If you’ve been with me for a while, you know I’m all about simple, from-scratch living. That doesn’t stop in the kitchen—it carries right into the shower, too. Over the years, I’ve experimented with all sorts of homemade haircare recipes. Some were fails (oh, the grease!), but others? Total keepers.
Made with just five nourishing ingredients, it’s lightweight, easy to make, and smells so calming thanks to a chamomile and rosemary infusion. If your hair needs a little TLC without the heaviness of commercial conditioners—or if you’re trying to simplify your routine—this recipe’s for you. And bonus? You probably have most of the ingredients already.
This DIY conditioner is one of the keepers.
Why Make Your Own Conditioner?
Like most things I make, this started with curiosity… and a little desperation. I wanted something gentle for my scalp and hair (hello, eczema), and I didn’t love how many conditioners out there were packed with junk I couldn’t pronounce.
This version keeps it clean and uncomplicated. It’s a wash-out conditioner, which means no heavy buildup. Just shine, softness, and a dose of herbal goodness.
DIY CONDITIONER RECIPE
Supplies/Ingredients
- 5 grams dried chamomile flowers (organic and sustainably sourced like this)
- 3 grams dried rosemary leaves (organic and sustainably sourced like this)
- 1½ cups boiling water
- 1 Tbs almond oil (organic, unrefined almond oil like this or another carrier oil)
- 1 Tbs honey (raw, unfiltered honey)
LEARN MORE!
🌼 Chamomile is calming for your scalp and hair, while rosemary helps stimulate and strengthen.
🍯 Honey acts as a humectant, helping hair retain moisture.
💧 Oil adds softness and shine without weighing your hair down.
How To Make DIY Conditioner
- Make your infusion:
In a heat-safe bowl, pour 1½ cups of boiling water over your dried chamomile and rosemary. Let it steep for about 20 minutes. (This is the perfect time to finish your coffee, start a load of laundry, or take a breather.) - Strain your tea:
Use cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer to remove the herbs, giving them a gentle squeeze to extract all that goodness. You should end up with about 1 cup of herbal infusion. - Mix it up:
Stir in the almond oil and honey until well combined. Transfer to a squeeze bottle or repurposed plastic container (trust me—glass + shower floor = nope). - Store:
Keep it in the fridge and give it a good shake before each use. Since there are no preservatives, try to use it within 2 weeks.
How To Use Your DIY Conditioner
After shampooing, pour about 1 tablespoon into your hands and work it into your hair, focusing on the ends. Leave it on for a minute or two, then rinse well. It may not feel slippery like conventional conditioners, but give it a couple uses—your hair will soften and thank you.
A Few Notes:
- This conditioner is super gentle, so it’s great for kids, too.
- Try different carrier oils if almond doesn’t work for you (jojoba and argan are both lovely alternatives).
Oh, you want a DIY shampoo recipe, too? Ookaay...
xo,
Comments 11
Can I use tea bags instead of chamomile flowers? And jojoba instead of almond oil?
Author
Yes to both!
Conventional conditioners are harsh and natural ones are generally rough on my wavy long hair so I can’t wait to try this one!
I have extremely thin baby fine hair. I usually don’t use conditioner, as it tends to weigh my hair down. Would you say this homemade conditioner is lightweight or heavier?
Author
Great question! This is actually quite light. If you give it a go please let us know.
Can this also be frozen to increase length of storage time? I only have 2 people who will be using it.
Author
Hi Kelli! Yes, definitely! You could use an ice cube tray and melt them as you use them. If you give it a go, let us know how it works for you!
For those of us who are always running low on time and like to make things in large batches — is this something that could potentially be stored frozen as then thawed until it is ready to be used?
Yes! You can freeze it in ice cube trays and pop one out when you need to use it!
How long should you leave this conditioner in? Is this a leave in conditioner or wash-out, I think you mentioned wash-out, just wanted to confirm. Thank you! 🙂
You’re right! This is a wash-out conditioner 😊