It is estimated that over 552 million shampoo bottles end up in our landfills yearly. We already know that plastic pollution is a huge problem - it can release microplastics into our waterways and soil, and can actually release greenhouse gases as it decomposes. But as we learned recently, even if you have good intentions and recycle your bottles, they likely can’t be recycled anyway. We can’t exactly avoid washing our hair - so what do we do? We can use solid hair care products instead!
Why Solid Hair Care?
Solid hair care products are a sustainable alternative to traditional liquid hair care products. They look like bars of soap - and they basically work in the same way, too! The bars are concentrated versions of shampoo and conditioner that work when you add water to them. I’ve tried a few different brands, and by far my favorite brand that I’ve tried is Ethique.
Ethique: A Leader in Sustainable Beauty
Ethique, a New Zealand-based company, is at the forefront of the solid beauty movement. Their solid shampoo and conditioner bars are not only plastic-free but also packed with natural ingredients. They offer a wide range of products beyond hair care including body care and facial skincare - but their hair care is what I have tried, so let’s talk about it!
Benefits of Ethique's Solid Hair Care:
- Eco-Friendly: By eliminating plastic packaging, Ethique reduces waste and minimizes its carbon footprint.
- Concentrated Formula: A little goes a long way. These solid bars are highly concentrated, making them long-lasting and cost-effective.
- Travel-Friendly: Their compact size makes them perfect for travel, eliminating the hassle of liquid restrictions. The unscented shampoo and conditioner bars live in my suitcase full-time and have been on over a dozen trips with me!
- Try before you buy full-size: They offer trial packs to help you decide which products will work best for you - I wish more companies did this!
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How to Use Solid Shampoo and Conditioner:
- Wet Your Hair: Thoroughly wet your hair with warm water.
- Lather Up: Rub the solid bar directly onto your wet hair, creating a rich lather.
- Rinse: Rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water. Depending on hair length and texture, you may have to shampoo twice.
- Condition: Apply the solid conditioner bar to the lengths of your hair, focusing on the ends.
- Rinse: Rinse your hair thoroughly with cool water to seal the cuticle.
Making a Sustainable Choice
By choosing Ethique's solid hair care, you're not only taking care of your hair but also making a positive impact on the environment. It's a small step towards a more sustainable future.