Conventional hair masks are usually full of silicone which coats the hair but does little to actually improve its condition. This DIY hair mask, on the other hand, relies on natural plant-based ingredients that truly nourish both the hair and scalp, and can easily be whipped up in just a few minutes.

Coconut oil is one of the few oils that has been proven to actually penetrate deep into the hair, allowing it to strengthen strands from within. Shea butter and avocado and grapeseed oils work in the reverse, moisturizing and feeding hair from the outside in. Together, the combination does an excellent job softening hair, soothing scalp irritation, and reducing static and frizz.

Peppermint, rosemary, and cedarwood essential oils also stimulate the hair follicles, encouraging hair growth, while pine needle adds a great foresty fall aroma. Add in the tea tree oil if you deal with dandruff or an itchy scalp.

You’ll Need:

• shea butter
• coconut oil
• avocado OR grapeseed oil
• 4 drops rosemary essential oil
• 4 drops peppermint essential oil
• 2 drops cedarwood essential oil
• 2 drops pine needle essential oil
• [Optional: 4 drops tea tree essential oil]

Directions:

Gently whip shea butter until softened, either by hand, with an electric mixer, or in a small blender. (If your shea butter is very hard, place jar in warm water for 5-10 minutes before beginning.)

Add in coconut oil and avocado or grapeseed oil and continue to whip for 2-3 minutes, until the mixture has a light whipped consistency similar to icing or soft meringues. Stir in essential oils.

To use: Generously coat dry hair, scalp to ends, and leave on for at least 30 minutes before washing out. You may need to shampoo more than once to fully remove the mask.

A very small amount also works great as a leave-in moisturizer and styler!

If you try this DIY, let us know what you thought in the comments! Did the mask work for you? Did you use the optional tea tree oil? We’d love to read about your experience below!