Moisturizing And Toning Your Scalp

The moisturizing and toning of your scalp is also a critical part of keeping it healthy. It is not the same as conditioning your hair, which is basically a smoothing, protective process for the hair shaft.

Here is a good basic moisturizer for the scalp:

Scalp Moisturizer
1 tablespoon coconut oil	1 tablespoon natural bran
1 tablespoon nettles	2 capsules vitamin E
	(400 I.U. each)
Process in blender for 30 seconds. Massage into hair. Leave on 10 minutes and then wash out with two or more latherings of diluted shampoo.

Sometimes the scalp doesn't need conditioning as much as it needs toning (just as coarse, oily skin does). Here are two "tonics" for drab, oily hair that comes from overactive sebaceous glands in the scalp. As they tone, they will add highlights and shine. (Note: These tonics should not be used on colored hair.)

Tonic for Natural Blond Hair
1 cup apple cider vinegar	2 ounces marigold petals
Juice of 1 lemon	1 ounce witch hazel
1 ounce nettles	3 cups water
2 ounces chamomile
Bring apple cider vinegar and lemon to a boil in a small glass or enamel pan. Add herbs and take the "tonic" off the heat. Add witch hazel. Steep for 5 minutes and then add water to stop process. Strain and let cool. Use whole amount--1 cup at a time--rinsing the tonic through your hair and then massaging it into the scalp. Leave on 5 minutes and rinse with clear water before styling. You can also use this preparation as a "refresher" when you comb and style. Just spritz it on. Tonic for Natural Brunette Hair As above, but substitute sage and rosemary for chamomile and marigold, and orange juice for the lemon juice. Follow above directions for use. By Richard Stein.