Originally appeared on National Geographic
This story is part of Planet or Plastic?—our multiyear effort to raise awareness about the global plastic waste crisis. Learn what you can do to reduce your own single-use plastics, and then head here to take your pledge.
Shampoo bars—hair cleanser in bar soap form—are the latest trend in hair care products. Usually made of natural ingredients to promote hair health, they’re also easier on the environment and great for travel. Here are five reasons to make the switch from bottle to bar.
Reduction of Plastics
Currently, about nine million tons of plastic get thrown into the ocean annually, which breaks down to one garbage truck full of plastic being dumped into the sea every minute. Shampoo bars cut out the need for plastic bottles, and most come wrapped in recycled paper or in paper boxes. They’re also convenient for travelling—just pop them in a metal tin available for that purpose.
No Worries About TSA Limits
A traveller’s nightmare is having airport security raid your bag, asking if you’re over the liquid limit, or worse, opening your suitcase after a flight and finding out that your shampoo bottles have leaked all over your favourite outfit. Shampoo bars eliminate both scenarios and will make your case smell good, without destroying your clothes.
Concentrated to Last Longer
Most shampoos are 80-percent water and conditioners can be even more—up to 95-percent water. Why pay for water when you can add it in yourself? Shampoo bars are mega concentrated and generally last longer than bottled versions. On average, a shampoo bar will outlast two to three bottles of liquid shampoo, meaning you save money and extra trips to the store.
