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If Life Gives You Lemons, Make Eco-Friendly Hairspray

Store bought hairspray is made from dubious chemicals.

Josh Peterson

By Josh Peterson
Fayetteville, AR, USA | Wed Jun 17, 2009 06:30 AM ET

aerosol photo


Stephanie Horrocks/istockphoto

Are you funky-fresh, crazy-fly or some other hodgepodge of buzzwords from the 1990’s? Do you pop your collar? Does your hair extend skyward like Extra’s Mark McGrath? If you answered yes, then you may be someone who uses hairspray. Even if you answered no, you may still use hairspray. These questions weren't very fair.

Hair spray is composed of dubious chemicals. According to the Department of Health and Human Services there are several health risks to using hair spray.

Here are some highlights of health problems with hairspray:


  • High concentration of propellants may induce anesthesia or anoxia.
  • Pre-existing dermatitis would likely be made worse by exposure to these products.
  • Bronchitis may be aggravated by irritant vapors.
  • Flammable. Do not use near fire or flame.
  • Avoid spraying near eyes.
  • Keep out of reach of children.
  • Intentional misuse by deliberately concentrating and inhaling the contents can be harmful or fatal.

Disposal

These products are considered hazardous according to RCRA (D001). Additionally, disposal should be in accordance with all applicable Local, State and Federal Regulations.

Hairspray is some nasty stufff. Is there any way to get your hair looking "bossa nova" without damaging the environment or aggravating your dermatitis?

You can make your own hairspray from water and a lemon or an orange. You’ll save money by using fruit to make your hair stand on end, and you'll reduce waste. Simply compost away the packaging.

How to Make Eco-Friendly Hairspray from Lemons


  1. First, get yourself a lemon (or an orange.)
  2. Cut the lemon into wedges.
  3. Put the wedges into a pot with two cups of water.
  4. Boil until only ½ of the liquid is left.
  5. Let the mixture cool. Strain and pour into a spray bottle.
  6. The mixture will keep in the fridge for one week.

Troubleshooting


If mixture is too sticky, add water.

To make the hairspray last a week longer add a tablespoon of rubbing alcohol.

If the lemon hairspray causes dry hair, use an orange instead.

Source: About.com

More on Hair
Could You Breathe Better With Dirty Hair?
Fertilize Your Garden with Hair!
7 Green Beauty Uses for Apple Cider Vinegar
Go Green: Fashion & Beauty

Got a tip or a post idea for us to write about on Planet Green? Email pgtips (at) treehugger (dot) com.

 
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