Plastic Free Shampoo

Zero waste shampoo was one of my latest zero waste swaps to make. In the area of beauty products, I’m about as low-maintenance as it gets. I bought my shampoo and conditioner in the largest containers available to save money, but it also greatly reduced my plastic usage. However, I started to learn about some of the ingredients in conventional shampoo and it convinced me to take my hair care to the next level.

Zero Waste Shampoo for a Variety of Hair Types

I obviously haven’t tried all of these zero waste shampoo options, but I did find personal recommendations to give a starting place. Research the ingredients and reviews to see if they will work for you then go from there.

Unwrapped Life allows your to search based on hair type and hair issues, such as dry, oily and even sensitive skins.

Ethique claims to have 3 bottles worth in every shampoo bar. They have a variety of shampoo options for a variety of hair types.

I’ve used Etsy and obsessively looked at reviews for the products I was considering. It was overwhelming from all the option to know where to start. But you can search for whatever hair type or issue you have and ask the shop owners questions before making final decision.

Refillable Shampoo Bottles

Plaine Products is a zero waste brand that sells shampoo in aluminum bottles. Once you’ve emptied your bottle, you can ship it back for them to refill. The benefit of aluminum is you can recycle it again and again without loss of quality. The aluminum recycling process is also highly efficient, so it saves a large percentage of energy compared to that of a new bottle. They also have face wash and moisturizer in aluminum bottles.

Their ingredients are also another upside to shopping at Plaine Products. Their ingredients are vegan, organic, humane, environmentally friendly and more.

Shampoo Bar

The shampoo bar has been my preferred zero waste shampoo of choice. It allows me to support many small shops on Etsy, change up the smells I use and it seems like an affordable option. I get at least a few months from a $10 or so bar. I have wavy, long hair, and I’ve had good results from the zero waste swap.

How to Pick the Right Shampoo Bar

This step is why I put off switching to zero waste shampoo. But my hair adjusted to shampoo bars quite smoothly. Depending on your hair care routine, switching to a shampoo bar might be a challenge. So here are something to know before switching to a shampoo bar.

There’s really no telling how the years of chemicals have affected your hair, so chemicals even strip your hair of it’s natural oils. There could be a transition period. Many people have greasy, overly dry or more tangles in the beginning, which could last up to a month. You can research what type of ingredients work best for your type of hair before you begin your search. Search on Etsy using keywords that describe your hair, read reviews and talk to the shop owners to make sure you choose the right ingredients for your hair.

How to Use Shampoo Bars

All you have to do to is wet your hair, then gently rub the shampoo bar directly on your scalp. Make sure a good lather forms and try to work from the top down to prevent tangles. When you’re ready, just rinse like you normally would.

If you prefer, you can also create the lather in your hands, and then apply it to your hair (so you’re not rubbing the bar into your scalp).

Zero waste conditioner

For a conditioner bar, you use it the same way, but only apply to the ends of your hair. If you have hard water or build up that you just can’t get over, use an apple cider vinegar rinse. I use about a Tablespoon with about 16 oz of water to pour over my head. I don’t need it all the time, but for some reason, I do have a problem with residue and ACV works perfectly. I also use it if tangles are a problem.

Shampoo and conditioner from bulk stores

Not all bulk stores have a non-food section, but many do. Bulk stores with a focus on waste reduction usually stock these products, and you can buy bulk shampoo, conditioner and other products in your own containers.

This option is preferable over any kind of recycling program, as the recycling process is not as eco-friendly as it sometimes is told to be. Anytime you can refill a bottle, it should be your first choice.

DIY Dry Shampoo

Dry shampoo is a lifesaver some days. For most people, it’s not super health to wash your hair everyday because you’re stripping it of beneficial oils. It’s good to try to stretch washes which means saving water, product, and healthier hair.

The best part is it’s super cheap and easy to make your own. To apply, I brush back my hair like I will put it in a pony tail and lightly pat it on the top of my head and on the sides. Then part my hair and go.

No shampoo hair

I did attempt to go with the no-poo method and I did for a week or so, but for some reason my hair didn’t quite acclimate. Most people need at least two weeks to complete the transition, but for most it’s just too much. The no poo method consists of baking soda and apple cider vinegar rinse. I do know one person who successfully uses this method, and there are plenty more that sing its praises, however it doesn’t seem to work for everyone.

Zero Waste Swaps

Looking for other zero waste swaps? Check out this post on how to switch to bar soap, and kitchen sponge alternatives.

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