“A shampoo bar won’t work for me — does it even cleanse properly? Plus, won’t it dry out my hair?”
It’s normal to have these questions and concerns, especially if you’ve been using liquid shampoo for a good few decades. After putting your trust in something for so long, it makes sense that it might feel strange implementing certain lifestyle changes.
Let us help you make the shift from bottled shampoo to zero waste shampoo.
What makes traditional bottled shampoo so bad?
At the end of the day it all comes down to the harsh chemical ingredients used in shampoo products. Sulfates and parabens are extremely common in commercial liquid shampoo. In the long run, these don’t do you any favours.
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS): These are chemicals used as cleansing agents and are added to create a lathering effect in order to remove oil and dirt from your hair. The problem is that it removes too much, leaving your hair damaged and can irritate your scalp. They’re also responsible for frizzy hair.
Parabens: They’re classified as a group of preservatives and are often associated with hair loss. The reason for this is because they’re easily absorbed through your skin. They also have the potential to harm your scalp by drying it out which can cause irritation. If you’re trying to preserve colour-treated hair, then you definitely want to stay away from parabens.
So, are you ready to find out what’s in it for you when you ditch the bottles and join the all-natural gang?
What are the benefits of a shampoo bar?
(The 7 reasons you’ve been looking for)
- You get the chance to reduce your carbon footprint. Using a shampoo bar is a wonderfully, efficient way to reduce plastic waste in your life
- You’ll see your hair bounce back to its original state without any chemical residue which is typical of liquid shampoo.
- Your hair won’t be stripped of its natural moisture — the end result is truly healthy, shiny hair. And if you suffer from dandruff and itchy scalp, you can kiss that goodbye.
- It’s easy to travel with as it’s much more compact than a bottle. Pop the bar in your Soap Saver Bag and you’re good to go.
- Shampoo bars last longer than liquid shampoo. You’re much less likely to waste when using a shampoo bar.
- Typically, the ingredients used are safe for drains and waterways.
- Depending on your hair and how your hair adjusts after some time, you might not need to use conditioner later down the line.
Feeling convinced? Great! Take a look at the little tutorial that we’ve put together for you and the whole family.
How to use shampoo bars
Our shampoo bars work better with shorter hair. If you have longer hair, follow step 4 closely.
Steps:
- Wet your hair well, from root to tip. This is important if you want the bar to lather as much as possible.
- After wetting your hair, wet the shampoo bar and rub it between your hands to make it lather and foam.
- If you’re in the transition period or using the bar for the first time, apply only the foam to your hair. If your hair is already accustomed to a shampoo bar, apply the bar directly to your hair. Start with the hairline around your forehead and make your way round to the back of the neck. Use front to back motions to avoid your hair tangling.
- Be careful not to miss parts that are hard to reach, especially if you have long hair. You could end up with mixed oily/dry patches. Take your time and enjoy washing each area of your head. It may help to separate your hair into parts so that you get an even wash.
- Massage the product into your hair, making sure there’s foam e v e r y w h e r e. At this point, you can rub the bar all over your hair to get the product where it needs to be. Remember, still only use the foam if you’re in the transition phase.
- If you want more lather, you can wash your hair a second time as it will foam up much more the second time around.
- Rinse really (REALLY) well. We can’t stress this enough. Natural shampoo bars contain many natural ingredients that can cause your hair to be oily if not rinsed properly.
Like with any lifestyle change, there’s always an adjustment/transition period. Your hair might take some time to get used to the product. If after two weeks your hair feels a bit waxy or dirty, it’s kind of normal — don’t worry. Should this happen to you, you might have some mineral buildup from hard water. An apple cider vinegar hair rinse can re-establish your hair’s natural pH. To help your hair during this change-over period, follow the next few steps.
How to make an apple cider vinegar hair rinse at home
- Dilute 2/3 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with 250 ml (1 cup) of lukewarm water. If you have dry hair, less apple cider vinegar is better. For oily hair, we recommend going with a bit more.
- After you’ve shampooed, slowly pour the mixture on your hair and scalp. You can also put the mixture into an old spray bottle and spray the mixture evenly all over. Whatever you do, don’t hold back — apply it all over.
- Let it sit for a few minutes.
- Rinse very well.
- Use as often as you need until your hair fully adjusts to your shampoo bar. Some people tend to do it every 2 or 3 days. However, you should find a routine that works for you. It’s not a one-size-fits-all situation.
Making massive changes all at once is not necessary. Start small and work your way up.
By switching to a shampoo bar, you’re doing better than you were before. This is also a great way to involve your kids and help them to understand why there are no more shampoo bottles in the bathroom.
If you’re looking to make a change, go ahead and give OG’s shampoo bar a try.