Say goodbye to plastic bottles cluttering up your shower and hello to a new way of washing your hair. Handmade shampoo bars are more than just a trend—they’re a full-blown haircare revolution. With roots that stretch way back in history and benefits that speak for themselves, these solid little bars of goodness are changing the way we think about shampoo. They’re eco-friendly, travel-friendly, and most importantly, they’re hair-friendly.
At a time when people are becoming more conscious about what goes into their personal care products, handmade shampoo bars offer a clean and sustainable alternative. They’re free from harsh chemicals like SLS, loaded with nourishing ingredients, and come with the added bonus of being crafted by hand—not mass-produced in some factory.
Let’s dive into the fascinating world of handmade shampoo bars—where they came from, why they’re better, and how Bayside Soapworks crafts products that are as good for your hair as they are for the planet.
A Walk Down Memory Lane – The History of Solid Shampoo Bars
Where It All Began
Believe it or not, solid shampoo isn’t a new thing. It might seem like the latest eco-trend, but people have been using versions of solid hair cleansers for centuries. Before liquid shampoos were even a thought, people relied on basic forms of soap to wash their hair. These early versions were made with animal fats, oils, and lye—simple ingredients that worked but weren’t always gentle.
Fast forward to the 1800s, when soap-making became more refined, and you’d find bar soaps being used for everything—from cleaning clothes to cleaning hair. It wasn’t until the early 20th century that liquid shampoo came onto the scene and slowly pushed solid bars into the background.
But as we all know, trends come full circle. In recent years, there’s been a big push to go back to basics—and for good reason. Today’s handmade shampoo bars are crafted with care, packed with high-quality natural ingredients, and designed to give your hair everything it needs without all the junk.
The Revival of the Old-School Haircare
This revival didn’t happen overnight. It grew out of a need to be more sustainable and mindful about personal care. As consumers started questioning what was in their products and how those products were made, solid shampoo bars made a major comeback.
The bars you’ll find now are a far cry from the ones your great-grandparents might have used. They’re infused with rich botanical oils, essential oils, and butters like shea or cocoa. They’re not just gentle—they’re luxurious.
And they’re not just a great choice for your hair—they’re a great choice for the planet. With no plastic packaging, less water usage in production, and a longer shelf life, they tick all the right boxes for eco-conscious consumers.
What Makes Handmade Shampoo Bars So Special?
Small Batch, Big Impact
Handmade shampoo bars are all about quality over quantity. Unlike mass-produced products, they’re made in small batches with a focus on detail. That means every bar gets the care it deserves. There’s no rushing through the process, and it shows in the final product.
Small-batch production allows for a level of customization you just can’t get with commercial brands. You’ll often find unique scent combinations, natural colorants, and thoughtful ingredients that cater to specific hair needs—whether you’re looking for hydration, volume, or a deep cleanse.
This is where artisan makers like Bayside Soapworks really shine. We are not just pumping out product—We're crafting an experience. And when your shampoo is handmade by someone who actually cares about the result? Trust me, your hair knows the difference.
Clean Ingredients, Happy Hair
What goes into your shampoo bar matters—a lot. Most handmade bars are packed with plant-based oils like coconut, olive, and castor oil, along with butters and essential oils and other fragrances. These ingredients don’t just clean your hair—they nourish it.
No harsh chemicals, no sulfates—just clean, wholesome ingredients that leave your hair feeling soft, healthy, and totally refreshed.
It’s like feeding your hair a healthy, balanced diet. No fillers. No preservatives. Just the good stuff. You wouldn’t want to eat junk food every day, right? So why do that to your hair?
Eco-Friendly from Start to Finish
We’re all trying to reduce waste these days, right? Shampoo bars are a no-brainer for that. No plastic bottles. Minimal packaging. Some even come wrapped in compostable materials or reusable tins.
You’re supporting a sustainable mission. From the ingredients to the packaging, everything is chosen with care. You can feel good knowing your haircare routine isn’t hurting the planet.
And bonus—because shampoo bars last longer than liquid shampoo, you’re also saving money in the long run. Less waste, more value. It’s a win-win.
How to Use a Shampoo Bar (Without Feeling Like a Total Newbie)
Lather, Rinse, Repeat (the Right Way)
If you’ve never used a shampoo bar before, it might feel a little weird at first. But trust us—it’s super easy once you get the hang of it.
Here’s a simple breakdown:
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Wet your hair thoroughly. This is key—shampoo bars need water to lather properly.
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Rub the bar between your hands to create a lather, or swipe it directly on your scalp a few times.
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Massage the lather into your scalp and hair, just like you would with liquid shampoo.
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Rinse thoroughly, making sure you get all the suds out.
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Store your bar in a dry spot, like a soap dish with drainage, so it lasts longer.
Boom. That’s it. No mess, no fuss—just clean, happy hair.
Some people like to follow up with a conditioner bar or a rinse (like diluted apple cider vinegar), especially in the transition phase when your hair is adjusting to a new routine. But once you get past that, you’ll probably never go back to liquid shampoo again.
Transitioning to Natural Shampoo – What to Expect
The Adjustment Phase Is Real (But Worth It)
Let’s keep it real—switching from commercial shampoo to a natural bar isn’t always love at first wash. Your hair might go through a little detox period, especially if it’s used to synthetic ingredients.
For a week or two, you might notice your scalp feels oilier or your hair doesn’t feel quite “right.” That’s totally normal. What’s happening is your scalp is recalibrating. It’s been overproducing oil to compensate for the harsh stripping effects of your old shampoo, and now it’s learning to chill out.
Stick with it. Once your scalp finds its balance again, you’ll see the results: softer texture, more shine, and way better overall health. Many people find they don’t even need to wash their hair as often anymore because their scalp isn’t freaking out.
Just give it some time and patience. Your future hair will thank you.
In A Nut Shell
So there you have it—handmade shampoo bars are more than just a cute trend. They’re a return to smarter, cleaner, and more sustainable haircare. They’re better for your scalp, your strands, and the environment. They’re now more accessible (and way more luxurious) than ever before.
If you're ready to cut the junk, ditch the plastic, and treat your hair to something truly special, a handmade shampoo bar is a no-brainer. Trust me—once you make the switch, there’s no going back.
Go ahead and give your shower routine a little glow-up. Your hair deserves it. 🌿
Our most popular Soap/Shampoo bar is our Renewal Zen. Give it a look!
