Sometimes, between wash days, our kinky-coily hair just needs a little pick-me-up. Instead of giving in to overwashing, why not try a DIY hair mist? This simple recipe, featuring green tea, kaffir lime, and peppermint, refreshes the scalp, revitalizes your curls, and even helps extend time between washes.
Sometimes, between two shampoos, our coily hair just needs a little refresh. Rather than giving in to overly frequent washes, why not try a homemade hair spray? This simple recipe based on green tea and peppermint refreshes the scalp, restores vitality to curls, and even helps space out shampoos.
The benefits of green tea, peppermint, and kaffir lime leaves for hair
One might wonder why these ingredients? Green tea and peppermint are much more than aromatic additions. Green tea is known for its richness in antioxidants, which help strengthen hair and protect it from external aggressions. Applied to the scalp, it also has a soothing effect, ideal for those who experience minor irritations or discomfort.
For its part, peppermint provides a refreshing sensation that awakens the scalp. It stimulates microcirculation, which can promote growth and provides a particularly pleasant fresh boost, especially when you want to space out washes. Used as an essential oil or in the form of fresh leaves, it also has antimicrobial properties that help maintain a healthy scalp.
Kaffir lime leaves are very aromatic and also provide a sensation of freshness and a host of antioxidants. The leaf can be used directly or in the form of essential oil.
You can find fresh kaffir lime leaves for purchase in specialty grocery stores or online (kaffir).
How to prepare your hair spray?
To make this spray, you only need a few simple ingredients and a few minutes in the kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 1 green tea bag (or one tablespoon of loose-leaf tea)
- A few fresh peppermint leaves (or 3-4 drops of peppermint essential oil)
- A few kaffir lime leaves (fresh or frozen leaves that can also be used for cooking)
- 250 ml of water
- A clean spray bottle
Preparation:
1. In boiling water, steep the green tea for about 10 minutes. The more concentrated it is, the better for your hair.
2. If you are using mint leaves, put them in the still-warm infusion. If you prefer essential oil, wait until the mixture has cooled before adding a few drops.
3. Let it rest until the mixture is completely cooled, then pour it into a clean spray bottle. It's ready!
How to integrate this spray into your hair routine?
This spray is truly versatile and can be used as a scalp and curl refresher. Spray directly onto the roots and lengths, especially on days when your hair feels a bit flat or lacks life. A quick spritz, and your hair is ready for the day!
You can also use it in the morning to revive your curls without having to start all over. And for an even fresher effect, keep your bottle in the refrigerator. This little trick provides an invigorating cool boost that really feels good.
Some adjustments for a personalized spray
What's great about homemade recipes is that you can always adapt them. For a more soothing effect, you can add a little lavender. If your scalp is sensitive, a few drops of tea tree essential oil can also be beneficial.