You already know your curls need certain things to stay healthy and strong.

While the matter of moisture is the most talked about topic in curly hair care, the need for a good sealer should also be a top priority. What good is all that moisture if you can’t lock it in? Even the best spray bottles can only do so much. With this easy and affordable recipe for a DIY sealer, get what you need with ingredients you most likely already have in your kitchen!

The word DIY in read across a background of shea butter and a West African figurine

iStock/Africa924

Go ahead and grab:

1/2 cup unrefined shea butter

Why?

Shea butter is a natural emollient which helps to leave strands soft and hydrated. It also gives the sealant a nice texture that is easy to work into your hair and scalp. Your curls are going to be… smooth like butter.

¼ cup aloe vera gel

Why?

Aloe vera helps to purify the scalp thanks to the antibacterial properties. It also works to coat the strands to help close the cuticle when combined with the other elements. This is the ingredient that’s going to keep your hair from losing the moisture you’ve already imparted!

2 tbsp grapeseed oil

Why?

This ingredient helps with consistency and texture while having the added benefit of being an oil that adds nourishment and extra slip. Oils naturally slick down the cuticle to help lock in moisture. This is a lightweight oil compared to some heavier options which means it won’t weigh your hair down in concert with the shea butter. If you’re dealing with winter dryness or extreme conditioning needs, you can step it up to a heavier oil like castor or avocado.

1 tsp pure honey

Why?

As a natural humectant, honey can help ward off frizz. It also adds a bit of softness to your strands. It’s just as sweet on your hair as it is in your cup of tea.

Directions

To get started with this DIY sealer, melt the shea butter until it is soft, but not liquid. You can stir, fold, and crush the butter as it melts down to get that consistency since the butter will liquify where it meets the double boiler. Next, whip the butter with a hand mixer to make it fluffy. Add in the grapeseed oil and honey to the butter. Continue whipping on low until everything’s nice and blended. Then, add in the aloe vera gel and whip again on low. From there, all you’ve got to do is decant with a silicone spatula to avoid leaving anything behind, and store in a covered container away from heat. Apply to your curls after washing or refreshing as needed.

While you could melt it all down and make a liquid sealer, it is much easier to apply in a fluffy form. It also means you will use less so you won’t go overboard with the sealer. You can also add in your favorite essential oils to the recipe to create a mixture that has your favorite scents, but remember to use a light hand.

Ready to whip things up?

Let us know how you do in the comments!

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