Achieving and keeping clean hair (as in the lightweight and bouncy kind you can't stop running your hands through) isn't always an easy feat, but experts say the secret to gunk-free (add to that nourished [1] and strong) strands could be right in your kitchen cabinet.
"Apple cider vinegar can act as a natural clarifier for buildup or an oily scalp. It's great to use an alternative to harsh shampoos that can strip your hair from natural oils. It also leaves hair with incredible shine," says Liana Zingarino, a hairstylist at the Serge Normant at John Frieda Salon in New York [2].
This is especially true in the days of dry shampoo [3] and lived-in hair. "The cider works to remove residue from all of those styling products and impurities to make your hair feel squeaky clean," explains Giovanni Vaccaro, creative director at Glamsquad [4].
Read on for five shampoos and rinses that will bring your hair back to its natural — and perhaps shiniest — state.
DpHue Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse
This vegan rinse from DpHue [6] ($35) is formulated with aloe vera, lavender extract, and argan oil for conditioning hair as it cleanses. It also contains a special color-locking technology to help protect and strengthen dyed hair. Complement it with the brand's Apple Cider Vinegar Leave-In Hair Therapy [7] ($30) for added moisture and detangling benefits.
Avalon Organics Smooth Shine Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo
Raw apple cider vinegar works together with argan oil, nettle extract, and babassu oil to restore hair back to its natural pH balance in this shampoo from Avalon Organics [8] ($8). Follow up with the corresponding conditioner [9] ($8) to seal in the effects and added shine. (We also love how both bottles are biodegradable.)
Cantu Cleanse Root Rinse
Give your scalp a detox with this budget-friendly rinse from Cantu [9] ($5). In addition to apple cider vinegar and tea tree oil, it contains shea butter for added nourishment. There's also a dry co-wash [9] ($2) for keeping strands fresh throughout the week (a must have for the gym!).
AG Hair Care Natural Balance Apple Cider Vinegar Sulfate-Free Shampoo
This pump from AG Hair Care [10] ($30) is made up of 98 percent plant-based, naturally derived ingredients, including a blend of lemongrass, clary sage, lavender, and rosemary oils for smoothing strands. Recommended for color-treated hair, reviewers hail it for its moisturizing capabilities and soothing scent. The family also includes a conditioner [11] ($30) and remedy spray [12] ($26).
R+Co Acid Wash ACV Cleansing Rinse
The apple cider vinegar in this rinse from R+Co [13] ($32) clarifies the scalp, while tamanu seed oil and aloe vera leaf juice seal in moisture and restore damaged strands. Just apply it to the scalp, massage, and leave it on for one to three minutes to hit the reset button on your strands.