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In a world where everything’s going sustainable and #plasticfree is trending harder than Y2K fashion, I decided to ditch my tried-and-true liquid shampoo for what essentially looks like fancy hand soap. For science (and maybe a little bit for the aesthetic), I tested three premium shampoo bars to see if they could convert this liquid loyalist. Spoiler: things got interesting.
Full transparency: I purchased all products mentioned with my own money, and these reviews are based on my actual experience using them.
WHY I SWITCHED TO SHAMPOO BARS
TBH – I didn’t wake up one day and decide to revolutionize my shower routine. But between my overflowing graveyard of plastic shampoo bottles and that one viral TikTok about ocean plastic, I figured it was time to see what the solid shampoo hype was about. Plus, my bathroom shelf was screaming for a minimalist makeover. Three premium bars and countless hair washes later, I’ve got thoughts.
BEFORE WE DIVE IN
A quick note on specs: All three bars tested are vegan and cruelty-free. While each brand approaches sustainability differently, they all eliminate the need for plastic bottles – though some take their eco-commitment further than others (more on that later).
MEET YOUR NEW SHAMPOO BAR OPTIONS
Let’s meet our competitors in this beauty thunderdome:
Kitsch ($14): The straightforward option for those looking to test the shampoo bar waters. Basic but gets the job done.
Viori ($16.95): The sensory winner with multiple delicate fragrance options and traditional rice water infusion. Bonus: you can bundle it with a bamboo soap dish for proper storage.
Superzero ($28): The premium plastic-fighter with specialized formulations and innovative packaging, including their genius “Shampoo Bar Savior” bag for using every last bit.
THE SHAMPOO BAR SHOWER EXPERIENCE
First things first: forget what you know about shampooing. While conventional wisdom says to lather these in your hands, I discovered each bar has its sweet spot. Viori and Superzero work beautifully when glided directly onto wet hair, while Kitsch performs better with the traditional hand-lather method.
THE NITTY GRITTY: SHAMPOO BAR REVIEWS
KITSCH SHAMPOO BAR REVIEW
The Good: Beginner-friendly price point, easy introduction to shampoo bars, works with traditional hand-lathering method
The Not-So-Good: Takes more work to build lather, less slip than competitors
The Numbers: One bar replaces two bottles of liquid shampoo
Best For: First-timers wanting to test the waters without a big investment
VIORI SHAMPOO BAR REVIEW
The Good: Multiple sophisticated fragrance options, easy lather, traditional rice water formula for softer hair
The Not-So-Good: Higher price point, needs proper storage to avoid getting mushy
The Numbers: One bar replaces two bottles of liquid shampoo (30-60 washes)
Best For: Those looking to try traditional rice water haircare in a sustainable format
SUPERZERO SHAMPOO BAR REVIEW
The Good: High-quality formulation, plastic and microplastic-free, recyclable packaging
The Not-So-Good: Premium price point, highest investment of the three
The Numbers: One bar replaces two 8.4oz bottles of liquid shampoo
Best For: Committed sustainably-minded shoppers who want premium formulations
STORAGE SOLUTIONS
Let’s talk about the elephant in the shower: storage. Unlike liquid shampoo, these bars need proper drainage to last. Viori offers a bamboo dish option, Superzero’s savior bag is genius for using every last bit, and Kitsch… well, you’ll need to sort out storage separately.
THE FINAL VERDICT
Worth noting: shampoo bars require some technique adjustment, but once you find your groove, they’re surprisingly easy to use. While Viori won my heart with its sensory experience and easy application, each bar has its merits depending on your priorities – whether that’s budget, sustainability, or shower experience.
Whether you’re ready to make the switch to shampoo bars or just looking to upgrade your hair care routine, there’s never been a better time to experiment with your hair care routine.
TOP TIPS FOR SHAMPOO BAR SUCCESS
– Try both application methods (direct glide vs hand lather) to find what works for you
– Invest in proper storage solutions from the start
– Give yourself a few washes to adjust to the new routine
