Sustainable Haircare: Should You Try Plastic-Free Conditioner Bars?
Today, plastic and harsh chemicals are in almost everything and anything we buy. So, it is important to find sustainable alternatives for everyday products wherever we can. One popular swap for sustainable haircare is a conditioner bar.
Conditioner bars are growing in popularity for their environmental and hair health advantages.
These plastic-free powerhouses offer many benefits, from reducing waste to nourishing your hair naturally.
In this post, we will explore conditioner bars, and their advantages over traditional bottles, and address common questions about their usage and longevity.
What is a Conditioner Bar?
A conditioner bar is a solid, compact bar of concentrated hair conditioner. It is typically made of natural nourishing oils, butters, and plant extracts that help restore and moisturize the hair after washing.
What are the Benefits of Conditioner Bars?
Reduces waste and plastic
Conditioner bars are a great way to reduce plastic waste in our daily lives. They eliminate the need for plastic bottles that contribute to landfill and ocean pollution. Instead, this eco-friendly swap often comes packaged in minimal compostable or recyclable materials, minimizing the environmental footprint.
At Scrappy’s Workshop, our conditioner bars are packaged in recyclable or yard-compostable cardboard boxes instead of plastic bottles.
By making the switch, you become part of the solution to our global plastic crisis.
Read more about how one of our partners, Tangie, is reducing their environmental impact and helping reduce plastic waste.
No harsh chemicals
Liquid conditioner is often packed full of harsh chemicals like plastics, preservatives, phthalates, parabens, potentially hormone-disrupting ingredients, synthetic fragrances, dyes, and other toxins and irritants. They can negatively impact your health and pollute our waterways and environment.
Why would they include these things in common liquid conditioners? That is a lot to get into! But some reasons might be cheap manufacturing, increased shelf-life, and marketing so that they can always sell you the next “better, creamier, extreme-ier” product.
Conditioner bars tend to have a blend of natural ingredients like butters and oils derived from plants.
Unlike their liquid counterparts, conditioner bars are generally formulated with natural ingredients like plant-based oils that are gentler on your body and better for your health. The ingredients are also typically biodegradable and grey-tank/septic-safe so they have less environmental impact.
Promotes healthy hair
Conditioner bars can be more nourishing and less heavy than many liquid conditioners. They help detangle, soften, and nourish the hair, promoting overall hair health. The natural ingredients in conditioner bars can restore moisture, repair damage, and enhance shine without the use of harsh chemicals.
If you have made the switch to shampoo bars and find that your hair needs a little more to keep it soft and tangle-free, conditioner bars might be the element that’s missing!
Solid conditioner bars are great for your hair and the environment.
Conserves water
One of the main ingredients in liquid conditioner is water. This water can be heavy and expensive to ship. Since conditioner bars are a concentrated, solid form of conditioner, they are lightweight and don’t contain much, if any, water.
Furthermore, using a conditioner bar can also help save water while rinsing. Unlike liquid conditioners that require a significant amount of water to rinse out, conditioner bars are typically more concentrated, requiring less water for rinsing. This eco-conscious choice can contribute to water conservation efforts.
Camping and travel-friendly
Conditioner bars are incredibly travel-friendly. Their solid form eliminates the risk of leakage, making them perfect for those constantly on the go. They are also not subject to liquid restrictions on flights, making them hassle-free travel companions.
Furthermore, many natural shampoo bars are biodegradable and grey-water safe, so you can use them guilt-free while camping, RVing, or boating.
Whether you're going on a weekend getaway or embarking on a long-haul adventure, natural conditioner bars offer convenience and ease without compromising your sustainable lifestyle.
Saves you money
While small in size, conditioner bars are super concentrated, so a little goes a very long way. You get all the nourishing effects while using a smaller amount of product. Therefore, conditioner bars tend to last longer than their liquid counterparts, which translates into cost savings and fewer trips to the store for you!
For example, the conditioner bars in our store last up to 70 washes or 2-4+ months, depending on how often you wash your hair.
How Often Should You Use a Conditioner Bar?
The frequency of using a conditioner bar largely depends on your hair type and personal preference. Generally, it is recommended to use a conditioner bar each time after shampooing, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends of your hair.
If you have dry or damaged hair, you may benefit from using a conditioner bar more frequently, such as after every wash. If you have oily hair, you might choose to use it less frequently or only on the ends to avoid weighing down your hair.
Conclusion: Is a Conditioner Bar Better Than Bottled Conditioner?
Determining whether a conditioner bar is better than a traditional liquid conditioner depends on your priorities. If you value sustainability, waste reduction, and natural ingredients, then a conditioner bar is an excellent choice.
Conditioner bars come in a variety of great scents, included florals, herbs, citrus, earthy, and unscented.
Conditioner bars offer the same nourishing benefits as liquid conditioners while minimizing environmental impact and encouraging healthy, natural hair. Additionally, conditioner bars last longer than liquid conditioners, giving you more value for your money. By making the switch, you'll reduce clutter in your bathroom, add some extra change to your pocket, and support a more sustainable approach to your haircare routine. Get yours today!