This New Form of Shampoo Lasts At Least Twice As Long As Your Usual Bottle

Talk about raising the bar! Shampoo bars have been making waves for being good for your hair and the environment. Wondering exactly what a shampoo bar is? They’re just what they sound like: shampoo in solid bar form, sans a big, heavy bottle filled with liquid. That means they’ll take up much less real estate in your shower and they’re TSA-friendly.

“They are an eco-friendly way of cleansing without the use of plastic,” says celebrity hairstylist Ashley Streicher. Plus, since shampoo bars weigh less than their liquid counterparts, they also reduce C02 emissions during transportation.

“Thankfully people are thinking more about the planet and how to cut back on plastic use and help in any way possible,” Streicher says. “The beauty industry alone is responsible for a huge amount of plastic waste. Bar soap allows for a no-container form of cleansing, saving on plastic use!”

Just like shopping for any other type of shampoo, you’ll want to look for a formula that is designed for your hair type, Streicher explains. She answers all your questions about shampoo bars.

What’s the best way to wash your hair with a shampoo bar?

Streicher recommends wetting both your hair and the bar to create a foaming lather with the bar. While holding the bar in one hand, massage the foaming lather from roots to tips. Then rinse as normal.

How do you store a shampoo bar?

“The same way that you would store a bar of soap,” Streicher says. “I like to leave mine on a nice ceramic soap dish.”

How long do shampoo bars last?

Depending on how often you shampoo, a single bar can provide up to two months of use, according to Streicher.

Are shampoo bars better for your hair?

“I think the new formulas that are just now hitting the market are just as good for your hair as liquid shampoo,” Streicher says.

What makes them great for travel?

“You can just wrap them up or throw them in a travel container and you’re set,” Streicher says. “No more transferring liquids into smaller sized bulky containers.”

There’s a shampoo bar out there for every hair type and texture, and these top picks will help you choose the right one to suds up with.