DIY Natural Hair Gel: Chemical & Essential Oil Free
Chamomile, Lavender & Flax Seed Gel
An Essential-Oil-Free Gel for Hair & Skin
If you’re looking for a simple, plant-based alternative to conventional hair gels and skincare products, this chamomile, lavender, and flax seed gel is a beautiful place to start. Made entirely from whole herbs and seeds, this recipe offers moisture, gentle hold, and skin support without essential oils or synthetic additives.
Why Flax Seed?
Flax seeds are a powerhouse ingredient for both hair and skin. They are naturally rich in vitamin E, antioxidants, and fatty acids, and are known to support circulation to the scalp. When simmered in water, flax seeds release a naturally occurring gel that provides light hold, hydration, and nourishment without buildup.
This makes flax seed gel especially well-suited for curly and wavy hair, as well as sensitive or reactive skin.
The Role of Chamomile, Lavender & Marshmallow Root
Each herb in this blend brings its own supportive qualities:
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Chamomile helps soothe the scalp and skin while adding moisture and softness.
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Marshmallow root is deeply moisturizing and rich in mucilage, making it especially helpful for dry or irritated skin and hair.
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Lavender offers gentle antimicrobial and healing support, while contributing a soft, natural scent — without the need for essential oils.
Together, this combination creates a gel that is calming, nourishing, and subtly aromatic. Please note that you can use whichever herbs you like, whether for scent or medicinal preference, and you can also use only flax seeds with no additional herbs if desired.
Chamomile Lavender Flax Seed Gel Recipe
(Essential-Oil Free)
Ingredients
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¼ cup organic flax seeds
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1 tsp dried chamomile
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1 tsp dried lavender
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1 tsp dried marshmallow root
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2 cups water
Instructions
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Combine all ingredients with 2 cups of water in a glass jar or bowl.
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Cover and soak in the refrigerator overnight.
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The next day, transfer the mixture to a saucepan and simmer gently on the stovetop.
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Stir occasionally until the liquid thickens into a gel-like consistency, similar to a watery egg white.
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Remove from heat.
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Strain out the seeds and herbs. (It’s ideal to strain as soon as possible, as the longer it cools, the more viscous the mixture becomes. If allowed to cool completely, it may be difficult or impossible to strain. Use appropriate caution and safety measures.)
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Optional: add a small amount of vegetable glycerin or vitamin E oil for extra moisture and mild preservation.
Storage & Shelf Life
Store the gel in the refrigerator. It will keep for approximately 1–2 weeks when refrigerated.
To extend shelf life, we recommend storing about one ounce in the fridge and freezing the remainder in small, one-ounce portions. Thaw as needed for fresh use.
If desired, you can also add Liquid Germall Plus or a similar eco-friendly preservative to achieve room-temperature shelf stability. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper dilution.
How to Use
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For hair: Use in place of hair gel to add moisture, definition, and gentle hold to waves and curls.
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For skin: Apply as a hydrating, soothing, anti-aging face or neck mask.
Because this recipe is free from essential oils, it supports the skin’s natural microbiome and is especially well-suited for sensitive, reactive, or compromised skin.
A Gentle, Whole-Plant Approach
This flax seed gel reflects a slow, intentional approach to personal care that relies on whole herbs, simple preparation, and ingredients that work in harmony with the body. It’s a reminder that Mother Nature provides everything we need to make effective skin and hair care choices.