Why do you use the shampoo you have now? Is it because it’s the brand your hairdresser recommended? Or maybe it’s the one you’ve been using for years because it’s familiar, convenient, or part of a routine you’ve never questioned. But have you ever wondered if your current shampoo is actually the best choice for your hair and the planet? If you’re curious about trying something new but hesitant about the “awkward phase” of switching to shampoo bars, keep reading. We’ll show you how to make the transition smoothly, while asking yourself some important “whys.”
Why Are You Using Liquid Shampoo Right Now?
Before diving into the “how,” let’s talk about the “why.” Why are you still using liquid shampoo? Is it because of the brand’s reputation, or maybe because your hairdresser recommended it years ago? Perhaps you’re drawn to the glossy ads and promises of miracle results, but have you ever really considered whether your liquid shampoo is the best fit for your hair type or the environment?
Here are some thought-provoking questions:
- Is brand loyalty driving your decision? If you’ve been using the same brand for years, it might be hard to switch, but ask yourself: Is your loyalty based on results, or just comfort?
- What’s stopping you from trying something different? Are you concerned about how your hair will adjust? Maybe you’re worried about that dreaded “awkward transition phase”? Understanding what holds you back is the first step to breaking free from it.
- Is it about convenience or habit? Liquid shampoos are everywhere, neatly packaged in plastic bottles and ready to squeeze. But does that convenience outweigh the benefits of an eco-friendly alternative?
The Truth About the Transition Phase
Switching from liquid shampoo to bars doesn’t have to be awkward — and it certainly doesn’t have to feel like your hair’s going through a rough patch. The transition phase typically comes from your scalp adjusting to a gentler, sulfate-free product. Here’s how to ease into it:
1. Clarify First
If you’ve been using liquid shampoos with silicones, sulfates, or other synthetic ingredients, your hair likely has some build-up. This is often why some people experience the dreaded “greasy” or “heavy” feeling when they switch to bars. Start by clarifying your hair with a deep-cleansing shampoo or a simple DIY rinse (apple cider vinegar works wonders). This strips away the residue and preps your hair for a fresh start.
2. Introduce Shampoo Bars Gradually
There’s no need to go cold turkey. Start by alternating between your liquid shampoo and the bar. Use your shampoo bar every second or third wash at first, giving your scalp time to adjust to the natural ingredients. After a week or two, you can transition fully to the bar.
3. Rinse Thoroughly
Shampoo bars are more concentrated, so a little goes a long way. Make sure to rinse your hair thoroughly to remove all the product and avoid residue build-up. If you’re in a hard-water area, consider using a final rinse with apple cider vinegar or lemon juice to restore the pH balance of your scalp.
4. Be Patient
Your scalp might take a couple of weeks to adjust. This is normal and worth the wait. Remember, your scalp is used to harsher chemicals that strip away oils, so it may take a little time to balance out. But once it does, your hair will feel healthier and lighter, and you’ll be saving the planet one wash at a time.
Why Make the Switch?
Let’s face it — switching to shampoo bars isn’t just about hair. It’s about making more mindful decisions for yourself and the environment.
- Eco-Friendly Benefits: Shampoo bars eliminate the need for plastic bottles. Australia alone discards about 130,000 tonnes of plastic annually into the oceans, with shampoo bottles making up a significant portion. Switching to bars can help reduce this staggering number.
- Long-Term Hair Health: Unlike liquid shampoos that often contain sulfates, parabens, and synthetic fragrances, shampoo bars are packed with natural, nourishing ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, and essential oils. These promote scalp health and strengthen hair over time.
Overcoming the Mental Barriers
Sometimes, the hardest part of change is in our heads. So, if you’ve asked yourself why you’re still using liquid shampoo, the next step is to overcome those mental barriers.
- Fear of Change: It’s natural to worry about the unknown, but what if the change turns out to be exactly what your hair and the environment needed? Remind yourself that the awkward phase is temporary, but the benefits are long-lasting.
- Habits Are Hard to Break: You might be used to squeezing shampoo from a bottle, but a shampoo bar offers a new, more sustainable routine. Once you’re in the groove, it’ll feel just as natural.
- Concerns About Results: Worried that a shampoo bar won’t perform as well as your liquid shampoo? Consider this: Many liquid shampoos contain silicones that give the illusion of smooth, shiny hair, but can build up over time and weigh hair down. Shampoo bars clean your hair naturally, leaving it healthier in the long run.
The Real Results: No More Awkward Phase
Once your scalp adjusts, you’ll likely notice your hair feels more balanced, softer, and easier to manage. Plus, you’ll have the added benefit of knowing you’re not contributing to plastic waste. In fact, making the switch to shampoo bars can save the equivalent of three plastic bottles per bar — a small change that makes a big difference.
What’s Stopping You?
So, what’s stopping you from making the switch to shampoo bars? Is it the comfort of your current routine or the fear of the “awkward phase”? Now that you know how to transition smoothly, you can make the shift with confidence. With shampoo bars, you’ll get healthier hair, fewer chemicals, and a positive environmental impact. Ready to make the change?
Start your journey today with Cooper Delivered’s eco-friendly shampoo bars and say goodbye to plastic bottles for good. 🌿✨