I made the switch to solid shampoo bars years ago—and I haven’t looked back since. They’re compact, eco-friendly, and perfect for travel, especially if you’re flying with hand luggage only. No more leaky bottles or plastic waste cluttering up my bathroom or suitcase!
But choosing the right solid shampoo bar can be tricky. Your hair type plays a big role, and even that can shift with the seasons, climate, or water quality. I’ve tested dozens of bars—some brilliant, others not worth the hype—and I’m here to help you navigate the world of shampoo bars with confidence.
What Is Solid Shampoo?
Solid shampoo bars are simply shampoo in bar form—like soap, but formulated for your hair. They’re usually made with natural ingredients and come in minimal (or no) plastic packaging, making them a sustainable alternative to liquid shampoo.
Bonus: You can also find solid conditioner bars, though I’m not totally sold on those yet (more on that later).
Is Solid Shampoo Better for Your Hair?
In many cases, yes. Solid shampoos often contain fewer harsh chemicals and more natural, vegan-friendly ingredients. Once my hair adjusted to using bars, it felt softer, cleaner, and less greasy.
How to Use a Shampoo Bar
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Wet your hair thoroughly.
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Rub the bar between your hands or directly on your scalp to create a lather.
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Massage the foam into your hair and scalp.
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Rinse thoroughly. You may need to rinse more than with liquid shampoo.
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Repeat if needed, especially for oily hair or after heavy product use.
Pros of Shampoo Bars
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Eco-Friendly: No plastic bottles = less waste.
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Travel-Friendly: TSA-approved and mess-free.
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Long-Lasting: One bar can last 40–50 washes.
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Natural Ingredients: Often gentler and more nourishing.
Cons of Shampoo Bars
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Less Lather: They foam less than liquid shampoo.
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Storage Matters: Keep them dry or they’ll dissolve.
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Learning Curve: Takes time to adjust to application and rinsing.
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Pricey: Some high-quality bars can be expensive (but last longer).
Best Shampoo Bars by Hair Type
For Normal Hair
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Garnier Ultimate Blends Coconut & Aloe Vera – Affordable, refreshing, and hydrating.
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Ethique Pinkalicious – Lovely scent, great lather, salon-like results.
For Oily Hair
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Edinburgh Skincare Co. Lemonazing – Smells citrusy, leaves hair shiny but oil-free.
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Arista Balancing Bar – Natural and vegan, reduces oiliness gently.
For Dry or Damaged Hair
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Garnier Honey Treasures – Nourishing and budget-friendly.
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Aussie Moisturising Bar – Macadamia scent and rich hydration, shaped like a koala!
For Colour-Treated Hair
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Bath Bubble & Beyond “Blonde Ambition” – Great scent, perfect shape, travel-ready.
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KinKind Make Me SHINE – Color-protecting with coconut, henna & juniper.
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Gruum Brightening Bar – Almond oil + lemon scent = soft, bright hair.
Bonus:
Try Kitsch Purple Toning Bar or Arista Purple Bar for blonde tones.
For Curly Hair
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KinKind Give Me MORE – Ylang-ylang & geranium, ultra-hydrating.
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Arista Curly Hair Bar – With shea butter and almond oil for frizz control.
For Thin Hair
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KinKind Give Me Strength – Rice protein & wheatgerm add volume and bounce.
For Grey Hair
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KinKind (Grey Hair Bar) – Argan & coconut oil blend, softening and hydrating.
Do Conditioner Bars Work?
In my experience, most don’t—but Ethique’s “The Guardian” is a rare exception. It’s creamy, non-scented, and actually leaves hair smoother. Still, at home I usually stick with bottled conditioner for better results.
How to Store Shampoo Bars
Never leave them sitting in water! I recommend Humangear GoTubb containers—they’re durable, non-rusting, and the perfect size for round bars. Ideal for both home and travel.
Final Thoughts: Which Solid Shampoo Bar Is Best?
There’s no one-size-fits-all. What works for me might not suit you—but I hope this guide gives you a solid place to start. Keep experimenting, stay patient, and remember: once you find your match, it’s a game-changer for your hair and the planet.
