thinning. Sage is also an effective remedy for oily scalps, as it helps balance oil production. The rinse can also prevent dandruff and soothe an itchy scalp, leaving your hair feeling clean and refreshed.

Ingredients: 2 tablespoons of dried sage – 2 cups of water

Instructions: Boil the sage in water for 10-15 minutes to extract the beneficial properties. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then strain it. After shampooing, pour the sage-infused water over your hair, making sure it reaches the scalp and hair strands. Massage it into your scalp for a few minutes to improve circulation and help the rinse absorb. Leave it on for about 5 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with cool water.

Lavender

Lavender oil is known for its relaxing and soothing effects on the scalp. It also has antimicrobial properties that help fight dandruff and other scalp conditions. Lavender helps promote healthy hair growth by stimulating hair follicles and improving blood circulation. Additionally, it adds a pleasant fragrance to the hair while leaving it soft, shiny, and free from scalp irritation.

Ingredients: 10 drops of lavender essential oil – 1 cup of water

Instructions: Add lavender essential oil to water and mix it well. After shampooing your hair, pour the mixture over your hair and scalp. Gently massage the lavender water into your scalp to promote circulation and allow the oil’s soothing effects to take hold. Leave the rinse on for 5-10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with cool water to lock in shine and freshness.

Oatmeal

Oatmeal is excellent for soothing dry and irritated scalps due to its anti-inflammatory properties. It helps calm itching and flakiness, making it a great option for those with sensitive or dandruff-prone scalps. The starches in oatmeal also provide natural moisture and nourishment to the hair, leaving it soft and shiny. This rinse is perfect for individuals looking for a gentle and natural way to treat their scalp.

Ingredients: 1/4 cup of oats – 2 cups of water

Instructions: Boil the oats in water for about 10 minutes, allowing the water to take on the nutrients from the oats. Once it cools, strain the liquid to remove any oat bits, and pour the soothing rinse over your hair. Gently massage it into your scalp to relieve any dryness or irritation. Leave it on for 5-10 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with cool water. This rinse can be used once or twice a week for a gentle, calming effect.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is an excellent ingredient for treating dandruff and other scalp conditions. It has antifungal, antibacterial, and antiseptic properties that help eliminate buildup, excess oil, and bacteria on the scalp. Tea tree oil also stimulates blood circulation, which helps encourage hair growth. When used regularly, this rinse can leave your scalp feeling refreshed and your hair looking shiny.

Ingredients: 10 drops of tea tree essential oil – 1 cup of water

Instructions: Add tea tree oil to water and mix well. After washing your hair, pour the tea tree oil mixture over your hair and scalp. Gently massage it into your scalp for a few minutes to encourage absorption. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before rinsing with cool water to help lock in the benefits of tea tree oil.

Baking soda

Baking soda is a natural clarifying agent that helps to remove product buildup and excess oils. It works by gently exfoliating the scalp and hair, removing debris that can weigh down the strands and dull their shine. Baking soda also balances the pH of the scalp, making it a great option for those with oily or dandruff-prone hair. It leaves hair feeling clean and fresh, with enhanced volume and shine.

Ingredients: 1 tablespoon of baking soda – 1 cup of water

Instructions: Dissolve the baking soda in water, stirring well to make sure there are no clumps. Pour the mixture over your hair after shampooing, massaging it gently into your scalp. Leave the rinse on for about 5 minutes to allow it to work its clarifying magic. Rinse thoroughly with cool water to remove any residue, and follow up with a moisturizing conditioner.

Witch Hazel

Witch hazel is known for its astringent properties, which help control oil production and balance the scalp. It can also help treat an itchy or irritated scalp and calm inflammation caused by conditions like dandruff. Witch hazel cleanses the scalp, removing buildup without stripping the hair of its natural oils. It’s a great option for oily scalps, as it helps maintain the right balance of moisture while improving hair shine and texture.

Ingredients: 1 tablespoon of witch hazel extract – 1 cup of water

Instructions: Mix the witch hazel extract with water and apply it to your scalp after shampooing. Gently massage it into your scalp to cleanse and soothe. Leave it on for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly with cool water. This rinse can be used twice a week to keep the scalp healthy and hair shiny.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.