What's That Rash? No-poo: Why do we shampoo our hair?
Sep 30, 2025
Curious about the no-poo movement? Discover why some are ditching traditional shampoos for homemade alternatives. Dive into the fascinating history of shampoo, tracing its roots back to India. Learn about the intricate world of hair care, from scalp microbiome concerns to the real ingredients in your products. Plus, find out what happens to your hair when you cut out shampoo altogether. Is washing your hair even necessary? The hosts tackle these questions with a blend of science and humor.
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Shampoo Has Deep Historical Roots
- Shampooing has ancient roots and likely came to Europe from India, where the practice and word originated.
- Historical hygiene practices show hair cleansing evolved culturally long before commercial products existed.
Radio Host Tried No-Poo
- Richard Glover, a colleague, reportedly hasn't washed his hair for months as an example of no-poo in practice.
- The hosts use this as a relatable anecdote to introduce the trend and its real-life uptake.
Why People Choose 'No-Poo'
- The 'no-poo' movement rejects commercial shampoos for concerns about chemicals, the scalp microbiome and environmental microplastics.
- Motivations mix health, ecological caution, and distrust of product marketing.