Vodka Shampoo Is Trending, But Is It Worth The Hype?
Hair product trends come and go, but the latest one might double as an ingredient you can add to your next martini — vodka. As it turns out, this spirit is now being added to shampoo by some to give their luscious locks a boost. Pristine Vodka claims that vodka is perfect for fighting off dandruff, a common problem that many of us face, especially in the winter. This is because it has a balanced pH level (within the 6.0 and 7.0 pH range), as well as cleansing properties. Vodka can also supposedly help remove the buildup of dirt and oil on your hair, which is something less-frequent shampoo users might desire.
If you constantly deal with frizz, The Beauty Gypsy says that vodka might become your new favorite weapon. Because of its pH properties, it can help your hair's cuticles close and seal, ultimately reducing fizziness. Makeup & Beauty claims that using vodka in a homemade hair mask can also potentially enhance the shine of your locks.
With all of this being said, is any of it true? Could something you already have in your liquor cabinet be beneficial for the health and look of your hair? While it's true that some of vodka's properties — such as its pH level — can theoretically benefit your hair, it's worth separating fact from fiction before trying the vodka shampoo trend. Here is everything you need to know.
Is vodka shampoo worth trying?
If you're wondering if vodka shampoo is just the thing you need to give your hair a boost, it may be best to proceed with caution. American Liquor Company states that vodka is typically 40% alcohol, which in the most basic sense is ethanol. Ethanol can be drying, and when used on hair, it can strip it of its natural nutrients. If you already have brittle or frizzy hair, it might not be the best idea to try vodka shampoo. Additionally, there is little evidence that vodka itself is beneficial in terms of enhancing the shine of hair.
Writer Nickolaus Hines tried using vodka in his hair to review the trend for Thrillist and reported lackluster results. "The more days in a row I rinsed with vodka, the greasier my hair seemed to get," he noted in the publication. "It was a subtle, but noticeable, difference. My hair, which is painfully straight and can be fluffy, also lost any frizz and fell flatter on my head than normal. Vodka surprisingly didn't dry my scalp out or cause dandruff or itchiness, but it also didn't really do anything positive. The effects, in my experience, were minimal."
Although many beauty blogs are raving about using the spirit as a shampoo additive, this one might be worth sitting out, at least if you were expecting a miracle hair cure-all.
How to tackle your common hair problems
If you feel like you're constantly looking for the perfect way to maintain your mane, it may be best to address your specific problems. For example, if frizz is a frequent issue for you, Good Housekeeping recommends avoiding the use of hot water while washing your hair, as it can wreak havoc on your hair cuticles. Additionally, conditioning your locks regularly can help them retain moisture and combat frizz.
If dryness is a common problem, WebMD advises seeking the help of your stylist for a professional deep conditioning session. Going in for a regular trim to get rid of split ends doesn't hurt, either. Additionally, washing your hair less frequently — and using a mild shampoo when you do — can help your tresses stay hydrated.
If oily hair and that "dirty" feeling are issues for you, Healthline notes that you should avoid hair products with silicone. This ingredient is often touted for its smoothing, shine-enhancing properties, but it can build up on your locks over time. If your hair already struggles with the weight of oil and dirt, silicone should be avoided at all costs.
In general, understanding your most common hair problems can help you identify more effective ways to resolve them. While an easy fix might be tempting, such as vodka shampoo, it's always best to eye these trends skeptically, specifically until their supposed benefits can be proven.