Switching to natural shampoo bars can be a game-changer for your hair and the environment. However, preparing for a potential transition shampoo bar transition period is important as your hair adjusts to a gentler cleansing routine.
During this phase, your hair may appear greasy or feel waxy after washing, like it hasn’t been rinsed properly, this is normal as shampoos containing synthetic ingredients create a barrier to make your hair appear shiny and healthy.
Embracing Natural Hair Products: Using natural shampoo bars for the first time
When you start using natural hair products, your hair readjusts by overproducing sebum. Some people don’t experience a shampoo bar transition period, but it can last between 2 and 3 weeks or even longer for some. The shampoo bar transition period is usually more extended if you live in a hard water area; a water softener helps hugely.
Understanding Sebum: Your Scalp's Natural Moisturiser
Sebum is the natural oil produced by your scalp's sebaceous glands. It's essential for maintaining healthy hair and scalp and provides moisture, protection, and shine.
When you start using natural shampoo and conditioner bars, your scalp might overproduce sebum as it recalibrates to the new routine. This is a normal part of the shampoo bar transition and usually subsides within a few weeks.
Tips for a Smooth Transition to Natural Shampoo Bars
Baking Soda Rinse (Optional): Before you begin your shampoo bar transition, consider a one-time baking soda rinse to help remove buildup from previous hair products. Mix a couple of teaspoons of baking soda with a pint of water and pour it over your hair, gently massaging it into your scalp. Rinse thoroughly.
Note: This may not be suitable for colour-treated hair.
- Don't Overwash: Resist the urge to wash your hair too frequently during the transition. Overwashing can strip your scalp of its natural oils and prolong the adjustment period.
- Brush or Comb Regularly: Brush or combing your hair at least twice a day distributes your scalp's natural oils, helping to reduce the appearance of greasiness.
- Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) Rinse: An ACV rinse can help balance your hair's pH level and remove residue. After shampooing, mix three parts water with one part apple cider vinegar and pour it over your hair. Leave for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Do not use if you have colour-treated hair as it could strip away the colour.
- Essential Oils: For added hair and scalp benefits, add a few drops of essential oils like lavender or rosemary to your ACV rinse.
- Patience is Key: Give your hair time to adjust to the new routine. The greasy or waxy feeling will gradually disappear, leaving you with softer, healthier, and more manageable hair.
FAQs About the Shampoo Bar Transition
Why am I experiencing a transition even though I've used shampoo bars before?
Not all shampoo bars are created equal. Some may still contain synthetic detergents. Look for bars that are truly natural and free from harsh ingredients.
Do you offer a shampoo bar free from any artificial ingredients?
Yes! Our Unscented Solid Shampoo Bar, Lemongrass and Orange spice shampoo bars are all gentle and effective options for those seeking a smooth transition. These bars are 100% natural (our other bars are 99% natural with 1% fragrance oil).
Are your shampoo bars safe for coloured or bleached hair?
Absolutely! However, avoid using an Apple Cider Vinegar rinse if you have colour-treated hair, as it can potentially strip the colour.
What if my hair still feels waxy after a month?
Try a thorough double wash, working up a good lather and rinsing thoroughly. Consider using a water softener if you live in a hard water area.
Do you make a shampoo bar that doesn’t require a transition period?
Yes we do! Our SLS and soap free bar works well straight out of the box! Many solid shampoo bars that contain sulfates or synthetic detergents don’t require a transition, but sulfates can be harsh on your hair and scalp. Our SLS and soap free bars use a premium ingredient called Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate instead. This is derived from coconut oil and is very gentle. In fact, it is used in many babycare products! These bars will work equally well in hard or soft water areas and leave your hair feeling great! They can also be used with our range of natural conditioner bars.
Alternative Options for a Plastic-Free Hair Care Routine
If you're finding the shampoo bar transition too challenging, don't worry! Some peoples’ hair is simply not suited to soap-based natural shampoo bars, or it could be that our just bar isn’t the one for you.
First, if you already have one of our shampoo bars, don’t let it go to waste—you can still use it as hand or body soap!
You can still embrace eco-friendly hair care by using our sulfate-free solid shampoo bars, as mentioned above. However, if you really can’t get on with changing your haircare routine to bars, you can always consider refilling your old liquid shampoo bottles at a local refill store.
