Dr Sujal Patil
Experience of 14 years in clinical and research field of Ayurveda.
I am a Science based evidence based Ayurveda practitioner and incorporate accurate diet regimen and minimal medication in my practice with faster results sans no side effects.
Switching to herbal shampoos is a great choice, especially if your hair has been damaged by chemical products. Herbal shampoos tend to be more nourishing for the hair and scalp, as they are generally free of sulfates, parabens, and artificial fragrances. Here are some herbal ingredients that might be particularly beneficial for your hair concerns:
Aloe Vera – Known for its hydrating and soothing properties, aloe vera can help moisturize dry hair and scalp, reduce dandruff, and prevent hair fall. It also balances the scalp’s pH, which can be very beneficial for overall scalp health.
Hibiscus – Rich in vitamins and amino acids, hibiscus helps promote hair growth, prevent dandruff, and improve the overall texture of the hair. It’s often used for its strengthening and conditioning properties, making it ideal for dry, damaged hair.
Bhringraj – Often referred to as "the king of herbs" for hair care, bhringraj is believed to prevent hair fall, promote hair growth, and improve the overall health of your hair and scalp.
Fenugreek – Great for conditioning, fenugreek can also help with dry hair, dandruff, and scalp irritation. It’s particularly effective in improving hair texture and shine.
Amla (Indian Gooseberry) – Amla is packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, which strengthen hair follicles and improve hair health. It can also help with dryness and hair fall.
Best Herbal Shampoos for Dry Hair and Hair Fall:
Some well-known brands offer herbal shampoos designed for dry or damaged hair. Based on your concerns, here are a few options to consider:
Patanjali Kesh Kanti Hair Cleanser: Known for being gentle yet effective, this shampoo contains natural ingredients like aloe vera, bhringraj, and amla, which work together to nourish, hydrate, and reduce hair fall.
Biotique Bio Green Apple Shampoo: This shampoo is enriched with green apple, which is an excellent clarifier for the scalp. It also includes aloe vera and other natural herbs to moisturize the hair, helping it feel soft and hydrated.
Himalaya Herbals Protein Shampoo: This product is known for its protein-rich ingredients like chickpea and amla, which help strengthen dry, brittle hair and improve hair texture.
Khadi Natural Herbal Shampoo: Khadi offers a variety of herbal shampoos formulated with natural ingredients like hibiscus, aloe vera, and bhringraj, designed to nourish and restore dry, damaged hair.
Do Herbal Shampoos Clean as Well as Regular Shampoos?
Herbal shampoos can clean your hair effectively, but they may not lather as much as regular shampoos due to the absence of harsh surfactants like sulfates. This doesn’t mean they’re not cleaning your hair; it just takes a little getting used to. They generally cleanse without stripping the natural oils from your hair, which is great for maintaining moisture and preventing dryness.
However, if you’re transitioning from regular shampoos, it’s important to understand that herbal shampoos might take a few washes to fully cleanse your hair, especially if there's product buildup from previous chemical-based products.
Frequency of Use:
You can generally use herbal shampoos every 2-3 days, depending on your hair type and scalp needs. If you wash your hair every other day, you can continue doing so, but pay attention to how your scalp reacts. If you notice any signs of dryness or irritation, you may want to reduce the frequency or pair it with a moisturizing conditioner.
Tips for Pairing Herbal Shampoos with Conditioners:
To maximize the benefits of herbal shampoos, pair them with a hydrating conditioner that complements your hair’s needs. For example:
Patanjali Aloe Vera Conditioner: Pairing your shampoo with this conditioner can help with hydration and softness, especially if your hair tends to get dry.
Biotique Bio Soya Protein Conditioner: This is a great choice for dry and damaged hair, as it helps strengthen the hair and add shine.
Himalaya Herbals Protein Conditioner: It works well for nourishing and moisturizing hair, helping to maintain softness after using the shampoo.
Final Thoughts:
Herbal shampoos are definitely a more natural and gentle option, and many users find them effective for addressing issues like dryness, hair fall, and scalp irritation. For best results, it's important to be consistent, patient, and combine the right products for your hair type.
Since you’ve mentioned dryness and hair fall, focusing on ingredients like aloe vera, hibiscus, and bhringraj would be particularly beneficial. If you've tried a few herbal products already, choosing one from a reputable brand like Patanjali or Biotique should be a good fit. Lastly, don’t forget to nourish your hair from the inside out with a healthy diet and hydration!