No ‘Poo To You, Too!!!

crunched by Crunchy Betty on October 12, 2010
filed under Hair

Bye-bye, shampoo. ForEVER.

I just did my last ‘poo.

Finally.

I’d like to say it was monumental, or highly satisfying, or even memorable. But it was not. It was just another ‘poo.

After many months of goading by some of you, as well as a year of contemplation, I’m ready to throw my shampoo in the trash (or, more likely, pull it out of the trash and use the bottles for something else) and never. use. it. again.

I’m ready to live my life without commercial shampoos … and maybe even conditioners.

And, just like the homemade deodorant experiment, I encourage anyone who wants to join me on this to do so and give me your feedback on how it’s going.

Before, we were the Pit Sniffers. This time, we’ll be the Hair Chewers … the Hair Pickers? … The Hair Something. Help me out here.

Let’s talk about why you should go No ‘Poo with me.

The Benefits of Ditching Shampoo

Okay, so I know I don’t have any direct evidence that it’s going to solve my oily hair problem that crops up if I don’t wash within 24 hours. I haven’t tried it yet, right?

However, there are seriously thousands of stories outÂ here in the vast internet universe about how going no ‘poo changed the lives of billions of hairs for the better.

Here’s what it seems we can expect:

More body
Less oily hair days
Exponentially less frizz (are you listening, curly-haired girls?)
More money in our pockets, because we’re not buying shampoo
Even MORE money in our pockets, because the need for other hair products decreases a bunch
Shinier hair (yay!)
FAR fewer icky chemicals touching our scalp and skin and potentially causing nerve damage or even cancer
A fabulously decreased impact to the environment in SO many different ways (less plastics bought, less chemicals entering the water supply, less consumption)

Shoot.

Why haven’t I done this already?

Scintillating Tidbits About Commercial Shampoo

This is my great-grandmother, before commercial shampoo was invented.

Here’s the thing that persuaded me the most into going no ‘poo.

Until the late 1930s, women did not use shampoo. In fact, shampoo as we know it now wasn’t even invented.

In fact! In 1908, the big craze was to rinse and wash your hair with soap – every two weeks – instead of every month, as most women did at the time.

But I look at these pictures of my ancestors and their beautiful hair and think, “Why? Why do WE need to shampoo every dang day, when their hair looked so thick and shiny and beautiful already?”

And, of course, it’s just flat-out consumerism. Not to rant, but we’ve been sold throughout all of our lives that if we don’t buy-buy-buy, we’re gross and disgusting. (Bite me, marketing gurus. My great-grandma was hot, before you got all “oooh, you have to buy something to be hot.”)

And Here’s What Shampoo Does To Your Head

It strips the sebum – the natural oils your scalp produces – which tells your head to produce more oils. And this is why my hair gets oily 24 hours after washing with shampoo. Your scalp, “Oooh, girl! You blasted away all the oils! We must produce more and more, because THESE OILS ARE GOOD FOR YOUR HAIR!”

And, guess what, curlies? That’s why you get frizzy. You don’t allow those oils to coat the outer reaches of your hair, and you completely and totally nullify any chances that your body will take care of what’s ailing you.

So here’s the good news: I’ve read SEVERAL articles where dermatologists are really on board with the no ‘poo movement. Sort of. I mean, they still have to sell us the consumerism idea, too, so what they say is that we really don’t need to wash our hair more than once a week.

And they’re on board with the no ‘poo method I’ve decided to use, at least in terms of stating that “Well, it certainly can’t hurt anything. And it kinda makes sense.”

Guess that’s something.

How I’m Going to No ‘Poo

I’ve found a few different ways to live the no ‘poo lifestyle – from not using anything at all and just wiping your hair with a washcloth (talk about no-impact) to using nothing but conditioner to using a mixture of cucumber and lemon juice as shampoo.

However, I am going to try the most widely spread and popular route first.

(This is unlike me. I’m usually a maverick. But I figure if I’m hopping on the bandwagon, I’d best do it the most bandwagony way possible – first.)

No ‘Poo With Baking Soda and Apple Cider Vinegar

Three times a week, I am going to “shampoo” with a mixture of baking soda and water. The most recommended amount is 1 Tbsp baking soda to 1 C water. It also appears to be very important NOT to use more baking soda to water in the ratio.

How you shampoo with baking soda: Put the mixture in a bottle (and it sounds like a squirt bottle is most handy) and shake REALLY well before applying. After wetting your hair in the shower, apply the baking soda mixture to your scalp and rub in a circular motion all around – focusing on the scalp, not the rest of your hair. Rinse well.

Then, you “condition” the ends of your hair with a mixture of apple cider vinegar and water.

How you condition with ACV: Mix 2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar with 1-2 cups of water. Either just rinse the ends of your hair with the whole thing, or rinse your entire head with it. For now, I’m going to stick with the ends, because I’ve read that – especially in the beginning while your scalp is adjusting – too much ACV on your scalp could cause more overproducing of oils.

Here’s What We Can Expect:

Two weeks of wondering what the flipping crack we’re doing, because our hair is overly greasy. This is okay. This is just like homemade deodorant. Our bodies have to readjust to the “normal” way of doing things. The scalp is going to overreact.
Lots of “ponytail” and “hat” days for these first two weeks. No biggie. I wear a ponytail most days anyway.
Increasingly better hair days after the initial breaking in period.
Then, luxurious, beautiful hair we never knew we had – all along. It’s kind of like the Wizard of Oz, only without flying monkeys.
Contrary to popular belief, not using shampoo does not lead to stinky hair. I’ve heard no reports that indicate that a stink or funk or otherwise unpleasant odor has resulted from any heads that use this method (at least after the first few “breaking in” overly oily days)

MOST IMPORTANTLY: If you want to do this with me – or at some other point in your crunchy life – GIVE IT AT LEAST THREE WEEKS TO A MONTH BEFORE QUITTING. Every single “bad review” I’ve read about this method includes these words:

“I only tried it for three days, but I hated it.”

Don’t be that person. Just don’t.

Want to Hop on the No ‘Poo Train With Me?

This is me, air-dried after my last 'poo.

First of all, how the heck did my hair get so long? (Maybe has something to do with not getting it cut for a year and a half. Hmmm.)

Secondly, this is me just after shampooing for the last time. This is my before picture. I let my hair air dry, to be fair and completely nonpartisan about either method. So my after picture will be an air dry, too. Usually, I straighten my hair to get that weird wave out and disappear the split ends a little.

If you want to do this with me, I’d LOVE to have partners in crime here.

In fact, take a before picture. Do the no ‘poo with me for three weeks. Take another picture.

Send the pictures to me with your thoughts and results, and I’ll include them in a blog post toward the middle of next month.

What say you?

Hair Picker? Hair Checker? Hair Apparent?

Good grief. What should we be called?

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Barbara

Yahoo! I’ve been ‘poo free for three months and I will never go back. When I was using ‘poo I had to wash it every 18 hours or so or it was a greasy, dandruff-y disaster. Now I just dump a heaping tablespoon of baking soda in a cup, swirl in some warm water while I’m in the shower and pour it in little splashes on my scalp and massage it in.
I don’t use conditioner but my boyfriend, who has been converted to the no ‘poo way as well (and he has long curly beautiful hair) uses a little splash of lemon juice diluted with water for a conditioner and his hair looks great!
We also use activated charcoal for toothpaste(our teeth have never been whiter, it is so freaking cool, yay for basic chemistry!)and make our own deodorant now, so we’re feeling clean, green and so much healthier, even noticing less headaches since going ‘poo free, which might be crazy or just plain crunchy magic, who knows!

Crunchy Betty

Ooooh! Thank you for sharing all this! I really like the activated charcoal idea! I’ve also read you can use that as an eyeliner – been dying to try that too. Guess it’s time to pick some up!

http://adventrueswiththreegirls.com Jessica Anne

Ok, I’m not quite ready, I just bought a new bottle of “natural” shampoo and conditioner, but I’m not loving it, so maybe when I’m done I’ll try it. Assuming, of course, you don’t look like a greased seal in your after picture and I can’t smell your hair through the computer.

Crunchy Betty

Okay. This is funny. It’s been a little over 24 hours since I washed, right? And my hair feels SO oily. I think it’s psychosomatic.

I think I’ve geared myself up so much for oily hair, I’m MAKING my scalp make it happen.

We’ll see. Fingers crossed!

http://adventrueswiththreegirls.com Jessica Anne

Ha! Think dry thoughts. And, whatever you do, don’t think about dandruff.

http://www.peaceloveandmuesli.com Kristin @ Peace, Love and Muesli

I’ve been mulling this over for a long time. The next 3 weeks are packed with beauty needing events for me. I’m going to talk Ken into it and start in November. The kids only get a once a week shampoo so I’m not worried about them.
What about chlorine? What’s the best way to rinse hair after a swim? And bc my hair is short I need to use some products if I want to look even mildly put together. How do I rinse the guck out?

Crunchy Betty

It’s my understanding that the baking soda’ll do a really good job of getting the product out (and it’ll be easier – and better – if you use natural stuff). And the vinegar should help.

But lemon juice! I’ve heard a lot of people use lemon juice as the conditioner, too.

And I’ve read several accounts where people go no ‘poo for a few months and then only use shampoo once every two weeks or so (those usually had to do with hair that was colored, though). I’m not sure that would help with everyday product use. But I guess it doesn’t totally revert your hair to pre-no-poo if you use it once in a while.
Katie

I have short hair too, and I use aloe gel as hair gel. Yep, the stuff you put on if you get a sunburn. Works great for me!

Jen @ Lita’s World

I’m in! First, because I really, really dislike washing my hair and am already the queen of using your dry shampoo recipe. Second, because I forgot shampoo on this road trip we’re on and the cheapie places we’ve stayed haven’t even provided any, so I feel like I can keep on this roll, and third, hey, it’s getting close to hat weather anyways, and, finally, because just like laundry soap, I feel that spending money on shampoo is pretty much a big scam.

Oh, forgot to mention, haven’t had my hair cut or anything in about 8 months now, so, hey how much crazier could it get! Plus, I love to follow my guru YOU!

Crunchy Betty

You and your road trips! Always going. I’m so jealous.

Haha that you haven’t had your hair cut in so long, either. I’ve finally decided that what I’m doing is a) going completely natural to get my hair into tip-top shape and then b) waiting until it’s definitely long enough to donate to Locks of Love (long enough so I can cut it and not end up with a pixie).

Big love, Ms. Winner!

http://freshradiantskin.com Michelle

I feel you crunchy. I got rid of my regular shampoo but I’m now using Chaz Dean’s Cleansing Conditioner. It really leaves my hair wonderful. I’m glad too because while I love natural remedies, I have little time or patience to prepare them!

Michelle

Crunchy Betty

You keep mentioning Chaz Dean’s stuff. I’m really going to have to check into it soon – especially if this doesn’t work for my hair.

In all my research, it sounded so … great. And then I started reading that it’s best for the curly haired girls, and that it tends to weigh down fine, straight hair.

I guess that’s what this experiment is for, yeah? Yeah.

http://freshradiantskin.com Michelle Howard

Yes you have to try it. He has different websites though. I think the price is lowest on qvc.com

There are different products depending on your hair type:

Dry – Fig Cleansing/Cond.
Oily – Cucumber Aloe Cleansing/Cond.
Normal to Dry – Sweet Almond Mint (I love this one)

There’s also a Tea Tree Oil Cleansing/Cond. and a Lavender. I haven’t tried these 2 though. You can get all of them along with some other products in the line over at chazdean.com

A lot of people don’t know that he has a ton of different types because on tv they only promote the Sweet Almond Mint.

for now I’m using the Fig. It doesn’t have the nicest smell but it leaves my hair soft and moisturized. For fine straight hair, the Cucumber Aloe and the lavender are supposed to do the trick.

Check it out and let me know. Over at chazdean.com you can get a small bottle.

Michelle

http://www.broadbrains.blogspot.com Jacquelyn

Awesome! Best of luck to ya! I’ve been poo-free for over a year and a half now, and I’m never going back. I wrote about my reasons for going no-poo last year: http://broadbrains.blogspot.com/2009/07/i-havent-shampooed-my-hair-in-months.html
I just recently found your blog, and I really like it! Your deodorant recipe is the same one I use – except I had to nearly cut out the baking soda because it burned my skin. I’m looking forward to trying some of your other recipes. Thanks!

Crunchy Betty

Oh, heck yeah! I loved your post on this. SO exactly what I feel.

I was pretty surprised, with the deodorant, that the burning completely stopped – after I’d read a lot of people never got over it (with either the baking soda or the cornstarch).

I’m so happy with it, I could cry. Seriously. Like every darned thing I try, I wonder why I was so resistant to it for so long.

It’s SO empowering to be totally responsible for your own health, yeah?

Allison

I think I’ve already been doing it for about… a month? I use the baking soda and ACV technique.

Honestly, I didn’t notice my hair being greasier than usual. Probably because I didn’t shampoo that much in the first place. Because I have curly hair, and when you do it too much, it gets way frizzy. (As you stated.) I did get some acne, though.

I really didn’t notice that much of a difference, though. Maybe it just hasn’t hit me yet? My hair generally just does what it wants. I also have short hair, so it’s kinda like… just there. But yeah, I’m glad to not be putting all those chemicals on my skin

Crunchy Betty

Awesomeness. Thank you for sharing your experience.

It’s really interesting that you mention the acne, because last night as I was going to sleep (and thinking about my hair laying on my neck), I wondered if I’d start getting pimples on my neck/jawline for a while until the oil regulated.

Now I’m definitely prepared.

Keep me updated on how you feel about it all, and if you decide to go back to shampoo!

Allison

Oh, well about going back to it.. I don’t think I will :p I forgot to mention that the other day when I was at my boyfriend’s apartment, he didn’t have baking soda and I REALLY needed to wash my hair with something besides water. So I figured it would be okay to wash my hair with his cute little Nature’s Gate tea tree shampoo.

I was very wrong. My hair dried in a really weird shape and it was REALLY dry. It almost looked like it wasn’t falling on itself properly… like it couldn’t stick to itself.

It was weird O.o

ani

YAY!!! Can’t wait to hear about your journey!

Crunchy Betty

It’s already gotten off to a weirdly oily start. I think my brain’s making my hair oily.

Is that possible? Heh.

ani

i had a weird super oily phase about 2 months into it. i thought that was strange. i really had to fiddle with the recipe. and i also noticed that when was somewhere using nice, soft water, it worked waaaaay better! i had the best hair days at a hotel on the beach.

http://www.wholefamilyproject.com Aleisha @ Whole Family Project

I’m in, sweets! I got off of antiperpirant about 5 years ago, and had been using aluminum/paraben free stuff from Whole Foods. However, that all changed one day, about a month ago, when I made the homemade deodorant…and I’m a convert for life!!! So, yeah…I’m in. I have been having trouble with shampoo for a very long time. Poisonous ones addict my hair to them…natural ones make my hair feel like straw. I’m at my wit’s end…so, I’m in. I can’t wait.

Crunchy Betty

Yay! I’m so excited you’re doing this too! When are you going to start? Are you going to send pics? Or – you should blog it too!

Haha. I haven’t been so excited about NOT buying products ever.

Ah, crunchiness.

http://www.wholefamilyproject.com Aleisha @ Whole Family Project

I’m starting in the morning…and yes…I’ll send pictures AND blog it;)

http://inpursuitofmarthapoints.com Lori @ In Pursuit of Martha Points

Ok, you KNOW I’m gonna watch you first.

Although I already envy your hair.

Because if I DON’T shampoo my hair every day, it…is…horrid.

Like I can’t stand my own head horrid.

Which is awkward, seeing as how I’m attached to it all.

Crunchy Betty

See, but you said that about the deodorant, right? And let me tell you right now, Martha Points, the homemade deodorant is my miracle of the year (until this works, I suppose).

And this is the thing – it sounds like YOUR hair is a PERFECT candidate for no ‘poo. Even more so than mine.

You should really, really consider sucking it up and doing this. Regardless of what mine turns out like. There are just way, way, way too many success stories of people with hair like yours to not try.

And what’s a few weeks with icky hair, anyway, if it doesn’t work? At least you tried.

/end desperate plea

http://mvstephenson.wordpress.com Verna

Okay, I’ve been trying no ‘poo for a couple months and it’s not really working for me. My hair is soooo dry and breaks easily. I’ve messed around with the amounts and nothing is really helping. I was only washing every other day but then my roots get greasy so I don’t think I can go longer than that between washing.

Crunchy Betty

Hmmm. That is VERY interesting. And that’s actually my concern with my hair – with it being straight and fine and all that.

Have you tried any other ingredients for it? It kind of sounds like that pureed cucumber/lemon juice wash might really help.

Or, Michelle above raves about Chaz Dean’s products – if you feel like you’re at your wit’s end.

If you want to throw around ideas to help, I’m here for you!

http://mvstephenson.wordpress.com Verna

Cucumber sounds good. Lemon juice seems like it might be drying though. Worth a shot. I really want this to work, it’ll save so much money.

http://www.broadbrains.blogspot.com Jacquelyn

My hair started getting super dry and brittle on no-poo a few months back, and I cut way back on the baking soda and re-instated the ACV rinse, which I had stopped. It seems to have improved quite a bit after those changes – I’m not finding little broken off pieces of my hair anymore.

Marlowe

Try doing an olive oil compact…
http://crunchybetty.com/?p=1962

http://www.funnyorsnot.com Poppy

I just so happen to be out of shampoo. I have been using the travel bottles that I take from hotels until I could get to the salon next week to buy my usual brand. There is no way in hell I’m going to give up the toxic chemical dump I put on my hair to cover up the gray because I am far too vain. BUT………I will do this.

Crunchy Betty

Okay. Here’s the rub. I’ve read one account where a woman had a harder time getting her “toxic chemical dump” of a hair color to stick once she went no ‘poo.

Apparently once your body regulates and determines the natural oil in your hair, said oil prevents the toxic dump from sticking to it.

Natural defenses are great, but not if you want, like, no more gray hair.

Her solution was to wash her hair with natural/organic shampoo once or twice before getting it colored, and then a time or two after that. Once you can get it to stick, it’s all good.

Either way, dude, if you are REALLY doing this … OMG. I can’t tell you how happy (and scared I am.

Mshanai

BS lifts color from hair because it roughs up the cuticle. Instructions on chemical box dyes always say to apply it to unwashed hair. The sebum protects the hair from damage to some extent.

http://www.coloringpagespot.com Lydia

Ok, I might try this…I’m giving it serious thought. Today would be my last shampoo and Friday my first baking soda/vinegar trial….eeek I’m all flustered but I can relate to the oily thing so I’d love to try this….

Crunchy Betty

Do it! Do it! Do it!

Like I said, what is a few weeks of trying it out of your life?

The end result could flop, but whatever. Or it could be the most magnificent thing your hair has ever experienced.

Nothing to lose, baby. Nothing to lose!

Let me know if you try it (blog it, or take pictures of it), and I’ll keep up with your progress! Yay!

http://hoperoth.com/blog Hope

I like the middle way. I ‘poo, but only once every week or so.

Crunchy Betty

Haha. Zen ‘poo.

Love it!

http://www.jerbecca.wordpress.com Rebecca

EXPONENTIALLY less frizz! I have naturally curly hair (not coarse, more thin and dry) that was always frizzy. I used shampoo, conditioner, leave-in conditioner, anti-frizz spray, curling gel-all at once! Now that I use only baking soda and apple cider vinegar, the frizz is almost nonexistent. I don’t even use that every day-like this morning, I slept in, and all I did in the shower was run a pick through my wet hair. I pinned it back with a couple bobbys and I look fab. For all the curly-hair gals out there scared to do this, just do it! You won’t regret!

Crunchy Betty

Man, I want to take this comment and pin it to my shirt for the rest of the week. SURE I can drum up some new people to try it out that way.

Makes me wish I had curly hair, so I could REALLY experience the joy that this is.

Although I have read a few accounts of women who THOUGHT they had straight hair and learned it was very wavy through no ‘poo.

And curly hair is in my family.

Hope. There is hope.

Beth

So excited. I have been reading all over blog land about the baking soda wash and ACV rinse but have been too chicken to try it. (Hats are not an option for me at work). Also, color the greys with the toxic stuff as the vanity is an issue there. So, will be reading everyone’s posts to see how THEIR experience goes. Maybe I’ll be brave then. FYI, I found and tried and have learned to LOVE your oil cleanse. I have also made and been using some of the no-nonsense daily scrub. I’m in. I’m hooked. And worse, my face seems to reject not being treated to these 2 items! Looking forward to more recipes and maybe more bravery.

Crunchy Betty

I’m SO glad you’re watching along – and, for what it’s worth, my hair is awesome already. It’s been 48 hours since I’ve showered, and my hair has JUST, within the last two hours, started feeling a bit oily. We’ll see if it stays this awesome. Fingers crossed!

Secondly – that is VERY exciting news about the oil cleanse AND the daily scrub. Love them both so much it hurts.

It makes me feel squishy that you love them too! Yay!

Marlowe

Ive been no-poo for about 2 years now and I have to tell ever single one of you just how freaking amazing it is! Before my hair was thin, greasy and down right unattractive…it seemed not even the most expensive shampoos could fix what I had. One day I stumbled upon an article similar to this one and have never turned back. CB is right, its hard for the first month or so because of the the initial shock to your tresses but it gets lots better. Turns out my limp oily hair was really delicate little curls in distress! Now I have healthy strong and shiny hair just by using baking soda and apple cider vinegar. For extra shine and moisture I use an olive oil compress every 2 weeks or so.

Crunchy Betty

Okay – I know this is a little belated, but THANK YOU for pointing out the oil compress thing.

I’m excited to try it. Maybe at week 2 I will. By then, I might need it. Though so far, I’m already so in love with this it’s crazy.

Thanks, lady!

Pingback: The Oil Magic Trick That Hides #2 | Crunchy Betty
Arigon

Hi, I was looking for a no poo trouble shooting website and found your page. I read your page and saw the date, I was so happy! I started my no-poo yesterday Oct 13 and I needed no-poo-mate! However my head feels horrible!
I usually washed my hair every other day (which I hate because it feels so greasy by then) with shampoo. I have a dandruff problem so I used head&shoulder blue bottle. My hair is slightly curly, thick, AND dry… I haven’t colored or permed but it’s not shiny. But my scalp gets greasy, and have dandruff.

I used 1 tbsp with 2 cups of water, poured into my scalp. Immediately it felt horrible. It felt like my hair lost all the oil and got stuck together, but my scalp felt like the grease got cooled and stuck there. It felt like I could just pull my hair up and it would stick up in the air and hold its place. I couldn’t stand it, I used regular conditioner and washed it, did this twice, my hair felt better but my scalp feels SO GREASY. I am about to use cornstarch and wash my hair with water only. How is it supposed to feel like? I read so many different pages and people’s comment, nobody was saying like… my scalp.

Arigon

oh I meant 1tbsp of BS and 2 cups of water.

Barbara

Arigon, don’t worry my hair felt like that the first few times too, it gets better! It feels like it’s all sticking to your scalp and clumpy but after a few tries it just gets squeeky clean. When I started I washed with ‘poo one day and baking soda the next to kind of transition my hair for the first while, give that a shot? Good luck!

http://www.jerbecca.wordpress.com Rebecca

Arigon-sounds like your hair is similar to mine. It was tough the first couple of days, but now my hair feels lighter and my dandruff went away. It is soft and manageable with the natural oils once it balances out. Trust me-it looks better than ever after a week! If you can get through the first couple of days you will be really happy.

The way I do it, I have a little squeeze bottle, I put about 1/2 tsp baking soda per cup of water, and a couple drops of castor oil. In the shower I squeeze drops all over my scalp and work it through with my fingers. It’s much easier than dumping a cup of stuff on my head. For conditioner I mix one part apple cider vinegar to three parts water and put that in a spray bottle. I have long hair, so it’s easier to spray it on and work it in with my fingers, then rinse.

Nowadays I only use the baking soda every 2 or 3 days, and use the vinegar every other day. Some days I just rinse with water and that is enough. Many people have said that it has never looked better, and it’s very soft and shiny. It really does work for curly-haired girls!
Arigon

Barbara, Rebecca thank you for your reply. I searched and searched, it felt like almost everybody was saying the first few days were fine then a week later it gets greasy.

It’s my understanding BS cleans but dries, and ACV conditions but makes it oily (thus not on scalp) correct? I see a lot of people saying that “don’t use BS every time, your hair will dry out” But if my scalp is so greasy and feeling like my hair growing out of candle wax… Shouldn’t I use BS everyday? I SOOOOO want to wash my hair with ANYTHING to get this grease off of my scalp. LOL I have long hair (to mid back) and I usually braid them or put in a bun, so it doesn’t bother me much. But scalp… Do I basically need to wash my hair with BS every other day-ish and wait till my head adjust to this new healthy method?

Barbara>>
How long did it take you to get to full no-poo when you used “poo and no poo the next”?

Rebecca>
If that is your picture used as icon, you have beautiful hair!(and you look beautiful, too of course) You said yours felt like the same, but you BS only use it 2-3 times a week now? What did you do when you first started? I want to be less greasy, but I don’t want my dandruff to get worse… Should I wash my hair with BS everyday until my scalp gets NOT GREASY? (hopefully not dry…) or do I need to do something like 1day BS, the next hot water only or regular shampoo?

Ladies, I am sorry about all those questions!

Barbara

My hair took to it pretty naturally after 2 weeks of going on and off, and I noticed how flat my hair got using ‘poo instead of baking soda. I’ve got looong hair that is stick straight, but this no ‘poo thing is giving me all kinds of volume. Yes now and then I notice I shed a little more than usual, I think my Lush brand henna treatment might fix that (and my little grey hairs because at 23, that’s just whack)because of all the shea butter in it, or I could just use a conditioner Good luck!
http://www.jerbecca.wordpress.com Rebecca

The first week I did use BS almost daily. I had alternating days of greasiness and dryness and then once it seemed to calm down and be less greasy I went to washing every other day. On the dry days I used a little hair butter from made on lotion (you should bing her site and check out her products) but now I find I don’t need it.

The ACV conditions by correcting the ph. I find that I use it all over, but don’t actually scrub it into my scalp as I do with the BS. My hair/skin are dry, so I find that on the second day of not washing it helps to use acv on the ends to keep any frizziness away, but I don’t use it near my scalp unless I have just washed with BS.

And thank you very much for the compliment! That is indeed my hair, before I trimmed it (I had it super long for the wedding). I’ve always loved having curly hair, but hated the frizz and all the product I used, so now that I have found a better solution, I love my hair even more!

Katie

Alright Crunchy Betty readers. I tried it. I really did. I had one shower and followed your exact recipe and felt realy really great about it. And then I got into the shower and it was the worst, most awful thing ever. As soon as I poured the ‘poo replacement on my head it was as if I INSTANTLY had dreadlocks. Not nice. But then I rinsed it with ACV (2 TBSP to about a gallon of water) and styled it and it was okay. Not great. It took longer to dry than usual so I smelled like ACV until, like, lunchtime, but that’s alright. I’m sure nobody noticed because I’m also committing to the homemade deodorant so I smelled like rosemary and lavendar and all things lovely (I hope…).

Flash forward ’till about 5 pm when a great big clump of hair comes RIGHT OFF MY HEAD. And then for the rest of the night when I’m losing hair like a chemo patient (I’ve seen it. It’s awful. And that’s what my hair was doing!). Flash forward to the next morning when I’ve got long blonde curlies all over my linens.

Now it’s day 2. I couldn’t bring myself to shower ’cause I fear that ALL of my hair will fall out. Now it’s super duper greasy (I’ve never had greasy hair in my life!) and it’s still falling out. Not just one or two hairs, but CLUMPS of it at a time. Pretty, yes?

So. You’ve assured me that this weird dreadlock-in-the-shower experience will go away eventually. But what about the huge amount of hair loss? Has anyone experienced this? Will my head stop revolting? Any suggestions? I’m so desperate… I’d REALLY like to shower!!!

Thanks a billion!

Crunchy Betty

OMG. That is so scary!

I have no idea what would cause the hair loss – this is the first I’ve heard of it at all with the no ‘poo method in all the lengthy (months of) research I’ve done. The greasiness is understandable. And the vinegar smell is curious – I’ve been using an ACV rinse for over a year now, and the smell is gone even before my hair dries. Maybe it’s body chemistry?

I did a search on Google and found one other person who said they experienced hair loss, too. They eventually went back to organic shampoos and their hair was no worse for wear.

I don’t know. I’m going to put out a call to a couple of the no ‘poo mavens around here and see if they have any ideas.

Stay strong!

http://www.theeducatedlife.com Clara

I echo Crunchy Betty’s OMG! I have naturally curly hair and I have been without ‘poo for over 3 years, but I still use conditioner and some organic hair product (I live in Florida, and humidity and curls are not friends) – I follow what’s called the CG, or Curly Girl, method (you can find a good primer on it here: http://dormroomcurly.blogspot.com/2008/12/style-definitions-table.html).

I use natural/organic conditioners (DevaCurl is a pricier brand I like, and Aubrey Organics is a less expensive one). I have done the baking soda cleanse without any issues — but curly hair is much more delicate than straight hair (more porous), so curlies can’t do the baking soda scrub as often. That being said, I’ve never had any problems with hair loss…oh, and if you are curly, you must do the ACV rinse! Baking soda is alkaline and ACV is acidic — you need the acid to close your hair follicle back down or you are in for serious frizz. I do it only once or twice a month, or if my hair gets especially dirty (like if I’m doing some yard work and dirt flies everywhere).

Do you have any organic conditioners around (no sulfates and no silicones)? Sometimes even cheap brands, like Suave, are OK and don’t contain those things? I have used a mix of sugar (can be brown or white, or both, your choice) and conditioner (amount will depend on the length of your hair, but think 1 tsp sugar to a quarter-size dollop of conditioner) to scrub & clean my scalp, which is a gentler alternative to the baking soda. When I don’t do my sugar scrub, I’ll just condition a little (quarter-size amount, maybe a little more depending on the tangles) and rinse – my hair is pretty long, about 4 inches below my shoulders, if that helps. I only do a conditioning rinse/wash about 2 times a week. If you are curly you should definitely go at least every other day, but stretch it longer if you can — better for your hair and scalp.

My hair stylist, Tiffany, is a curly hair expert, and she has some great, natural home remedies on her site: http://livecurlylivefree.com/home.htm. She might be a good contact to help you with your curlies??

I hope this helps! Perhaps your hair is just too delicate for the baking soda, try the sugar/conditioner method instead? Once you get off poo for awhile, your scalp’s oil production will balance out and you’ll only need to really condition your ends. I hope this helps, at least a little, I’ll keep looking for more info to see if I can find anything else that might it explain it though!

Katie

Oh my goodness! This sounds like an absolutely delicious solution!!! I’ve been using natural/organic/vegan/wonderful shampoos and conditioners for about a year, so that’s definitey not an issue.

Thank you so much for passing allllll of this info along. I’m gonna give it a shot tonight and will report back in a few days

MANY THANKS!! <3
Katie

My promised update! I washed my hair with a shampoo mixture (10% shampoo, 90% herbal infusion) and conditioned after this BS debacle. It was… a reset. A few days after, I did the sugar-and-conditioner business a few days ago and it’s SOOOOOOOOOO fantastic! Now I’m losing a normal amount of hair and my head isn’t covered in stringly, mushy dreadlocks. Instead, I have incredibly happy curls! I rinse with ACV every other day or so, and aim to “wash” once a week or so.

That being said, I’m still searching for an alternative that allows me to cut out my plastic consumption entirely. I’d be so proud to be able to say “that’s right, I DON’T need to go to the drug store this week! No plastics for me ’cause I’ve got oatmeal and rose petals on my face, coffee grounds (left over from this morning) and cottage cheese* on my body, coconut oil on my face and vinegar in my hair.”

Actually, I probably wouldn’t say that because I sound too delicious and I fear that someone might eat me right up.

Hopefully I can find a wonderful alternative to buying conditioner every few weeks. Woudln’t it be super duper if they sold it in bulk and you could just bring the same container over and over? I fear at the moment my desire to look smashingly gorgeous is trumping my eco-consideration, but I’m actively searching for a viable alternative.

That’s all. How’s the no-poo going for everyone else??

[Oh, and I've also committed these three weeks of no-poo to using homemade deodorant, also. OHMYGOODNESS it's amazing! I was on THREE TYPES OF PERSCRIPTION ANTIPERSPERANT because I sweat so much. It's only been six days of using this homemade stuff and I haven't had a single pit stain. In fact, I'm convinced that my pits have forgotten HOW to sweat! Whaaaaat?? I put the stuff to the test on day 3 - after I was certain that I didn't stink - and had an intense two-hour squash game followed by a massive bike ride and hopped straight into bed for some lovin' with my man. Still totally dry, and he even commented on how I smelled like tea tree and lavendar and it was, and I quote, "a total turnon." I'd say this is a massive success! Thank you, so much, to all the Crunchy Bettys who have been kind enough to help me out!]

*Did you know? Cottage cheese ON the thighs seems to help cottage cheese OF the thighs!

Arigon

Katie,
What you described sounds like how my scalp got greasy and hair clumped up. Mine did get like that right away, too. I freaked out and put regular conditioner… No ACV. Which now I read Clara’s post and learned I needed to use that if I used BS. My hair didn’t fall out much though. I really really hope you will find a way that works out for you soon. But the greasy dreadlocks, you are not alone! Last night ( my day 1) I thought ” I don’t think it will ever works out for me.” And I am sitting here with greasy head. I think I am going to try at least 2 weeks…?
Good luck!
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=120400733 Laura Lafortune

USE LESS BAKING SODA! And leave it on for just a sec before rinsing. Or skip it completely. If you have very delicate hair or a very sensitive scalp, the baking soda can burn the hair.

http://squidmom.wordpress.com/ lydia

Ok I’ve decided to go along with this, no poo for me either….And I’m going to blog about my experience too, wish me luck! http://squidmom.wordpress.com/

Crunchy Betty

Woot! Bookmarking your blog to keep up with things – and by next week (sometime, hopefully, fingers crossed) I’ll have a list of everyone who said they’re trying it.

This. Is. Awesome.

http://mavierose8706.bogspot.com Sara W.

I did it! I decided to go no ‘poo too! But I have a couple of questions. When I make the recipe you give for the baking soda/water mixture, do I need to use it all in one go, or is that enough for a couple of washes (I have hair about as long as yours)? And also, I usually spray a leave in strengthening treatment on my hair right after I shower, should I keep doing that or stop? Thanks for being a no ‘poo pioneer!

Crunchy Betty

Yay! Are you going blog it, too? Gah, I have got to get on the ball – first thing next week – and pin down everyone who’s doing this, so we can all commiserate on our results!

Okay, first for the answer I KNOW: You don’t use it all in one wash. I just squirted out probably what equated to the same amount as I usually use with shampoo directly onto my head. I made a double batch to keep in the shower, and I probably only used what was about 2 Tbsp worth. Ish. Close to that. I’ve only used it once so far (getting ready to go in for the second time) and I’m already LOVING my results. My hair’s a little dull and oily at this point, but for the first 36 or so hours after the first wash, my. hair. was. awesome. Hope it keeps going this well.

Now for the answer I’m not 100% on: I would say stop using the treatment. Let your natural scalp oils do their own work for a while. It’s my understanding that, with time, this is going to strengthen your hair, too. If you use something “outside” of your natural oils, it might mess up your results.

BUT! Again, that’s my VERY uneducated opinion on it. You could try it one way for a while and see how it works, and then try it the other – and see which is better.

Yay! So glad you’re doing this too!

http://mavierose8706.bogspot.com Sara W.

Yes! I will be blogging! http://mavierose8706.bogspot.com

http://baltimorehousewife.blogspot.com Lori

I’m joining you in going ‘poo-less. I’m documenting my challenge, in case you’re interested:

No ‘Poo Challenge

Crunchy Betty

Awesome. Headed over to check it out! I can’t believe how many of us there are now.

For me: I’m on day what now? Five, I think? Four? I’ve washed my hair with the baking soda/ACV once – and it’s been 48 hours and I’m just now feeling icky about the state of my hair. Until now, it’s been softer and shinier than ever. Couldn’t believe how fast it seemed to “work.” We’ll see if it keeps going like this.

SO glad you’re joining in!

Arigon

Hi! First of all, thank you again, Barbara and Rebecca. Today is my day 5. Without your comment I think I would have already given it up. LOL

So 1st day I washed with BS and conditioned with conditioner, 2nd day washed with conditioner, 3rd day I didn’t wash. Last night as 4th day, I wasn’t going to wash, but I couldn’t stand the greasiness and fear of the smell of my hair ( I don’t think it was that stinky but it felt that way. lol ) I washed with conditioner again before I went to bed.
My 2nd day wash was definitely better than the first time, but still clumpy and waxy, maybe 40% less waxy than 1st time. 3rd wash which was last night, my 1/3 of head is down to 20% more than normal greasy. My fingers went through this time. Other 2/3 of my head is still waxy and fingers don’t really go through. As for my hair, it still doesn’t have the smoothness that I get after I use conditioner (after “poo”)

But It’s definitely much better than the 1st day. Surprisingly it doesn’t itch much (like it does when it’s dirty) and I am losing less hair…

I am writing on my MS word, so I will try to have my blog somewhere. That way you guys don’t have to read my long report here. LOL
http://thesimplepoppy.typepad.com TheSimplePoppy

Just found your blog. I might be laughing too hard to breathe!

I’ve been “no poo” for almost 3 months now. Perhaps we should do (a far more trivial) “It Gets Better” campaign for “no poo.” Because my hair is pretty great right now – finally. Though I wanted to mention that I tried doing the BS and ACV thing a few years ago and HATED it. My hair is on the fine side, silky, and dead straight. I feel like BS ripped it the heck up with how abrasive it was. Now I’m using a bunch of different things and much happier. I blogged about it here:

http://thesimplepoppy.typepad.com/the-simple-poppy/clean-hair-chronicles/

So glad I found you via some other crunchy site!
Pingback: No Poo, an update « Squidmom's Blog
Ellen

I started a few days after this post, and it’s going really well. I’m on day…um…7, I think? My first few days my hair was really oily even after a shower, but I’d recently read the post about dry shampoo, which said that baking soda can be used to absorb oil, and since I was going to be putting BS on anyway, I figured it wouldn’t interfere with the no-poo challenge. I washed with BS, then either air dried (if I had time) or blow dried, then followed the dry shampoo instructions with more, dry baking soda and my hair was magically presentable. I only really needed the help for the first 3 days, then my hair started to adjust to the new regime, and now it doesn’t need the dry shampoo step at all!
Anthea

I had my last ‘poo on Friday. Today I cleansed with water and followed up with ACV (I guess I thought it would have more of an astringent effect- I hadn’t read your blog yet). I blow-dried and sprinkled cornstarch, which I brushed out with a boar hair brush (recommended by other websites for absorbing oil). I didn’t find that it made much of a difference. Used the straightening iron, as I didn’t want to look like I just rolled out of bed. So far, it looks oily but not greasy. Feels very heavy and thick- I have very fine hair. But I’m not going back to ‘poo. I may try castille soap if I can’t handle this, but I will try to stick with it for the month. I’m so glad you’re doing this too- I’m not doing this alone!

Crunchy Betty

Woohoo! Good luck with this! It really does get better, although I hear tell it gets better faster for some people (I think I was one of those people).

I went through the heavy and thick phase, too, although now it just feels normal to me. I don’t know if “normal” changed because I got used to it, though? But there was definitely a very coarse few days in the beginning.

The oddest thing about going no ‘poo for me has been how quickly it just became how I did things. It’s only been, what? A month maybe? And I don’t even think about shampooing anymore at all. It doesn’t even feel like an option to me.

Keep me updated on how it goes!

LuppyHead

I am interested in trying this but I swim 5 days a week. Are there any “natural” ways to combat chlorine? My salt and pepper hair is getting saltier every day, and I don’t want it to turn green.

Katie

Hi LuppyHead! I’ve done a TON of experimentation in the past few weeks in an attempt to fight the chlorine battle. What works best for me is FULLY saturating my hair with non-chlorinated water before jumping in the pool. This means standing under the shower for anywhere between 5 and 15 minutes. Then, when it’s supersaturated, I coat it in coconut oil and give it a quick french braid. If a swimcap would stay on my head, I’d definitely put one on then however they all have a habit of popping right off, so I don’t bother anymore.

After the swim, I rinse my hair for another 5 – 15 minutes, massaging my scalp the hole time. Seriously, I’ll do it until my arms ache. Then, when I get home, I’ll give the whole thing (including my scalp) a quick lemon juice rinse (you could use ACV too) and I’m good to go!

I hope this works! I’ve got light blonde hair which has a tendency to turn brassy in the chlorine. So far, no issues!

arigon

Ladies… I am so close to give up.

I washed with BS on first day and it was crazy bad so I washed with conditioner for a little over a week. It was getting better and got really greasy. So I switched back to BS and ACV. It was doing fine. For maybe like 3 days. then it got really worse, then got better, then now it’s VERY GREASY.

When I wash my hair with BS water, it gets really squeaky feeling, and I almost can’t feel the grease around my scalp. Then I put ACV with maybe 5 drops of lavender oil and water mix ONLY on hair. I use bowl and dip hair in so scalp don’t get it. First I thought it was because the ACV mix gets in to scalp, but even it doesn’t touch… it gets greasy. With ACV it feels normal like when I used to shampoo and conditioned. But when it starts to dry, it gets really really greasy. I have to tie my hair at work in buns.

Last night I got off work and I untied it. The greasy part was all over like I wore a greasy net. And my hair was even hard!!!

I don’t know what to do anymore!!! I have a party coming up and I want to wear my hair down. I think I “poo till then, and I am going to try again? Anybody has the same problem?

On the good side, my dandruff is much better, and I am losing less hair.
http://vanessasmith.webs.com/ Vanessa

I would LOVE to try this… but I’m terrified.

It’s not the impending greasiness that scares me. No, that I can deal with.

It’s the sores – the horrible, bleeding, flaking, itching sores that develop on my scalp if I don’t wash my hair at least every other day or so (in fact, they tend to show up within just a few hours after ‘pooing).

What if it gets worse because I don’t wash my hair? And yet the ‘poo isn’t helping… but neither is it making it worse.

*chews nails*

You think I should give it a shot? :/

~Ness

Arigon

Ness,
Do you have seborrheic dermatitis? Because I have one on my face that comes back once in a while and my dandruff is really bad on my hair. If I don’t wash my hair everyday WITH dandruff shampoo it gets really bad. It doesn’t bleed though. Usually really bad around my face line, so what I used to do was wash my bangs with (anti) dandruff shampoo and don’t wash the rest of hair on second day.
But ever since I tried the no poo, my dandruff is 10 times better. It’s not all gone, but it’s much much better. I have cheated on no poo method, twice, but it’s on my 3rd wash after the cheating. LOL it’s ok for now. My ends are still dry and though 2nd wash was perfect, this time it’s big greasy on my roots.

I think I would definitely try if I didn’t bleed, but since you bleed, I don’t know if it’s a good idea. But I am sure shampoo is pretty strong, too…

http://vanessasmith.webs.com/ Vanessa

No, it’s just extremely bad dandruff, no doubt irritated by the fact that I can’t stop myself from picking, OR the people I live with from picking. If my grandmother walks by and sees a flake, she’s automatically got to sort through my entire head and start picking.

(I think she was a monkey in a past life)

I’ve started the no ‘poo, actually. I just said to myself that it’s pretty much my last resort, seeing as shampoo (anti dandruff or not) just does not work. If this is a failure, I’m probably going to shave my head and start over, because I have no idea what else to do.

Here’s what I did so far:

The day of my last ‘poo, I also did an egg yolk/olive oil “wash.” I threw in a splash of tea tree oil to soothe the itchiness. Normally, with this type of “wash” I would wash it out with shampoo, because the oil has a tendency to stick to my hair and make it greasy right away, instead of within a day as is my normal grease-buildup time.

Anywho, I just rinsed it out instead, thinking that if I purposefully introduced the greasy stage first, I could sort of skip that reaction that many people have said would happen. I left it for three days, and then did the baking soda rinse. It cleaned out the oil really well, and it’s now three days later (without another baking soda rinse), and it’s only just starting to get a little greasy in the roots.

I haven’t used the Apple Cider Vinegar and water conditioner.

My dandruff is still bad, but I haven’t had any super bad flaking as per usual or any bleeders (of course, I’m trying very hard not to pick too).

Barbara suggested adding a little tea tree oil to the baking soda, and that’s sounding like a good idea. I probably won’t “wash” again until tomorrow, but I’ll give that a shot and see if it makes the dandruff any better.

I’ll be sure to post feedback.

Thank you so much for your advice, it really helps!

~Ness

Barbara

Vanessa, I have the same issue, and am an occasional bleeder especially in dry winter months, but I find that if I throw in a little drop of tea tree oil in with the water and baking soda it helps heal up the scabby-ness and dandruff issue. It DOES sting a bit, but also works for me, just do a spot test to see if you’re sensitive to it first (as with any EO or new product) Good luck!

http://vanessasmith.webs.com/ Vanessa

I’ve started the no ‘poo, actually. I just said to myself that it’s pretty much my last resort, seeing as shampoo (anti dandruff or not) just does not work. If this is a failure, I’m probably going to shave my head and start over, because I have no idea what else to do.

Here’s what I did so far:

The day of my last ‘poo, I also did an egg yolk/olive oil “wash.” I threw in a splash of tea tree oil to soothe the itchiness. Normally, with this type of “wash” I would wash it out with shampoo, because the oil has a tendency to stick to my hair and make it greasy right away, instead of within a day as is my normal grease-buildup time.

Anywho, I just rinsed it out instead, thinking that if I purposefully introduced the greasy stage first, I could sort of skip that reaction that many people have said would happen. I left it for three days, and then did the baking soda rinse. It cleaned out the oil really well, and it’s now three days later (without another baking soda rinse), and it’s only just starting to get a little greasy in the roots.

I haven’t used the Apple Cider Vinegar and water conditioner.

My dandruff is still bad, but I haven’t had any super bad flaking as per usual or any bleeders.

I’m definitely going to try adding a little tea tree oil in the baking soda rinse. As I said above, I’ve used it on my scalp before, so I know I don’t have bad reactions to it. In fact, it’s rather cooling and soothing.

So far, I find myself really liking the ‘no poo method… though the rest of my family think I’m crazy. In fact, my grandfather called it “dirty,” but whatever. So far, I’m having positive results, and that’s all that matters.

Thank you so much for the advice!

~Ness

Silver

I just tried this hair wash and like other things I have tried on this site,
I am blown away! My hair looks awesome after the first try! I was concerned that it would not clean the oils out ( see I put oils in my hair, plus the oil potions I use on my skin gets in my hair. I am on vacation from work for a few weeks so I am doing all my treatments. My personal life is very SPA.)

Okay yes it did remove the oils and hardly no hair came out!!! See I have been battling with hair loss when I shampoo. I was also blown away by no tangles. I know I shouldn’t but I had to blow dry it to see what it looked like? The result was very smooth and styled looking with no styling product did not need it cause I had no frizz or fly aways…

So I don’t understand others having a problem with oily hair? Unless it will happen later but my instincts tell me that it want? Maybe my method is why it was not oily. First I rinsed my hair for a few minutes hmmm the heat from the water breaking up the oils I had in my hair? Next I squirted
the BS mix in and massaged wash just like I would with poo, then rinsed the dickens out of it. Next I squirted the ASV all over my hair and did not rinse. The result was like the greatest poo I ever used, see some years ago I used a organic shampoo made out of coconuts, it only had 3 ingredients and when I moved back to the South I never could find it again
Been looking for something like it ever since. Determined, I finally found
it!

THANK YOU THANK YOU
Rosalee Cadwell

I tossed my shampoo out 2mo ago and loving it, now whats for those thin barely there lashes and say no to LATEESE stuff?
Rosalee Cadwell

I tossed my shampoo out 2mo ago and loving it, now whats for those thin barely there lashes?

http://www.facebook.com/people/Hannia-Milena-Diaz/501037591 Hannia Milena Diaz

hi! i’ve been trying removing my eye make up with almond oil, I have barely there lashes and it has help a lot, you have to be somewhat consistent and is not like you’re going to look like a mascara ad all of the sudden, but they look longer, thicker, and stronger. give it a try and lemme know how it work!

http://beyondshampoo.com Abe

Every time there is a mention of No Poo somewhere, there are tons of questions and comments from experience. So, I thought it might be a good idea to set up a question and answer site to help beginners, and kind of let everyone discuss the No Shampoo/Soap lifestyle, and all the different experiences and experiments we are doing.

I would like to invite you to come post on our forum to provide info and experiences.

So, if you are interested, go check it out: http://beyondshampoo.com

I’m not selling anything, and I would appreciate people participating in honest, good discussions.
Robin Konie

Yes, I’m very late in the game here. Did my last ‘poo a week ago. I was nervous because I have short hair which means no ponytails. (I did a few days of pig tails, but felt a little strange as a 30 year old.)

I knew I was in for waxy greasy hair. I tried several “natural” shampoos a year ago and HATED them. I tried them for about three months before giving up and going to a traditional shampoo (at least it was sulfate free…?)

Yeah, my hair was kind of gross this past week. But it wasn’t even as bad as when I did the natural shampoos. And then magically today (one week later) my hair has no greasy buildup. It’s soft, and feels great. I actually didn’t do the ACV (I haven’t used conditioner since I chopped my hair– it gets too greasy). I am AMAZED at how much I love my hair already. I keep making my husband feel it.

No more ‘poo for this gal! Yippee!
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=526700278 Ashley Brower

I’m late in the game as well, but I’m giving it a try! since being pregnant my hair has been out of control… I was glad to see this turn up in my e-mail box.
http://mommyingmyway.blogspot.com Adrienne

Alrighty, here we go! I started no-poo this week. I’m still in the adjustment period, but this post has helped clarify a few things for me! Thanks!!
Faith Gudal

Since you advocate natural products, I assume that you don’t dye your hair often. But if you do, or if any readers do, make sure to stress that baking soda and apple cider vinegar will really strip the color off. I personally use conditioner instead of shampoo and that works very well for my curly (and colored) hair. I’m excited to try your lemon rinse to see how that works
T4lenza

Hi, Wish I had thought to take a before pic, but I started two days ago and didn’t think about it. Besides, one of the reasons I decided to do this now is I have a few days off and a big bandage across my face, so I figured, I’m all home and frumpy, go for it. A picture would have just gotten sympathy, lol. Anyway, I BS’d my hair for the second time today because I didn’t think I did it right the first time. And, well, when I run my hands through my hair they feel waxy and my hair feels kind of chalky and a little frizzy. Hmm. Just have to see how it goes.
Cee

HELP! I’ve been poo free for a month and just as I started feeling like it was working, DANDRUFF! I’ve never had dandruff before so I’m confused as to why now that I have switched to a better way of washing my hair I now have this problem

Any had the same experience? What should I do?

http://profiles.google.com/breilaella Ella Thompson

brush your head more, and particularly with a paddle brush in the shower. you need to stimulate your scalp and get off the layers of dead skin that would usually wash away in the shower.
Cheryl

I’ve had problems with dandruff that now OTC oduct would help. My solution? ACV! So if you’re doing the ACV treatment just to your ends, do your scalp. I did it for about a week straight when I first did it. Now for maintenance I only do it twice a month.

http://www.facebook.com/people/Hannia-Milena-Diaz/501037591 Hannia Milena Diaz

ok, Just tried this today, so far so good, but it will keep returning, at the very least I hope it removes the chemical build up from years of shampoo use, will take pics and let you guys know, fair to also know that my hair has had a lot of chemical treatments from dye to keratin straigthening….
T4lenza

Ok, today was day nine and I have definitely felt grungy. Even when I am in the shower running the water over my hair I don’t feel to clean, but today I HAD to dye my hair so…..I did it and then when it was time to shampoo I just rinsed for a long time with hot water. Well, my hair feels way cleaner and I have to figure I blew it and am starting from scratch again. And so it goes.
Dyell1980

Hey guys! Black folks have been doing these natural hair care routines for years. Kinky/curly hair is so fragile that it takes some serious upkeep; however, these haircare routines are great for many hair types. I recommend visiting curlynikki.com and longhairdontcare.net. There are literally hundreds of videos on on hair upkeep using natural ingredients posted on youtube. That’s how I found the Tangle Teezer for my curly hair. I also co-wash (aka use conditioner to wash my hair) and have also done the baking soda and raw acv rinse. Good luck guys!
Carrie

i just started the challenge a few days ago. i’ll be vlogging about it on my blog, so check it out and, if you’re doing the challenge too, we can be a support to each other!

http://petuniaandpoppy.blogspot.com/
Charleneloeppky

I tried this a couple times and didnt understand that I needed to give it some time for my body to adjust to making less oil for my scalp… I have actually been using no lotion for like a year now and I have noticed my skin isnt so dry anymore, my body adjusted to it and if i need anything i use olive oil! I am so excited to try this again!
Heather

I’m on my third week of no ‘poo. I have long, thick, curly hair, with a family history of seborrhea. I must keep my scalp absolutely clean, or very bad things will happen. But the curly hair turns to frizz very quickly. So for years my routine was: Shampoo, conditioner (gobs of conditioner), detangler, mousse, hairspray. And put it all up in a ponytail or a bun before it had a chance to pouf out. And wash it again the next day, before all the chemicals caused another breakout.

So when a friend told me about just cleaning my scalp with baking soda and letting the rest of my hair just do its thing, I was very curious. Well, today, three weeks later, my hair felt greasy, really greasy. Actually hard. Grease came off onto my hand when I ran it over my greasy mop, and I started thinking it might be time to give up this experiment. But my scalp had been feeling better lately, and my hair shinier. So I would try one more time. So I did the baking soda/water thing, and LEFT IT ON for about ten minutes. I even made up another mix, got it worked in thoroughly.

And the grease came out! I’m sitting here now with clean, shiny hair. I think the trick is to make sure you completely dissolve the baking soda in very warm, almost hot water, and leave it on for a while. Cool water won’t do (I tend to be in a hurry and hadn’t been waiting for the water to heat up). Same with the ACV–make sure the water is very warm.

I can honestly say going no poo was a great idea. Like I said, I have a history of seborrhea. In high school I had to wash my hair every day with coal tar shampoo, or it would be breakouts and bleeding. And of course my scalp itched. All. The. Time. Many times I ‘ve had to get up in the middle of the night and wash my hair, just to quiet that screaming itch. Now, my scalp feels great. No itching, no dandruff, no breakouts.

Jenlynngermain

Thank you for your comment. I tried the using a double batch of the BS and leaving it on 10 minutes and it fixed my problem. It’s all thanks to you!!!
CuriousAndHelpless

I think I may have the same scalp condition…you see, recently I have been having insane itchiness on my scalp and (I think) because of my itching, I’ve had sores develop/dry patches and shamppo wasn’t cutting it. I’ve tried the over the counter stuff: Head and Shoulders, T-gel, Selsun, and now I’m using Tea Tree Oil shampoo which seems to alleviate the itching for a little while…but isn’t necessarily a permanent solution. I also have very long hair which I would like to preserve, so I want to get this under control ASAP!

Do you suggest trying this out? Am I a good candidate in your opinion?

Marguerite Moore

I also had an itchy scalp prone to break outs and meanness. I have medium length, thick wavy to curly hair. I stopped using shampoo a year and a half ago, switching to baking soda and vinegar. My scalp is 100 times happier.

Tips: Use warm/hot water with your baking soda. To condition with apple cider vinegar, don’t water it down. I was, and my hair was feeling kinda dry, then my friend said she just uses a straight vinegar rinse to condition, so I tried it and my hair is SO soft.

Also, I did some looking around on the internet about why my scalp would break out, and I read that dandruff and conditions like mine can be caused by certain fungi on our scalps. Vinegar can help neutralize such fungi, so I rinse my scalp with vinegar if it starts to feel itchy.

Danielle

Not to burst your bubble, but I did the baking soda and acv method for 2 months and hated it (my fairly straight hair looked waaay nasty, even right after washing, and the acv didn’t condition the ends enough – terrible dryness and static). Ended up switching to a super-mild organic bar soap (so no scary chemicals, oil-stripping, or plastic waste), and loving that.

Not sure if you mentioned this elsewhere, but for me, switching away from traditional shampoo cleared up my stubborn acne on my temples! I think my face realized that it didn’t need to over-produce oils anymore, because I wasn’t stripping them away. Also, I had to go back to normal shampoo for a brief stint, and my face broke out like crazy, and my back started itching like crazy (I think from dumping all those oil strippers down it in the shower while rinsing my hair).

So good luck, it is SO worth it, and remember that if you don’t end up liking the baking soda/acv method, there are other non-shampoo methods out there, too!
Tjdcs611

where’s the after picture :0)
Dharlin

I’m jumping on the no poo bandwagon for the month of January, 2012. And we’ll see if I continue.
~H