I've experienced so much joy and drama through this pilgrimage to settled and locked hair. I've lost locks to atrophy and unraveling. I've also fought with my hairline, most because of post pregnancy hormones and partly to the technique of previous hair dressers.

Most recently to help my locks settle, I have been careful with moisture rich products. It seems like I've been overly careful because it is the Sahara developing on my scalp. So I have been tweaking my homemade conditioners. Last week I developed like a cleansing pre-poo that also conditioned, shampooed with a natural shampoo and then rinsed with Aloe Vera juice mixture.

Pre-Poo Conditioning Cleanser
  • Water
  • Apple Cider Vinegar- can remove product buildup, restore the pH balance of the scalp and hair, promote blood circulation in the scalp--which can stimulate new hair growth--and give the hair a soft, healthy sheen
  • Dash of Jojoba Oil- is a light Moisturizer, fungicide and mildew controller
  • Dash of Olive Oil- manages dandruff and dry scalp
  • Dash of Neem Oil- which has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties, is good for dry itchy scalp and dandruff.  Neem oil is also great for thinning hair and increases strength.
  • Dash of Jane Carter Solutions leave-in conditioner
Be warned that Neem oil has a strong garlic smell. I left it on for a while. I placed the mixture in a plastic spray bottle. I saturated my scalp and then locs in sections.

I washed the Pre-Poo Conditioning Cleanser mixture out with a conditioning natural baby shampoo from Cara B Naturally. I am in love with this product, it really moisturizes my children's skin and hair with an amazing scent.

I followed up with an Aloe Vera Juice rinse
  • Pure aloe vera juice (room temperature)-moisturizing, natural astringent that rids scalp of excess oil, stimulates hair growth.
  • Coconut Oil-softens hair and conditions scalp
Aloe vera juice, if used without oil should not be left on the scalp for long durations as it can dry out the scalp and make the hair look stiff and coarse. Make sure shower water is very warm to melt the coconut oil.

Make sure to use a silk scarf to enhance sheen and this method also helps if you are needing a re-tightening soon. Really makes the hair look fresh and well maintenanced.