how to transition to a more natural haircare routine

If you’ve decided to join the conscious haircare club (hello and welcome!), you should know things run a little differently around here. Before jumping right into a more natural haircare routine, there’s a few steps you can take to make the transition easier on your hair and scalp. Going from harsh, stripping ingredients to ones that are naturally derived will take some getting used to. But as they say, good things come to those who wait…

Do a patch test first

We always recommend doing a patch test first before trying any new haircare products. To do one, apply a small amount of the product to an area of skin that’s out of the way, such as behind the ears, and wait 24-48 hours. If no reaction has occurred, you’re A-OK to continue using it.

Detoxify the hair with a clarifying shampoo

Harmful ingredients used in regular haircare products, particularly silicones, linger on the hair which can make it much harder to transition to more natural haircare products. With a layer of leftover residue they’ll struggle to get past and reach the hair shaft itself. This is often why many people give up without knowing it actually has nothing to do with the performance of your naturally sourced goodies. Their full potential is just being blocked. A clarifying shampoo will deep clean the hair and remove any leftover product for the best results.

All of our products at alott are formulated with safe, clean, and naturally derived ingredients without chemicals to avoid build-up. Over time, built up ingredients can irritate the scalp, stunt hair growth, and weigh the hair down. (Psst! If you want volume and beachy waves, try our Sea Salt Spray).

Be patient

It takes patience to transition to a different haircare routine. Without the harsh chemicals stripping the hair of its naturally moisturising oils, you may notice your hair appears greasier at first, but don’t totally freak out. This is because our scalp is used to overcompensating to combat dryness. Usually over a few washes with a natural shampoo your scalp will readjust as it realises it doesn’t have to produce so much anymore. Stick it out, it’s worth it.

Make it a gradual transition

Instead of immediately switching all your haircare products at once, start by gradually replacing one at a time to prevent overwhelming your hair and scalp. We recommend starting with the Alott Moisturising Shampoo Bar, then introducing the Nourishing Conditioning Bar when oil production is restored.

Understand your hair needs and wants

When shopping for any new haircare products you should always keep your hair needs and wants in mind. Think about your hair type - it could be straight, wavy, curly, or something in between - and any specific concerns you have and choose haircare product that address them.

alott haircare can be used on all hair types whilst tackling frizz, hair growth, scalp health, and more. You can shop the full collection here.