I gave my haircare routine a complete natural makeover

From my skin to my hair, it sometimes feels like I’m fighting off dehydration like my life depends on it. Hence why I’m such a sucker for hydrating formulas. 

So, when the opportunity arose to try Sukin’s Natural Balance Scalp Scrub, Shampoo and Conditioner, as well as the Sukin Hydrating Replenishing Hair Masque as a part of their #10washchallenge, I knew my parched scalp and ends would appreciate the extra love. 

Now, in all honesty I’m not necessarily one to reach for natural options. But I do love sulphate-free shampoos and silicone-free conditioners, so I thought the foray into all-natural  hair territory might prove to be eye-openingly enjoyable, and boy was I right. Here’s what I thought about making the switch to natural with Sukin:

First things first, let’s talk about this scalp-scrub

Admittedly, I’m not a regular scalp-scrubber but I’m aware of the benefits such as improved circulation, improved hair growth and the minimisation of pesky product build-up and dandruff. I was pleasantly surprised by the entire experience; the gentle but exfoliating formula left my scalp feeling purified and gave me an excuse to give myself a very satisfying head massage mid-shower routine. The refreshing scent of peppermint and ginger was an added aromatherapeutic bonus – it’s a thumbs up from me.

Next up: a balancing shampoo that my scalp loved

Shampoo is one of those things that should be a simple and straightforward selection. But one wrong step in choosing your cleansing formulation could mean the difference between a bad bout of dandruff and pageant-worthy tresses. Sukin’s Natural Balance Shampoo ticked a lot of boxes for me: it cleansed my hair thoroughly so I didn’t have to worry about styling products polluting my precious scalp with build-up, plus, it was gentle enough that it didn’t dry my hair out after washing it. Though it was a little bit more drying than my regular shampoo, this was quickly amended by the conditioner and mask portions of my new routine.

Not too drying, not too heavy: introducing my goldilocks conditioner

I have wavy hair and so while I need a bit more moisture in my hair regimen to define my waves than your average straight-haired individual, I’m also not in the business of overloading my strands with products that leave my hair feeling oily and weighed down. This conditioner strikes the perfect balance, delivering shiny soft tendrils and hair that has a serious bounce to it. Plus, it helped to revitalise my strands after cleansing my hair with the shampoo. 

Saving the best for last: a hydrating masque

I love a hydrating hair mask. I’ve even been known to switch out traditional conditioners in lieu of the more moisturising option during the colder months when the harsh winter climate lays waste to my hair. So, I suppose in a way my review is somewhat biased because I enjoyed every second of the speedy 3-minute application time. And with a formula ingredient list that includes nourishing shea butter, cocoa butter, coconut oil and vitamin E, it’s no wonder my hair was eating this stuff up.

All in all? Natural’s a winner

I was somewhat ambivalent about natural hair care prior to this #10washchallenge but I have to say after testing it out for myself I am a self-confessed convert to the cult of natural beauty. From soft, defined waves to a healthy and hydrated scalp, all my hair care needs are being met - the fact that I’m using products that are good for me and the environment is kind of just like an added bonus.

Now to replenish the rest of our bodies... Here are the best treatment masks that aren't for your face.