Free shipping for orders $80+ | A bonus gift for order $120+

Switching to Shampoo Bars:  What to Expect

Switching to Shampoo Bars: What to Expect

Thinking about switching to a shampoo bar?  It's a simple change, but the first few washes can feel a little different.  You may need to experiment with how much lather you use, and your hair might feel unusual while you're washing it.  That's okay - give yourself a couple of washes to get familiar with your new routine.

Dirty Hippie shampoo bars are made in small batches using organic ingredients.  Their scent comes from essential oils, with no added fragrance or artificial preservatives.  Each bar has its own blend, so there's room to find one that feels right for your hair.

How to use a shampoo bar

Start by thoroughly wetting your hair and the bar.  Rub the bar between your hands to make a lather or glide it gently over your hair.  You only need enough to wash your scalp, so start with a little and add more if you need it.

Massage your scalp gently with your fingertips, then rinse thoroughly.  Really thoroughly!  Taking a little extra time to rinse can make a big difference to how your hair feels afterwards.

What's that gluggy feeling?

One thing I like to tell first-time shampoo bar users is that your hair can feel quite gluggy while you're washing it - almost clay-like.  If that happens, don't be alarmed, that feeling will fade within a couple of uses, it's just your hair shedding the chemical build-up from commercially made shampoos.

Do I need a conditioner bar?

That depends on your hair.  If you would like to use one, work the conditioner bar between your hands and apply it to your hair through the mid-lengths and ends.  Leave the conditioner in your hair for the duration of your shower and then rinse thoroughly.  If your hair is fine or your roots tend to get oily, keeping conditioner away from the scalp can help your hair feel lighter.

Have a look at our conditioner bars if you would like to give one a try.

Make your bar last

After each wash, leave your bar somewhere it can drain and dry.  A soap dish or holder that keeps it out of pooled water will help it last longer.  If several people are using the same bar, alternating between two gives each one more time to dry between uses.

Your first-wash checklist

  • Wet your hair thoroughly before applying the bar.
  • Start with a small amount and build up only if needed.
  • Massage your scalp gently and rinse thoroughly.
  • Adjust one part of your routine at a time.
  • Let the bar dry between washes.

The first wash doesn't have to be the final verdict.  Start with a little lather, rinse well, and see how your hair feels over the next few washes.  And if you're unsure which Dirty Hippie bar to choose, get in touch - I'm always happy to help.

M xo