Busting Shampoo and Conditioner Bar Myths, Solid Soap Myths, Shampoo and Conditioner Bar Facts

Written by Micaela Sauve

You’ve probably been getting advice about your hair for most of your life. Moms, aunts, friends, random strangers, the internet - everyone seems to have some tidbit they insist you have to do (or not do) and with the introduction of shampoo and conditioner bars there's even more.

But, not all advice is good advice and there isn’t much information about hair bars out there. So it’s time to bust some hair bar myths!
 

Myth 1: Hair Bars are more expensive than regular shampoo and conditioner. 

Part of the reason we believe shampoo bars haven’t become mainstream yet is because people equate 1 shampoo bar to last the same length as 1 bottle, when really 1 shampoo bar = 2-3 bottles. The same goes for conditioner bars. 

Bottled shampoo and conditioners are essentially watered down versions of bar shampoo and conditioner, meaning you get less washes for your money. Choosing zero-waste hair bars allows you to save your hard-earned dollars and cut back on waste. Plus you can avoid bulky plastic bottles that take up space in your shower!

Myth 2: You need to do an “ACV rinse” when you switch to a shampoo bar.  

If your shampoo is pH balanced this isn’t true! Let’s break down why that is...

Soap and shampoo both have a high pH, meaning it is an alkaline product, which over time causes build-up that feels like a residue left in your hair. Any products you put on or near your hair can result in a pH imbalance. 

By rinsing with something acidic, you’re able to bring the pH of the hair back down to its natural pH of around 4.5 to 5.5. This causes the cuticles around your hair shaft to lie flat making your hair smoother and shinier. If you feel like your hair could use a shine boost, a vinegar rinse can help; It doesn’t have to be apple cider vinegar as it’s no more beneficial for your hair than any other vinegar.

Our solid hair bars are pH balanced to promote soft, healthy hair without the build up or dryness. 
 

Myth 3: There is a transition period when switching to hair bars.

Your hair shouldn’t need to go through an adjustment period when switching from bottle to bar shampoo and many companies use that as a cover up for a product that just isn’t working for you. 

On the other hand, it’s possible that your hair will experience an adjustment period when switching from detergent shampoo to a natural shampoo (bar or liquid). If a hair bar is your first natural shampoo, you may encounter a transition period the same as you would if it was liquid.

Although many people have no problems transitioning, it’s not uncommon for some to experience the transition phase even after several weeks of use. This refers to the days/weeks it may take the hair to readjust to the natural shampoo’s gentler formula.

When the hair has been exposed to harsh chemicals for too long, it may overcompensate its production of natural oils. If you are going through this, don’t worry–this phase will pass!

Myth 4: Using a shampoo bar will feel like rubbing a block of cheese on my head and it won’t lather. 

Have no fear! Most shampoo bars lather very well!

How much they will lather depends on the ingredients. Our bar shampoo is made with Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate* (SLSa) & Sodium c14-16 Olefin Sulfonate which are derived from coconut. This mild plant derived surfactant creates a thick lather that effectively removes surface oil, dirt and bacteria, without stripping or drying sensitive skin.

Remember, bar shampoo is a 100% concentrated product, whereas liquid shampoo is generally 80% water and 20% product. This means that you need to really wet the bar first, rub it between your hands to get that lather going, and keep adding water as you go. You’ll find that you don’t need to use very much; a little goes a long way.

*Note: SLSa is chemically different from SLS. SLSa is not a sulfate.

Myth 5: They aren’t comparable to professional haircare products. 

More expensive doesn’t always mean better for you! 

Professional products typically contain chemicals that tend to make your hair feel super soft but can leave behind a waxy build-up or strip your hair of its natural oils, essentially drying it out. For most you’re paying a premium for the brand name and packaging.

Both professional and non-professional companies are forever formulating what they believe as safer, more effective shampoos with specific ingredients for specific purposes.

The bottom line is that there is very little difference between pricey professional shampoos and drugstore shampoos. On a basic level, they’re all designed to wash the hair and scalp and are formulated with similar ingredients. 

Some people splurge on expensive shampoos for the same reasons wine connoisseurs fork over big money for premium wines: all have similar effects, but in the end, it's simply a matter of preference.

What you really should be looking for is the source of their ingredients—that the ingredients are safe for your skin and hair, sourced sustainably, and if it is right for you.

Myth 6: Shampoo bars aren’t as good as bottled shampoos.

If you believe the hair bar you tried isn’t as effective as your favourite bottled product, maybe you just need to try a new one!

Our hair bars are SLS, Silicone, Paraben, Phthalate, and Palm oil free. These ingredients are known irritants that cause dryness and damage to the hair and scalp (Stay tuned, we have a blog post coming on that soon).

Also, our bars contain quinoa protein and coconut oil, which moisturises and protects the hair. And best of all, hair bars can be used on all hair types (including curly and colour-treated) making your hair care even simpler.

Why not make the switch today?

Get your Zero-Waste Shampoo & Conditioner Bar Duo and join the low-waste movement. Mother Earth will thank you for diverting plastic bottles from her oceans, and your hair will thank you for nourishing it with all-natural ingredients!