3 Shampoo Bar Recipes For Each Major Hair Concern

While it might sound too good to be true, shampoo bars allow you the freedom to target the same hair concerns that a traditional shampoo might—all while reducing plastic waste. The concentrated, solid nature of a shampoo bar means one bar can last for months at a time (and doesn't take up the precious shower space a bottle meant to last for a similar timeframe would). Plus, you can even make them yourself.

So, are any downsides to switching to a shampoo bar? We turned to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Bradley Glodny and BosleyMD-certified trichologist Gretchen Friese for their thoughts on DIY shampoo bars and the best practices for using them.

What Are Shampoo Bars?

Shampoo bars are a form of shampoo in a solid state. They act very similarly to liquid shampoos, meaning they contain surfactants to cleanse your hair by removing dirt and oils, says Glodny.

Are Shampoo Bars Safe For Hair?

Yes, shampoo bars are safe for hair, according to Glodny. "Ultimately, the effectiveness and safety of a soap bar come down to the specific formula each one contains," he says.

Friese believes DIY shampoo bars can be a good alternative to liquid shampoos when made with beneficial ingredients. She notes that DIY shampoo bars can be suitable for those with allergies or those concerned with the ingredients in their shampoos, as the creator has complete control over what goes into the recipe. She adds that bars are best suited for people with short hair, as "it can be hard to really cleanse the scalp with a bar if there is a lot of hair to penetrate." It is important to find a recipe suited to your particular hair type to avoid ingredients that can cause build-up or frizz.

How to Use DIY Shampoo Bars

Soap bars should be rubbed with warm water and then rubbed through your hair and roots. Once your hair contains enough soapy product the bar can be placed aside and the soap should be massaged onto your scalp and entirety of your hair.

There is a certain art to using a shampoo bar versus a traditional liquid shampoo, which Friese detailed: “Wet your hair, making sure to get it really wet or it may be difficult to get a good lather. Next, wet the shampoo bar with a little water and rub it in your hands to start creating some suds. Apply the shampoo bar directly onto your hair and massage gently across all parts of your scalp. Lastly, scrub your scalp with the pads of your fingers making sure to get the whole head and hairline.” This careful application process ensures that the cleanser reaches your scalp and is spread evenly throughout your hair.

How Often Should You Use a Shampoo Bar?

How often you should wash your hair depends on your hair type and lifestyle. If you are not producing extra oil and buildup from sweat and product, you can probably go a few days without a wash. However, if you lead a very active lifestyle and sweat profusely, you should wash your hair and scalp every other day.

"As a dermatologist, I recommend that most people shampoo their scalp as often as daily. The more often your scalp is shampooed, the healthier it is," says Glodny, who adds that as long as a shampoo bar is used alongside a conditioner, your hair will not be too dry. Additionally, if your shampoo bar is not overly drying or harsh, it can be used daily.

3 DIY Shampoo Bars to Try

Convinced you need shampoo bars in your life? Ahead, find three DIY shampoo bar recipes that address every major hair concern.