Homemade Hair Masks for Shiny and Silky Hair
Is your hair dull or dry? Do you want silky, shiny hair? If so, then you might be interested in these homemade hair masks, which can help to nourish and restore your hair. The ingredients in these recipes are 100% natural, and you probably already have most of them in your kitchen cupboard.
It’s important to mention that you’ll find dozens of similar products on the market, and most of them are very effective. However, the options we’ll be showing you today are really low-cost, and produce great results. Give them a try!
Home-made hair masks for shiny and silky hair
Trying to get silky, shiny hair can be a real challenge. Though many of us don’t realize it, there are many factors which determine hair and scalp health. For example, one study, published in Dermatology Practical & Conceptual suggests that nutritional deficiencies can cause excessive loss of hair.
Another study, published in the medical journal, International Journal of Trichology, indicates that oxidative stress can lead hair health to decline. Similarly, factors such as stress, and the use of harsh chemical products can have a significant impact on hair.
So, what can we do to restore our hair? Firstly, it’s important to improve your daily lifestyle habits, especially when it comes to diet. However, if you have problems with your scalp, you should always consult with a dermatologist.
As we’ve already mentioned, you can also find a variety of cosmetic products that can help revitalize and rehydrate your hair. You can also try a number of natural remedies, which seem to produce similar results when used on a regular basis. So, are you ready to try these natural hair mask recipes?
1. Aloe vera for soft and shiny hair
The high moisture content of this ingredient helps keep hair hydrated and conditioned throughout the day. This will ensure a smooth texture and minimal frizz. Plus, according to an article published in Pharmacognosy Reviews , aloe vera has a photoprotective effect which helps to keep the scalp healthy.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsps. of aloe vera gel (30 g)
- 2 tbsps. of water (20 ml)
Utensils
- Spray bottle
How to use it
- Cut a leaf of aloe vera and extract two tablespoons of gel.
- Stir the gel until you get a smooth consistency.
- Add two tablespoons of water and mix together.
- Pour this liquid into a spray bottle and shake well.
- Spray hair after washing.
If you’re looking for more information, we recommend: 5 treatments with aloe vera to strengthen hair.
2. Coconut oil or olive oil mask
These two oils are effective natural conditioners, helping to combat problems such as dandruff and itching. In a publication by the Journal of the American College of Nutrition, it states that products which contain coconut oil can help to prevent hair damage caused by the loss of proteins that occurs during washing, and reduce damage from exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays.
Similarly, olive oil contains fatty acids, Vitamin E and antioxidants which help to keep hair thick, strong and shiny. Why not give it a go?
Ingredients
- 2 or 3 tbsps. of coconut or olive oil (45 g)
Utensils
- Hot towel
How to use it
- Take 2 or 3 tablespoons of your chosen oil and heat it until it is slightly warm.
- Massage the hot oil onto your scalp.
- Leave it on for about 15 minutes and cover your hair with a warm towel while you wait.
- After this time, wash your hair with a mild, sulphate-free shampoo and finish with a conditioner.
- Repeat twice a week.
3. Egg hair mask
High in both proteins and fat, egg is ideal for revitalizing dry, dull hair. By combining it with the hydrating powers of olive oil and honey, you can create a really effective hair treatment.
Ingredients
- 1 whole egg
- 2 tbsps. of olive oil (32 g)
- 1 tbsp. of honey (25 g)
Utensils
- Shower cap
How to use it
- Beat all the ingredients until they’re well mixed.
- Apply the hair mask to your hair and scalp.
- Cover your hair and scalp with a shower cap and leave it to work for 30 minutes.
- After this time, wash your hair with cold water and a mild, sulphate-free shampoo. Finish with a conditioner. It’s important to emphasize that once you’ve taken off the shower cap, it’s essential to rinse your hair with cold water to prevent the mixture from solidifying.
- Repeat 1 or 2 times a week.
4. Onion juice
There have been very few studies into the benefits of onion juice for hair health. However, an investigation published in the Journal of Dermatology determined that applying onion juice to their hair and scalp could help reduce hair loss.
However, in light of the lack of evidence, this is a hair mask which you should use with caution, especially if you have a sensitive scalp.
Ingredients
- The juice of 1 large onion
- 3 or 4 drops of lavender oil
How to use it
- Beat the ingredients until they’re well mixed.
- Apply the solution to your scalp and gently massage with the tips of your fingers.
- Leave it for 10 or 15 minutes to allow the mixture to take effect.
- Wash your hair with a mild, sulphate-free shampoo and finish with a conditioner.
- Repeat twice a week.
If you’re interested in reading more, check out: How to tackle hair loss with onion-based remedies.
5. Apple cider vinegar hair mask
Apple cider vinegar has become a popular remedy for cleaning the hair and scalp. Regular application has been said to make hair softer and shinier. Plus, it doesn’t even smell bad, as any odor disappears in minutes.
However, just like the last recipe, this hair mask should be used with caution, especially if you have sensitive skin. If you experience any allergic reaction, it’s best to stop using the mixture immediately and rinse thoroughly.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp. of apple cider vinegar (10 ml)
- 1 cup of water (250 ml)
How to use it
- After washing your hair with a sulphate-free shampoo, proceed to condition your hair.
- Dilute the apple cider vinegar with the water and spray it on your hair. Do not rinse.
- Use this solution once a week.
6. Cream
Cream is a great way to make hair soft and smooth. According to those who have tried this recipe, cream hydrates the hair, while reducing dryness and frizz.
How to use it
- Add a tablespoon of cream to your conditioner and cover each strand of hair.
- After 5 minutes, rinse with cold water.
7. Yogurt hair mask
Its texture and versatility makes yogurt a firm favorite when it comes to making hair masks. For a complete treatment, you can combine it with aloe vera and egg yolk, both of which are well-known for their hydrating and restorative powers.
Ingredients
- 3 tbsps. of aloe vera gel (45 g)
- 3 tbsps. of thick yogurt (60 g)
- 2 egg yolks
How to use it
- Mix all the ingredients and apply to your wet hair and scalp.
- Cover with a shower cap and let it sit for 30 minutes before rinsing with cold water.
Warning!
If you’re simply looking to make healthy hair softer and shinier, these masks can be a great help. Apply 2-3 times a week for best results. However, if your hair is dull, dry, and you’re suffering from excessive hair loss, it’s best to consult with your doctor. In some cases, excessive hair-loss can be caused by an underlying health condition. If this is the case, it’s important to follow the advice given to you by your doctor.
All cited sources were thoroughly reviewed by our team to ensure their quality, reliability, currency, and validity. The bibliography of this article was considered reliable and of academic or scientific accuracy.
- Trüeb RM, Henry JP, Davis MG, Schwartz JR. Scalp Condition Impacts Hair Growth and Retention via Oxidative Stress. Int J Trichology. 2018;10(6):262–270. doi:10.4103/ijt.ijt_57_18
- Guo EL, Katta R. Diet and hair loss: effects of nutrient deficiency and supplement use. Dermatol Pract Concept. 2017;7(1):1–10. Published 2017 Jan 31. doi:10.5826/dpc.0701a01
- Wallace, T. C. (2019, February 17). Health Effects of Coconut Oil—A Narrative Review of Current Evidence. Journal of the American College of Nutrition. Routledge. https://doi.org/10.1080/07315724.2018.1497562
- Sharquie, K. E., & Al-Obaidi, H. K. (2002). Onion juice (Allium cepa L.), a new topical treatment for alopecia areata. Journal of Dermatology, 29(6), 343–346. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1346-8138.2002.tb00277.x
- Crespo Ana Belen. (2013). cuidado del cabello. La Opinion Del Experto.
