I have long, fine and straight hair that gets super dry in the winter which, of course, leads to frizz. And it’s not pretty. Unfortunately it’s still in the growing out stage from me wreaking havoc on it just under two years ago when I decided to dye it dark brown – so that it looked black – and bleach out “highlights” that I dyed a bright magenta. At this point, I could hack it off to the point where my “healthy” hair has grown out, but that would mean hair no longer than my chin – again. With cold weather still lurking about, I’m not sure I’m ready to make change. So what that means is shampoos and conditioners for dry and damaged hair and the occasional deep moisturizing treatment to wrangle it back in line.

So what’s a girl to do when even Aussie’s 3-Minute Miracle and Anti-Frizz Cream aren’t quite doing the trick anymore? Go old school and turn back to the basics for a deep conditioning hair treatment. Old school remedies from the kitchen really do work! Mayonnaise is great for moisture. Just apply and cover with a shower cap for about 8 minutes, then wash out. Or grab the olive oil from the pantry, heat a little in the microwave until warm, apply to hair and let sit for about 5 minutes, then wash out for a simple, yet effective hot oil treatment. Food not quite your gig? Raw butters and oils are great for your hair. Shea butter makes an excellent hair conditioners and oils like jojoba oil are great for moisture and shine! (You can buy quality, organic butters and oils from Mountain Rose Herbs.) There’s no need to buy hair care products with lots of “extras” and chemicals. In fact, preparing your own hair masks, hot oil treatments, and conditioners will save you money in the long run! If simple is just not your style, then you can play around with a combination of ingredients for the perfect treatment.

Longhairloom.com has a great selection of natural hair care recipes from A to Z! Everything from an aloe & jojoba glossing gel to a vinegar rinse! My favorite recipes from Long Hair Loom are the Mediterranean Hair Mask – 2 egg yolks, 1 mug olive oil, 1 mug rum, 3 Tablespoons honey – and the All Natural Kitchen Deep Conditioner – 1 teaspoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon shea butter, 1.5 Tablespoons yogurt, 1 Tablespoon honey, 1 Tablespoon coffee, and 1 egg. For instructions on making these recipes and to find more recipes like these, visit Longhairloom.com.

You may also be interested in these hair recipes:

• Cucumber Hair Drench
• Rosemary Honey Hair Conditioner
• Natural Shampoo Recipes

What type of hair do you have and what’s your favorite product to keep it looking it’s best?