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Following a healthy haircare routine can often feel like having to get a cabinet full of expensive products. But that’s not always true. There are many simple yet effective and sustainable ways to get gorgeous and healthy hair. An eco-friendly haircare routine is one of them.

Changing the usual haircare routine can be challenging for anyone. However, many people are trying to minimize their wastage and opting for a more sustainable routine, whether using an eco-friendly conditioner like Ethique conditioner or shampoo or changing the complete haircare routine. For those who want to live an eco-friendly lifestyle, it’s one of the best ways to treat hair with natural ingredients and sustainable practices. We will discuss an eco-friendly haircare routine that anyone can follow, no matter their hair type or budget.

Why You Should Choose Eco-Friendly Products

Eco-friendly products are natural and sustainable. This is the reason why green consumers, especially millennials, prefer using these products. Here’s why you should make the switch:

• They reduce your environmental footprint. Unlike traditional haircare products, these products don’t have harsh chemicals and microplastics that can harm ecosystems. Brands usually prefer natural, biodegradable ingredients and recyclable packaging.

• They nourish your hair with nature’s goodness. Many eco-friendly products contain botanical extracts and essential oils that naturally nourish and condition your hair. These ingredients are gentle to use on the scalp and can help promote healthy hair growth.

• They save you money in the long run. While some eco-friendly products can have mid-range pricing, they often come in concentrated formulas, like shampoo or conditioner bars, so they last longer than the usual products.

Now, let’s start discussing the haircare routine:

Step 1: Change Your Washing Habit

Shampooing every other day may not always be needed because the truth is that frequent washing can reduce your hair’s natural oils. Instead, wash your hair in the gap of a day or two. This will help your scalp produce sebum, which is a natural conditioner that keeps your hair healthy and hydrated.

For in-between days, you can try a dry shampoo made with natural ingredients like rice starch or oat flour. They absorb excess oil and refresh your hair without water waste.

Step 2: Use Water Wisely

A good scalp massage with warm water can be quite effective and beneficial. It removes dirt and product build-up, increases blood circulation in the scalp, and improves hair growth. Also, when you get a warm scalp massage after a long day of work, it can feel extremely relaxing.

When you do shampoo, cleanse your scalp thoroughly. You can also try the co-washing method, which is when you wash your hair with conditioner instead of shampoo. This is especially good for dry or curly hair.

Step 3: Buy Eco-Friendly Products

Shampoo or conditioner bars are quite popular these days because they are one of the best zero-waste beauty products. These products work similarly to soap bars; you just need to wet the bar and rub them using a reusable mesh bag in your hair to create a nice lather. They usually come in a variety of formats for different hair types. Also, these bars are completely plastic-free and last longer than multiple bottles of liquid products.

Step 4: Minimize Heat Styling

Even though heat styling tools are a convenient way to get those beautiful hairstyles, the constant exposure can damage your hair. Air-drying is always the best option for your hair’s health, but we understand that’s not always practically possible.

Here are some ways to minimize heat damage:

• Use an eco-friendly heat protectant spray to create a barrier between your hair and the hot tool.
• Air dry your hair whenever possible to get that natural texture.
• Invest in gentler heat styling tools. Diffusers are great for curly hair, and ceramic flat irons are less damaging than regular ones.

Step 5: Deep Condition Regularly

Deep conditioning treatments are a must for healthy hair. They give your hair the extra moisture and nourishment it needs. This treatment is mainly effective if you have dry, damaged, or color-treated hair. Deep conditioning with natural ingredients like avocado, argan oil, or jojoba oil is especially recommended. You can also create a natural deep conditioner at home. Mix some mashed banana or avocado with honey and olive oil. Apply it to your hair, leave it for around 20-30 minutes, and rinse with warm water.

Step 6: Change Your Everyday Habit

Here are some everyday habits that can improve your hair health:

• Use a wide-tooth comb to prevent breakage.
• Don’t brush your hair when it’s wet.
• When possible, tie your hair loosely in a silk or satin scrunchie to avoid breakage.
• Trim regularly to get rid of split ends.

Step 7: Reuse and Upcycle

Even with eco-friendly products, there will be some packaging involved. Check out the below tips to minimize your environmental footprint:

• Buy larger sizes of products to reduce packaging waste.
• Look for packaging that can be recycled.
• Reuse old shampoo bottles as plant pots or storage containers.
• Support brands with eco-friendly practices.

Making an Eco-Friendly Haircare Choice

Going eco-friendly with a haircare routine may need a little patience. Your hair might need some time to adjust to the new products and practices. So, don’t be surprised if your hair doesn’t show the result instantly. After a few uses, you’ll see how quickly your hair adapts to the changes and shines with the natural ingredients. Give it time to see the difference.