Many people, both men and women, spend an enormous amount of time, money, and energy on creating the perfect hairstyle for themselves. This process often involves the use of a number of sprays, gels, and creams every day which can be damaging to hair. Most people reach for a bottle of shampoo to rid hair of the residue. However, the chemicals in the shampoo are often as damaging to the hair as the products. Instead of torturing your hair with another chemical, treat your hair to a natural clean-up using the latest trend of a "No-'Poo'" washing.

This method of cleaning hair eliminates the build-up and dirt, without the damaging effects of commercial chemical shampoos. Shampoos strip the hair of it's necessary essential oil, called sebum, which is a natural oil secreted by the hair follicles and is the key to healthy hair. By introducing the "No Poo" method of hair care, the follicles are free to produce these essential oils and repair the damaging effects of commercial shampoos.

The "No Poo" method of cleaning hair uses natural elements such as:

• Baking soda
• Apple cider vinegar
• Water

Baking Soda
Dissolve one Tbsp. of baking soda into a cup of warm water and stir until dissolved. Apply and work in the mixture to hair in the same manner as a commercial shampoo. There will be no lather with this method, therefore, when the hair feels smooth it is sufficiently clean and is ready for rinsing. This method may cause drying of the scalp, which makes it a great alternative to shampoo for people with oily hair.

Apple Cider Vinegar
This method is used with the baking soda method. After cleaning the hair with baking soda and rinsing, pour a pre-mixed solution of apple cider vinegar (referred to as "ACV") and water over the scalp and hair. Rinse with water to remove any vinegar residue.

Water
This method of cleaning hair will take time for the hair to adjust to a natural oil level. During this time, washing the hair is necessary on a daily basis. Use warm water and mimic the motions of a normal shampooing.

The benefits of "No-Poo" washing include the elimination of chemicals on the hair and scalp, the money savings from not buying chemical cleaners, and naturally healthy and happy hair.

The negative aspects of "No-Poo" hair care involve more of a psychiatric element of not feeling clean. Individuals interested in this method must have patience for the natural oils to emerge and create the natural beautiful sheen of healthy hair.