How to Use a Shampoo Bar (Step-by-Step Guide + Tips)

 

In recent years, shampoo bars have gained well-deserved recognition as a sustainable, minimalist, and highly effective alternative to liquid shampoo. Yet, for many who are new to solid hair care, the transition may feel a bit daunting: How do I use a shampoo bar? Will it lather enough? Will it work for my hair type? In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from preparation to application and aftercare.

If you're ready to embrace a zero-waste, sulfate-free hair care routine, you're in the right place.

Why Switch to a Shampoo Bar?

Before diving into technique, it’s worth understanding the “why” behind the switch:

• Zero Waste: Shampoo bars eliminate the need for plastic bottles and often come in fully compostable or recyclable packaging.
  
  
• Travel-Friendly: No leaks, no liquid restrictions. Perfect for carry-on luggage.
  
  
• Concentrated Formula: One small bar can last as long as two to three bottles of liquid shampoo.
  
  
• Gentler on Hair & Scalp: Especially when formulated without sulfates, parabens, or synthetic fragrances.
  
  
• Beautiful Ingredients: Aardvel’s Shampoo Bloks are made with organic Buchu, nourishing plant butters, and botanical oils—all free from harsh detergents.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using a Shampoo Bar

Whether you're using one of Aardvel's Shampoo Bloks or trying a solid shampoo for the first time, here’s how to get the most out of your bar:

Step 1: Prepare Your Hair

Before applying the shampoo bar, brush your hair (especially if it’s long or prone to tangling). This helps distribute natural oils and reduces knots that might make lathering uneven.

Step 2: Wet Hair Thoroughly

Hop into the shower and make sure your hair is fully saturated with warm water. Solid shampoo lathers best on thoroughly wet hair. The water will also activate the cleansing agents in the bar.

Step 3: Lather the Bar in Your Hands or Directly on Hair

You have two options:

• Rub between hands: Wet the shampoo bar and rub it between your palms to create a gentle lather. Then massage the lather into your scalp using your fingertips.
  
  
• Apply directly: Alternatively, rub the wet bar directly onto your scalp and hair in circular motions. This is often more effective for a richer lather.

Tip: Don’t overuse—just a few swipes are enough. A little goes a long way.

Step 4: Massage & Cleanse

Use your fingertips (never your nails) to massage the lather into your scalp. Focus on the roots, where oil builds up most. Let the lather naturally work its way down the hair shaft as you rinse—it’s usually not necessary to scrub the ends.

Aardvel’s Buchu & Tea Tree Shampoo Blok is especially ideal for this step. Tea Tree helps soothe itchy scalps and combat dandruff, while Buchu acts as a natural antimicrobial.

Step 5: Rinse Thoroughly

Rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water to ensure all the product is washed out. Make sure no residue remains, especially at the roots. If your hair feels waxy or coated, rinse a little longer.

Step 6: Repeat If Needed

If your hair is particularly oily or you use heavy styling products, a second wash might be beneficial. Repeat the above steps using less product.

Step 7: Follow with Conditioner (Optional)

While many people find they don’t need conditioner after switching to shampoo bars, if your hair is very dry or curly, a conditioner or rinse may be useful. You can use a diluted apple cider vinegar rinse (1 tbsp in 250 ml of water) to help with shine and pH balance, or follow with a solid conditioner bar.

Aardvel does not yet offer a conditioner, but our Lavender Shampoo Blok provides a gentle, smoothing cleanse suitable for dry and textured hair types.

Tips for Transitioning to a Shampoo Bar

Switching from liquid to solid shampoo is an adjustment. Your hair and scalp may need time to rebalance, especially if you've been using products with silicones or sulfates. Here are some tips to help ease the transition:

1. Give it Time

The adjustment period typically lasts one to two weeks. You may experience increased oiliness or dryness initially—this is normal. Your scalp is recalibrating its oil production after years of stripping detergents.

2. Use a Clarifying Rinse

If you feel residue building up, do a clarifying rinse with apple cider vinegar or use a clarifying shampoo once every few weeks. This will remove buildup and restore softness.

3. Store It Well

Keep your shampoo bar dry between uses. Use a draining soap dish or wooden holder to extend its life. Never leave it in a puddle of water.

4. Match to Your Hair Type

Different bars suit different needs. Aardvel offers three Shampoo Bloks tailored for common hair concerns:

• Buchu & Tea Tree: for oily scalps and dandruff.
  
  
• Buchu & Lavender: calming and softening, ideal for dry or sensitive scalps.
  
  
• Buchu & Rosemary: invigorating and strengthening, great for normal or thinning hair.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do shampoo bars work for all hair types?
Yes, when you choose the right bar. Aardvel’s range caters to different needs—dry, oily, or sensitive scalps. People with curly or color-treated hair may want to follow with a vinegar rinse or conditioner.

Q: How long does a shampoo bar last?
Each Aardvel Shampoo Blok lasts up to 6 months, depending on usage and storage. That’s equivalent to 2–3 bottles of liquid shampoo.

Q: Is a shampoo bar the same as a bar of soap?
No. Shampoo bars are specially formulated with pH-balanced surfactants that cleanse hair without stripping natural oils. Bar soaps, especially cold-process ones, are too alkaline and not suitable for hair.

Q: Can I travel with a shampoo bar?
Absolutely! Shampoo bars are solid, compact, and liquid-free, making them TSA-friendly and perfect for travel.

Ready to Make the Switch?

Once you try it, it’s hard to go back. Shampoo bars are not only eco-friendly but offer a deeply nourishing cleanse without the environmental toll of plastic bottles and harsh chemicals. At Aardvel, our Shampoo Bloks are made by hand in South Africa, using ingredients that are kind to your hair, your health, and the planet.

Explore our full Shampoo Blok collection here and find your perfect match.

Experience the shift—one bar at a time.