Like practically everyone, I've been trying to reduce my plastic usage. Although I've always recycled since I was responsible for my own waste disposal, there's a lot of stuff I never considered, and whilst being so concerned with finding vegan, cruelty-free shampoo brands I completely disregarded the fact that they come in plastic packaging.
Shampoo bars seem like the perfect solution but I've been reluctant to invest because it seems messy and ineffective. But I'm giving it a go now! I've bought a shampoo and conditioning bar from Lush to try over the next few months to see how I get on. I also bought one of little silver tins to keep it in to manage that worrisome mess.
Godiva shampoo & conditioning bar
A visit to Lush is a very sensory experience - there are so many interesting smells and pretty sights. I always want to try everything or at least sniff it all. I went into the shop specifically for a shampoo bar so I tried not to tempt myself with anything else. There is an impressive selection of shampoo bars, which are all around £6-8; this does sound pricey but when you consider it's going to last you months and months it's a good investment.
I went for the Godiva because it's smells great and conditions as well, which saves me buying an extra bar. Not only is everything in Lush cruelty free (and cute and amazing!), many of their products are vegan, and the Godiva bar is completely vegan. It has a jasmine scent and contains a variety of oils and butters to give a soft shine to the hair.
It lathers up really well and it's actually really easy and convenient to use. It's not messy like I expected and I was impressed with the amount of lather you get out of these shampoo bars, and how long they last - 80-100 washes, so I'm told. I'm not totally convinced it's going to be provide sufficient conditioning to my hair though so I'll probably use a leave-in conditioning spray or a bit of coconut oil as well (which I already do.)
This shampoo bar is going to be really handy for travelling and for taking to the swimming pool as it's so small and fits snugly into its little tin.
I also bought a milk bottle shaped shower gel but more on that later!