DIY Micellar Water for Hair & Scalp (And Yes, Your Face Too)
If you love the idea of micellar water for cleansing your skin, you’re going to love it for your hair and scalp. Micellar water is made up of tiny oil molecules (micelles) suspended in water, which attract dirt, oil, and buildup without stripping your skin or hair of its natural moisture. While store bought versions exist, many of them contain preservatives or synthetic ingredients that aren’t exactly scalp friendly. So why not make your own?
This DIY micellar water is perfect for refreshing your scalp between washes, gently cleansing the roots, and even acting as a light detangler for your strands. And the best part? It’s gentle enough to use on your face, too.
Why Use Micellar Water for Your Hair?
If you’re someone who stretches out wash days, deals with scalp buildup, or wants a lighter way to refresh your roots, micellar water is a game changer. It gently lifts oil and product buildup without over drying, making it perfect for curly, textured, fine, or easily irritated scalps.
It’s especially great for:
✔️ Dry or sensitive scalps that get irritated by traditional shampoos
✔️ Oily hair types looking for a light refresh without full on washing
✔️ Curly or textured hair that doesn’t need frequent shampooing but still craves freshness
✔️ Post-workout hair that needs a quick cleanse without the commitment of wash day
And since this formula is free from harsh sulfates, it won’t leave your scalp feeling tight or over-cleansed.
DIY Micellar Water for Hair & Face
What You’ll Need:
1 cup distilled water – Purified for a clean, fresh base
1 tbsp alcohol-free witch hazel – Gently removes excess oil and soothes the scalp
1 tbsp organic aloe vera juice (inner fillet) – Hydrates and calms irritation
½ tsp mild surfactant (baby shampoo or coco glucoside) – Helps lift dirt and oil
½ tsp lightweight oil – Nourishes without weighing hair down
5 drops essential oil (optional) – Rosemary or peppermint for scalp stimulation
Choosing the Right Oil for Your Hair & Skin Type:
If you don’t have jojoba or argan oil, here are some swaps based on your needs:
For oily or fine hair: Grapeseed oil, sweet almond oil, or plant-derived squalane
For dry or curly hair: Avocado oil, baobab oil, or macadamia oil
For scalp-stimulating benefits: Pumpkin seed oil, black seed oil, or rosehip oil
How to Use It
For Your Hair & Scalp:
As a scalp refresher: Soak a cotton pad and gently press it onto your roots and scalp. No need to rinse.
As a pre-wash treatment: Massage into your scalp 5–10 minutes before shampooing to help lift buildup.
As a detangler: Lightly mist onto damp hair before brushing to add slip and hydration.
For Your Face:
As a gentle cleanser: Apply with a cotton pad or reusable facial round to remove dirt and excess oil.
As a makeup remover: Gently sweep across your face to break down light makeup.
As a skin refresher: Store it in the fridge and use it as a cooling mist throughout the day.
A Smarter Clean
Micellar water isn’t just for your face, it can be a hair care staple, too. This DIY version keeps it clean and customizable so you know exactly what’s going on your skin and scalp. Whether you’re looking for a lighter alternative to shampoo, a way to refresh between washes, or a multi-use product that works for both your hair and skin, this is one to keep in your beauty lineup.
Want more holistic, no BS beauty tips? Pretty Skin Bitch is all about rethinking routines in a way that works for you. Let’s keep it real, intentional, and free from unnecessary fluff.
