Beer is delicious, and many brews are packed with vitamins and nutrients that our ancestors have used to bolster their meals since ancient times, but did you know that beer can work wonders on your hair as well? It's true, but before you head to the shower with a cold bottle of beer to dump over your head, there's a little more to the story. Here's what you need to know.
First of all, beer alone isn't going to go ahead and replace shampoo or whatever else you may already use on your head. Over at Truth In Aging, there are specific recipes for a beer-based shampoo, beer-based conditioner, and even a beer and cider vinegar rinse, none of which will leave your head smelling like a hobo after you get out of the shower, promise. Don't just take our word for it:
Although it is debatable whether the corn, rice, or wheat protein in beer can actually deposit on your hair to form a strengthening film, there is no question that it makes hair seem thicker. This effect may be attributed to the proteins left on the hair fiber, though beer also seems to slightly swell the hair shaft. Ideal for fine hair, an at-home beer solution is an economical alternative to the $20-40 thickening tonics on the market, since it kills two birds with one stone- adding extra volume while at the same time coating the cuticles with shine. When experimenting with beer as a hair product, it is recommended to use traditional brewed beer made from hops to maximize nutrients and minimize chemicals (since most commercial beers are loaded with stuff you probably shouldn't be putting in your body, let alone your hair).
For example, the beer shampoo uses boiled beer and some of your favorite shampoo mixed together to get your hair and scalp good and clean, and the beer conditioner uses room temperature beer and jojoba oil add a little shine to your locks. Now the only thing you have to decide is which beer you'll use. Willing to give this a shot, or is it over the top for you? Share your thoughts in the comments.
How Can Beer Help your Hair? | Truth in Aging via Greatist
Photo by k.ivoutin.