Q: I can't stand the smell of Apple Cider Vinegar, so what should I use on my hair instead?

We know this because we're constantly chatting with you in The Solibar Society Facebook group. So we've decided to compile some of the feedback in the threads and list out all of the alternative acid rinses.

But before we begin, let's delve into what is an acid rinse and why you would want to put one on your hair. 

When making the switch to natural haircare you might experience a period of an oily, dense or waxy feeling. We, natural fellows, refer to it as the transition phase. It can be quite confronting and make your hair feel unwashed. It's completely normal and it is just a sign of product buildup on your scalp. By doing an acid rinse you will help to restore the pH balance on your scalp and remove prior product buildup, thus helping to transition quicker. It will leave your hair silky smooth and tangle free, it's even so good that you mightn't even require a conditioner. Acid rinses are also a must-do for those of us living with hard water (more alkaline) as they're able to balance the pH by dissolving the magnesium and calcium that binds to your hair from the water. 

Whilst acid rinses are a natural clarifier, they're not strong enough to remove all types of product buildup, in particular, silicones. Silicones are common in shampoos and conditioners, especially the ones that make your hair feel silky soft and smooth right from the get-go. Silicones can drastically change your experience with natural oils and might be the very reason why your hair is suffering a horrible transition. And not all silicones are born equal, some are harder to remove than others.  If you are using a product with silicones, we suggest going straight for a clarifying shampoo. There is some evidence to support bentonite clay (it's in our Appley Ever After Conditioner) and rhassoul clay might be strong enough to remove silicone, but it's largely untested. Go straight for a clarifying shampoo if this is you.

For those who have been using the silicone-free shampoo, and are still suffering from a little product buildup, here a list of acid rinses compiled by The Solibar Society member - Alice.

These ones will need to be diluted with water in the strength desired by you: 

• DWV (distilled white vinegar)
• citric acid (make sure you get citric, NOT asorbic acid - citric acid is also a water softener) 
• lemon juice
• kombucha
• raw apple juice
• orange juice 
• witch hazel (alcohol-free)
• amla tea 
• baking soda & vinegar mix

These ones you can use undiluted:

• black tea
• coffee
• hibiscus tea
• black tea with rooibos
• fermented rice water
• beer (can also be diluted)