This balancing scalp gel can be used as a mask to rehydrate and condition the scalp and hair.

Inulin, panthenol and hyalruonic acid act as hydrating and balancing agents, along with some hydrolyzed protein for conditioning. If you use Irish moss as a water replacement, it has additional minerals and vitamins which are fantastic for hair; or you could use a different herbal infusion - see here for botanicals that are good for the hair and scalp.

Ingredients:

• 10% propanediol or Vegetable Glycerine
• 1% xanthan gum
• 69% water (warm water is best), or you can use aloe vera gel, or even better: a herbal infusion or Irish moss gel
• 3% inulin
• 10% OliveM 300
• 2% hydrolyzed protein and/or keratin
• 1% panthenol
• 3% hyaluronic acid
• 1% Geogard 221
• Optional: a few drops of your favourite essential oil

Tools:

• Beakers
• pH test strips or pH meter
• Spatula/spoon

Method:

1. In a beaker combine the xanthan gum and inulin together with the propanediol / vegetable glycerine. Blend together to create a slurry then add in the water or water replacement and mix gently by hand until a smooth gel is formed.
2. Add in the rest of the ingredients one by one. You can blend them in by hand stirring but I use a stick blender because it's quicker.
3. If you want to add a few drops of essential oils to your gel you can.
4. Test the pH to around 5.

How to use:

Apply to damp hair and scalp, and massage in well. Allow to sit for 5-10 minutes, then shampoo your hair to wash out, or if your hair isn't dirty you can simply rinse it out with out shampooing.

You can also leave it in as a mask for a few hours or even overnight, and then rinse out in the morning.

Follow up with conditioner and a hair/scalp serum if desired.