I Used Beer To Wash Hair And Here’s What I Found: 3 Benefits, Beer Rinse Recipes and More

Leah LOVES hair. So much so, she dedicated an entire website to it! One of the founders of Hair Everyday and Chief Editor, Leah enjoys reviewing all the hair products and showcasing the best. She believes her most underrated articles are her hair care tips!

I used beer to wash hair for 3 whole weeks and I’ve elaborated how it benefits hair, what are the side effects, how to use it best and more.

I never thought I would be one to experiment with unconventional hair washing methods, but after stumbling upon some articles about using beer as a hair rinse, I decided to give it a try. As a beer lover, I was intrigued by the idea of incorporating it into my beauty routine. After all, beer is made from natural ingredients like hops and barley, so it couldn’t be that bad for my hair, right?

So, I cracked open a cold one and poured it over my head in the shower, being careful not to get any in my eyes. I was surprised at how soft and shiny my hair felt after just one use. It also seemed to add some volume and bounce to my normally flat hair. Intrigued, I continued to use beer as a hair rinse for a few weeks to see if the results would last.

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Why You Should Use Beer To Wash Hair

pH Levels and Hair Health

As a stylist, I was always on the lookout for new and innovative ways to care for my hair. One surprising discovery I made was the use of beer as a hair care treatment. It may seem strange, but beer has been used for centuries to promote healthy and shiny hair.

One of the reasons beer is effective for hair care is due to its pH level. The pH level of beer is around 4.5, which is slightly acidic. This acidity helps to balance the pH level of the scalp, which is typically around 5.5. When the scalp’s pH level is balanced, it can help prevent issues like dandruff and dryness, which can lead to hair breakage.

Natural Ingredients in Beer

In addition to its pH level, beer also contains natural ingredients that are beneficial for hair health. For example, beer contains hops, which are rich in antioxidants and can help strengthen hair. (Chen, W et al. “Beer and beer compounds: physiological effects on skin health.” Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology : JEADV vol. 28,2 (2014): 142-50. doi:10.1111/jdv.12204)

Hops also contain amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein. Protein is essential for healthy hair growth and can help repair damaged hair.

Beer also contains malt, which is rich in vitamins and minerals like B vitamins, iron, and magnesium. These nutrients can help nourish the hair and promote healthy growth. Additionally, the yeast in beer can help to remove excess oil and dirt from the scalp, leaving hair feeling clean and refreshed.

Okay guys so basically, the science behind beer for hair care is based on its pH level and natural ingredients. Yes, yes while I agree that more research is needed to fully understand the benefits of beer for hair health, many people have found success using beer as a hair care treatment.

As with any new hair care regimen, it’s important to test a small area first and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.

How To Use Beer To Wash Hair

Choosing the Right Beer

When it comes to using beer to wash your hair, it’s important to choose the right type of beer. You want to choose a beer that is flat and has no carbonation. Ales and lagers work best, and it’s best to avoid dark beers as they can stain your hair. You can also choose a beer based on its scent, as some beers have a more pleasant fragrance than others.

Preparation and Application

To use beer as a hair wash, start by pouring the beer into a container and letting it sit out for a few hours to go flat. Then, shampoo your hair as you normally would. After rinsing out the shampoo, pour the beer over your hair and massage it into your scalp. Be sure to cover all of your hair, from the roots to the tips. Let the beer sit on your hair for a few minutes before rinsing it out.

Rinsing and Conditioning

After rinsing out the beer, follow up with a conditioner to help detangle your hair and add moisture. You can also rinse your hair with water mixed with a few drops of apple cider vinegar to help remove any remaining beer scent. Once you’ve rinsed out the conditioner, style your hair as you normally would.

Using beer to wash your hair can help add volume and shine, and it’s a natural alternative to traditional hair care products. However, it’s important to note that while beer can be beneficial for your hair, it’s not a substitute for regular hair care practices. Be sure to continue using shampoo and conditioner as needed to keep your hair healthy and clean.

benefits of beer for hair — Source: Instagram@kritica_I

Benefits of Beer Hair Wash

As someone who has used beer to wash my hair, I can confidently say that there are several benefits to this unconventional hair care method. Here are some of the benefits that I have experienced:

1. Adds shine and volume

Beer contains proteins that can help strengthen hair and add shine. The carbonation in beer can also add volume to hair, making it look fuller and thicker.

2. Helps with dandruff and itchy scalp

The yeast in beer contains vitamins and minerals that can help nourish the scalp and reduce dandruff and itchiness. The acidity in beer can also help balance the pH level of the scalp, which can further reduce dandruff and itchiness.

3. Natural alternative to chemical-laden hair products

Using beer to wash your hair is a natural alternative to chemical-laden hair products. It is free of sulfates and parabens, which can strip the hair of its natural oils and cause damage in the long run.

4. Cost-effective

Beer is a cost-effective hair care option. You can use any type of beer, including cheap beer, to wash your hair. This makes it an affordable option for those on a budget.

Overall, using beer to wash your hair can provide several benefits. It can add shine and volume, help with dandruff and itchy scalp, serve as a natural alternative to chemical-laden hair products, and be a cost-effective option.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While using beer to wash hair may have some benefits, there are also some potential drawbacks and considerations to keep in mind.

Firstly, beer can be quite drying for the hair. This is because it contains alcohol, which can strip the hair of its natural oils. As a result, it is important to use a conditioner after washing your hair with beer to help restore moisture.

Additionally, beer has a strong odor that may not be appealing to everyone. While the smell may dissipate after a few hours, it can still be a concern for those who are sensitive to strong scents.

It is also important to note that not all types of beer are created equal. Some beers may contain additives or preservatives that could be harmful to the hair. It is recommended to use a natural, organic beer without any added ingredients for best results.

Lastly, it is important to remember that using beer to wash hair should not replace regular shampooing. While it can be a fun and unique way to cleanse the hair, it should not be relied upon as the sole method of hair care.

Overall, while using beer to wash hair can have some benefits, it is important to consider the potential drawbacks and use it in moderation as part of a well-rounded hair care routine.

FAQs About Beer Hair Wash

After sharing my experience of using beer to wash my hair, I received a lot of questions from curious readers. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions:

Q: Can I use any type of beer for hair wash?

A: Yes, you can use any type of beer for hair wash, but it is recommended to use a beer that is low in alcohol content and has no added chemicals or preservatives. Light beers or pale ales work well for this purpose.

Q: How often should I use beer to wash my hair?

A: It is recommended to use beer as a hair wash once a week. Using it more frequently may dry out your hair and scalp.

Q: Will my hair smell like beer after using it?

A: No, your hair will not smell like beer after using it. The beer smell fades away once your hair dries.

Q: Can I use beer to wash colored hair?

A: Yes, you can use beer to wash colored hair, but it is recommended to do a patch test first to ensure that the beer does not affect the color of your hair.

Q: Does beer really make hair shinier?

A: Yes, beer can make your hair shinier. The proteins and vitamins in beer can help to repair hair damage and add shine to your locks.

Conclusion

In conclusion, my experiment using beer to wash my hair was an interesting experience. While I did not notice any significant improvement in the texture or overall health of my hair, it did leave a pleasant scent.

I would recommend using beer as a hair rinse for those who are looking for a natural alternative to traditional hair care products. However, it is important to note that beer may not work for everyone and it is best to do a patch test before applying it to your entire head.

So to sum all things up, I found that beer can be a fun and unique addition to your hair care routine, but it should not be relied upon as a sole method for maintaining healthy hair. As with any hair care product, it is important to find what works best for your individual hair type and needs.