The health of the hair is dependent on various factors such as hormonal changes, appropriate care, heredity, side effects of medications and the emotional well being of the individual. Hair and scalp conditions are broadly classified into oily, dry and normal hair problems. Oily hair is caused by the excess secretion of oils by the sebaceous glands in the scalp. Such oils travel down to the shaft of the hair making it greasy in texture and appear limp. The oiliness of the scalp and hair is not an ideal hair condition. Oily hair has the tendency to absorb dirt and grime. Accumulation of dirt, grime and sweat can make the scalp itchy. A good hair wash and cleansing routine will help keep the hair and scalp less oily.
Oily hair may require frequent cleansing. A natural shampoo is most suitable for the purpose given that the herbs used in these shampoos can cleanse the oils without subjecting the hair to chemicals on a regular basis. Always remember to massage your hair before shampooing. Use a toning lotion on your hair and scalp before a shampoo. An ideal toning lotion can be prepared by mixing a tablespoon of malt vinegar, a pinch of salt and a glass of water. Two tablespoons of this solution can be dabbed on the scalp and massaged in a circular motion. Leave the hair and scalp to dry for fifteen minutes before rinsing the toning lotion off with cold water. You can also make a cool menthol shampoo. Boil two cups of mint in a glass of water for twenty minutes. Strain the leaves and add the cooled solution to any gentle shampoo. You can also cleanse the scalp using fenugreek seeds. Soak the fenugreek seeds overnight, grind it into a paste and apply the paste on your scalp. Massage your scalp well and then then rinse your hair well with slightly warm water.
An effective shampoo to cleanse oily hair can be prepared with the help of dry soap nuts. Soak the dried soap nuts overnight, mash them in the morning and strain the soapy solution. Wash your hair with this soapy solution to cleanse your hair and scalp naturally. Condition your hair using a mixture of lemon juice and yoghurt. Apply this mixture until it dries on your hair and scalp. Rinse your hair with cold water to cleanse it thoroughly. Lemon juice naturally adds shine and body to hair while cleansing the hair of all oils and impurities. Similarly, yoghurt also has a cleansing and conditioning effect on the hair.