Limited Time Offer 40% off The Touselled Wavy Hair Routine. Use code: Wavy-Girlie
DIY Clarifying Egg & Vinegar Protein Hair Rinse
DIY HAIRCARE
This simple, 3-ingredient treatment acts as a protein boost and clarifying rinse in one. It strengthens the hair shaft with egg protein while the vinegar removes dulling buildup, leaving hair stronger, shinier, and exceptionally clean.
Serves
• Grams: approx. 93 g • Ounces: approx. 3.3 oz • People: 1 person
Difficulty
Easy
Prep time
5 minutes
total time
20 minutes
IN THIS RECIPE
Recipe at a glance
Contains Eggs. This recipe is for external use only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Do a patch test first. Avoid if you have an egg allergy.
Dislacimer
diet & lifestyle
requirements
• Not applicable
Is this recipe for you?
This rinse is ideal for those with normal to oily hair, or hair that looks dull and weighed down from product buildup. It's a great "reset" treatment for your hair.
Recipe is best for hair type
Excellent for oily hair (Type 1) or wavy hair (Type 2) that gets weighed down easily. Use with caution on very dry or coarse hair, as protein treatments can sometimes increase brittleness if hair lacks moisture.
Dull hair, Product buildup, Oily scalp, Weak hair, Lack of shine.
INGREDIENTs highlight
This rinse helps with conditioning.
How this recipe works
This treatment provides a dual action. The proteins in the egg bind to the hair, temporarily filling in gaps and weak spots in the cuticle to add strength. The apple cider vinegar works by dissolving buildup from styling products and hard water. This clarifies the hair shaft, allowing it to reflect more light, and its acidity helps to seal the cuticle flat, resulting in significant shine.
caution: before you begin
CRITICAL: USE COOL WATER FOR RINSING. Hot water will scramble the egg, making it extremely difficult to get out of your hair. This recipe contains raw egg. Use fresh ingredients and be mindful of potential contact with your mouth and eyes.
CAUTION: Allergens
Contains: Eggs.
Tools & UTENSILS
what you will need
• Egg: The entire egg provides protein to fortify the hair strands and add structure. • Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV): Its acetic acid content helps to strip away product and mineral buildup. It also smooths the hair cuticle, which dramatically increases shine. • Vegetable Oil: Adds a light touch of moisture to counteract the clarifying effects.
ingredients
• Egg • Apple cider vinegar • Vegetable oil
• 1 whole egg • 15 g / 0.5 oz • 28 g / 1 oz
how to make it
1. Combine Ingredients: In a non-metal bowl, whisk the egg, apple cider vinegar, and vegetable oil together until well combined. DO NOT HEAT THE MIXTURE. 2. Apply: Massage the mixture into dry or damp hair, focusing on the scalp and roots, and working down to the ends. 3. Steam: Cover your hair with a shower cap. For an enhanced treatment, steam your hair by wrapping a hot, damp towel around the cap for 15 minutes. Alternatively, sit under a hooded steamer. 4. Shampoo & Rinse: Shampoo your hair thoroughly to remove the mixture. Rinse well with COOL or LUKEWARM WATER to avoid cooking the egg.
Pro-tip
Oil Choice: You can use olive oil, melted coconut oil, or jojoba oil instead of a generic vegetable oil. Less Protein: For a lighter treatment, use only the egg yolk. For a protein-free clarifying rinse, omit the egg entirely.
a quick note
How to store it
Use immediately. This mixture cannot be stored.
budget
One of the most affordable hair treatments you can make. It utilizes three very common and inexpensive kitchen staples.
Frequently asked questions
Dislacimer
Dislacimer
Why shouldn't I use a metal bowl?
Vinegar is acidic and can react with some metals, like aluminum or copper, which can potentially leach into your mixture. It's always safest to use glass, ceramic, or plastic bowls when working with vinegar.
Dislacimer
What does steaming my hair actually do?
Steaming uses moist heat to gently lift the hair's outer cuticle layer. This allows the beneficial ingredients from the conditioner to penetrate the hair shaft more deeply and effectively.
Dislacimer
Will my hair smell like vinegar or egg?
The smell should wash out completely once you shampoo your hair. The apple cider vinegar scent dissipates very quickly once it's rinsed and your hair is dry.
Dislacimer
How often can I do this treatment?
Because it contains protein, it should be used in moderation. Once or twice a month is sufficient for most people. Overusing protein treatments can lead to protein overload, making hair feel brittle.
Ask a question
Have a burning question about hair care? Submit your query, and our experts will provide the answers you seek.
Share a tip!
We love to hear from you. If you have a burning tip you are eager to share with our community just reach out to us!
Meet our expert
Madeleine
Director
Madeleine is an expert hair stylist dedicated to the art and science of hair care. Her work empowers individuals to understand and embrace their hair's true potential, transforming routine care into a ritual of natural beauty.