As we become more aware of the impact our daily habits have on the environment, many of us are looking for ways to reduce our waste and live a more sustainable lifestyle. One area where we can make a big difference is in our hair care routine. Today we are just concentrating on the shampoo.
Like you, I was skeptical at first and hesitated to make a switch from bottled shampoo to a shampoo bar for a long time.
I thought… What if my hair turns out greasy (I apply a lot of oil during weekends. You’ll know this if you read my zero waste hair care routine!)
I used to have frizzy dry hair and it turned into a silky and healthy texture not just by using natural hair remedies. My previous liquid shampoo also played a vital role in it!
And to be honest, that’s not the only reason. The price of the shampoo bar was 3 times higher than my usual bottled shampoo. So I decided to purchase one during a sale when my shampoo bottle was about to be over.
I tried one and it was the best decision I’ve made for my hair as well as for the environment! 🙂
And for the price, I actually saved a lot of money. The bottled one only comes for 2 to 3 months but the shampoo bar lasted for 6 to 7 months and I never went back to my bottled shampoo.
And not just that, it cleaned my scalp really well and it doesn’t cause any buildup. I’ve heard people saying that the shampoo bar turns your hair rough & dry but that’s not the case when you choose the right one 🙂
So, today I’ll help you to make the switch to shampoo bars if you are hesitant just like I used to be!
And we think that the problem with liquid bottled shampoo is just the plastic packaging but it’s not the only one. Keep reading to know more.
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Reasons to avoid liquid shampoo
Liquid shampoo often comes in plastic bottles that are difficult to recycle and can take hundreds of years to break down. And they can also contain harmful chemicals that are bad for both our hair and the planet.
Microplastics are tiny pieces of plastic that measure less than 5mm in length. They are often found in various consumer products, including liquid shampoo bottles. These microplastics come from a variety of sources, including the breakdown of larger plastic items, as well as the use of microbeads and other small plastic particles in personal care products.
In liquid shampoo bottles, microplastics can be present in the form of microbeads, which are tiny plastic particles added to the shampoo as an exfoliant. When shampoo is used, these microbeads can be washed down the drain and eventually make their way into rivers, lakes, and oceans, where they can have harmful effects on marine life and ecosystems.
However, a simple solution to this problem is switching to shampoo bars.
Top reasons to switch to shampoo bars for a zero waste hair care routine
Zero waste packaging
Did you know that in the United States alone, 550 million empty shampoo bottles are thrown away every year, enough to fill 1,164 football fields? This number does not include conditioner, body wash, or other bathing products – only shampoo bottles. (Source)
Shampoo bars come in minimal packaging, often just a simple cardboard box or even without any packaging at all. This eliminates the need for plastic bottles, pumps, and caps that can take hundreds of years to decompose.
By using shampoo bars, you can significantly reduce your plastic waste in your zero waste hair care routine and contribute to a healthier planet.
Shampoo bars are cost-effective & last longer
While the initial cost of a shampoo bar may be higher than a traditional bottle of shampoo, the long-lasting nature of shampoo bars can make them more cost-effective in the long run. You only need to use a small amount of shampoo bar to create a lather that cleanses your hair effectively.
Some people even claim that a single shampoo bar can last up to three times longer than a regular bottle of liquid shampoo.
Personally, I hair wash once a week and a shampoo bar lasted me for 6 to 7 months. So a single shampoo bar can last for several months depending on your hair length and the frequency of the hair wash.
Shampoo bars are travel-friendly
Shampoo bars are also great for travel as they are lightweight, compact, and easy to pack. They take up minimal space in your luggage and won’t leak, unlike liquid shampoo. This makes them a great option for anyone who wants to reduce their environmental impact while on the go.
Shampoo bars are gentle on your hair
Most of the shampoo bars are made with natural, gentle ingredients that can be beneficial for hair health. Ingredients such as coconut oil, shea butter, and essential oils can help nourish and moisturize the hair without the use of harsh chemicals.
Plus, because shampoo bars are concentrated, they often require fewer washes to get hair clean, which can help prevent over-drying or stripping the hair of its natural oils.
How to use shampoo bars?
- Wet your hair thoroughly.
- Wet the shampoo bar and rub it between your hands to create a lather.
- Apply the lather to your hair, starting at the scalp and working your way down to the ends. You can also rub the shampoo bar directly onto your hair.
- Massage the shampoo into your scalp using your fingertips.
- Rinse your hair thoroughly with water.
- Follow up with a conditioner if desired. You’ll find some great conditioner bars too in the market!
After using the shampoo bar, rinse it off and store it in a dry place away from water to help it last longer. With proper use and storage, a shampoo bar can last for several months, making it a great investment for your hair and the environment.
FAQ about shampoo bars:
What is the difference between a shampoo bar and a soap bar?
Shampoo bars and soap bars are both solid cleansing products, but they are formulated for different purposes.
Shampoo bars are specifically designed to cleanse hair and scalp, while soap bars are formulated for cleansing the body. Shampoo bars usually have a pH level that is slightly acidic to match the pH of the scalp, while soap bars typically have a higher pH level, which can be harsh for the hair.
Shampoo bars also contain ingredients such as plant oils, herbs, and essential oils that can nourish and strengthen the hair, while soap bars may be more drying and stripping for the hair.
How long do shampoo bars last?
It depends on several factors such as the size of the shampoo bar, frequency of use, and how it is stored.
Generally, a shampoo bar can last between 40 to 80 washes, which is roughly equivalent to 2 – 3 bottles of liquid shampoo.
If the shampoo bar is used daily, it may last between four to six weeks.
Proper storage also plays a vital role. It should be kept in a dry place, away from moisture, to prevent it from melting or becoming soft.
It is important to note that the lifespan of a shampoo bar can also depend on the quality of the product. High-quality shampoo bars made with natural ingredients and without synthetic preservatives may last longer than those with lower-quality ingredients.
Do shampoo bars save money?
If you’re still reading, you know the answer, it’s yes, you save a lot of money in the long run.
How often should I wash my hair with a shampoo bar?
The frequency of washing your hair with a shampoo bar depends on your hair type and daily activities.
Generally, it is recommended to wash your hair every 2-3 days with a shampoo bar to prevent the stripping of natural oils from your scalp and hair.
However, if you have an oily scalp or participate in activities that make you sweat excessively, you may need to wash your hair more frequently.
On the other hand, if you have dry hair or a sensitive scalp, you may need to wash your hair less frequently (Mine is dry hair and so I only wash it every 5 to 7 days).
Ultimately, the best way to determine how often to wash your hair with a shampoo bar is to listen to your hair’s needs and adjust accordingly.
Do you need conditioner after using the shampoo bar?
Since shampoo bars often contain ingredients such as coconut oil, shea butter, and essential oils that help to nourish and hydrate hair, it’s not necessary to use a conditioner. But if you prefer to use one, you’ll find great options for conditioner bars in the market.
Do shampoo bars help hair growth?
There is no evidence to suggest that shampoo bars directly contribute to hair growth.
However, using a shampoo bar may contribute to overall hair health by providing gentle cleansing and nourishing ingredients. Shampoo bars are often formulated with natural ingredients such as essential oils and plant extracts that can help to strengthen and moisturize hair, which may result in healthier, fuller-looking locks over time.
Do shampoo bars dry out hair?
Shampoo bars can potentially dry out hair if they contain harsh sulfates or alkaline chemicals or if they are not formulated for your hair type.
However, many shampoo bars are designed to be gentle and nourishing, with natural ingredients that can actually help to moisturize and hydrate your hair.
To avoid dryness, it’s important to choose a shampoo bar that is appropriate for your hair type and to follow up with a conditioning treatment if necessary. Additionally, using too much shampoo or washing your hair too frequently can also contribute to dryness, so it’s important to find a balance that works for you.
Why does my hair feel greasy after using the shampoo bar?
There could be a few reasons why your hair feels greasy after using a shampoo bar.
- One possibility is that you are not rinsing your hair thoroughly enough after using the shampoo bar, which can leave behind residue and build-up.
- Another possibility is that the pH of the shampoo bar is not compatible with your hair type, causing your scalp to produce excess oil to compensate.
- Additionally, shampoo bars contain ingredients like oils and butters that can leave a residue on the hair if not rinsed properly or used in excess.
It’s important to experiment with different shampoo bars and techniques to find what works best for your hair type.
How to use shampoo bars in hard water?
You’ll find everything you need to know in this blog post!
Conclusion
Switching to shampoo bars is an easy and effective way to reduce waste in your hair care routine. By eliminating plastic packaging and using a concentrated, long-lasting product, you can make a significant impact on your environmental footprint. Additionally, the gentle, natural ingredients in shampoo bars can benefit the health of your hair.
So why not give shampoo bars a try and see the difference they can make in your zero waste hair care routine?
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