I tend to use very simple ingredients and homemade items in my skincare and haircare. This is more affordable and higher quality imo. For example, I make my own makeup remover with whipped rose water, beeswax and almond oil instead of buying a product with tons of ingredients. I also make my own herbal oils instead of using facial moisturizers. Same goes for haircare in the ways I am able. I used to use make a shikakai paste to wash my hair when it was shorter. Now I really need more conventional shampoo and conditioner for detangling. (I'm using the Simple Truth brand tea tree shampoo and coconut oil conditioner at present) I still only use plain castor oil instead of hair masks because it seems to work just as well or better than the formulas I've tried from the store.

I'm curious what thoughts the long hair community may have about product formulas and if they're really better than simple recipes or single ingredients you can make yourself?