How to nail a DIY hair detox

Ready for Rapunzel-level long locks? We feel you. But with all the heat styling and product buildup our hair has to deal with, we’re quite literally sabotaging our strands day in, day out. There’s no need to worry (or spring for a buzz-cut in a split-end induced panic) though; we’re breaking down how to nail a DIY hair detox that’s bound to leave you with the shiniest, swishiest mane of your life.
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Trim
If you’re down to detox, the chances are you’re not 100 per cent happy with the current condition of your hair. Whether your mane just isn’t bouncing and behaving the way you’d like or damage has brought hair growth to a literal dead end, a chop should be the first task on your detox to-do list if you’re serious about saving your strands. We’re not talking a dramatic transformation; a trim will do the trick. After all, why not start fresh (and avoid wasting DIY mixtures on hair that will soon meet its demise on the salon floor)?
Massage
If your scalp is sensitive (or just struggling in general), a scalp-specific massage is a great place to start. Rubbing oil deeply into your scalp for about 20 minutes will increase blood circulation and strengthen the hair follicles, helping to encourage the growth of glossy, strong locks. FYI, an episode of Friends will make the time fly by. Choose the oil you use based on what your mane needs most – coconut is great for hydration, olive promotes growth, jojoba relieves itchiness and argan protects against damage.
Scrub
There are a range of great scalp-cleansing products out there, but if you’re after easier, more cost-effective options, an at-home recipe is perfect. For instance, try a little splash of lemon. Lemon is as amazing for detoxing your scalp as it is for cleansing your body, so there’s no doubt it’s a build-up-banishing dynamo. Mix lemon juice with sea salt and olive oil – two tablespoons of each makes for the perfect blend – then apply to damp hair, massaging in to boost circulation. Rinse with warm water, and then wash your mane as normal. If your struggling to shift stubborn build-up (or ease the itch), add a scalp scrubber to your shower shelf, stat. Use the bristle brush in a circular motion to eliminate any remaining residue whilst stimulating the scalp.
Rinse
If dandruff is still getting you down, an apple cider vinegar rinse is up next. A scalp-cleansing superhero that naturally nourishes and prompts hair growth whilst also delivering serious shine, it basically can’t be beaten in the scalp and strand stakes. Mix two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with a cup of water, and then pour the rinse all over your hair (after shampooing, and before you apply conditioner). Massage into your hair and scalp (yep, again, you deserve it), then let it sit for five minutes before rinsing thoroughly and conditioning as you usually would.
Nourish
Unlike detoxes designed to work on your waistline, fats are your friend when it comes to hair, thanks to their moisturising, nourishing and strengthening properties. Avocado is our go-to for a great DIY mask. Rich in fatty amino acids, natural oils and vitamins, this superfood superstar is able to unclog follicles, stimulate new hair growth and repair damage. Mix 1 ripe avocado with 1 banana and 2 tablespoons of olive oil – blend into a thick paste, and then spread from roots to ends. Leave on for 30 minutes, then rinse out for glossy, gorgeous locks.
Simplify
Detoxing is all about eliminating damaging factors, so step away from your straightener for a few days and embrace your natural texture for the sake of healthy strands. If you’re not feeling the au naturale vibes, you can always slick strands back using an oil (extra nourishment and a chic do in one), or wait until a weekend where your calendar is completely clear so you can detox in peace.
Main image credit: Getty Images
Have you tried any of these steps? What’s your go-to routine when your hair needs a little TLC?
47 Member Comments
I really like this statment "apple cider vinegar to rinse your hair at the end of hair washing. It is important to get all the products out of your hair in the final rinse. It is good for the scalp. The smell of the vinegar doesn't lingered in your hair, it usually dissipates quite quickly." I am very much agree with this statment ... anyone looking for hair loss treament need to visit best Pakistan hair transplant center for better restuls...
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I’m in need of doing that DIY hair mask!
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I eliminated silicones from my hair products a few years ago, so that was probably a detox. Last year I had to chop my hair very short because I had a massive knotted mess at the nape of my neck that I was unable to remove, so that was another type of detox.
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I don't think my hair needs any detoxing, I only colour it every few months and otherwise treat it naturally.
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Some good tips here. I wonder if the lemon with salt and olive oil relieves an itchy scalp
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Can't be bothered right now... Ha ha!!!
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Less shampoo is a good idea
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Some great tips here. I'm in need of a trim, but I can't get to the hairdresser soon, and I think the hairdressers/beauty salons will probably close due to this virus?
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The scrub and rinse ideas sound interesting and Im keen to try those out. Anything to reduce my purchases
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I so look after my hair with decent shampoos and conditioners and every now and then a great hair mask. I do use apple cider vinegar every now and then as a rinse and NO, the smell does not linger. My challenge is getting a new hair cut that I am happy with.
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An apple cider vinegar rinse is great no matter what your hair type. The diy mask does'nt sound great to me, The thought of rinsing it out of my hair is a bit off-putting. Eating the ingredients instead would be beneficial to my hair.
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My hair was in desperate need of a trim and treatment, so last week I took myself off to the salon. It felt sooooo good afterwards. Worth every cent.
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i like all these tips. I agree with the apple cider vinegar to rinse your hair at the end of hair washing. It is important to get all the products out of your hair in the final rinse. It is good for the scalp. The smell of the vinegar doesn't lingered in your hair, it usually dissipates quite quickly.
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A scrub sounds really nice
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I only trim really, now recently starting using the OGX detox shampoo & conditioner but I don't have lots of build up anyways...
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The head massage is always my favorite thing about going to the hairdressers. I actually went to the Spa for a facial a few weeks ago and they gave me a head massage as well.....that was awesome.
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I have my hair cut, coloured and treated every six weeks but I'm trying to keep it in shape by trimming it myself while I'm on holidays. I warned my hairdresser before I left that she will have some work to do on my hair to get it back into condition when I get home.
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Great tips, my hair really needs a detox right now.
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That's the one and only thing that I miss now that I no longer go to a hair salon, a good relaxing scalp massage
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Need to come back to AC vinegar rinses! No need to trim often, I do it every few months or so. This is how my hair finally managed to reach the rear...haha
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Getting a trim is vital.
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Witch hazel works as a really good hair detox too!
I use a capful after rinsing out my conditioner...
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Has anyone seen the viral scalp exfoliation video doing the rounds?
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No Lucy16 I haven’t!! Your comment makes me want to google it now though haha
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