When it comes to hair care, many people spend hundreds of dollars on salon treatments, chemical products, and luxury shampoos in the hope of achieving soft, shiny, and vibrant hair. But what if we told you that the secret to healthy, shiny colored hair might already be in your kitchen cabinet? Yes, just cloves — and one simple trick — could transform your hair routine forever.
Nature has always been the best-kept beauty secret. From coconut oil to aloe vera, the most effective treatments are often the most affordable and accessible. But now, one natural ingredient is gaining viral attention for its surprising impact on hair health: cloves. In this article, we’ll explore how cloves work, why they’re a game-changer for colored hair, and how to use them properly to restore shine, boost color, and enhance scalp health — all with just one easy DIY recipe.
What Makes Cloves So Powerful for Hair?
Cloves, known scientifically as Syzygium aromaticum, are aromatic flower buds native to Indonesia. While widely used in cooking and traditional medicine, they also carry a range of benefits for hair and scalp health:
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Rich in antioxidants: These protect hair strands from oxidative damage caused by sun exposure and pollution.
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High in eugenol: This natural compound stimulates blood circulation in the scalp, promoting hair growth and strengthening follicles.
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Antifungal & antibacterial: Clove-infused treatments can help soothe dandruff, irritation, and scalp infections.
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Natural shine booster: The essential oils in cloves smooth the hair cuticle, enhancing shine and softness.
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Color-protective: Clove water helps lock in pigment for dyed hair, making it ideal for those with colored or chemically treated hair.
Why Colored Hair Needs Special Care
If you color your hair, you already know how quickly it can lose its shine. Hair dye, especially permanent or bleach-based formulas, damages the hair cuticle, making strands more porous, dry, and brittle. This not only dulls the vibrancy of your color, but also leads to frizz, breakage, and fading.
That’s why natural remedies like clove water rinse can make such a difference. Instead of stripping the hair further like some store-bought products, this treatment nourishes, protects, and revives hair from root to tip — and the best part? It’s chemical-free and budget-friendly.
The Simple DIY Clove Trick for Shinier, Stronger Hair
Here’s the easy clove recipe that thousands are trying — and loving — right now. It only takes a few minutes to prepare, but the results can last for weeks.
🌿 Ingredients:
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2 tablespoons of whole cloves
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2 cups of water
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Optional: a few drops of rosemary or lavender essential oil (for extra nourishment and scent)
👩🍳 Instructions:
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Boil the water in a small pot.
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Once boiling, add the cloves and reduce the heat.
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Let it simmer for 15–20 minutes, allowing the water to turn a rich amber or dark brown color.
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Turn off the heat and let it cool completely.
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Strain the clove water into a spray bottle or jar for easy use.
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Optional: Add a few drops of essential oil for added scent and benefits.
How to Use Clove Water for Best Results
Using your clove water correctly is the key to maximizing its impact. Here are a few different ways you can apply it:
1. Clove Water Hair Rinse (for post-wash shine)
After washing your hair with a mild shampoo, pour clove water over your hair as a final rinse. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before gently towel-drying. You’ll notice immediate softness and shine.
2. Clove Hair Spray (for daily nourishment)
Spray onto dry or damp hair daily, focusing on the ends and scalp. Comb through and style as usual. Over time, this strengthens the hair shaft and reduces split ends.
3. Scalp Massage Treatment (for hair growth & scalp health)
Apply clove water directly to the scalp and gently massage for 5–10 minutes. Leave it overnight or for at least one hour before rinsing. This stimulates circulation and may promote hair growth.
Real Results: What Users Are Saying
Thousands of people on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube are sharing their personal results after just a few uses. Here are a few common testimonials:
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“My colored hair feels softer and shinier than ever — and it’s all-natural!”
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“After bleaching, my ends were so dry. Clove water helped bring life back to my curls.”
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“It’s been only two weeks, but my scalp feels cleaner, and my hair doesn’t fall out as much.”
These reviews are more than hype. There’s a growing body of evidence — both scientific and anecdotal — suggesting that plant-based treatments like clove water offer real, visible results.
Pro Tips for Colored Hair
If your hair is color-treated, follow these pro tips to preserve your shade and enhance shine naturally:
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Avoid hot water when washing your hair — it opens up the cuticle and causes color to fade faster.
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Limit heat styling tools, or use heat protectant sprays before flat ironing or curling.
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Deep-condition weekly using oils like argan, coconut, or castor oil.
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Use a silk pillowcase to reduce friction and retain moisture overnight.
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Combine clove water with other nourishing ingredients like aloe vera or green tea for added effects.
Are There Any Side Effects?
Clove water is generally safe for all hair types. However, as with any natural treatment, a patch test is recommended. Apply a small amount to the scalp or back of the neck and wait 24 hours. If there is no reaction, it should be safe to use.
Note: People with very light or platinum blonde hair may want to use clove water sparingly, as the dark pigment might slightly tint the hair if used in excess. If you’re unsure, consult with a hairstylist or trichologist.
Final Thoughts: Shine Naturally with Cloves 🌿
You don’t need expensive serums or salon visits to give your hair the attention it deserves. Sometimes, the most effective solutions are the simplest ones. Clove water is more than a trend — it’s a return to nature, to simplicity, and to the kind of care that actually works.
With just a handful of cloves and a little time, you can restore shine, protect your color, and improve your hair’s overall health — all from the comfort of your own home.
So the next time your hair feels dull, dry, or faded, remember this: just cloves and one simple trick — and your hair will thank you later. 🌿✨