Simple Homemade Shampoo Recipe (Low Surfactant)

Creating your own shampoo with minimal cleansing agents is possible, and using oils can add moisture. While you can make Castile soap at home, it involves working with lye (sodium hydroxide), which requires strict safety precautions and precise measurements. For beginners, it's much simpler and safer to use pre-made liquid Castile soap as the base.

Here is a basic recipe for a gentle homemade shampoo using liquid Castile soap:

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup Liquid Castile Soap
• 1/2 cup Distilled Water (or cooled boiled water)
• 1 teaspoon of a light oil (like Olive Oil, jojoba oil, or almond oil) - Optional, for added moisture
• 1 teaspoon Glycerin - Optional, for added moisture
• 5-10 drops of Essential Oil (like lavender or rosemary) - Optional, for scent

Instructions:

1. Gently combine the liquid Castile soap and distilled water in a clean bottle or container. Avoid shaking vigorously, as this will create a lot of foam.
2. If using, add the optional oil, glycerin, and essential oil. Stir gently to combine.
3. Cap the bottle and store.

How to Use:

Shake gently before each use. Apply a small amount to wet hair, lather, and rinse thoroughly. Follow with a conditioner if needed.

Shelf Life:

Homemade shampoos like this do not contain strong preservatives and are primarily water-based, which can encourage bacterial growth over time. It's best to make small batches that you can use within 2-4 weeks. Store in a cool, dark place. If you notice any changes in smell, color, or consistency, discard it.

Regarding making Castile soap yourself, it's a traditional soap-making process using vegetable oils and lye. While rewarding, it requires understanding saponification chemistry and handling a hazardous chemical (lye) safely. Using pre-made liquid Castile soap is the recommended starting point for simple homemade cleaning products.