No 'Poo Part 2: The Experiment

Read Part 1: The Journey

Yes, it's definitely an experiment. While the general goal is to avoid using harsh soaps and shampoos on your hair, there are a variety of ways you can clean your hair. Different types of hair can respond in many ways so it takes a little experimentation to find what works best with your hair type. You can read all you want on Pinterest to get started but, in the end, you just have to take the plunge, assess how your hair responds, and adjust accordingly.

As of this post, I am now 20 days shampoo free and, honestly, it hasn't really been that bad. My idea to start right after a fresh cut and while I was on a beach vacation was kind of genius, if I do say so myself.

Shampoo:
I started with the baking soda wash but it's been interesting trying to figure out the ratio that works best for my hair. Some folks said they can just mix it up in the palm of their hand. Others said the measurement of baking soda to water had be to exact. I've finally settled on a sprinkling of baking soda in the bottom of a cup (I'm guessing about 1-2 teaspoons) filled with water. I mix it up at the end of my shower so that it has time to dissolve and blend fully before my next no 'poo wash.

Conditioner:
I use an Apple Cider Vinegar rinse (with the 'mother'). It's about 1 teaspoon of ACV and a cup of water. Some folks use half and half. Some poor it over their entire head. Me, I flip my head over and just dunk the ends into the cup, let sit for a few mins, and rinse with fresh water.

Dry Shampoo:
I combined arrowroot powder and cocoa powder (since I have dark hair). I just started using this but I really like it. I just massage some into my roots and scalp and it immediately soaks up any oil and gives me fresh looking hair. It doesn't
weigh my hair down like I would have thought and I don't smell like a chocolate factory, much to my disappointment.

Recap:
The lowest point in the whole process was day 5 (above picture). It was a no 'poo wash day and I was still figuring out my ratios. I used too much of something (I think ACV, which is why I now only put it on the ends) and my hair was still kind of "oily" even after washing. I toughed it out until the next wash and we've been fine ever since. At this point, I'm washing every other day but I've pushed it to 3 days a few times and will continue to try that. With shampoo, I usually had to use a dry shampoo or baby powder to get me through the 2nd day. Now, my hair still looks great on day 2. I'm hoping my new dry shampoo concoction will help me to easily make it through a third day.

Overall, I'm pleased with the progress I've made with the no 'poo method and have no plans of going back to shampoo. Stay tuned for more updates.

Read Part 3: Switching to Low 'Poo