How To Use A Shampoo Bar: A Complete Step By Step Guide

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How to use a shampoo bar

Looking to reduce your carbon footprint when it comes to washing your hair and wondering how to use a shampoo bar? We’re about to tell all in our step by step guide below!

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do shampoo bars work? pinterest graphic of woman washing hair with solid shampoo

It’s official, the future of haircare is here and it’s in the shape of an adorable little bar. But, don’t be fooled by its humble appearance – the shampoo bar is a modern-day beauty product to be reckoned with. In fact, day by day, it’s infiltrating our stores, social media feeds, and has even wiggled its way into our showers – and we all know that the shower is a sanctuary – no product gets in without heavy vetting and testing beforehand!

So, the shampoo bar must be VIP and it looks like its set to soar even further in popularity with the global shampoo bar market set to be valued at $17 million by 2025!

Yes, but it’s also much more than that. It’s packed full of essential oils, high-concentrate natural ingredients that work wonders for hair health and growth. The best part? All these wonderful benefits don’t cost the earth (literally and figuratively!) as they’re sustainable, eco-friendly (imagine the amount of plastic saved compared to their liquid shampoo counterparts?) and are zero waste because of their recyclable packaging.

So look at you! Trying to get to grips with the future of beauty. We promise to have you ahead of the pack in around … 3 minutes time, or however long it takes you to finish this article. So, let’s evoke your inner shampoo bar expert!

Keep reading for our ultimate guide on how to use a shampoo bar!

Natural soap for hair washing - zero waste graphic

Step By Step Instructions On How To Use Solid Shampoo

How-to-use-solid-shampoo

First thing’s first: a step-by-step guide to getting the most out of your shampoo bar.

1) Wet Your Hair

This step seems fairly obvious but we think it’s always worth being thorough. So, be sure to thoroughly wet hair before attempting to use the shampoo bar. Of course, this is all done in the aim of getting your shampoo bar to lather up just right. Otherwise, you’ll be rubbing a hard bar against the side of your head – not ideal.

If you have long hair, it may be helpful to part your hair into sections. This will make it easier to work the shampoo into your hair and avoid missing any spots.

2) Rub the shampoo bar directly into your hair or onto a loofah

Now that you’ve mastered wetting your hair, it’s time to move on to the actual show: applying the shampoo bar. Feel free to rub the shampoo bar directly into your hair. Some people find it helpful to use a loofah or other exfoliating tool to help work the shampoo into their scalp.

Note: If you are using the shampoo bar directly on your hair, be sure to rub it in circular motions. This movement helps to loosen any dirt or debris that may be stuck to your scalp.

3) Lather the shampoo into your hair

Once you have worked the shampoo into your hair, it’s time for the fun part: lathering.

Really get in there, and don’t be afraid to give yourself a head massage in the process. In our opinion, there’s no such thing as lathering too much; you really want your hair to feel all the benefits of those essential oils.

4) Rinse the shampoo out of your hair

And voilà! All that’s left to do is wash it away down the drain. You already know the drill: remove all traces of product thoroughly and don’t forget to give your hair a final rinse with cool water before turning off your shower to close pores and lock in all that moisture.

Now that you’ve successfully used your shampoo bar, you’re free to enjoy your newly cleansed, beautifully fragranced, and healthier-than ever-hair – bliss!

Tips To Get The Most Out Of Shampoo Bars

Washing hair with bar soap

You didn’t buy a shampoo bar without intending to utilise every last bit of goodness out of it, did you? We didn’t think so. We’re here to help! Here’s how you can use your shampoo bar to your optimal advantage.

1) Start small

Unlike liquid shampoo, you don’t need to use a lot of shampoo bars to get your hair clean. In fact, using too much can leave your hair feeling heavy and greasy. Start with about half a dime-sized amount and work up from there if necessary.

2) Store your shampoo bar in a dry place

This will help to extend its lifespan and prevent it from disintegrating too quickly. A soap dish with drainage holes or a shower shelf is a perfect option.

3) Use cool or lukewarm water when washing your hair with a shampoo bar

Hot water can cause the bar to dissolve too quickly. Plus, it can be harsh on your hair and scalp. Stick to cool or lukewarm water for best results.

4) Be sure to rinse thoroughly

Shampoo bars can sometimes leave behind a slight film if not rinsed away properly. Rinse until the water runs clear to ensure all traces of the shampoo bar have been removed from your hair.

5) Follow up with conditioner if necessary

Shampoo bars can be drying, so you may need to use conditioner or a conditioner bar afterward to keep your hair from feeling straw-like and brittle. Let the conditioner do its thing for up to 3 minutes whilst you wash your body. If you do use conditioner, be sure to rinse it out completely after this time so that it doesn’t weigh down your hair.

6) Avoid contact with eyes

Shampoo bars can irritate eyes, so be careful to avoid getting any in yours when washing your hair. If you do happen to get shampoo in your eyes, rinse them immediately with cool water for relief.

Washing Your Hair With A Shampoo Bar: Essential Do’s and Dont’s

woman lathering hair with shampoo

Despite being the newest haircare product that’s on the tip of everyone’s tongue – we’re still not terribly familiar with shampoo bars. So, we’re going to get to know them a little better. Here are a few dos and don’ts when it comes to shampoo bars.

Do: Wet your hair before using the shampoo bar. This will help the bar to lather up more easily and prevent it from slipping out of your hands.

Do: Work the shampoo into a lather in your hands before applying it to your hair. This will help to evenly distribute the soap and prevent buildup in one area.

Do: Massage the shampoo into your scalp for at least a minute before rinse. This will ensure that all of the dirt and oil is removed from your hair.

Can you wash your hair with bar soap

Don’t: Use hot water when washing your hair with a shampoo bar. Hot water can cause the bar to dissolve too quickly and make it difficult to get a good lather.

Don’t: Forget to store your shampoo bar in a dry place when you’re not using it. Exposure to moisture can cause the bar to disintegrate over time.

By following these simple tips, you can get the most out of your shampoo bar and enjoy healthy, clean hair every time!

Things To Consider When Choosing A Solid Shampoo For Your Hair Type

How to use bar

1) For Dry Hair

Here’s our top pick shampoo bar for dry hair.

If you have dry hair – we understand. It’s a constant uphill battle trying to find a shampoo that doesn’t further dry out your strands or leave them feeling stripped and straw-like.

To bypass this bother, shop for shampoo bars that contain ingredients like cocoa butter or jojoba oil (not hard to find,) which can help to nourish and hydrate the hair. Avoid solid shampoos that contain sulfates, as these can be extremely drying. Instead, opt for a sulfate-free formula that will gently cleanse your hair without stripping it of its natural oils.

You should also look for a solid shampoo containing ingredients like aloe vera and chamomile to soothe and calm the scalp. Don’t be afraid of some trial and error. Most ingredients used in shampoo bars are organic meaning they won’t do any lasting damage to your locks.

How to wash hair with soap

2) For Oily Hair

Here’s our top pick shampoo bar for oily hair.

If you have oily hair, your battle is one of freshness. As you well know, oily hair is prone to buildup. You’re likely well used to the greasy and limp feeling and would rather never have to experience it again. Here are a few tips that’ll help you buy the right shampoo bar for oily hair the first time around.

First, look for a shampoo that contains ingredients like clay or charcoal. This powerful duo can help to absorb excess oil and remove buildup from the scalp.

Second, avoid shampoos that contain harsh chemicals or sulfates. They tend to snatch away your hair’s natural oils, leaving it even more prone to grease and buildup. Instead, look for gentle, natural ingredients that will cleanse your hair, leaving it feeling perfectly fresh.

Finally, be sure to choose a shampoo with a light, refreshing scent. Strong fragrances can actually make oily hair seem even greasier, so steer clear of overly perfumed products. By following these simple tips, you can find a solid shampoo that will help keep your oily hair under control.

how to transition to shampoo bar - zero waste bathroom products in shower

3) For Normal Hair

Here’s our top pick shampoo bar for normal hair.

You’re in luck – we don’t have much advice to give you because you don’t need any! You’re pretty much free to walk down any aisle and pick up any shampoo bar you’d like (we’re only a little envious.)

Still, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows, there’s a few minor things you’ll have to consider if you really want to land the best shampoo bar for your unique hair.

First, think about your hair’s texture. If it’s on the finer side, you’ll want to avoid shampoos that are heavy or creamy, as they can weigh down your hair. Instead, opt for a light, clear formula. You should also consider your scalp type. If it’s prone to oiliness, look for a shampoo that contains refresher ingredients like mint or eucalyptus oil.

On the other hand, if your scalp is dry or sensitive, look for a shampoo with hydrating ingredients like aloe vera or jojoba oil.

Finally, pay attention to the scent of the shampoo. Choose one that has a light, refreshing fragrance that won’t be overwhelming.

If you’re looking for a good shampoo bar for curly hair or frizzy hair or for any other hair type or concern, you can find a range here from a very popular brand in the industry that consumers are loving (if you couldn’t already tell from the volume of glowing reviews!)

How To Use A Shampoo Bar With Hard Water

washing hair with bar soap - bar soap with other bathroom products

Shampoo bars and hard water don’t always see eye to eye. Then again, neither do most beauty products. Hard water cause shampoo bars to produce less suds and lather. They also feel drier against the scalp. But all hope is not lost, you can bypass the evils of hard water with a few simple tips.

First, try wetting your hair thoroughly before beginning to lather the shampoo bar. Your aim is to create as much scalp-loving suds as you can.

Secondly, avoid scrubbing too vigorously when using the shampoo bar on your scalp. This can further strip away natural oils and leave your scalp feeling dry and irritated.

Finally, follow up with one of your favorite conditioner bars after using the shampoo bar to help restore moisture and protect your hair from damage.

Do You Need A Conditioner With A Shampoo Bar?

bar soaps

Yes and no – really – it depends on your hair type. If you have oily hair, you might not need to use a conditioner with your shampoo bar. However, if you have dry or damaged hair, you might benefit from using a conditioner. If you’re not sure, it can’t hurt to experiment.

And there you have it!

Shampoo bars aren’t rocket science, and soon enough (as far as we believe) they’ll be the norm. So, be glad you’ve learned the ins and outs on how to use a shampoo bar now – it’s very beauty-forward of you!

Frequently Asked Questions About Shampoo Bars

solid shampoo bags

1) How often should I use a shampoo bar?

There is no one answer to this question as it depends on your individual hair type and needs. If you have oily hair, you might need to use a shampoo bar more often than someone with dry hair. However, a good rule of thumb is to use a shampoo bar every other day or every third day. This will help to keep your hair healthy and prevent it from becoming too dry or damaged.

2) How long does it take for hair to adjust to shampoo bar?

Just like with any new hair care product, it can take some getting used to. It’s important to be patient and give your hair a chance to adapt. In most cases, it will only take a week or two for your hair to adjust. However, if you find that your hair is still not responding well after a few weeks, it’s best to consult with a professional to see if there are any other options that might be better for your hair.

3) I have dandruff. Can I use a shampoo bar?

Shampoo bars are packed full of natural ingredients that go easy on the scalp and hair while imbuing them with invaluable hydration and nourishment. So, in actuality, you may find that your shampoo bar agrees with your scalp and gets rid of dandruff for good! They can help to balance the pH levels on your scalp and remove buildup that can contribute to dandruff. That said, shampoo bars may not be a catch-all cure for dandruff – you’ll just have to try and see!

4) Do I need to use a special soap dish for my shampoo bar?

While not necessary, it’s not against the law to treat yourself to a nice new soap dish for your fancy shampoo bar. Just be sure to keep your bar in a dry and cool place when you’re not using it.

5) Are shampoo bars better for travel?

Yes! Shampoo bars are so travel friendly and don’t require any sort of fancy storage solutions either. You can purchase a cotton or mesh bag to transport your shampoo bars (either on your carry on or checked in luggage) or this simple handkerchief hack below will also do the job just fine!

So there you have it, a comprehensive, all you need to know guide on how to use a shampoo bar. Enjoy your squeaky clean hair and the satisfaction of knowing that you’re doing your bit for the environment too!

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2 Comments

  1. Very helpful post! I’ve always preferred using bar soap for my hair. I feel it’s more natural and leaves my hair looking amazing.

  2. I really love the idea od shampoo bar and how to use a shampoo bar especially for my oily hair as I suffer with it. Thank you for this.

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