Hair is almost always exposed, which is why it easily absorbs odors (smoke, sweat, etc.).  At times, you might not even get the chance to wash it everyday, nor want to.

Although special hair perfumes are becoming more widely commercialized, in this article we are going to explain a few alternatives for to fragrance your hair by making your own hair perfumes, or choosing more natural alternatives with deliciously fruity, exotic, and floral fragrances — all of which will be alcohol-free, which dries hair out, and they will have therapeutic properties that will benefit your hair.

Tahitian Monoi oil

Monoi or Tahitian oil is an excellent natural product that can be used on both body and hair.  It is obtained by crushing Tiare (Gardenia Tahitensis) flowers and coconut oil, which creates a very special exotic aroma, very similar to vanilla.

We recommend it especially for summer because not only does it fragrance hair, it also helps make it soft, shiny, and protects it from sun rays.  It also provides vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant, and moisturizes and deeply repairs.  If frequently used, you won’t need to apply an masks after washing your hair.

We do not recommend it for oily hair types.

Flower waters (Hydrolats)

Hydrolats are created by distilling plants during the process of extracting their essential oils.  This means that it is the remaining water left over from preparing the oil, and it contains hydrosoluble elements belonging to the plant, trace elements, and a small amount of essential oil.  This retains a bit of the flower’s aroma and properties, but it is much lighter and less concentrated.  Currently, they aren’t very well known, however they have been used therapeutically since ancient times.

We especially recommend the following:

• Orange blossom hydrolat: Orange blossom, or neroli, has a very special and seductive aroma, with relaxing properties.  It also regulates oil secretions on the scalp.
• Rosemary hydrolat: Rosemary has always been used for hair health and beauty because it improves circulation, prevents hair loss and regulates scalp problems.  It is also a great cleanser and has a refreshing and herbal aroma.
• Mint hydrolat: This hydrolat is the most refreshing of all.  It is perfect for hot weather when your scalp sweats easily.  It also helps prevent the appearance of dandruff.

It is absolutely fundamental that you make sure of the quality and pureness of the hydrolat, because there are a lot of artificial essences on the market that are sold as natural.

Rose water

Rose water is an excellent floral water, traditionally used most especially in Indian culture.  It has a delicate and very feminine aroma.  It is also used as a balancing agent, a regenerater and antioxidant.  We also recommend it for intimate ans special occasions, because it also hasaphrodisiac properties.

Concentrated lavender infusion

Lavender has a potent cleansing and relaxing effect.  It also has a delicious aroma, which can be used very simply to fragrance hair, by preparing a concentrated infusion with its flowers.

This perfume is very soft, perfect for putting on several times a day, for children, etc.

Essential oils

The most simple method of preparing your own natural hair perfumes is undoubtedly by using the essential oils you like best.  All you need to do is place a few drops in a bit of water, shake well and spray.  We recommend a few of the following:

• Ylang-ylang: an intense floral aroma with aphrodisiac properties.
• Mandarin: Very sweet and refreshing, also has relaxing properties that improve moods and bring happiness.
• Bergamont: Bergamont is the key that gives black tea its characteristic taste.  It is a very special aroma with anti-depressant properties.
• Jasmine: Soft, delicate, and relaxing, combines very well with other aromas.
• Lemon: Lemon gives a sense of cleanliness and freshness, and combines perfectly with other citrus aromas.

How to apply them

Pour the perfume into a spray bottle and spray on your hair from at least 20 cm away.  Make sure it is evenly spread throughout your hair, without getting it too wet.  You could even massage it in or brush through your hair to spread it around.

We recommend carrying the perfume in your purse so you can apply it to your hair after you’ve been exposed to strong odors.