Go ahead, go bottle-less

How to make the switch to shampoo and conditioner bars.

When you switch from conventional shampoos and conditioners to sulfate-free, bar-based products, your hair and scalp typically go through a rebalancing process. Traditional shampoos often contain synthetic detergents (like sodium lauryl sulfate) that strip away natural oils and give you that squeaky-clean feeling. When you first stop using SLS-based products, your scalp often overcompensates by producing more oil. Not to fear! Your scalp just needs time to recalibrate. [1] For the first 1–2 weeks of bar use, you might notice:
- Hair that feels waxy, heavy, or coated
- Less lather than you're used to
- A difference in texture, especially near the roots

Our best advice: Stick with it. This is your scalp learning how to produce the correct amount of healthy oil. Soon, your hair will thrive thanks to nourishing, plant-based ingredients that don’t strip or stress your hair. [2]

Just like liquid formulas, the right shampoo bar match can make your transition smoother and more customized to your hair’s needs. Our collection of shampoo bars includes options for all hair types, from coily and curly hair to fine hair and itchy scalps. Many of the shampoo bars we carry feature nourishing ingredients like coconut, shea butter, and essential oils — and without synthetic fragrances or drying sulfates. Get started by lathering your shampoo bar in your hands and massaging the suds into your scalp like you would a liquid shampoo. Work your way from root to tip, skipping the tips if you have particularly dry hair. Then, rinse thoroughly.

When starting off on your shampoo bar journey, you might want to skip conditioner assuming that a bar will weigh your hair down. But conditioner is crucial for healthier hair. The latest conditioner bars are formulated to be lightweight, hydrating, and easy to use, plus they help detangle and smooth strands while your scalp gets back in balance. To use, simply rub the bar between your hands or glide it directly over the ends of your hair, focusing on your mid-length to tips. Let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing (try conditioning before washing your body or shaving). When all is said and done, conditioner bars are truly the secret to loving your shampoo bar too.