Whenever we’re walking around our home, we’re always trying to think of ways to eliminate more trash and particularly plastic. Our attention landed in the shower this time and we decided to try out some plastic free shampoo and conditioner options. We decided on shampoo and conditioner bars that were plant-based and made without chemicals.
Since Marianna was the deodorant guinea pig, it was my turn to be up to bat. I was a little nervous and apprehensive about this experiment but I decided to get myself into the shower and give it a go. The transition period lasted all of 1-2 minutes. Why had I been dreading this so much? It could not have been easier! It’s very similar to going from a body wash to a bar of soap or using tea bags or loose tea leaves instead of buying premade tea at the store. In all three of these situations, you're buying just what you want without all of the additional packaging and water being shipped around the world. I must have watched way too many Herbal Essence commercials, when I was growing up, because I sure have been well conditioned to think the only way to take care of my hair is with some detergents, chemicals, and fragrances sloshing around in a plastic container.
Here are seven reasons why shampoo and conditioner bars are way better than the status quo.
They're concentrated so you're not moving around a bunch of water. Just think of them as a concentrated form of your regular shampoo that's no longer surrounded in plastic.
They're great for travel, lightweight and are TSA friendly. There are no security issues, and they won’t spill and make a big mess in your suitcase.
They don’t contain harsh chemicals, which are hard on your hair.
You're eliminating more plastic containers in your home.
They're small and don't take up much room in cramped showers.
They have a smaller carbon footprint, since they're so light weight and are easy to transport.
Since they're concentrated, they last a super long time. I am going to venture to guess one bar would even last long enough to hike the Appalachian Trail!
I tried the Ethique hair sampler this time, and I was extremely pleased with their products! They don't use palm oils and all their packaging is compostable. However, Ethique is located in New Zealand, which is a long way from Texas. Hopefully they'll start making their products in the United States so more people here can push themselves outside their comfort zone and try their product.
Shampoo and conditioner bars have the potential to reduce our carbon footprint, add less chemicals into our water system, and decrease the amount of plastic in our homes. So next time you're in the market for some hair care products, give them a try!