12 Shampoo Alternatives You Can Use Instead

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Are you tired of using traditional shampoos that leave your hair feeling dry, frizzy, or weighed down? You’re not alone. 

Many people struggle to find a shampoo that works for them, and they’re starting to explore the world of shampoo alternatives for a solution.

Finding the right shampoo alternative can take time and effort as the perfect product for one person may not work for another.

Caucasian girl with brown hair making volume wearing spa bath towel at home after taking a shower.

However, there’s no need to worry — we’ve done the research, narrowed down the options, and compiled a list of the best shampoo alternatives available.

No more guesswork, no more wasting time and money trying countless products. 

Keep reading if you’re ready to embrace the change and discover the shampoo alternatives — some available at home — that could transform your hair care routine.

Why Go for Shampoo Alternatives?

Why would anyone want to stop using their favorite shampoo and look for alternatives?

Here are popular reasons why some people opt for other shampoo alternatives:

Lesser Environmental Impact

Did you know that traditional shampoos can harm the environment? Shocking, right? Many shampoos contain ingredients that could be harmful when they go down your drain.

You might not realize it, but when you rinse off that lather, the chemicals in your shampoo can end up in our rivers, lakes, and oceans.

These harmful ingredients can affect water quality, damage aquatic life, and even contribute to the growth of toxic algae blooms.

On the other hand, natural shampoo alternatives often have a smaller environmental footprint, with less plastic packaging and fewer chemicals being washed down the drain.

Additionally, switching to eco-friendly alternatives can significantly reduce your plastic consumption as most commercial shampoos come in plastic bottles.

Plastic bottles are not only a major contributor to landfill waste but also require a significant amount of energy and resources to produce.

Better Hair Health

Some people find that natural shampoo alternatives are more gentle.

For this reason, they can improve the health of their hair and scalp, resulting in shinier and softer hair with fewer issues like dandruff or an itchy scalp.

Allergy Prevention

For some people with sensitive skin or allergies, traditional shampoos can sometimes cause reactions. These effects can range from mild scalp irritation to a more serious allergic reaction.

By using a shampoo alternative, you can control exactly what is going onto your scalp and avoid any potential allergens or irritants.

Knowing the exact ingredients of products is especially crucial for people with eczema or psoriasis.

Affordability

Many shampoo alternatives can be made at home with inexpensive ingredients like baking soda, apple cider vinegar, or essential oils.

Alternative options can be a great cost-saving measure as these items often have multiple uses around the home and can be purchased in bulk. Using them makes you kinder to your hair, scalp, and wallet.

12 Must-Try Shampoo Alternatives

Here are natural shampoo alternatives that can help cleanse and nourish your locks without harsh chemicals:

1. Baking Soda

Want a natural alternative to traditional shampoo? Baking soda can be a great option that is both effective and budget-friendly.

Baking soda helps remove buildup from styling products, resulting in more manageable hair.

Moreover, you can also use it as a purple shampoo alternative for blonde hair. After all, it can help remove brassy or yellow tones by neutralizing the pH level of the hair.

A bowl of baking soda and a glass of water on a wooden table.

How To Use

Combine one tablespoon of baking soda with water to form a paste. Then massage this paste onto your wet scalp, focusing on the roots.

Allow it to sit for 15 to 20 minutes to break down oil and product buildup, but avoid leaving it on for too long to prevent dryness. Rinse your hair with warm water, ensuring all the baking soda is washed out. 

This method helps remove buildup from styling products, resulting in more manageable hair.

Keep in mind that while baking soda can be an effective remedy for oily hair, it’s best suited for those with excessive oil production. If you have dry or treated hair, use it sparingly to avoid overdrying your locks.

2. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is another natural alternative that can be used as a hair rinse for a gentle cleanse. ACV helps balance your scalp’s pH and adds shine to your hair.

It’s a great shampoo alternative for curly hair, too. It can balance the scalp’s pH levels and close the hair cuticles, resulting in enhanced curl definition, reduced frizz, and a healthier scalp.

How To Use

Mix two or three tablespoons of ACV with water and pour the mixture over your head in the shower. Let it sit for two minutes, and then rinse it out.

3. Natural Oil Cleansers

Natural oils like coconut, olive, or jojoba oil can be used to clean and moisturize your hair. Oils are great shampoo alternatives for those with dry hair.

Here are popular natural oil cleansers you can use:

  • Coconut oil: Coconut oil, known for its hydrating properties, penetrates the hair shaft due to its small molecular size, offering deep moisturization and strengthening properties.
  • Olive oil: As a protective and moisturizing agent, olive oil shields your hair from environmental damage while providing essential nourishment.
  • Jojoba oil: This oil is beneficial in balancing the scalp’s oil production as it mimics the natural sebum our scalp generates. It moisturizes without adding weight to the hair.
  • Argan oil: Laden with vitamin E and fatty acids, argan oil delivers intense hydration, leaving your hair silky, smooth, and shiny.
  • Avocado oil: Enriched with proteins, healthy fats, and vitamins, avocado oil significantly enhances hair health, reducing breakage and making detangling easier.
  • Castor oil: Castor oil is praised for its hair growth promotion, as it stimulates blood circulation to the scalp due to its high ricinoleic acid content.
  • Tea tree oil: Noted for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, it can help keep the scalp healthy by soothing irritation and combating dandruff.
  • Babassu oil: Babassu oil, extracted from the babassu palm, offers moisturizing properties similar to coconut oil. It can strengthen hair, improve shine, and increase hair’s resistance to environmental damage.
  • Marula oil: This oil is abundant in antioxidants, making it perfect for protecting hair from environmental stressors. It also moisturizes the hair, leaving it glossy and soft.

How To Use

Warm up a small amount of your chosen oil, and gently massage it into your scalp.

Let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes, then rinse with warm water. This method can be incredibly soothing for those with dry or irritated scalps.

Here’s a tip for those with oily scalps concerned about using oils on their hair: opt for lightweight, non-comedogenic oils such as argan or jojoba oil. These oils are less likely to clog pores or make your scalp oilier.

4. Shampoo Bars / Syndet Bars

Consider trying shampoo bars or syndet bars (short for synthetic detergent bars) as eco-friendly alternatives to liquid shampoos.

These solid bars are often made with gentle, natural ingredients that offer cleansing properties.

Close-up of a blonde girl in the bathroom, which lathers her hair with bar shampoo.

How To Use

Wet your hair thoroughly. Wet and lather the bar, and apply it to your wet hair. Then rinse thoroughly.

5. Rice Water Rinse

Rice water is rich in vitamins and minerals that can reduce breakage and improve overall hair health.

How To Use

Soak one cup of uncooked rice in two cups of water for 30 minutes. Strain the rice, and use the rice water to rinse your hair after wetting it.

Massage it onto your scalp, and let it sit for 10 to 20 minutes before rinsing it off.

6. Egg Yolk

Egg yolk is a natural cleanser high in fat and protein content. 

Fat and protein are great for hair because they provide essential nutrients that strengthen and nourish the hair shaft. 

How To Use

Whisk one or two egg yolks, and apply them to your wet hair. Massage it into your scalp, and rinse with cool water to avoid cooking the egg.

7. Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe vera gel is known for its soothing and moisturizing properties.

It forms a protective barrier on hair strands, locking in moisture and essential nutrients, which in turn helps preserve hair color and prevent fading.

This property makes it among the best shampoo alternatives for colored hair.

How To Use

Apply generous amounts of fresh or store-bought aloe vera gel to your wet hair, and massage it onto your scalp. Rinse thoroughly to reveal clean and moisturized hair.

8. Lemon Juice

Lemon juice is a natural cleanser that helps remove excess oil from your scalp.

It also has antibacterial properties, which can help reduce dandruff and improve overall hair health.

How To Use

Dilute two tablespoons of lemon juice with water. Massage it onto your scalp and hair. Rinse thoroughly after 15 to 20 minutes.

9. Tea Rinse

Tea rinses can provide cleansing and conditioning benefits for your hair.

A tea rinse is a hair care technique that involves using a brewed tea, typically herbal or caffeinated, as a final rinse for the hair after shampooing and conditioning.

A tea rinse can enhance hair color by depositing natural pigments onto the hair strands, giving brown and red hair richer hues and added shine.

How To Use

Brew a strong tea (such as black, green, or chamomile), and let it cool. Pour the tea over your wet hair, and massage it onto your scalp before rinsing it out.

10. Fenugreek Seeds

Fenugreek seeds come from the fenugreek plant, scientifically known as Trigonella foenum-graecum.

Fenugreek seeds are rich in nutrients like protein, iron, and vitamins that can nourish the hair and promote its health. They can also help strengthen hair follicles, reduce hair breakage, and prevent hair loss.

wooden scoop with fenugreek seeds background

How To Use

Soak fenugreek seeds in water for at least eight hours, then blend them to create a smooth paste. Massage the paste onto your scalp, and leave it on for 30 minutes before rinsing with water.

11. Coffee Oil

Coffee oil, derived from cold-pressed coffee beans, can help stimulate blood circulation in the scalp and promote hair growth.

It can have a mild coffee aroma, but it typically doesn’t leave a strong smell on your hair when used as a shampoo alternative, especially if you rinse your hair thoroughly after using it.

However, the scent can vary depending on the concentration and type of coffee used, so it’s a good idea to do a patch test first if you’re concerned about the smell.

Making coffee oil at home is a simple process, and while coffee oil is available in some stores, especially those that cater to natural and organic beauty products, making it yourself can be a fun DIY project.

Here’s how you can make coffee oil at home:

  1. Mix 1 cup of ground coffee with 1.5 cups of a carrier oil (e.g., coconut or almond oil).
  2. For a cold infusion, let the mixture sit in a cool, dark place for one to two weeks, shaking daily. For a quicker prep, you may opt for heat infusion. Warm the mixture on low heat for two to three hours without boiling.
  3. Strain and store in a clean bottle.

How To Use

Simply massage a few drops of coffee oil onto your scalp before rinsing it.

To prevent your scalp from becoming oilier when using coffee oil, focus on applying the oil primarily to the lengths and ends of your hair rather than the scalp. Massage it gently into these areas, avoiding direct contact with the scalp.

This way, you can still enjoy the benefits of coffee oil, such as added shine and strength, without exacerbating oiliness at the roots.

Additionally, make sure to rinse thoroughly with warm water to remove excess oil.

12. Bentonite Clay

Bentonite clay is a natural clay formed from volcanic ash and is known for its remarkable absorbent properties. It has a fine, powdery texture and is typically gray or cream.

Bentonite clay can purify and cleanse your hair by removing impurities and excess oil.

It can typically be purchased from the following:

  • Health food and natural grocery stores
  • Specialty beauty and skincare shops
  • Online retailers like Amazon, eBay, and wellness websites
  • Some pharmacies or drugstores
  • Bulk or holistic stores that sell natural ingredients and herbs

How To Use

Mix two tablespoons of bentonite clay with water to create a paste, and apply it to your wet hair. Leave it on for five to 10 minutes before rinsing it out.

Alternative Hair Cleansing Methods

Aside from the shampoo alternatives mentioned above, here are other ways to wash your hair without using traditional shampoo.

Water-Only Washing

Water-only washing is an excellent method for those looking for a simple and natural way to cleanse their hair. This method uses water to rinse dirt, oil, and product buildup from your hair.

It is particularly beneficial when you feel the need to give your hair a break from the harsh chemicals found in traditional shampoos.

To do this, use warm water to help loosen the dirt, evenly distribute your natural oils, and improve blood circulation in the scalp. Gently massage your scalp to assist in breaking up the dirt and oil more effectively.

Dry Shampoo Application

a young woman wearing white shirt is appling dry shampoo on her black hair

A dry shampoo is a great option for those days when you need a quick hair refresh. 

Dry shampoos are powders or sprays that are great alternatives for those with oily hair as these help absorb excess oil and add volume to your hair without needing water.

This method is perfect for maintaining freshness between regular washes while also prolonging the life of your hairstyle.

To use dry shampoo, simply spray or sprinkle the product onto the roots, leave it for five to 10 minutes, and then brush it through your hair.

Just remember not to rely solely on dry shampoo as it doesn’t fully cleanse your hair and scalp like other methods.

Co-Washing

Also known as conditioner washing, co-washing is a gentle hair cleansing method that uses specially formulated co-washes or cleansing conditioners. 

Instead of using traditional shampoo, co-washing uses the moisturizing and detangling properties of conditioners to clean your hair without stripping its natural oils, making it one of the best shampoo alternatives for black hair.

After all, black hair tends to be more dry and prone to breakage. Co-washing allows for gentle cleansing while preserving natural oils, which are essential for moisture and protection. 

Additionally, co-washing helps maintain the integrity of textured and curly black hair, reducing frizz and promoting healthier, well-hydrated locks.

To co-wash, apply the cleansing conditioner to wet hair, massage your scalp, and work the product down to the ends of your hair. Then rinse thoroughly with water.

People with dry, color-treated, or curly hair may find co-washing helpful in retaining moisture and avoiding damage from harsh chemicals.

Transitioning to Shampoo Alternatives

Transitioning to shampoo alternatives can be a great way to promote healthy hair without harsh chemicals. Still, it’s important to remember that there may be a transition period before your hair gets used to the new product. 

Managing Expectations

As you begin exploring different shampoo alternatives, managing your expectations is important. Unlike conventional shampoos, these may not produce a rich lather or the same immediate results.

However, if you give your hair and scalp time to adapt, you’ll likely start to see the benefits of switching to natural products soon.

Still, it’s important to remember that everyone’s hair is different, and reactions to shampoo alternatives can vary. 

While some people may see improvement rather quickly, others might need more time for their hair to adjust.

Trusting the Process

During the initial transition to shampoo alternatives, you might experience changes in your hair’s texture and appearance. It’s all part of the process.

Your scalp needs time to adjust to the new products and regain the balance of its natural oil production. For this reason, your hair might feel greasier or even a bit frizzy at first. 

To manage these changes, try the following tips:

  • Be patient. Give your hair time to adapt to the new routine. Your hair can take a few weeks to adjust fully, so don’t get discouraged.
  • Experiment. You might need to try several alternatives before finding the perfect solution for your hair.
  • Dentagle properly. Use a wide-toothed comb to gently detangle your hair as it transitions. Doing so will help reduce breakage and prevent additional frizz.
  • Do regular rinses. While transitioning, consider using an apple cider vinegar rinse occasionally to help maintain a healthy pH balance and keep your hair looking clean and fresh.

Keep in mind that this journey is unique to you. Just give your hair time to adjust, and soon enough, you’ll start to see the positive changes that come with switching to shampoo alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions About Natural Shampoo Alternatives

Should I Avoid the No-Poo Method?

The no-poo method refers to the practice of avoiding commercial shampoos and instead using natural alternatives like baking soda, apple cider vinegar, or even just water. 

The main goal of this approach is to avoid harsh chemicals in traditional shampoos that can damage hair and strip away natural oils.

Some people swear by this method, while others find that it doesn’t work for them.

Your hair type, lifestyle, and personal preferences will significantly determine if this approach is right for you.

Experiment with different methods and pay attention to how your hair responds, but don’t be afraid to try other ways to clean your hair if no-poo isn’t working for you.

Do Shampoo Alternatives Work on Sensitive Scalp?

Shampoo alternatives can work well on sensitive scalps, but choosing the right product and paying attention to how your scalp reacts is essential.

For example, herbal rinses and rice water can be gentle alternatives to traditional shampoos, especially for a sensitive scalp.

However, individual sensitivity levels vary, so performing a patch test and monitoring your scalp’s reaction when trying new methods is crucial.

Can Shampoo Alternatives Remove Greasiness and Product Buildup?

Yes, shampoo alternatives can effectively remove greasiness and product buildup, depending on the ingredients and method used.

Remember that natural shampoos may not lather as much as their chemical counterparts, but they can still do a great job cleaning your hair and maintaining its health. 

Ready To Wash Your Hair Without Shampoo?

If you have grown tired of the same old shampoo routine or are searching for a more environmentally friendly option for hair care, give shampoo alternatives a try for a change.

By exploring these alternative hair cleansing methods, you’ll not only give your hair a break from traditional shampoos but also discover new ways to maintain and improve your hair’s overall health.

Remember, the key is patience and customization. Find what works best for your hair type and lifestyle.

By trying these shampoo and conditioner alternatives, you might discover a new, healthier, and more sustainable way to care for your hair.

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Author

  • Shai Urbano

    Shai is a licensed pharmacist with a Bachelor of Arts in Pharmacy. She uniquely intertwines her medical expertise with a fervent passion for beauty. With an intrinsic understanding of ingredients and formulation, she's the proud creator of her own line of products designed exclusively for naturally curly hair. Over her four-year writing career, Shai consistently delivers content enriched by her distinct blend of knowledge and enthusiasm.

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