How to Use a Shampoo Bar For The Best Results - Steps & Hacks! 

Struggling with a greasy residue or finding a hair type match? Learn how to use a shampoo bar properly with our step-by-step guide and expert tips!

Estimated Read Time: 4 minutes

Tried a shampoo bar once and ended up looking like you’re auditioning for Grease: Live? We’ve all been there. You excitedly ditch plastic bottles for a shiny, eco-friendly block of goodness, only to end up with sticky roots and the crushing realization: maybe your hair hates the planet.

Don’t worry, it doesn’t. You just need to know how to use a shampoo bar (like ours!) properly. Before you write them off forever, let us take you on a lathery journey through the magical world of shampoo bars. Spoiler alert: It involves suds, swirls, and a bit of patience.

(For a deep dive into why shampoo bars are a total game-changer, check out our blog post here).

How To Use a Shampoo Bar 

In a hurry? Here’s the TL;DR version of how to use a shampoo bar: Wet your hair and the bar. Rub the bar directly on your head (or in your hands) until it lathers. Massage the lather onto your hair and scalp, and rinse thoroughly. Voilà: clean, bouncy, planet-friendly locks!

Step-By-Step Guide To Using a Shampoo Bar

Alright, let’s get into the nitty-gritty.

1. Wet your hair AND the bar

Not to state the obvious, but unlike liquid shampoo, bars are solid so you need to add water first to use. Otherwise, you’ll be rubbing a dry bar against your scalp like a caveman starting a fire!

2. Apply the bar directly to your hair (skipping roots, for now!)

Hold a section of your locks in one hand, and rub the bar back and forth to get a solid lather going. Repeat for every section!

3. Lather up your hands and apply to your roots 

To avoid too much buildup at the roots, work up a lather in your hands first and then apply until your scalp feels like a fluffy cloud.

4. Work the suds in with your hands

This is your moment. Channel your inner hair model.

5. Rinse and rinse (and rinse again)

Shampoo bars are concentrated, so skimping here might leave you with residue.

Want to keep your bar in tip-top shape between washes? Learn how to store it like a pro.

Do You Need To Use Conditioner With a Shampoo Bar?

Yes! Most hair types benefit from a conditioning step, and it’s especially helpful when you’re making the transition to bars. While shampoo bars are excellent at cleansing and often come packed with nourishing ingredients, they typically don’t deliver the hydration, detangling, or smoothing magic that a conditioner can offer.

To keep your routine squeaky clean and plastic-free, pair your shampoo bar with one of our luscious conditioner bars. Your hair will drink it up like a green juice on a hot day.

Still unsure if your strands need the extra love? Our blog post breaks it all down.

How To Avoid A Greasy Residue 

If your first thought post-bar wash was “Did I just dip my head in a fryer?” don’t panic. Greasy residue is usually a sign of:

• Not rinsing long enough
• Using too much product
• Hard water woes
• Transitioning from chemical-laden shampoos (your scalp might need time to detox)

Tips to beat the grease:

• Use an apple cider vinegar rinse once a week
• Be patient through the transition
• Try lathering in your hands if direct application feels too heavy
• Soak your hair and the bar first
• Avoid using too much product (a little goes a long way!)T

Shampoo Bar Tips For Your Hair Type 

Not all shampoo bars are created equal. Just like your eclectic friend group, they all have different personalities. Good news? We’ve got a guide for that.

Curly hair? Read this. Bar rec: Maui Melon.

Gray hair? Read this. Bar rec: Oasis.

Oily hair? Read this. Bar rec: Driftwood.

Or check out our full hair-type guide here for the perfect bar for your beautiful mane.

Final Thoughts: What Is The Best Way To Use a Shampoo Bar?

Using a shampoo bar isn’t rocket science, but it is slightly more advanced than just squeezing goop into your hand and hoping for the best. It takes a little technique, a little patience, and the right match for your hair type. Stick with it, and soon you’ll rock cleaner hair and a decluttered shower.

Ready to give it another go? Grab your next favorite shampoo bar here and let the suds begin!