I am a recovering hair product junkie! My sister is a hairstylist (a totally awesome one) and I used to work at a beauty supply house so my cabinets were full of every hair product you could think of. When I started my journey to get chemicals and toxic products out of our home my hair stuff was the last to go. I went for awhile without using anything except shampoo and conditioner, but was getting tired of my hair looking frumpy. So I set off on a search for some homemade products. Enter homemade hair gel and hairspray! I have been using both of these for about a month and I really like them. They both give enough hold to make my hair less frumpy looking. If you are going for a prom do or 80’s bangs these won’t work but for everyday hairstyles they do the trick. Plus they are simple and with added essential oils they are great for your hair!
Hair Gel
¼ teaspoon unflavored gelatin (where to buy)
½ cup hot distilled water
4-6 drops essential oils (I used Rosemary and Lavender, but you could use any combination) (where to buy)
Directions:
Heat water and mix together with gelatin in a small bowl. Stir well to combine and refrigerate for about 3 hours, or until set. Once cooled and set, add essential oils if desired, and stir to combine.It will be the consistency of jello. You can keep in the glass jar or put it in a squeeze bottle. Make sure and keep it the fridge, I made the mistake of leaving it out and its very runny! Gel will keep for about 2 weeks in the refrigerator. Use on wet or dry hair. I’ve used it both ways and like it.
Hair Spray
1 whole orange (for dark hair) or lemon (for light hair), preferably organic
2 cups distilled or filtered water
2-3 tablespoons high proof vodka (or other clear grain alcohol)
6-8 drops of lavender essential oil (where to buy)
Directions:
1. Cut a whole orange or lemon into wedges and combine with 2 cups water in a small pot. Boil over medium high heat until liquid is reduced by half.
2. Strain liquid through cheesecloth into a measuring cup. If you boiled too much liquid out add water until you have 1 cup. Allow citrus juice to cool.
3. Combine alcohol and essential oils in a small bowl, swirl to mix, then add to the cup of citrus juice. (Feel free to experiment with your favorite essential oil or leave them out altogether.
4. Pour into a glass spray bottle, shake before use.
I use this on wet and dry hair also.