Handmade Shampoo and Conditioner vs Traditional Shampoo and Conditioner

Handmade shampoos offer customizable, natural ingredient options for sensitive skin and specific hair needs. Handmade shampoos and conditioners are often free from harsh chemicals, while store-bought products provide convenience, consistent performance, and affordability through mass production. The key differences between handmade and big brands are the ingredients, formulation control, production scale, and the effect on hair health, with handmade products prioritizing natural elements and unique formulations and store-bought products focusing on mass-market appeal and consistent, often less specialized, results.

Benefits of Using Handmade Shampoos and Conditioners

Here are the most common benefits of using handmade shampoos and conditioners:

Natural & Gentle Ingredients - Can be customized with high-quality oils, butters, plant extracts, and essential oils, which are often beneficial for sensitive skin and can provide moisture and vitality to the hair.

Customization - You can tailor the product to your specific hair type and needs, controlling the scents, oils, and other ingredients.

Free from Harsh Chemicals - Avoids synthetic ingredients and fillers found in some commercial products that can cause irritation or hair build-up. 

Environmental Benefits - Uses ingredients that are more likely to break down naturally, making it a more eco-friendly option.
 

Cons of Using Handmade Shampoos and Conditioners

These are the most common reasons why some people are hesitant to try handmade shampoos and conditioners:

Cost - The use of high-quality, natural ingredients and smaller batch production can make handmade products more expensive. 

Consistency & Shelf Life - Smaller batches may not have the same preservatives as mass-produced items, and DIY recipes may vary in effectiveness. 

Lack of Experience With Handmade Products - If you haven't had the opportunity to try handmade shampoos and conditioners, you haven't felt the benefits or the (oftentimes) stark contrast in how your hair feels (in comparison) to store-bought shampoo and conditioner.

Benefits of Using Store-Bought Shampoos and Conditioners

Here are the most common reasons people stick with big brand or store-bought shampoo and conditioner:

Convenience - Readily available in large quantities and can be purchased quickly from stores.

Affordability - Mass production allows for lower costs, making them a budget-friendly option.

Consistent Results - Products are formulated for predictable performance and are designed to meet common hair care needs.

Brand Recognition - We are all consumers of habit and often gravitate to popular brand names. 

Cons of Store-Bought, Big Brand Shampoo and Conditioner

Here are some reasons why someone might make the switch from big-brand, mass-produced shampoo and conditioner:

Harsh Chemicals - May contain synthetic ingredients, detergents, and fillers that can be drying, irritating, or accumulate on the hair and scalp. 

Less Natural - Often rely on chemical-based surfactants and fragrances.

Generic Formulas - Less customization and often contain generic ingredients that may not be ideal for specific hair or scalp conditions.

Which Should I Use, Handmade or Big Brand Shampoo and Conditioner?

Choose Handmade if you have sensitive skin or allergies, prefer natural ingredients, want to avoid specific chemicals, or desire a custom product for unique hair needs.

Choose Store-Bought if you prioritize convenience, a lower price point, or need a reliable, mass-produced product that offers consistent cleaning and conditioning for general hair care. 

Starting Your Handmade Shampoo and Conditioner Journey

Want to try handmade shampoos and conditioners? Here are some recommendations to get you started.

For oily scalps, Cleansing Tea Tree Shampoo and Conditioner will give you that fresh, relaxing tingle that will leave your scalp feeling clean for hours, even after an active day. 

For those who are in love with wonderfully unique scents, Scarlett Letter Shampoo and Conditioner or Champagne and Sugar Shampoo and Conditioner should appeal to your scent-zes! ;)

You can get two bottles of Shampoo or Conditioner (or mix and match) for $6 off by trying our Choose Two Shampoos and/or Conditioners Bundle.

As always, you can message us, comment below, or call with any questions!