Whether I’m rocking a blowout or wearing a wig, one of the ways I protect my strands is by regularly deep conditioning. And while I’ve found a few great deep conditioners on the market, I am definitely a kitchen naturalista. Since I did the big chop back in 2009, I have been using any and everything from my kitchen to create hair products for my natural 4B/4C hair. One reason why I’ve been using kitchen items is because it’s sustainable. I like to ensure that I’m using all of my resources. Nothing’s going to waste in this house! Also, deep conditioners for natural hair can be a bit pricey. On average, natural hair products, especially deep conditioners, can cost anywhere between $14 – $30. I spend less money by simply whipping up a few batches of deep-conditioning masks from the comfort of my own kitchen.
Here are a few of my DIY deep conditioning staples that you can find in your own kitchen, too:
Avocado
Loaded with folate and monounsaturated fats, avocados are super moisturizing, especially for dry hair. You’ll need to blend it with other products so that it goes smoothly onto your hair.
Mayonnaise
Rich in vitamins E and K, applying this popular condiment can give your hair a shiny, softened finish and help restore a healthy pH balance. It often has a thick consistency, so you’ll want to be extra generous with the rinse cycle.
Eggs
Egg whites contain bacteria-eating enzymes that remove unwanted oils, and the yolk moisturizes hair with vitamin A, vitamin D, biotin, and folate. Combine olive oil and raw eggs for a healthy hair mask.
Honey
Acting as a humectant, honey's sticky nature helps seal in moisture with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Adding it to your hair routine can help restore natural shine and retain moisture. I really love this honey-infused caramel treatment from OG naturalista, Curly Nikki.
Coconut Oil/Cream
Coconut is rich in lauric acid, making it easily absorbed by hair follicles. Applying to moisturized hair can reduce protein loss and nourish hair following heat exposure.
Papaya
A good source of folate, vitamin A, and fiber, papaya removes buildup, adds shine, and provides a natural strengthening treatment. Combine with a number of other ingredients on this list for a super hair mask.
Nut Milk
Milk strengthens bones, but it's calcium can also strengthen hair and reduce breakage. You’ll want to use nut-based milks like almond or coconut milk.
Mashed Bananas
Jam packed with potassium and collagen producing minerals, bananas help to strengthen and thicken hair while reducing potential hair loss. For an extra revitalizing treatment, combine the bananas with coconut milk.
Greek Yogurt
Perfect for repairing damaged hair, greek yogurt is full of good bacteria and vitamin B5, which helps detangle and moisturize hair. The soft texture and subtle shine it leaves behind is a bonus.
While all these magnificent food items are great for the hair, remember to blend well and rinse thoroughly. If the smell of the foods bothers you, try adding a few drops of your favorite essential oil for a natural boost.
