As my daughter flies out on her travels with my solid shampoo and conditioner in her suitcase, I thought I'd revisit why solid shampoos are a good idea for everyday use as well as on your travels.
Solid Shampoo vs Liquid Shampoo: Pros and Cons
Both solid and liquid shampoos cleanse the hair and scalp, but they differ in form, ingredients, environmental impact, and convenience. Here's a comparison to help you decide which might suit your needs best:
1. Form & Packaging
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Solid Shampoo: Bar format, typically zero-waste or minimal recyclable packaging (often cardboard or paper).
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Liquid Shampoo: Bottled in plastic or glass; more likely to contribute to plastic waste.
✅ Advantage: Solid shampoo (eco-friendly, zero waste)
2. Ingredients & Water Content
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Solid Shampoo: concentrated and water-free; contains fewer preservatives. Parabens, phthalates free.
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Liquid Shampoo: Contains a large percentage of water (up to 80%); often includes stabilizers, thickeners, and preservatives.
✅ Advantage: Solid shampoo (more concentrated, cleaner ingredients)
3. Longevity & Cost-Effectiveness
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Solid Shampoo: Lasts longer (one bar can replace 2–3 bottles), cost-effective over time.
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Liquid Shampoo: Used up more quickly due to overpouring or dilution.
✅ Advantage: Solid shampoo (lasts longer per use)
4. Travel & Portability
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Solid Shampoo: security-friendly, no liquid restrictions, no spillage risk.
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Liquid Shampoo: Subject to liquid travel rules, bulky, prone to leaking.
✅ Advantage: Solid shampoo (ideal for travel)
5. Ease of Use
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Solid Shampoo: Requires a bit of a learning curve; you rub the bar on wet hair or hands to lather.
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Liquid Shampoo: Very familiar and easy to use; quick to apply and rinse.
✅ Advantage: Liquid shampoo (more user-friendly for beginners)
6. Customization & Variety
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Solid Shampoo: Limited formulations but increasing variety.
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Liquid Shampoo: Wider range of options for specific hair types, concerns (curly, color-treated, dandruff, etc.).
✅ Advantage: Liquid shampoo (more targeted formulas—so far)
So, I'm sold, I think most of us can use a shampoo bar on our heads/hair like we use soap bars on the rest our body!
Take the plunge, try my solid shampoo bars:
Citrus Burst Solid Shampoo Bar – Marigold Charms
Aloe Vera & Tea Tree Oil Solid Shampoo Bar – Marigold Charms
Nourishing Conditioner Bar – Marigold Charms
Happy beauty!
Marion x