Create Your Own DIY Mane n Tail Shampoo for Stunning Hair

Introduction: Why Make Your Own Mane ‘n Tail Shampoo?

Have you ever wished for hair as strong, shiny, and healthy as a show horse? Mane ‘n Tail Shampoo has a legendary following, but did you know you can create an even better, healthier, and more customizable version at home using nourishing oils and pure essential oils? This detailed guide is here to walk first-timers—of any age—through the process step-by-step. Whether you want rapid hair growth, incredible shine, or a gentle family-safe formula, you’re in the right place!

Imagine achieving salon-quality results with your own DIY Mane n Tail Shampoo made from natural ingredients.

What This Recipe Is Good For

This DIY Mane n Tail Shampoo recipe offers benefits that cater to all hair types and needs.

Encourages hair growth (rosemary, castor oil, peppermint)
Strengthens hair, reduces breakage (jojoba, coconut oil)
Adds shine and softness
Soothes scalp issues like dandruff (tea tree oil)
Safe for family use and even pets

Shopping List (Buy Everything Below)

To start your journey, gather everything you need to create your own DIY Mane n Tail Shampoo.

You won’t need to guess or hunt—get these items for a successful shampoo project:

Dr. Bronner’s Unscented Castile Liquid Soap – 1 cup (8 oz)
Distilled Water – 1 cup (8 oz)
Fractionated Coconut Oil – 1 tablespoon
Jojoba Oil – 1 tablespoon
Vegetable Glycerin – 2 teaspoons
Witch Hazel (alcohol-free) – 2 teaspoons
Castor Oil – 1 teaspoon (for extra strength; optional but recommended)
Lavender Essential Oil – 20 drops
Peppermint Essential Oil – 15 drops
Rosemary Essential Oil – 15 drops
Tea Tree Essential Oil – 10 drops
Menthol Crystals – ¼ teaspoon (optional, for strong scalp tingle)
1 Large Measuring Cup (at least 17 oz)
Tablespoon and Teaspoon Measures
Small Whisk or Spoon
Small Funnel
16.9 oz Amber Plastic or Glass Pump Bottle (amber blocks sunlight, keeps shampoo fresh)
Small Glass Bowl (if using menthol crystals)
Sticky Label and Permanent Marker (for dating and naming)
Paper Towels (for easy cleanup)

Kitchen Tools Explained for Beginners

Measuring Cup: Looks like a small pitcher with numbers on the side. It helps you measure liquids accurately.
Measuring Spoons: Look like little spoons with numbers. Use them to measure small amounts of liquids.
Whisk: A wire kitchen tool that looks like a balloon. Use it to mix things together.
Funnel: Shaped like a cone; helps pour liquids into bottles without spilling.
Pump Bottle: A tall plastic or glass bottle with a pump on top—makes getting shampoo out easy!

Fun Facts About This Recipe

This blend uses oils and essential oils that have been studied for hair growth and scalp health.
Peppermint and rosemary create a spa-like tingle that wakes up your scalp!
You can use this shampoo for your hair and your dog’s fur!

Ingredient Benefits for the Body

Ingredient	Benefit
Dr. Bronner’s Soap	Cleanses gently, all-natural, no harmful chemicals
Coconut Oil	Moisturizes, reduces frizz, adds shine
Jojoba Oil	Balances scalp oil, strengthens roots
Castor Oil	Accelerates hair growth, thickens hair
Vegetable Glycerin	Draws moisture to hair, keeps it soft
Witch Hazel	Soothes scalp, reduces itchiness and oil
Lavender Oil	Promotes calm, supports growth, soothes scalp
Peppermint Oil	Stimulates follicles, improves blood flow
Rosemary Oil	Clinically proven for growth, thickens hair
Tea Tree Oil	Clears dandruff, antibacterial
Menthol Crystals	Adds powerful refreshing tingle, increases blood flow
Distilled Water	Dilutes formula, gentle on skin

Pros and Cons

Top Benefits of Using DIY Mane n Tail Shampoo

Pros	Cons
100% natural ingredients	Less lather than store shampoos
Customizable for all hair types	Needs gentle shaking each use
Cost effective—1 bottle lasts months	Essential oils may irritate sensitive skin
No sulfates, parabens, or silicones	Shelf life: about 6 months
Suitable for family and pets (except cats or infants)	Slightly more time to make than buying

How to Make DIY Mane ‘n Tail Shampoo (Step-by-Step for a True Beginner)

Follow these steps to master making your DIY Mane n Tail Shampoo.

1. Get Everything Ready

Find a clean table or counter.
Lay out your bottle, all ingredients, and tools.

2. Measure the Main Liquids

Pour 1 cup (8 oz) Dr. Bronner’s soap into the measuring cup.
Pour 1 cup (8 oz) distilled water into the measuring cup.

3. Add the Oils

With your tablespoon, measure and add 1 tablespoon coconut oil and 1 tablespoon jojoba oil.
With your teaspoon, measure and add 2 teaspoons vegetable glycerin, 2 teaspoons witch hazel, and 1 teaspoon castor oil.

4. Dissolve Menthol Crystals (Optional for Tingle)

Put ¼ teaspoon menthol crystals into the small glass bowl.
Add 1-2 teaspoons hot tap water and stir until melted.
Pour this into your mix.

5. Mix Thoroughly

Use whisk or spoon to stir for 1–2 minutes until everything looks blended.

6. Add Essential Oils

Count and add: 20 drops lavender, 15 drops peppermint, 15 drops rosemary, 10 drops tea tree oil.
Stir with whisk for 30 seconds.

7. Funnel Into Bottle

Put the funnel in the bottle top.
Slowly pour the shampoo mixture into your 16.9 oz bottle. (Go slowly so it doesn’t overflow!)
If there’s a tiny bit leftover, discard or use right away.

8. Label Your Bottle

Write “DIY Mane ‘n Tail Shampoo” and today’s date on your label.
Stick it on the bottle.

9. Storage

Store in the shower or a cool place, out of sunlight.

How to Use DIY Mane ‘n Tail Shampoo

Shake bottle gently before each use.
Pump a quarter-size amount into your hand.
Massage into wet hair and scalp for 2–3 minutes.
Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
Repeat if your hair is extra dirty or oily.

For pets, use less and avoid eyes and ears.

Variations and Professional Chef Tips

For Dry Hair: Add ½ tablespoon extra jojoba oil.
For Oily Hair: Reduce coconut oil by half.
For Dandruff: Increase tea tree oil to 15 drops.
For Sensitive Scalps: Skip peppermint/menthol and use more lavender.
To Make Like a Pro: Warm oils (not essential oils) in a mug of hot water before mixing—this helps them blend better.
Secret Chef Tip: After using, rinse your hair with 1 cup cool water + 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar for extra shine.

Frequently Asked Questions

With DIY Mane n Tail Shampoo, your hair will be healthier and shinier in no time!

Q1: How long does this shampoo last?
A: Up to 6 months if kept cool and out of direct sunlight.

Q2: Can I use this daily?
A: Yes! It’s gentle and safe for daily use.

Q3: Will this shampoo make my hair grow faster?
A: Ingredients like rosemary, peppermint, and castor oil are shown to encourage growth and thickness.

Q4: Does it work for curly, frizzy, or color-treated hair?
A: Absolutely! Just adjust the oils up or down to suit your needs.

Q5: Can kids and babies use it?
A: For kids over 5, yes. For babies or cats, skip the essential oils.

Helpful Table: Ingredient Overview

Ingredient	Purpose	Amount (for 16.9 oz)
Castile Soap	Cleanses, all-natural	1 cup (8 oz)
Distilled Water	Dilutes, gentle on scalp	1 cup (8 oz)
Fractionated Coconut Oil	Moisturizes, shine	1 tbsp
Jojoba Oil	Scalp health, strength	1 tbsp
Vegetable Glycerin	Softness, moisture	2 tsp
Witch Hazel	Soothe, reduce oil	2 tsp
Castor Oil	Hair growth	1 tsp
Lavender Essential Oil	Calming, growth	20 drops
Peppermint Essential Oil	Stimulates growth	15 drops
Rosemary Essential Oil	Promotes growth, thickness	15 drops
Tea Tree Essential Oil	Fights dandruff	10 drops
Menthol Crystals (optional)	Strong scalp tingle	¼ tsp

Conclusion

Making your own Mane ‘n Tail Shampoo at home is a game-changer for anyone seeking healthier, shinier, and stronger hair. With natural ingredients, nourishing oils, and scalp-boosting essential oils, you control what touches your hair and scalp — no harsh chemicals, no mystery fragrances, only pure goodness. This fun, beginner-proof recipe will have your family raving and your hair looking its absolute best. Enjoy your new mane and tail, and remember: your hair is your crown!

When creating DIY Mane n Tail Shampoo, you're in control of every component.

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