Favorite Things: Ethique Shampoo Bar

I jumped on the shampoo bar train a little over a year ago, initially because I was searching for additional ways to cut down on my plastic usage. Over the past couple of years, I have also really paid attention to what is in my beauty products. Having heard mixed reviews and not knowing much about the product, I did a ton of research. There were reviews for some brands of bars not rinsing out or needing extra steps, and frankly, I was looking for something easier, not more difficulty. Others didn't work well with all hair types. Still others had chemicals I was trying to avoid.

That's when I came across the sample pack from Ethique and took the plunge! Their products are free from all of the nasties, and it came packaged in compostable materials (thank you very much!). It consisted of three shampoo bars and two conditioner bars, and I finished one entire product before starting the next. I moved on to the full-sized bars, trying a couple more types before deciding that Heali Kiwi is my best match for shampoo and Wonderbar for conditioner. BUT, I just found out that Ethique just released purple bars for blonde hair, and I cannot wait to try them! The shampoo typically lasts about two months for me, so although I'm not sure it's actually longer-lasting than a bottle would be, it's totally worth it for me.

Because here's the thing. Whether or not you're seeking to reduce plastic or chemical use, shampoo bars are in solid form, and therefore are So. Much. Easier. to travel with. Overstuffed liquid bags be gone! If you travel solely with carry-ons like I do, you no longer have to take up precious liquids space with those clunky bottles. No more leaky bottles. And no more spending extra cash on travel-sized bottles you will inevitably stuff in a drawer when you return and never use (or find) again.

It's a triple threat, for me! What do you think? Would you try, or have you tried, a shampoo and/or conditioner bar?