Why You Should Switch to Shampoo Bars: 8 Benefits
At first, I’ll admit—shampoo bars seemed like something out of a “hippie” dream. I always thought they were a bit out there, something only the “crazy” people would do. And yet, here I am now—one of the “crazy” ones! The switch to shampoo bars was something I didn’t see coming, but it was a decision driven by both my desire to simplify my life and a deep personal reason—infertility. I wanted to make sure that what I was putting on my body was as pure and gentle as possible, so I started crafting my own shampoo bars with natural ingredients that I could trust.
If you’ve been thinking about making the switch, here’s why you might want to consider ditching your regular bottled shampoo for a bar.
Eco-Friendly and Sustainable
One of the biggest reasons to switch to shampoo bars is the environmental impact. Traditional shampoo bottles are usually made of plastic, contributing to the growing problem of plastic pollution. According to Greenpeace, over 8 million tons of plastic end up in the ocean every year, and personal care packaging is a big part of that waste.
Shampoo bars, on the other hand, come with little to no plastic packaging. Most are wrapped in paper or cardboard that is biodegradable or recyclable. For example, I wrap the shampoo bars I make with recyclable paper, keeping them plastic-free. Not only does this help reduce the burden of plastic waste, but you’re also avoiding the harmful effects of plastic leaching chemicals into your body, especially when exposed to heat. This is a win for both your health and the planet.
Long-Lasting and Cost-Effective
Shampoo bars are incredibly concentrated, meaning they last much longer than liquid shampoo. A typical shampoo bar can last up to 60 washes, while a bottle of liquid shampoo may only last 15-20 washes. This makes shampoo bars a far more cost-effective choice in the long run.
In my experience, a 5 oz shampoo bar can last an entire month or longer for one-two people, depending on how often you use it and how you store it. The best part? It can be more affordable than constantly buying plastic bottles of shampoo!
Gentle on Your Hair and Scalp
Shampoo bars are typically made from natural ingredients that are much gentler than the harsh chemicals found in many liquid shampoos. Commercial shampoos often contain sulfates, parabens, and artificial fragrances, which can strip the scalp of its natural oils and lead to irritation.
Most shampoo bars, like the ones I make, are free from these chemicals. Instead, they’re packed with moisturizing oils like coconut oil, olive oil, and other nourishing ingredients. These oils help to hydrate the scalp, reduce dryness, and retain natural moisture. Shampoo bars are an excellent choice for anyone with sensitive skin or those who want a more natural alternative to harsh chemicals.
Convenient for Travel
If you’ve ever traveled with a bottle of shampoo, you know the struggle: leaks, running out too soon, and the hassle of liquid restrictions at airports. Shampoo bars eliminate all of these issues.
They’re compact, solid, and easy to pack, taking up very little space in your bag. No spills, no mess—just clean hair care. Whether you’re traveling by plane, car, or simply going to the gym, a shampoo bar is an easy, no-fuss solution.
Better for Your Hair Type
One of the great things about shampoo bars is that they come in formulations for every hair type. Whether you have curly, straight, oily, dry, or fine hair, there’s a shampoo bar tailored to suit your needs.
Many shampoo bars are enriched with natural ingredients like shea butter, aloe vera, and essential oils, which hydrate, nourish, and balance your hair. Plus, because they’re more concentrated than liquid shampoos, you’re less likely to experience over-conditioning, a common issue with store-bought products.
Helps Reduce Hair Buildup
Traditional liquid shampoos, especially those filled with synthetic chemicals, often leave residue behind, causing buildup on the hair over time. This buildup can make your hair look greasy, weighed down, or dull.
Shampoo bars, however, are made from natural ingredients that clean your hair without leaving any unwanted residue. Over time, switching to a shampoo bar may help your hair feel fresher, shinier, and more lightweight as the buildup from commercial shampoos fades away.
Variety of Scents and Customization
Just like liquid shampoo, the bars come in an array of scents and formulations. From invigorating citrus to soothing lavender or earthy patchouli, you can find a shampoo bar that matches your scent preference.
Many brands also offer customization options based on your specific hair needs, such as bars formulated for dandruff control, moisture boost, or volume enhancement. So, you’re not just limited to the standard “shampoo” scent—you can create a personalized hair care experience!
Great for the Whole Family
One of the most overlooked benefits of shampoo bars is how versatile they are. They’re gentle enough to be used by everyone in the family. Whether it’s for your kids or your partner, there are shampoo bars that cater to all hair types and ages.
Plus, shampoo bars are a fantastic way to introduce your little ones to a more sustainable lifestyle. Many parents have even found that shampoo bars are perfect for their babies or young children, as they’re often made with mild, safe ingredients.
Final Thoughts
Shampoo bars are a game-changer in the world of hair care. They’re eco-friendly, cost-effective, and gentle on your hair and scalp, making them an ideal choice for anyone. Whether you’re traveling, looking to reduce plastic waste, or simply trying to find a more natural solution for your hair, they offer a sustainable and practical alternative to traditional bottled shampoos.
Have you made the switch? What’s your experience been like? Share your thoughts and tips in the comments below—I’d love to hear from you!
What to make your own shampoo bars check out our hot processing soap post!
I love this! And I totally agree. I have been using shampoo bars for many years now. I have an outdoor shower and they don’t freeze in the winter like bottled shampoo, lol. That was why I started using them, but I loved them so I never switched back.
All about switching to a lower tox life. Great article. I haven’t ever used a shampoo bar but I’m willing to try!
Do you make your own shampoo bars? I make cold process soap but I don’t think the recipe I have been making would be great as shampoo.
I do make my own shampoo bars. I call it my everything bar because I use it for everything from washing my hair to washing the dishes haha
This article is packed with useful information and was
a great read. The website is also a fantastic resource for learning.