How to Make a DIY Clay Hair Cleanse

Mix bentonite clay with apple cider vinegar and water to create a clarifying treatment that removes buildup without stripping natural oils.

1. Choose your clay base. Use bentonite or rhassoul clay for best results. Bentonite draws out impurities while rhassoul is gentler for sensitive scalps. Start with 2-3 tablespoons for shoulder-length hair.
2. Create the mixture. Combine clay with equal parts apple cider vinegar and filtered water in a non-metal bowl. Whisk until smooth and yogurt-like. The vinegar balances pH while the water prevents over-drying.
3. Apply to damp hair. Work the mixture through wet hair from roots to ends, focusing on the scalp where buildup accumulates. Avoid tugging—the clay should glide through easily.
4. Let it work. Leave on for 5-10 minutes maximum. Clay continues drawing out oils and residue during this time. Rinse thoroughly with cool water to prevent any clay residue.