This is one of the biggest debates in the haircare world: should you go for homemade (DIY) treatments or rely on store-bought products? Some people swear by their natural recipes, while others trust the science behind professional formulations.
As a trichologist, I get this question a lot: “Which one is better for my hair?” Let’s talk about it with balance, science, and real-life experience.
1. What Are DIY Hair Products?
DIY (Do It Yourself) hair care includes all those homemade mixtures—avocado masks, coconut oil blends, aloe vera gels, whipped shea butter, and so on.
The idea behind DIY is great: using simple, natural ingredients to take control of what goes on your hair, while avoiding harsh chemicals and customizing your routine.
2. What About Store-Bought Products?
Store-bought products are professional formulations created by cosmetic chemists and tested for safety, stability, and effectiveness.
They often include carefully measured active ingredients—like hydrolyzed proteins, humectants, emollients, and conditioning agents—that are designed to target specific hair needs.
3. Pros and Cons of Each Option
| Aspect | DIY | Store-Bought Products |
|---|---|---|
| Accessibility | Easy to make with common ingredients | Easy to buy, no prep required |
| Price | Usually cheaper if you already have ingredients | Varies by brand, but more consistent results |
| Convenience | Time-consuming to prepare and store | Ready to use anytime |
| Durability | Short shelf life, especially without preservatives | Long-lasting and stable formulas |
| Hair Health | Natural but can be unbalanced or too strong | Scientifically balanced and pH-adjusted |
4. The Science Behind Store-Bought Formulas
Afro-textured hair has a rich, complex structure and specific moisture needs. It’s not just about being “dry” or “fragile” — it’s about understanding how your curls retain and respond to hydration, strength, and care.
Store-bought formulas are designed with that in mind. They often include humectants like glycerin, panthenol, or aloe vera to help retain moisture, and hydrolyzed proteins to strengthen the hair fiber.
These products are also pH-balanced and microbiologically safe, ensuring long-term benefits without compromising scalp health.
5. The Risks of DIY Hair Care
Homemade products can be wonderful, but they come with real risks.
Mixing ingredients without knowing their pH, concentration, or compatibility can damage the scalp or disrupt the hair’s natural balance.
Improperly stored DIY products can develop bacteria or mold — and once applied to the scalp, that can cause irritation or even infection.
So, it’s not that natural ingredients are bad, but formulation matters.
6. The Search for Healthier Formulas
Thankfully, more and more brands are stepping up to create cleaner products — free from heavy silicones, harsh sulfates, or unnecessary fillers.
Many companies now blend natural extracts with scientifically tested actives, giving us the best of both worlds: nature + science working together.
7. My Trichologist Opinion
I don’t reject DIY completely — it can have its place in a healthy routine. But everything depends on your hair condition, scalp health, and lifestyle.
Personally, I use fewer DIY recipes than before because I appreciate the precision and safety of well-formulated products. Still, combining both approaches can work beautifully when done with understanding.
What matters most is knowing what your hair truly needs, not just following what’s trending.
💬 Want Personalized Hair Guidance?
I offer a 60-minute Hair Consultation on Zoom, no matter where you are in the world.
During this session, we’ll analyze your scalp, routine, and hair goals together so you can build a healthy, effective, and lasting hair care strategy.
📩 To book your session, simply email me at oliwillafro@gmail.com