Shampoo bars are all the rage nowadays! However, being a fairly new product on the market there are still many questions to be answered. In this blog post, we discuss what shampoo bars are, their benefits, how long they last as well as their ingredients and eco credentials.
What is a shampoo bar?
A shampoo bar is a solid shampoo that looks and works like soap. It's essentially shampoo that's been packed down and neatly taken the form of a bar. It’s eco-friendly, long-lasting and thanks to its packaging is an easy and effective way to go plastic-free. If you are looking for an ethical, zero-waste alternative to bottled shampoo, solid shampoo bars are the way to go.
What are the benefits of using a shampoo bar?
There are many benefits to using shampoo bars but in terms of the environment and if you’re conscious of minimising your plastic use, shampoo bars are a great option. Not only do they last longer, but they also come in recyclable packaging and because they are more compact, less space is required to transport them, meaning the carbon footprint of each item is reduced. Benefits of using shampoo bars on an individual level include:
- Manageable hair that is easy to brush
- Shampoo bars produce a mild foam that is kind, even to processed hair
- Packed with natural, plant-based ingredients that are gentler not only to your hair and scalp but also to the environment
- Efficiently cleanses and moisturises your hair without stripping away natural oils
- Free from harmful chemicals like sulfates, parabens and artificial fragrances
- More cost-effective than traditional liquid shampoos
- Minimal plastic-free packaging
- Great for travelling and camping
How often should I use a shampoo bar?
Depending on the length and texture of your hair, we recommend around 2-3 washes per week. However, if your hair is finer you may need to wash more frequently whereas thicker locks can be left for longer in between washes. All you do is rub the bar over your roots and hair when wet and gently massage and lather. Some people prefer to lather the bar between their hands and apply the foamed shampoo to wet hair that way. Try both and see which you prefer.
Are shampoo bars better for your hair?
It depends on the formulation, however, in general, shampoo bars tend to include gentler ingredients and can therefore be less damaging to your hair. As with all beauty products, the application is key. Those with textured, thicker hair types may prefer lathering the shampoo bar between their hands and massaging it through their lengths rather than rubbing the soap directly on them in order to avoid knots. If you have fine hair, it could also be worth starting with a small amount and slowly building it up so your roots aren’t left flat.
Are shampoo bars for all hair types?
Shampoo bars are suitable for all hair types. At Ode to Earth, we have shampoo bars for everyone, whether your concerns are finding a fix for oily hair or dandruff. You can also find shampoo bars suitable for people with normal hair types and people after hair growth. Some bars are great for all hair types. Choose based on your hair type or go for a fragrance you love.
How many washes will a shampoo bar last for?
You can expect a shampoo bar to last roughly around two months or up to 80 washes (which equates roughly to three-ish bottles of your standard high street shampoo). This is provided that you store your shampoo bars in a soapbox and keep it dry in between washes, or it will start to crumble! One Ode to Earth customer gets 8 months from her shampoo bar!! Saves money and cuts out lots of plastic bottles.
What are the active ingredients in shampoo bars?
SCI (Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate) is used in many of our shampoo bars. It is a natural, mild and gentle cleansing agent, made from the natural fatty acids which occur in coconut oil and which effectively remove dirt and grease from the hair and scalp resulting in a gentler finish.
Another ingredient used is Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate, also known as SLSA. This cleansing agent leaves a pleasant, silky feeling on the skin which prevents it from drying out or becoming damaged after washing in contrast to the commonly used SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate) or SLES (Sodium Laureth Sulfate) which are not approved for natural cosmetics. With a large molecule size, SLSA won’t cause skin irritation as it is impossible for it to penetrate the skin membrane.
Why are shampoo bars sustainable?
Shampoo bars are sustainable as they are a zero-waste alternative (once it's used there is nothing left of it!) to plastic shampoo bottles, they have a reduced carbon footprint as less space is needed during the transportation process (they are so compact!) and their packaging is recyclable (usually made from biodegradable cardboard!)
So if you are looking for a greener cleaner hair wash, shampoo bars are the way to go! They are good for the planet, promote a sustainable lifestyle and provide a gentler clean for all hair types. Wash the pollution right outta your hair!
Check out our full collection of shampoo bars here.
Conditioner bars also available.
Janni Bars and Three Hills Soap are the two ranges of shampoo and conditioner bars stocked at Ode to Earth. All made in Ireland using natural ingredients, all cruelty free.
Please get in touch on info@odetoearth.ie if you have any questions related to shampoo bars. Follow us on Instagram where you'll find lots of educational posts and product info.
Thanks for reading!
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