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Minimalist Beauty

living simply with grace, discretion and faith

Minimalist Beauty

From The Curly Girl Method, To Herbal Hair Care, Now Water Only–Part 2

June 3, 2014 by Dawn Michelle

In Part 1 of this article I shared a bit of my hair history, and what I’ve experienced with longer hair using the Curly Girl Method, switching to 100% natural herbal hair care, a now doing water only hair washing.  What is most astonishing with water only hair washing is that my hair actually looks and behaves much better without using any products.  Because my hair is fully covered with my own natural oils which my scalp produces from the roots to the ends, my hair is extremely soft, has more elasticity, holds moisture, sheds 10 times less, and also holds my natural curl pattern without any curl defining products, gels, conditioners, hair butters, or oils.

My 30 Day Experiment with Water Only Hair Washing

For a quick recap I initially started water only hair washing at the beginning of the year in January.  I researched as much as I could online about water only hair washing, and followed some of the regimens which I had read others doing with curly and coily hair.  I started this method with clean product free hair before beginning.  I also purchased a natural bristle baby brush to use for my fine curly hair to help distribute my natural oils/sebum down the length of my hair.  I wore my hair in fluffy braid outs while using this natural bristle baby brush.  Using a boar bristle brush is almost always used for this simple hair care method.

Although using a natural bristle baby brush was gentle on my hair and distributed my natural oils, it took me three plus hours to brush through all of my hair dry.  My curly hair is literally like Jekyll and Hyde with split personalities.  When my hair is dry it is so voluminous that it takes forever to do anything with it outside of letting it be, and is also more fragile to work with.  When it is wet it can be manipulated with ease and grace especially now doing water only hair washing.  (Just so you know I did try a firmer boar bristle brush more recently, and it ripped my hair out.  Plus it still took me three hours to get through all of my hair.)

When I first started this method of hair care, I continued to use natural carrier oils on the ends of my hair since I had not reached full coverage of my natural oils.  It wasn’t until I decided to water rinse my hair daily that I was able to reach full coverage with my own natural oils within 2 1/2 weeks.  Daily water rinses distributed my natural oils quickly and more efficiently than using a natural bristle baby brush.  I also was able to wear my natural curls in a wash and go method every day without tangles or breakage which is my favorite way to wear my hair.

I was shocked that my hair was actually softer and more moisturized with my hair completely coated in its own natural oils than when using any conditioner that I have made or purchased!

Hard Water & Water Only Hair Washing

I stopped doing water only hair washing after experiencing the effects of hard water with this method when I was out of town.  There is a shower water filter in our bathroom shower, so although we do have hard water where we live, the minerals and chlorine in the water never reach my hair.  You can read about the effects of hard water and no ‘poo hair care here.  My once tangle-free hair became a knotty mess with the mineral deposits from the hard water in the hotel shower on my hair strands.  Once I was back home I returned to using herbal hair care again to get my hair back on track.

This summer I’m back to water only hair washing and I absolutely love it all over again, yet this time I know a few tips and tricks to get around some of the difficulties I had encountered the first time.

My Water Only Hair Washing Regimen

Now that I’m back on this method let me share with you my regimen.  I still do daily water rinses sometimes skipping a day because of my schedule.  I first massage my scalp then divide my hair into four sections (not including my bangs) before getting into the shower.  I saturate one section at a time in the shower under running water then divide that section in two.  I use a detangling brush (Bass Bamboo Brush or Tangle Teezer) to detangle each section gently under running water.

With full coverage of my natural oils my brush glides through my hair effortlessly.  It takes me about 10-15 minutes to detangle my hair now.  Because the detangling brush clumps my curls very well, I separate my curls under running water before a final rinse with cool water to close the hair’s cuticle.  I let my hair air dry not touching it at all while it dries.  At night I put my hair in a high ponytail (aka The Pineapple) before going to sleep.  I also put my hair in this same high ponytail leaving my bangs out to stretch my curls once dry.  This gives my hair a layered look since my hair is bluntly cut (a curly girl method no-no) which I explain why here.  I still believe curl by curl cutting gives curly hair the best look though.

This is the EASIEST hair care regimen that I could have ever imagined with better results than I’ve experienced in the four plus years of growing my hair out.

image

Conflicting Thoughts & Questions

There is a lot of discussion about low manipulation hair care and styling for curly/coily hair, and my water only hair washing regimen definitely seems like the opposite spectrum since I am brushing my hair daily and not using protective styling outside of a bun every once and awhile.  I am able to use a detangling brush daily without breakage because my hair is much more elastic with a heavy layer of my own natural oils.  I would NEVER be able to brush my hair wet daily without breakage no matter how much conditioner I used doing the Curly Girl Method or using herbal hair care.  Please note that this is what has been working for me.  With water only hair washing just like any hair care method, you have to find exactly what works to make your unique hair thrive as well.  You will see that others do not rinse daily and that some use protective styling as well.  (Read Part 3 for low manipulation and protective styling update.)

I now actually prefer to detangle my hair daily as I’m not having to do one intensive detangling session at the end of each week or bi-weekly.  It is surprisingly easier to detangle my hair now than it has ever been.  This is a major bonus for hair that once thrived on how well in could interlock, twist, and twirl around each other.  No more unbearable knots in my hair which I would have to slowly release as much as possible before cutting it out what was left in the knot.  I hardly use my scissors at all anymore unless I’m trimming or dusting my ends.

Can Too Much Sebum Be Bad?

You may be wondering if there is such as thing as too much of a good thing with your natural oils or sebum and my answer is YES!  When your naturals oils are not distributed properly they can collect at the roots leaving your ends bare and possibly feeling dry.  If you have too much coverage on all of your hair it can feel waxy and loose movement when it is dry.  I usually can feel the oils on my wet hair, but when my hair is dry my preference is for it to only feel soft.

If my hair starts to feel excessively waxy when dry, I will do an oil rinse which just like oil cleansing for the face which emulsifies with the sebum and helps rinse it away.

It is true when oil cleansing that you use a facial cloth to steam and remove the oils from your face, yet for water only hair washing removing all of the oils from your hair isn’t helpful.  I only want to soften my natural oils so and fully distribute them effectively throughout my hair.  Because I am acne prone, I use a high linoleic oil for my oil rinses, and I only apply the oil to my hair and not my scalp.

My favorite oils to use for my hair is either hemp oil or wheat germ oil.  Using organic oils is always best if you can.  Wheat germ oil makes my hair feel softer than when using any other oil that I’ve tried.  Both hemp and wheat germ oil are high linoleic oils and you can read why they are good for acne prone skin here.

Scalp Health & Hair Scent

Lastly some are concerned with the health of your scalp on this hair care method.  One reason I rinse my hair daily is because I am active.  I also intend to continue using a diluted herbal infused apple cider vinegar as a part of my scalp massage prior to rinsing once a month or as needed to maintain a healthy scalp.  I will also continue using henna.

For those who think that washing your hair with water only will have your hair smelling bad, that hasn’t been my experience at all.  Honestly my hair doesn’t really smell like anything unless I put something in it.  When I want something more exciting than my hair not smelling like anything, I can add a simple DIY natural hair fragrance.

Trial & Error + Research

So that’s pretty much it, my super simple hair care regimen with water only hair washing!  It is honestly something that you will have to experience yourself if you decide to try it, and have your own trial and error experience with it.  Your unique hair type, how much natural oils your scalp produces, along with the quality of water in your area, or if you use a shower filter all plays a big part in water only hair washing.

In Part 1 I provide four amazing sources in which helped me along the way.  Definitely go check them out if you desire more information, and to hear/read others perspective on this hair care method.  It was really helpful for me to see what others were doing and then create the regimen that I shared above which is completely unique to my hair needs.

If you’ve tried water only hair washing or are currently doing it please share your experience, and tips and tricks that work for you as well. Also feel free to ask questions below.

Peace & Sunshine!

From The Curly Girl Method, To Herbal Hair Care, Now Water Only–Part 1–Hair History + Beginnings of Water Only Hair Washing

From The Curly Girl Method, To Herbal Hair Care, Now Water Only–Part 3–Three Lessons Learned + Protective Styling

See more articles on water only hair washing here!

(Images by Dawn Michelle)

Stay Connected with Minimalist Beauty & Subscribe with bloglovin’. Also Join the Community on Facebook & Twitter. For more about Dawn Michelle go here!

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  1. Sharon Kelland says

    June 3, 2014 at 8:24 pm

    Hi Dawn, I love your posts. thanks for blazing a trail for all of us who are new to no poo. I have curly/wavy hair that in it’s natural state would be about 75% grey, therefore frizzy. It’s extremely dry too. I do colour it, not just for vanity but also because it makes my hair much smoother. I recently discovered Curly Girl and it has been quite an education for myself and my daughter who is a traditionally trained hairdresser. ( We are in Australia so very few fro’s here)She was taught to cut wet and layer. I drive her nuts with all this new info haha. I’m going to give water only a try. It makes sense to me. Thanks again

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      June 3, 2014 at 9:13 pm

      Hi Sharon Kelland,

      I’ve been truly enjoying this super simple hair care regimen, and I hope that you will find what works for you too. You really made me smile about driving your daughter nuts with all the information that you are learning about curly hair care. I do the same thing to my husband when I get excited about all the new things that I learn in general. I wish you both the best of luck with everything that you are doing. Please share your experience sometime in the future too!

      Best,
      Dawn Michelle

      Reply
  2. Zelphia says

    June 4, 2014 at 9:21 am

    Hi Dawn, I have been waiting for Part 2 and thank you. Ok, I am on week one of my water only wash. It’s difficult for me to rinse everyday because I leave so early for work. I put my hair in 6 big twists when I rinse plus I need to purchase a brush. Thank you again for sharing you journey!!!
    Cheers
    Zelphia

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      June 4, 2014 at 10:35 am

      Hi Zelphia,
      You are so welcome! I sometimes rinse in the early evening so that my hair has time to dry, yet I’ll also rinse in the morning depending upon my schedule. Do what’s best for you. I”m sure you’ll find a system that works. Please keep us posted on how things work out for you! <3

      Reply
  3. Rosalind C. says

    June 4, 2014 at 10:15 am

    Hi Dawn Michelle,

    I have been natural since Feb/2014. (I cut out all the relaxer and heat damage) I found your website while searching for more natural approaches to shampoos and conditioners. I have been an avid follower of your blog for about 5 months now. I also stumbled across the WOW method for hair care and had been investigating it, but it wasn’t until you shared your experience that I actually decided to try it for myself!

    I am on my fourth day, keeping my hair is small twists, and I do find that I need to give a quick warm water rinse each day in order to distribute the natural oils properly. I haven’t installed a shower water filter yet, but my hair doesn’t seem to mind the hard water, at least for now; it feels soft once the water has dried.

    My only concern is I am not sure how much sebum my scalp will actually produce. My hair is short right now-maybe 4 to 6 inches all around when stretched. It seems so minimal for the amount and type of hair that I have. I do not know if it will be enough or exactly how long it will take to cover my entire length. I guess I will have to continue the WOW method in order to find out!

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      June 4, 2014 at 11:18 am

      Hi Rosallind C,

      Congratulations on going natural and embracing your curls and coils! When I first started the water only washing method I didn’t think my scalp would produce enough of its own natural oils either. It was after 2 1/2 weeks of daily rinsing that I noticed either an increase in sebum production or just that I had finally reached full coverage. Regardless your scalp balances itself to suit your needs. Be patient and keep us posted on how things are going.

      Best wishes!

      Reply
  4. Pixie says

    June 4, 2014 at 12:24 pm

    Interesting. I did the CG method for awhile but eventually got off it when I found a good shampoo that my hair likes. Now I just do sulfate free, and it’s been working really well. Your hair is beautiful by the way. I totally just came here to mostly stare at it!

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      June 5, 2014 at 10:54 am

      Hi Pixie,
      You are too sweet! Thank you! It’s just all about finding what works for you. As long as you are happy and getting the results you desire, do you to the fullest. Enjoy your day!

      Reply
  5. Tracy says

    June 4, 2014 at 5:52 pm

    Hi Dawn Michelle,
    All I can say is, whatever your doing, it is definitely working for ya, your hair looks terrific.

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      June 5, 2014 at 11:02 am

      Hi Tracy,
      Thank you so much! I’m really enjoying the ease of this method versus making the process of doing my hair such a big event. I hope you are having an incredible day!

      Reply
  6. keisha says

    June 5, 2014 at 4:19 pm

    absolutely beautiful! i’m still working on using up all of my store bought conditioners first. i am curious in trying these even if it’s while i’m getting rid of the other products. i wonder what kind of results my hair will give me. completely unrelated to this post…i know you said that you don’t use the devita moisturizer is that because of the coconut oil in it and it being a high oleic oil? have you made a natural sunscreen? when is your product line coming out?

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      June 5, 2014 at 4:48 pm

      Hi Keisha,

      Conditioners contain surfactants so they will remove your natural oils. You will see the benefits of water only hair washing after you go completely product free and have full coverage of your natural oils on all of your hair. If you’d like you could transition slowly to water only with herbal hair care. In essence that is what I did even though I did not plan it.

      I still have Devita Solar Protective Moisturizer and it does not contain coconut oil. I wonder if they changed the formulation. As for my product line, Minimalist Beauty is a one woman show so I’ve been pacing myself with new projects. When I plan to launch a new project I will definitely share and promote it. Thanks for asking and for the compliment!

      Enjoy your day!

      Reply
  7. keisha says

    June 5, 2014 at 6:40 pm

    thank you for your fast reply!

    Reply
  8. keisha says

    June 5, 2014 at 6:46 pm

    the formula has this ingredient listed- caprylic triglycerides (derived fron coconut oil)-so i thought maybe it would make me break out since i’ve been using a lineolic acid for the ocm.

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      June 5, 2014 at 6:56 pm

      Hi Keisha,
      Trust your instincts. I honestly can’t tell you for sure how your skin will react to a product only offer recommendations. I didn’t have any reactions to the product myself. Hope this helps some.

      Reply
  9. Alanna says

    June 6, 2014 at 8:28 am

    Hi Dawn,

    I tried the WOW a month or so ago and my hair was a lovely kind of soft. But, I have major tangling issues and when rinsing in the twists and out and free, my hair seemed to get more tangly over time. I don’t know if perhaps I did not give my hair enough time to adjust or I just do not have a good enough detangling regimen (which I know I don’t but I was hoping WOW could ease some of those issues for me). I recently went back to shampoo and conditioner but your post reminded me of the WOW so maybe I will give it a try again. I just need a better plan to limit the tangles and knots. Thanks for your posts!

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      June 6, 2014 at 10:29 am

      Hi Alanna,

      I added oil rinses to my water only hair regimen to keep my hair free from having too much of my natural oils on my hair. Also if your natural oils are waxy it is hard to move the oils down your hair. Oil rinses eliminated the issue in which you are describing. I apply some oil to dry hair in sections and let it sit for about 10-20 minutes before rinsing. I’ve also heard that taking flaxseed oil internally can help with thinning out the natural oils that your body produces.

      I hope this helps you!

      Reply
  10. Rosalind C. says

    June 6, 2014 at 9:48 am

    Dawn Michelle: I wanted to ask you what is your procedure to henna with the WOW Method? I have been doing a regular henna + indigo treatment to get black, every 2 to 3 months. I use your current method with coconut milk on wet hair. I am going to wait out the two weeks on the WOW Method before another treatment/color. Do you think it would be wise to wash the sebum off with perhaps a Rhassoul clay then apply henna or just leave the sebum in and apply henna?

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      June 6, 2014 at 10:46 am

      Hi Rosalind C,

      I do my usual henna treatment with coconut milk just as I would before. I stopped washing my hair prior to my henna treatments when I stopped using commercial hair care and started using simple leave-ins. Now on a water only hair washing regimen, I just rinse my henna treatment thoroughly and do an oil rinse if needed afterwards. It is important that you do what is best for your hair though as we are all different.

      Clay washes will gently remove most if not all of your hair natural oils. Although clay washes are amazing for herbal hair care, they may not be the best hair cleanser to use with a water only hair washing regimen. You would have to supplement your hair with leave-in oils and butters until your own natural oils coat your hair again.

      I currently don’t use any oils or butters as a leave-in as I don’t need to on this regimen. At least I haven’t needed to with full coverage of my own natural oils that my scalp produces. If you have full coverage of your natural oils on your hair after two weeks make an intuitive decision then on what you want to do with your hair.

      Enjoy your weekend!

      Reply
  11. Alanna says

    June 7, 2014 at 1:41 pm

    Dawn! Oh my goodness! The oil rinse was absolutely wonderful and it was so much easier to detangle my hair. I really appreciate that suggestion and all the info you put on your blog! Yay! 🙂

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      June 9, 2014 at 9:52 am

      Hi Alanna,
      Thanks for sharing that the oil rinse was helpful to you. I no longer experience frustration with water only hair washing by incorporating it into my regimen each week. Best wishes!

      Reply
  12. Jean says

    June 7, 2014 at 10:15 pm

    Hi Dawn,

    I have water-washed daily for the last week, and so far I am really liking it. My hair is soft, curls are defined, and best of all, my hair is less frizzy in the humid weather. I don’t think my natural hair oil is completely down to my roots yet, but because it is short (jaw length) I think in another week it will be. I have been using your DIY leave-in and sometimes a product from Just Naturals after WOW. I’ll continue to monitor and adjust the use of these products as I
    go along; it would be great to eliminate any and all products if possible.

    Could you give me a few more details about how you do your oil rinsing? How long do you leave the oil on your hair? Do you apply any heat while the oil is on your hair to break up the sebum? Wet or dry hair application?

    My only concern with using the WOW method is how my henna treatments will take in my hair with all the natural oil covering it. I use henna to cover my gray roots every six weeks or so, and I have usually clarified with clay/coconut milk prior to my henna application. I couldn’t really find anything online about this and was wondering if you had seen anything pertaining to this during your research.

    Thanks! Jean

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      June 9, 2014 at 10:06 am

      Hi Jean,

      I am glad you are also enjoying water only hair washing! As for how I oil rinse, I just apply some oil to my dry hair in sections before rinsing. I will leave it in my hair for 15-30 minutes. I only apply a little bit of oil to each section, usually 1-2 quarter size circles which I pour into the palm of my hands before applying. I separate my hair into four sections and I have another section for my bangs. I do not apply the oil to my scalp, and I do not use any heat for the simple treatment. When I get into the shower, I massage my scalp under running water section by section, saturate the section of hair with water then go right into detangling.

      As for hennaing on the water only hair washing method, it will be a trial and error experience for you. Do your henna treatment without clarifying the first time and see how you like it. If you are not satisfied clarify the next time. I only use henna for conditioning, strengthening, and for the tint. I have not had the personal experience of covering grey hair myself so can not share information on that with this hair care method. Please let us know what works for you though as it could be helpful to someone else.

      Best wishes!

      Reply
  13. Marita says

    June 8, 2014 at 7:58 pm

    Dawn! Your hair and skin looks awesome! Speaking of skin- may you do a soft bridal look or tutorial? I went in to Sephora for some gluten-free makeup and came out with Tarte, Urban Decay, and Color FX- both good quality but I still had a reaction. Plus I felt bad looking at all the EXTRA ingredients, knowing that my house is at least 75-90% chemical free…I took that products back and headed over to 100% pure! Love the order and can’t wait to try them. Plus I got free shipping and they have a free gift- 6pc color set with a $35 dollar purchase: http://www.100percentpure.com/Articles.asp?ID=296

    Glad to see your second post on this. As you stated above we have to do what is best for our own hair. I have been so busy with wrapping up at work that I have not been able to do daily rinses since the first week. I am using less products on my hair, just jojoba oil and light whipped shea butter as needed. I still feel that the water only washing is beneficial. Especially the massaging and light scratching of the scalp, hopefully I can do more rinsing this week-tangles have been somewhat easier. Hair is softer 🙂 I truly think I will do a variety of wash methods depending on my schedule- water rinses are the easiest, herbal rinses and clay take a little more time but I like them all.

    Have a great week!

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      June 9, 2014 at 10:30 am

      Hi Marita,

      Thanks for sharing this info on 100% Pure and for the compliment. There were a few new things I wanted to try myself from 100% Pure so this is a major incentive. Also a timeless bridal look with natural cosmetics would be a great idea. Around when are you getting married? <3

      I do think that experimenting with water only hair washing in terms of how often, when to incorporate other herbal hair treatments etc. is really important. I experimented myself for much of this year before really deciding to go for water only hair washing, creating my own regimen, and writing about it. I'm glad that you are enjoying simple hair care methods too!

      Have a wonderful week too!

      Reply
  14. Emma says

    June 9, 2014 at 7:02 pm

    Hi Dawn,
    I think I’m going to be brave enough to try this. My hair has been so oily for 3 mths anyway I probably wont notice. I tried the Rhassoul clay, bi carb soda, apple cider vinegar & even egg white to no avail – though the clay was good. Can’t wait to see what happens.

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      June 10, 2014 at 2:22 pm

      Hi Emma,
      I read that many with an oily scalp produced less oil over time on a water only hair washing regimen. If you have a chance read some of the thread on water only hair washing on the Long Hair Community Forum. Best wishes!

      Reply
  15. Charnelle says

    June 10, 2014 at 11:12 am

    Hi Dawn,

    i’m going to need your help on this. i tried WOW a year ago after stumbling upon Ruby Tulip’s video and reading the WOW thread on Long Hair care forum. I think I want to try it again. I stopped because my ends were sooooo dry and started breaking. We have a shower filter, so at least hard water deposits won’t be an issue. I could feel the sebum mainly at the crown of my head when wet, but I was having trouble finding a way to move it down. i might try using a tangle teaser this time. I have a small bamboo bristle brush that i may also try although I may need to purchase a bigger one for this. What water temperature do you use?

    Reply
  16. Charnelle says

    June 10, 2014 at 1:53 pm

    one more question… during the 2 1/2 weeks it took for your hair to be fully coated how often did you use a detangling brush when you rinsed?

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      June 10, 2014 at 2:33 pm

      Hi Charnelle,

      I use warm water for my hair rinses. When I first started this regimen in January I was finger detangling my hair and rinsing daily. Now that I’m back to using this regimen I use both a Tangle Teezer and a bamboo brush to detangle my hair. I actually detangle my hair every day under running water now that my hair is completely covered in my natural oils and I now mainly use my Tangle Teezer.

      I feel that daily rinses help with distributing my natural oils along with using my Tangle Teezer. When my hair feels too coated, applying some wheat germ oil to dry hair in sections (not my scalp) 15 minutes or more before rinsing helps to further distribute my natural oils. It is important to find what works for your hair as we are all so different. Keep us posted on what works for you!

      Reply
  17. Marita says

    June 11, 2014 at 4:23 pm

    No problem Dawn. Pacifica also has a promo today 15% off, if you have prescribed to their email list you may have target coupon in your inbox (6/5/14) worth 20% off. I just purchased two scents 🙂

    As far as the wedding we have a goal date of July 26th…hopefully that will stay on target. I am not looking forward to paying $85 since we are keeping things fairly simple and low cost/no cost. I am planning for DIY centerpieces and favors. I have been searching on YouTube. I’d like something subtle and classic, as he is not a fan of make-up.

    Thanks.

    Reply
  18. Marita says

    June 11, 2014 at 4:24 pm

    Error…subscribed.

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      June 12, 2014 at 9:32 am

      Hi Marita,
      It sounds like you are interested in a “no makeup makeup” look with maybe a bit of something special for your wedding makeup. That little something special could be a beautiful lip color/stain and wispy lashes, or even a very subtle winged liner in dark brown or black on the top lash line also with wispy lashes. It is most important to focus on a flawless complexion and enhancing your best features. I am excited for you and congratulations!

      Reply
  19. Marita says

    June 12, 2014 at 1:11 pm

    Thanks 🙂

    Yes that sounds about right. I just got my 100% Pure package so I will be testing it out. I would say my best features are my eyes and cheek bones, so I’ll focus on playing those up. I have been prepping my skin with masks and scrubs…using Tamanu oil also (thanks to your post), I have noticed a difference.

    I have started to notice my sebum traveling down, it is pretty interesting.

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      June 13, 2014 at 4:55 pm

      Hi Marita,
      I will try to share some more makeup looks soon! Enjoy your new 100% Pure products and have a great weekend!

      Reply
  20. Marita says

    June 17, 2014 at 10:43 pm

    Thanks! I am having fun with them. I have looked up a few YT videos of the “no makeup makeup” look and tumeric has been awesome along with beetroot powder for complexion…adding amla here and there…my biggest thing is keeping my hands out of my face 🙁

    Reply
  21. Kisha says

    July 1, 2014 at 3:04 pm

    This was great. I have been interested in the WOW method even though I use pretty “clean” natural hair products. This may be TMI but I’m going to try this out because I feel even my mostly clean natural products can affect the body. I have experienced heavier cycles and now that im seeing this post about eliminating products it started about 2 years ago when I started using mineral salts for deodarant where you wet the stone or in roll on form. I’m not sure if they correlate but I need to start even narrowing down my natural products because my hubby and I have two boys and have been trying for about 6 months to get pregnant and even though my check ups have been fines feel as if I need to start narrowing down products because they may be affecting me.
    I know this was all over the place and TMI but it has me thinking about even my natural products.

    Thanks.

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      July 1, 2014 at 3:41 pm

      Hi Kisha,

      Water only hair washing has been really life changing for me. It’s an odd thing to confess doing but my hair is so much easier to do than when I was using other natural hair care products or even making my own. I also feel my hair has better elasticity so my hair is stronger and softer at the same time. It also never feels dry and it isn’t oily from hair oils and butters.

      I had also been using the salt deodorants for awhile and stopped once I found it is comprised of ammonium alum, a white crystalline double sulfate of aluminum, so not healthy after all. There are a lot of “natural” beauty products that still contain chemical and synthetic ingredients that really aren’t healthy, just better alternatives to other heavy synthetic cosmetics. Also I recently saw a book called The Kind Mama at the grocery store by Alicia Silverstone which may be of interest to you.

      Best wishes!

      Reply
  22. Kisha says

    July 1, 2014 at 4:24 pm

    Thanks for the quick response! I’ll check out that book. Are you using your DIY deodorant ? I’ve been seeing Schmidts deodorant lately that has been getting great reviews. Have you tried it? What would you recommend whike WOW for a deep conditioning treatment that doesn’t have henna or coconut it seems to react like a strong protein in my hair?

    Thanks again!!

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      July 4, 2014 at 11:52 am

      Hi Kisha,
      Yes I am using my DIY Deodorant. I now replace the coconut oil with grapeseed oil. I always make my own deodorant now so haven’t tried any store brands. Also try a simple DIY deep conditioner with blended bananas with some water and strained. You can add some oils if you like too.
      Best wishes!

      Reply
  23. Kisha says

    July 1, 2014 at 6:12 pm

    Sorry for all the questions. What brand of glycerin soap for body are you using?

    Thanks!

    Reply
  24. Kisha says

    July 1, 2014 at 6:25 pm

    Last ones for today. Not odd at all. I see it as just another discovery of your natural hair journey that is really a blessing to others because WOW is a freeing process. I was wondering how you feel after doing WOW about still making your product line? Does it change your feelings on it?

    While doing the WOW method do you think it’s ok to use a natural gel like fsg or guar gum gel for control?

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      July 4, 2014 at 11:53 am

      Hi Kisha,
      Flaxseed gel works really well with water only hair washing. I tried it a few weeks ago and liked it. My curls were extremely defined with no frizz. I do like having some frizz though for the extra volume they provide. <3

      Reply
  25. Kisha says

    July 4, 2014 at 4:13 pm

    Thanks so much! I’ll try the bananas with water and may add wheat germ oil. Are you using baking soda in your deodorant or just the arrowroot powder?

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      July 6, 2014 at 2:08 pm

      Hi Kisha,
      I know that some have found baking soda to be irritating which is why I’m assuming that you asked this. Feel free to try the DIY Deodorant with baking soda and without to find out what works best for you.
      Best wishes!

      Reply
  26. Kisha says

    July 4, 2014 at 4:24 pm

    Also could I use banana and honey as a deep conditioner with the WOW method? Thanks Dawn!

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      July 6, 2014 at 2:11 pm

      Hi Kisha,
      With water only hair washing I’ve found that I honestly don’t have to deep condition my hair with anything. If I want to do a deep conditioning treatment, putting my hair into a bun after washing does the trick. The next day my hair feels like I actually did a deep conditioning treatment. Honey is sometimes used as a natural hair cleanser and it works pretty well. I only tried it once or twice a long time ago though. I haven’t tried it since I’ve been washing my hair with water only though. Just like all simple and natural hair care you will have to try things out to find out what works for you.

      Reply
  27. Kisha says

    July 4, 2014 at 4:38 pm

    For the past two days I’ve been using a slice of lemon as my deodorant and it is so cool how it works just as good as deodorant. I think I’m going to switch and off between organic lemon slices and DIY lavender deodorant. Who knew that rubbing a slice of lemon under my arms would work amazingly. They’re lemony fresh 🙂

    Reply
  28. Kisha says

    July 4, 2014 at 7:16 pm

    Sorry I continue to think of questions after I submit one. What if I used glycerin in the deep conditioner? Is glycerin ok to use with the WOW method? Even in the oil rinse?

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      July 6, 2014 at 2:13 pm

      Hi Kisha,
      I haven’t tried using glycerin but I don’t think it would have any adverse affects with water only washing. It’s all about trial and error. <3

      Reply
  29. Marita says

    July 5, 2014 at 12:46 am

    Hi Dawn. Hope all is well. Just wanted to update you on my water only wash. It has been a little over a month and I so love it. My method is modified. I don’t wash every day, instead 1-2x week. But I massage, lightly scratch, and smooth the oil down my strands (“preen”). Today it took only 2 hours to wash detangle and twist. I think I am at 90% coverage. From time to time I use AVJ or rhassoul in the water. Jojoba oil and grapeseed oil are my friends! My hair is so manageable…easy to part and detangle. The hair smell takes some getting used to. I can keep a twist style for at least 3-5 days with two low puffs. Tomorrow will be the test. I am going to use a curling wand to test out my wedding updo style. I am a bit nervous about using heat with the sebum coverage…but I put grapeseed oil on while my hair was damp. I look forward to more of your updates 🙂

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      July 6, 2014 at 2:15 pm

      Hi Marita,
      I’m so happy that this working so well for you! I’m still loving water only hair washing as it is so carefree and easy to manage my hair with this method. Thanks for the update!

      Reply
  30. Kisha says

    July 6, 2014 at 2:38 pm

    Thanks! Wanted to see if you were using baking soda in case that was the recipe that you having been using lately and I’ll go with that one first 🙂 Then I’ll try the other if it doesn’t work. I noticed the DIY post has both recipes. Thanks for all the responses! Did you ever try that natural eyelash glue from Georgie Beauty I mentioned a while back? I am really enjoying it.

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      July 7, 2014 at 12:02 pm

      Hi Kisha,
      I never did try the natural eyelash glue but I’m glad its working for you. <3

      Reply
  31. Gina says

    July 8, 2014 at 7:05 am

    Dawn, thank you SO MUCH for this information! I’ve been trying the WOW method now for nearly 2 weeks, and have most definitely noticed a difference with my hair. No shedding, no tangles, and when I went to the Barbers for a cut his clippers and comb just glided effortlessly through my very tightly coiled hair that hasn’t been combed for months! Just 2 questions for you though, as I’ve also done a lot of research on this, but how long is one supposed to continue rinsing and massaging for daily? Is it just the first month or continuously? And secondly, my hair although coated with sebum, doesn’t feel overly soft when dry, and is quite dull. Could this be because its just early days of transitioning for me? Or is this the norm? And by the way, I’ve been a very keen follower of your blog (hair articles) for a few years now, but when I saw your article on this method, I just HAD to write in! 🙂 it really is the best thing I’ve ever done for my hair. And your positive results have given me the motivation to keep going.

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      July 8, 2014 at 1:55 pm

      Hi Gina,

      You’ll notice that many do water only hair washing differently. I feel rinsing daily or almost every day really helps to distribute your natural oils since brushing dry tightly curly hair with a boar bristle brush can possibly cause breakage. Because you are new to this method of hair care you will most likely try a few different things before settling on a routine. Even then things may change as your hair’s need change.

      The type of water you have can have a HUGE affect on how your hair feels and looks with this method. I’ve read that one woman rinses with carbonated water to soften how her hair feels although I haven’t tried that myself. Give your hair at least a month to see how your hair transitions. I’m glad this method is working so well for you. There is nothing like being able to manage tightly curly hair easily! <3

      Reply
  32. alexraye says

    July 9, 2014 at 6:25 pm

    hey dawn michelle! i stumbled across your blog today while trying to help a reader, and fell in love! your hair is amazing! water-only washing has been so great to me, and i’m so glad there are more people out there that love it, too!
    keep up the lovely blog! <3
    xo, alexraye

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      July 10, 2014 at 10:30 am

      Hi alexraye,
      Welcome and thanks so much for the compliment! I absolutely LOVE water only hair washing. It saves so much time with the best hair results I’ve ever had. I hope you’re having a wonderful day!

      Reply
  33. Anita says

    July 17, 2014 at 8:31 am

    Hi Dawn Michelle. I’ve been using the WOW method for about 4 months and I love it. The sebum acts as a moisturizer, conditioner, sealer AND gel. Amazing! I haven’t tried it on loose hair yet as I’ve been wearing mini twists. I’m curious as to if the sebum coating affects the amount of shrinkage. Love you site and thanks for sharing.

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      July 17, 2014 at 9:05 pm

      Hi Anita,
      Water only hair washing really is AMAZING! I haven’t noticed a big difference with shrinkage reduction. I am finding that as much as I love a wash-n-go, wearing stretched styles such as braid outs and twist outs are the best way to not experience so much shrinkage. I’m experimenting with other styles as we speak and will write about it soon.

      Reply
  34. Aoibheann says

    July 28, 2014 at 4:39 am

    Hi, thank you firstly for this great resource 🙂 I have something like 3 b/c hair, fine but LOADS of it, and very dry! It has been getting harder and harder to get it to clump into its natural curl pattern. About 2 years ago I got a terrible haircut and decided I had to be more proactive about my hair health, and cut out sulphates and cones, and moisturised my hair daily. This year I got another terrible haircut (new hairdresser ‘thinned’ my hair, huge cotton candy mess!), so I reviewed what I was doing, and found you…I stopped using my store bought products, and now water rinse every morning after massaging my scalp morning and night. I am still figuring out my routine, but have hit a snag (hair pun!): before I saw your routine I bought a shampoo bar, and decided it would be a great interim product before going entirely no poo. I thought the ingredients looked good: Sweet almond oil, castor oil,
    coconut oil, jojoba oil, RSPO Certified palm oil, olive oil, chamomile tea, lemon, lemongrass, sweet orange E.O.s, Irish spring water….But when I washed my hair with it my hair was really squeaky and uncomfortable, and afterwards was soft but so dry – even my scalp, after ages massaging and coaxing, was absolutely dry. I may be more attuned now, but it feels like my hair is drier now, after promoting sebum, using coconut and jojoba oil on the ends every other day or so, and washing with this super gentle shampoo, than it was before…I just don’t understand why, and if anyone had any ideas it might help me map out what’s best for my hair going forward. I hope this isn’t too much of an essay – thanks!

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      July 28, 2014 at 5:05 pm

      Hi Aoibheann,
      Experiencing dry hair after even gentle shampoo is common. Also shampoo bars are alkaline and saponified soaps with vegetable oils which you can read about here. If you are enjoying water only hair washing continue with it for at least four weeks without even gentle hair cleansers to get past the transitioning period.
      Best wishes!

      Reply
  35. Trish says

    August 1, 2014 at 6:42 am

    Hi Dawn, okay I have been browsing your sight for 2 months. Thank you for the info. So here is my question I have natural color treated hair that is extremely dry and brittle. I feel that it needs a clarifying treatment and moisture. Most of the conditioners I use have cones and I think that may be contributing the dryness issue. Do have any recommendations? My hair needs help.

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      August 1, 2014 at 9:32 am

      Hi Trish,
      Today’s article will answer your question in detail. Best wishes!

      Reply
  36. Trish says

    August 5, 2014 at 9:02 am

    Thank you.

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      August 5, 2014 at 1:05 pm

      You’re welcome Trish! Keep us posted on your progress!

      Reply
  37. aladrin says

    August 24, 2014 at 3:50 pm

    Hi dawn. First I must say I Love that you are so informative and you give feedback….. Been A minimalist beauty reader for over a year And I swear by this site …lol… anyways my concern is the oil cleansing …When is it necessary to do it? and I need a tad bit more help on understanding on how to oil cleanse….Please helpp!!! Thanks!

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      August 25, 2014 at 7:10 pm

      Hi Aladrin,
      To oil cleanse hair apply oil to dry hair and then follow with your water only hair washing. It is really that simple. I feel it is necessary when you have excess sebum on your strands. The more oil you apply the easier it is to distribute and remove excess sebum. Hope this helps!

      Reply
  38. Steph says

    September 11, 2014 at 9:34 am

    Thank you Dawn for sharing your experience with water only hair washing. I have never heard of it until I read your blog, which lead me into tons of research and started it myself. I do have a question though. As touted by many water only hair washers, do you massage, scritch and preen or does your bamboo brush do the trick? I’m asking, because I’m trying to teach my 11yr old this method of hair care and want to keep it as simple as possible. Thanks for your reply.

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      September 12, 2014 at 9:59 am

      Hi Steph,
      I do massage, scritch, and preen my hair daily usually in the shower under running water while also finger detangling my hair. I don’t rely solely on any hair tools to do the work for me because I have fine hair. Even with sebum coverage I’ve learned I must be gentle with my hair. How you decide to add massaging, scritching, and preening to your hair regimen just depends on your own hair needs and personal preference. How has this method been going for you and your daughter so far?

      Reply
  39. Stephanie Mark says

    September 14, 2014 at 8:25 pm

    Thanks for your reply. Its been going pretty well for me. I’m starting my daughter this week. So far, I realize I must rinse daily, because the excess sebum makes my hair look dusty, I wish there was a solution to this, so I’m experimenting with different things so I can go back to normal hairstyle (my daughter says my daily bun makes me look like an old teacher-LOL). I got a bass brush and it was wonderful in my daughter’s hair. Havent used for me yet as I finger detangle and preen in the shower (I have a massage tool to massage and scritch my scalp nightly). I think I might have full coverage of sebum from the waxy feeling in shower, but my hair feels dry&dull if I miss one day of rinsing, so I’m not sure. Trying to stick with it though.

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      September 15, 2014 at 9:52 am

      Hi Stephanie Marks,
      Adding a few drops of oil to your hair in sections should help with dryness and also dullness. You can add a few drops of oil to your hair in sections daily if you feel you need to. For styling try twisted updos as well as braid outs and twist outs. You can see one style I did here. <3

      Reply
  40. Steph says

    September 15, 2014 at 6:51 am

    Good Morning Dawn,
    Thanks for getting back to me so soon. Water only washing is a learning experience. Since I recently gotten a shower filter, doing my hair has been easier. I too, finger detangle, though I did by the bass brush, I think its better for my daughter’s thicker/resilient hair strands, than my fine ones. I have a rubber scalp massager similar to the one from the Morrocco Method that I use to scratch and massage (I also use the brush to do the same, which seems to do better)and preen in the shower. As I’m thinking about it, I’m not sure that starting the water only method would be good for my daughter with her busy school schedule, but will definitely revisit during a vacation period. Right now, I’m wearing my hair in a bun, but my scalp doesn’t like my hair pulled taut, even if gently, just looking forward to the end of this transition (its been 3 weeks) so I can resume normal hair styling. Do you find that if you go more than one day without rinsing, that your hair has a dry/dull cast over it, mine does?

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      September 15, 2014 at 10:03 am

      Hi Steph,
      I have been finger detangling my hair more again and only using a detangling brush on occasion since I also have fine strands. In general finger detangling is more gentle in the hair yet I like the results if using a detangling brush since is smooths the hair so well and helps to distribute your natural oils. A few drops of oil applied to your hair in sections will help with dryness and dull looking hair. Also check out this hairstyle which is tension free and maybe even try braid and twist outs again if you’ve reached full coverage. I have found that my hair is only comfortable in buns when I can do them somewhat loosely. <3

      Reply
  41. Anon says

    October 24, 2014 at 11:25 am

    Hi Dawn,
    Nice to hear that WO washing worked well for your curls :). However, how long did it take to air-dry your hair? Because wash-n-goes takes a lot of time for me atm.

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      October 24, 2014 at 1:58 pm

      Hi Anon,
      My hair dries pretty quickly. It actually dries quicker in wash and go hairstyles on water only hair washing (1-2 hours) although I’ve been mainly doing braid outs to avoid single strand knots. I also use an oil now with setting my braid outs. The details are in my last hair regimen. How quickly your hair dries with or without products also has more to do with hair density, hair porosity, and the thickness of your hair’s individual strands.

      Reply
  42. Lior says

    February 5, 2015 at 5:51 am

    Hi! Im so glad i found this site. Ive been poo-free for over 6 months and tried almost everything… started with baking soda and ACV… then only ACV, then I tried CG method for a few weeks, and then I tried natural compounds like rosmary water or strong tea… after a while I was just washing with water because I didnt find anything that works perfectly. I was so suprised to discover that my hair actually likes water only washings! and Im sure that if it wasnt hard water here in Israel, my hair wouldve been even happier.
    But, one thing that I never do, unlike you: I do not brush, never ever. only finger detangle once in a few weeks. Brushing makes my beautiful, soft, defined curls disappear. and also, I plop my hair after every wash. amazing results. really amazing.

    I get compliments all the time and asked what did I do to my hair… maybe they look at me like a lunatic after I say I dont shampoo my hair… but its totally worth it 😀

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      February 5, 2015 at 5:13 pm

      Hi Lior,
      It’s always awesome for me to hear of another doing water only hair washing! It’s been over a year that I have been using this method, and even with the tweaks that I have made to my regimen over the year, I have no intention ever going back to traditional hair care. It really is totally worth it!

      Reply
  43. Alana says

    March 7, 2015 at 12:24 pm

    With this method did you find the boar bristle brush better to use or the wooden pin brush also have you tried a mixture of the two (in each hole of the brush there would be a sprout of boar bristles surrounding a central pin)?

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      March 9, 2015 at 10:38 pm

      Hi Alana,
      Sadly my wooden brush broke. I mainly use my fingers to scritch, massage, and preen my natural oils down the length of my hair. I recently ordered a wide tooth horn comb to try out. I didn’t like using a boar bristle brush since the one I purchased wasn’t the best quality and it created hair breakage. I also have a super soft natural bristle baby brush, yet it is extremely time consuming to use. In essence you have to try a few things to see what works for you. I’m working on creating a new water only hair regimen now which may include the comb it all goes well. How long have you been doing the water only hair washing method?

      Reply
  44. Alana says

    March 10, 2015 at 4:19 pm

    I actually haven’t tried the water only method but it is something i was thinking of incorporating into my routine to see how it worked for my hair.

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      March 12, 2015 at 9:59 am

      Hi Alana,
      Oh ok. Water only hair washing is a bit of a learning curve yet it makes your hair softer than imaginable especially if you have a shower filter or soft water. It is pretty awesome to not be product dependent as well. <3

      Reply
  45. Alana says

    March 12, 2015 at 2:04 pm

    The idea is appealing though i would probably have to try it after i graduate college. As it is now i keep my hair in protective styles mostly and on the weekends i pre oil my hair with coconut oil to prevent hygral fatigue then wash my hair with a tea made of shikaka, aritha, amla and a tiny bit of vegetable glycerin to counteract the slight dryness caused by these herbs. I pour the tea over my head (concentrating on my scalp) and continue with my regular shower routine then wash the tea out before i get out of the tub.I follow with a henna deep conditoner afterwards. This whole process usually takes a couple hours though and im thinking of ways to reduce the time. I am currently experimenting with a cleansing conditioner of sorts. That way i could put it in my hair leave it in for a while and wash it out (also using less water with a 2 in one) I am torn between water only and continuing to use my ayurvedic herbs. They help so much with my hair health and growth. (Its growing so quickly!)I would also have to look into a shower filter for the water only method as well because i believe the tap water would be slightly salty/harder here but i cant be sure (i live in the Bahamas :D). Sorry for the long post >.<

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      March 13, 2015 at 10:30 am

      Hi Alana,

      It sounds like you have an amazing hair care regimen in place already. Just an idea would be to do the herbal tea cleanser one day and the henna another. By alternating hair treatments you will save time.

      Even with water only hair washing you would probably still want to use henna and your herbal tea cleanser on occasion. It’s just that you would work with your natural oils more, do water rinses, scritching, massaging, and preening, and use the tea and henna much less. Regardless if your current regimen is working for you then keep it up. You are using the most natural products and henna which is always amazing.

      Best wishes!

      Reply
  46. Alana says

    March 14, 2015 at 10:02 am

    Thank you for the tips. I have had success with making my herbal tea more moisturizing and thicker allowing for better application into the hair. (aka my new cleansing conditioner). There are some tweaks needed however. Also i am experimenting with using my henna as a tea rinse instead of a full treatment and will try water only for 2 weeks out of the month to start. Though I’m still skeptical that my hair will smell as it does so very quickly.

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      March 14, 2015 at 7:26 pm

      Hi Alana,
      If you are accustomed to herbal hair care and no longer using chemical products with fragrance water only hair washing isn’t that much different in terms of scent. Yet all scents in which our body naturally produces does have a lot to do with diet, medications, overall health, etc. It also takes usually 3-4 weeks to achieve full coverage of your natural oils. Keep me posted on how things work out!

      Reply
  47. Alana says

    March 15, 2015 at 8:28 am

    Thank you Dawn, I will. 😀

    Reply
  48. Dee. I says

    July 4, 2015 at 3:23 pm

    Hello Dawn,
    I just want to say I love your blog/website I have been following you for almost 2years now. Thank you for sharing your knowledge on various topics: hair, skin, makeup, ect. Your decluttering posts has really encouraged me to clean out my space.
    I do have a question about WOW method. I tried it a month ago and I was not successful at reaching full coverage with my sebum. My hair was quite the opposite by day 7 of washing my hair was no longer soft. The ends were dry, I experienced a lot of tangles and fairy knots at my end. I still screeched, preened,massaged, ect.
    But the condition of my hair did not improve. My hair was manageable when wet but dried into a tangly mess. I was discouraged and to keep my hair from breaking off completely I stopped the WOW method and went back to using products on my hair.
    After seeing your results, I am now ready to give the WOW method another shot.
    This time I am aware I have low porosity hair and I have tightly coiled curls(kinky). More within the 4a,4b range( I don’t really do hair typing but I know some ppl do so it might give you an idea of the nature of my hair w/o any pics to go by)so although my hair was getting wet my hair was not benefiting long term from the water rinses. Also I made sure to rinse with cool water to seal in moisture but I think I was actually locking out moisture. My hair is about 3-4inches long so I thought it would not take me long to reach full coverage. I water rinsed in medium sized twists and let air dry.
    I am ready to give this method a try again. Do you have any suggestions and tips?I would really appreciate your input. I already read part 1-3 of your experience with WOW.

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      July 6, 2015 at 5:43 pm

      Hi Dee. I,

      Definitely clarify your hair first. I love bentonite clay and apple cider vinegar. Also to avoid tangles initially either keep your hair in twists or do braid or twist outs, not wash and gos. Wash and gos work best for me when I have full coverage of my natural oils on my strands. Lastly use an oil or shea butter mainly on the ends of your hair but use it how it works best for you. Don’t apply oil to your scalp on this regimen though. I specifically like wheat germ oil because it is more of a wax than an oil. It helps distribute sebum and is amazing at moisturing the hair since it is a ceramide oil. I’ve been enjoying this oil for years since 2011. FYI… The scent is strong though.

      I too had my struggles initially on this regimen. I started it then got frustrated and went back to herbal hair care. Then I tried it again and tried to find a balance. I start fresh every month with a clay wash since that works best for me. I also incorporate oils/butters and DIY Natural Hair Gel now that I figured out how I wanted to use it. You have to play around and find what works for you. My regimen now is pretty much still herbal hair care with long stints of just water only washes in between. So I’m not 100% water only. I shared the pros and cons of water only here.

      Best wishes!

      Reply
  49. Dee. I says

    July 10, 2015 at 5:44 pm

    Hey Dawn,
    Thank you for your response.
    I will try your suggestion of wearing twist when I water rinse also I have hemp oil, Shea butter, and I recently started using castor oil for my edges.
    It is encouraging to know that you had to make water only work for you I believe I had been appeoaching it of following someone else’s revimen to a at and hoping for the same or similar results. I will try to see what my hair likes and what it doesn’t and change accordingly. Thank you for you opened and willingness to share your journey! You are amazing!

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      July 10, 2015 at 7:14 pm

      Hi Dee. I,
      What I love most about water only is that you truly learn to listen to your hair. Wishing you the best and keep us posted!

      Reply
  50. Pascale says

    September 14, 2015 at 7:59 am

    Hi Dawn
    I recently found your site and I am really enjoying it. I am interested in using natural ingredients and the WOW method in my hair. I had a couple questions:
    1. What am I looking for with total sebum coverage? What are the indicators?
    2. I prefer wash and gos, so after the first clarifying can i start without twists and just daily rinse/massage/scritch/preen? If not, do I put twists in wet and daily untangle in the shower?
    3. You also mentioned going back and forth between natural and WOW. What are the factors that cause you to go back and forth? And can I have the recipe for the banana/coconut milk conditioner? Is there a link to your natural routine?

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      September 14, 2015 at 4:43 pm

      Hi Pascale,
      With WO you will literally feel your natural oils on your hair strands mainly when you hair is wet. Daily rinses are recommended in the initial phase to increase sebum production. I prefer to twist my hair prior to rinsing. The size of your twists depends upon your hair texture and preference. I use medium to large twists.

      Going back and forth from WO and natural hair care is mainly just about finding the best balance for your hair after reaching full coverage. Too much sebum causes tangling, not enough creates hair dryness. Using apple cider vinegar rinses has been my go-to for finding the best balance for my hair and scalp. As for the DIY banana/coconut milk conditioner blend a banana with a bit of water and strain then add a bit of coconut milk. No specific measurements just create the consistency that you like and make sure to strain out any banana bits.

      As for my hair goals, I cut my hair into a short do this spring after growing my hair to BSL-MBL which you can kind of see here. I wanted a change and decided to enjoy my hair to the fullest. My hair is now APL. Still deciding if I want to grow it out again.

      Best wishes!

      Reply
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I met a woman the other day who openly shared some I met a woman the other day who openly shared some of her challenges with motherhood.  Motherhood is intensely challenging, beyond humbling, and at times you just want the day to be over then realizing that you’ll be back at it the next day.  It never ends and there isn’t much reprive.  It’s been on my heart to share some encouragement to any mother who will read this.  I pray this will bless you in some way.  The link is in my profile!
🌻 #motherhood #encouragement #humility #minimalistbeauty
Fenugreek seeds, also called methi seeds, have a m Fenugreek seeds, also called methi seeds, have a multitude of medicinal properties along with being a prominent spice in many cultural dishes.  For starters, fenugreek seeds are packed with protein for strengthening strands, mucilage for moisturizing and soothing the scalp while detangling the hair, and most importantly nicotinic acid which may minimize hair shedding while soothing scalp issues.  Fenugreek seeds are also anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal which is beneficial for soothing a dry irritated scalp as well as high in iron. 🍂

These little seeds are a win win for natural hair care and can be used in various ways.  I’ve used fenugreek seeds in my beauty regimen on and off for years.  Today I wanted to share four easy ways you can incorporate fenugreek in your hair regimen to promote healthy hair growth.  The link is in the profile. 🍂

#diyhaircare #naturalhair #minimalistbeauty #sponsored @mountainroseherbs
God is so good! We move on FRIDAY. This picture God is so good!  We move on FRIDAY.  This picture was taken before they removed the bricking which was VERY NOISY to say the least.  We haven’t been completely able to avoid the beginning of the construction process, but I honestly think it’s a good thing.  This way we can remain GRATEFUL throughout the entire process.  GRATITUDE during LIFE’S IMPERFECTION develops CONTENTMENT.  That is one thing I work on daily.  If you missed our “We’re Moving Again” testimony it’s on the blog. 🌿🍁🍃

 #testimony #sharewhatisgood #godisgood #godisfaithful #godmakesaway #minimalistbeauty #simpleliving
Friday mornings are my busiest mornings of the wee Friday mornings are my busiest mornings of the week.  I make muffins for Saturday’s breakfast (either corn bread, pumpkin, or banana bread muffins) to have with fruit, a big crockpot dinner for the weekend (beans & rice bowls, lentils and sweet potato stews, or a big veggie and red potato stew) to serve with bread, tortillas, grains, and/or salad depending on the dish, and I’m usually putting orders together to go out for @iamazuha today too.  All the while I’m also making other food for the day. 🍂🥧🍁

Friday’s are crazy because of the usual responsibilities, but mainly because I really want to relax a bit over the weekend.  Over this past year I’ve worked really hard to create systems to make working from home and being a homemaker easier.  Homemaking really is like running a small boutique bed and breakfast hotel.  It takes planning ahead, having a solid system, financial planning, commitment, and a lot of love.  I’ve been learning to really enjoy this process.  Just like everybody else I’ve been baking more this year than ever.  Very rewarding. 🍂🥧🍁

Wishing all of you a beautiful and blessed weekend! 
💞Dawn Michelle
We’re MOVING again! With everything going on wi We’re MOVING again!  With everything going on with the world wide pandemic, I’m seeing the importance of sharing anything good that the Lord is doing in your life with others.  We need HOPE.  We need to share the JOY of walking with God.  The testimonies of glorifying God would just add encouragement that I know I need.  I LOVE hearing of God making ways out of no way, giving us more hope and FAITH. 🌿🍂🍃

I was initially praying to God for ways to endure what we were about to go through while somehow someway making it nice for my family during the process.  But God was already orchestrating a new way for us to not even have to endure it at all.  Read my testimony on Minimalist Beauty... (link in profile) 🌿🍂🍃

If God has done ANYTHING in your life no matter how small PLEASE share it in the comments below.  We all need to hear what’s good!  The news shares otherwise, but we can create a space here of good testimonies.  Please share below and I pray you are having a blessed day. 🌿🍂🍃

Much love!
#testimony #sharewhatsgood #godisgood #godisfaithful #godmakesaway #minimalistbeauty #simpleliving
We could all use an IMMUNE BOOST right now.  Here’s a simple juice recipe that I make for just that.  I call it SPICY APPLE JUICE and my three (almost four) year old drinks it up no problem! 🍎 

I simply juice 2 WHOLE medium/large APPLES (3 small apples pictured) + 3 CLOVES of GARLIC in a slow masticating juicer for one immune boosting serving.  Yes I do include the core as it has many health benefits. 🍎 

After having my 1st official winter back on the east coast last year, RAW GARLIC was how I made it through without getting sick at all while caring for sick family members. 🍎 

Since then I juice garlic in many of my juice recipes or mince up multiple cloves as dinner toppings for chickpea pasta, beans and rice bowls, and stews.  What I LOVE most of all is hearing my son say, “More Juice?” Proud Mama!!!! 🍎

#immuneboost #juicing #juicerecipe #simplenutrition #healthyliving #minimalistbeauty #minimalistbeautyeats
I started wearing linen clothing because it’s ex I started wearing linen clothing because it’s extremely practical.  Linen is one of the most environmentally friendly fabrics on the market.  Linen is also considered the world’s strongest natural fabric.  After tiring of purchasing new clothing every season for my heavily worn small capsule wardrobe, it just made sense to look for mid and heavy weight linen garments that could be worn year round and layered that actually lasted. 
🍃

Linen clothing can last up to 2-3 decades if properly cared for.  I’ve made some mistakes along the way, but have finally found a simple method for caring for my linen garments. (Link in profile.)
🍃
#linenlover #minimalistbeauty #sponsored @mountainroseherbs
I stopped using henna, I tossed my comb and brush, I stopped using henna, I tossed my comb and brush, I wear hair buns 95% of the time, and my hair care routine only got simpler with only two “products”. All the details plus why I really cut my hair last spring on the blog.  Much love!  #minimalistbeauty #curlyhairroutine #naturalhaircare

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