How to Use Shampoo Bars

Want to cleanse your hair without the plastic bottles? Shampoo bars are the perfect way to reduce waste within your hair care routine. Our solid shampoo bars have all the cleansing and nourishing benefits of a traditional liquid shampoo without the silicones, preservatives, artificial colours and plastic waste. Given that they’re also suitable for all hair types, you should certainly be wondering how to use solid shampoo by now.

Switching to shampoo bars can be daunting, especially if you’ve been loyal to your favourite shampoo for a long time. However, we swear it’s worth the wait, especially if you make your selection from our Hair Food range of shampoo bars, consisting of 94% plant-derived ingredients. We put together this guide to teach you everything you need to know about how to use shampoo bars. We’ll answer all your questions including how to store a shampoo bar and how to choose the right one for your hair type.

What is a shampoo bar?

Shampoo bars pack all the functionality and goodness of a liquid shampoo into a nourishing, solid bar. Our shampoo bars are packaged in Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified cardboard that can be easily recycled, therefore reducing plastic waste in your hair care routine as part of our commitment to Green Beauty by 2025. Australians throw out millions of shampoo bottles each year, so this simple switch can really make a difference by reducing plastic waste in your bathroom. While our shampoo and conditioner bottles remain 100% recyclable, shampoo bars are an ideal plastic free alternative.

So, how long does a shampoo bar last? It depends on how you use it of course, but each shampoo bar tends to last as long as up to two bottles of traditional shampoo depending on your length!

What are shampoo bars made of?

Garnier’s scientists tested formula after formula to develop the perfect mix of nourishment, foam and care, giving you all the benefits of a liquid shampoo in an easy to use bar. Our Hair Food shampoo bars are 98% biodegradable as per the OECD 301¹ guidelines and are formulated with 94% plant-based ingredients to nourish your hair in a greener way. Fruit extracts and plant oils combine to nourish and hydrate your hair. Dermatologically tested, containing no silicones, artificial colourants or preservatives, our shampoo bars are easy to rinse and vegan.

What makes a good shampoo bar

Going from a liquid shampoo to a solid shampoo bar doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice nourished and healthy-looking hair. A good shampoo bar takes care of your hair by striking the balance between oils and cleansing ingredients. A well-formulated shampoo bar should also be nice and foamy, just like a liquid shampoo.

While shampoo bars can be visually reminiscent of a bar of soap, it’s important to note that this is where the similarities stop. Soaps that are harsh will dry out your hair, whereas shampoo bars nourish as they cleanse. If you’re wondering ‘Can I use a shampoo bar on my body too?’, the answer is no. Solid shampoos are designed specifically to care for your hair and should be used only for this purpose.

How to choose a shampoo bar for your hair type

Just like regular shampoos, there are different shampoo bar formulas to suit different hair types and concern.

If you have dry hair, go for our Banana Hair Food 2-in-1 Shampoo Bar with a dual cleansing and nourishing formula.
If you have hair that lacks shine, our Aloe Vera Hair Food 2-in-1 Shampoo Bar can help, while hydrating all hair types at the same time.
If your hair is on the fine side or in need of volume and bounce, our Watermelon Hair Food 2-in-1 Shampoo Bar is the ultimate formula. Simply lather it on for volumised, thicker looking hair.

How to use a Shampoo Bar for hair

To get the best results from your Shampoo Bar, follow these easy steps:

Start by wetting your hair and the solid Shampoo Bar, then rub it between your hands to make it foam.
Hold the Shampoo Bar to your hair and lather from roots to tips. Keep massaging into your hair and scalp until all hair is covered in an extra foamy lather - this shouldn't take too long!
Rinse thoroughly.
After using your Shampoo Bar, it's best to store it in a dry place such as a box or aluminium storage case for best preservation.
Follow with a conditioner or intensive hair treatment for more intense nourishment.
Always remember to recycle your package.

Do you use conditioner after a shampoo bar?

You should think about shampoo bars as a direct replacement for liquid shampoo, and should follow up with a hair mask or treatment for further conditioning if needed. Our Banana Hair Food Conditioner, Watermelon Hair Food Conditioner and Aloe Vera Hair Food Conditioner are ideal matches for your solid shampoo of choice if you are looking for additional nourishment.