Amelia
Specialist on Shampoo at - ShampooTopicsI’m Amelia. I have been working with hair care product shampoo and conditioner for 6 long years. This website is an outlet of my deep...Read more
Shampoo and conditioner bars are individual care products that most people use daily. This article reviews the 13 best eco-friendly shampoo and conditioner sets based on their overall effectiveness, ingredients, and packaging. It offers a detailed overview of each product.
We hope that this article will help you select the best eco-friendly shampoo and conditioner that not only suits hair type and personal preferences but also helps to reduce your plastic waste and minimize your carbon footprint.
Table of Contents
Organic shampoo vs. traditional shampoo
Unfortunately, traditional shampoos are often packaged in plastic bottles and contain harmful chemicals that can damage both our bodies and the planet.
This is why it’s essential to explore eco-friendly and sustainable alternatives that can help minimize our footprint and lower plastic waste. One of the greatest options available is vegan shampoo bars and conditioners.
Unlike traditional shampoos, these bars are typically packaged in paper or cardboard, which is a more environmentally responsible and sustainable choice.
How to choose the best shampoo and conditioner bars
To begin, it’s important to select a shampoo and conditioner bar that caters to your specific hair type, whether it’s curly, oily, dry, or color-treated. Be sure to seek bars that feature nourishing and natural ingredients, like plant extracts, essential oils, and vitamins, while steering clear of those that include harsh chemicals, sulfates, or parabens.
In addition, it’s a good idea to opt for eco-friendly shampoo bars that are thoughtfully packaged in sustainable materials, such as recycled paper or cardboard. Conversely, it’s best to avoid bars that are packaged in plastic or with excessive packaging.
Choose palm oil-free shampoo bars
The best eco-friendly shampoo bars truly align with sustainable and ethical practices. Thus, it’s crucial to avoid those that contain palm oil. Palm oil is a controversial ingredient due to the devastating environmental impact caused by deforestation, habitat destruction, and human rights violations associated with its production.
It is best to seek a shampoo bar that is certified palm oil-free.
Therefore, picking palm oil-free products can help to reduce the negative environmental and social impacts of palm oil production.
In addition, palm oil is a heavy oil that can leave hair feeling greasy and weighed down if used in excess. If not properly rinsed out, palm oil can build up on the hair and scalp, leading to clogged pores and scalp irritation.
Top picks of the best eco-friendly shampoo and conditioner
Here are some of the best eco-friendly options out there, divided by categories:
Best eco-friendly shampoo for refillable bottles:
- Eco-Friendly Shampoo and Conditioner – Rosemary, Mint, Vanilla
Best eco-friendly shampoo for non-plastic packaging:
- Ethique The Guardian Nourishing Solid Conditioner Bar
- Lulu Organics Lavender and Clary Sage Hair Powder/Dry Shampoo
- Argan Oil Shampoo And Conditioner Bar Set
- HiBAR Shampoo and Conditioner Bar Set
Best eco-friendly shampoo for volume:
- Yarok Feed Your Volume Shampoo
- HiBAR Shampoo and Conditioner Bar Set, Volumize
Best eco-friendly shampoo for all-purpose use:
- Sea To Summit Wilderness Wash
- Dr. Bronner’s – Organic Sugar Soap
Best eco-friendly shampoo for sensitive skin:
- SEEN Shampoo, Fragrance-Free
Best eco-friendly shampoo for hair growth:
- PURA D’OR Anti-Thinning Biotin Shampoo and Conditioner
Best eco-friendly shampoo for natural ingredients:
- Dr. Squatch Fresh Falls Shampoo + Conditioner Hair Bundle
- Avalon Organics Shampoo, Nourishing Lavender
- Purifying Shampoo and Conditioner Bar for All Hair Types
Overview of each shampoo with characteristics
We hope that this comprehensive overview has provided you with the necessary information to make a well-informed decision when selecting the best eco-friendly shampoo and conditioner. Here are the product and features descriptions for each shampoo:
| Image | Product | Features |
 | Eco-Friendly Shampoo and Conditioner bars | Free from sulfate Comes in refillable bottles with pumps Fresh fragrance that leaves the hair smelling clean and refreshed Has coconut oil |
 | Ethique The Guardian Nourishing Solid Conditioner Bar | Solid conditioner brands Cruelty-free and does not contain palm oil Silicone free Compostable bottle Made for dry and damaged hair |
 | Yarok Feed Your Volume Shampoo | 100% vegan shampoo Gluten, sulfate, alcohol, and paraben free Made from aloe vera, macadamia nut, primrose, and grape seed oils |
 | Sea To Summit Wilderness Wash | A shampoo, body wash, dish soap, or laundry detergent Biodegradable Palm oil free |
 | Dr. Bronner’s – Organic Sugar Soap | Can be used as a shampoo, body wash, hand soap, or face wash Made with organic oils, sugar, and shikakai powder Cleanses, moisturizes, and nourishes the hair |
 | Dr. Squatch Fresh Falls Shampoo + Conditioner Hair Bundle | Tea tree, eucalyptus, and peppermint oil Free from sulfate Helps to cleanse and condition the hair |
 | Lulu Organics Lavender and Clary Sage Hair Powder/Dry Shampoo | Dry shampoo Silicone free Arrowroot powder, kaolin clay, and lavender oil Absorbs excess oil and leaves the hair smelling fresh |
 | Avalon Organics Shampoo | Lavender, calendula, and aloe vera Sulfate- and paraben-free, vegan, and cruelty-free Assists to nourish and strengthen the hair |
 | SEEN Shampoo | Dermatologist-developed shampoo Fragrance, palm oil free and non-comedogenic Ideal for people with sensitive skin |
 | Purifying Shampoo and Conditioner Bar | Produced with organic vegan components Helps to purify and balance your hair Zero-waste shampoo bars |
 | Argan Oil Shampoo And Conditioner Bar Set | Vegan-approved and zero-waste shampoo Production in the USA Essential oils help to nourish and moisturize the hair |
 | HiBAR Shampoo and Conditioner Bar Set | A pack of shampoos and conditioner bars Plastic-free and travel-sized Has a compostable, zero-waste bottle |
 | PURA D’OR Anti-Thinning Biotin Shampoo and Conditioner | Clinically tested and proven to be effective in blocking dihydrotestosterone, which is one of the main causes of hair loss. Safe for colored hairs Nourishes and strengthens the hair |
Advantages, disadvantages, and unique characteristics of each shampoo
There are a wide variety of options available, from bars formulated for dry hair to those designed for oily hair.
And if you’re concerned about the transition from traditional shampoos to shampoo bars, here is a detailed breakdown of the advantages, disadvantages, and characteristics of each eco-friendly shampoo bar:
Eco-Friendly Shampoo and Conditioner
This environmentally friendly shampoo has its advantages, disadvantages, and unique characteristics.
Unique characteristics:
- Infused with rosemary, mint, and vanilla for a refreshing and invigorating scent
- Contains nourishing ingredients like aloe vera, shea butter, and jojoba oil to moisturize and strengthen hair
- The refillable bottles with pumps make them easy to use and reduce packaging waste.
Pros
- Eco-friendly and sustainable shampoo
- Produced with organic ingredients
- Free from sulfates and gentle on the hair and scalp
Cons
- Can be more expensive compared to traditional shampoos and conditioners
- May require a transition period for some users
Ethique The Guardian Nourishing Solid Conditioner Bar
This solid conditioner bar is ideal for those who are looking for zero-waste shampoo bars.
Characteristics:
- A pleasant scent of lavender and vanilla leaves hair smelling fresh and clean.
- One bar lasts up to 5 months, making it a cost-effective and sustainable option for hair care.
- It is compact and lightweight and does not count as a liquid, allowing it to pass through airport security without any hassle.
Pros
- It is eco-friendly and zero-waste, as it comes in compostable and biodegradable packaging.
- Coconut oil and vitamin B5 provide hydration and nourishment to damaged hair.
- The bar is cruelty-free, vegan, and palm oil-free, making it a great option for those who are environmentally conscious and want to avoid harmful chemicals.
Cons
- Not suitable for oily hair, as it is designed for balanced to dry hair.
- It requires some rubbing and massaging to create a creamy texture.
Yarok Feed Your Volume Shampoo
This zero-waste shampoo is also 100% vegan and cruelty-free.
It is paraben free and does not contain gluten, sulfate, or alcohol.
Characteristics:
- The shampoo is made with a blend of nourishing oils and plant extracts, which provide both cleansing and moisturizing benefits.
- The packaging features a sleek and minimalist design, with a convenient pump top for easy dispensing.
Let’s look at the characteristics of this eco-friendly shampoo:
Pros
- Perfect for those who prioritize ethical and sustainable beauty products.
- Made from natural components such as aloe vera, macadamia nut, primrose, and grapeseed oils.
- Gluten, alcohol, parabens, and sulfate free, making it ideal for people with sensitive skin or allergies.
Cons
- This sustainable shampoo is on the pricier side compared to some other eco-friendly shampoos, which may not be accessible to everyone.
- Some users with very oily hair may find that this shampoo does not provide enough cleansing power to fully remove buildup.
Sea To Summit Wilderness Wash
This all-purpose wash is perfect for traveling and camping. It can be used as a shampoo, body wash, dish soap, or laundry detergent, making it the best zero-waste shampoo.
Characteristics:
- It is a 3-in-1 product that can be used as a body wash, shampoo, and laundry detergent.
- It is phosphates, parabens, and sulfate free.
- Suitable for sensitive skin as it is pH balanced and contains natural ingredients such as tea tree oil, which has antiseptic properties.
It is biodegradable and comes in a compact bottle that can easily fit in a backpack.
Pros
- It is a multi-purpose liquid shampoo that is perfect for outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, and backpacking.
- Biodegradable shampoo.
- The liquid shampoo comes in a compact bottle, making it easy to pack and carry around.
Cons
- Some customers may find the scent to be too overpowering.
- The bottle size (3 oz) may not last as long as other larger-sized liquid soaps.
Dr. Bronner’s – Organic Sugar Soap
It is made with organic oils, sugar, and shikakai powder, which help to cleanse, moisturize and nourish the hair.
Characteristics:
- Suitable for use on hands, body, face, and hair, providing a multi-purpose solution for daily cleansing and care.
- The soap is vegan and free from harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances.
- The lavender scent provides a calming and relaxing aroma.
Pros
- A natural and gentle cleanser suitable for all skin types.
- The 64-ounce size is perfect for households or long-term use, minimizing packaging waste and saving money in the long run.
- The 4-in-1 uses of this soap make it versatile and convenient for daily use.
Cons
- It can be difficult to handle and store.
- The lavender scent may not be suitable for those with sensitivities or allergies to fragrances.
Dr. Squatch Fresh Falls Shampoo + Conditioner Hair Bundle
Dr. Squatch Fresh Falls is made with natural ingredients, including tea plant oil, eucalyptus, and peppermint.
Characteristics:
- It is free from harsh chemicals and suitable for individuals with sensitive skin.
- The scent is fresh and invigorating, thanks to the tea tree and peppermint oil in the formula.
It is free from sulfate and helps to cleanse and condition the hair.
Pros
- It is an all-in-one solution for cleansing and conditioning hair.
- The shampoo and conditioner are free from sulfates, parabens, and harsh chemicals that can harm the hair and scalp.
- The bundle comes in a convenient pump bottle that allows for easy dispensing and application of the product.
Cons
- The price point of the bundle may be higher compared to other shampoo and conditioner products in the market.
Lulu Organics Lavender and Clary Sage Hair Powder/Dry Shampoo
This dry shampoo is perfect for those who want to skip a hair wash day.
It helps to absorb excess oil and leaves the hair smelling fresh.
Characteristics:
- It is made with all-natural and organic components, including corn starch, and arrowroot powder.
- This dry shampoo can absorb excess oil and grease from the hair, leaving it feeling refreshed and voluminous.
- The product is cruelty-free and vegan.
Pros
- It is an all-natural alternative to most shampoos that can strip hair of its natural oils.
- This dry shampoo is perfect for those who want to extend the time between washes, save water, or simply want to refresh their hair.
- The 4 oz bottle is convenient for travel and on-the-go use.
Cons
- Some customers may find that the powder is difficult to apply or that it leaves a white residue on the hair.
- The lavender and clary sage scent may not be to everyone’s liking.
Avalon Organics Shampoo
This shampoo is created using natural components, including lavender, calendula, and aloe vera.
It is vegan, cruelty-free, and free from parabens and sulfates. It helps to nourish and strengthen the hair.
Characteristics:
- It is free from sulfate, meaning it won’t strip your hair of natural oils.
- The formula is made from plant-based ingredients.
- The lavender scent is derived from organic oils, ensuring that it is natural and not artificially added.
- The large plastic bottle is made from recyclable plastic.
Pros
- This eco-friendly shampoo is a plant-based formula that is made from organic botanicals to nourish and moisturize the hair.
- The shampoo comes in a large 32 oz bottle, which means it will last for a long time, making it a considerable value for money.
Cons
- It is difficult to spread evenly throughout the hair.
- The large bottle can be difficult to handle in the shower.
SEEN Shampoo
It is a dermatologist-developed, eco-friendly shampoo that is fragrance-free and non-comedogenic.
It is perfect for those with sensitive skin and helps to cleanse and condition the hair without causing any irritation.
Characteristics:
- It cleanses and nourishes the hair without stripping it of its natural oils.
- The shampoo is formulated with a blend of natural components, including bisabolol, which helps to soothe and calm the scalp.
- Free from the sulfate.
Pros
- This eco-friendly shampoo is dermatologist-developed and formulated to be gentle and safe for all hair types, including sensitive scalps.
- The shampoo is free from fragrances and harsh chemicals.
- It is also non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores or contribute to breakouts on the scalp.
Cons
- While the lack of fragrance is an advantage for some, others may miss the pleasant scent that comes with traditional shampoos.
- It is on the pricier side compared to other shampoos on the market.
Purifying Shampoo and Conditioner Bar
This plastic-free bar set is perfect for those who want to reduce their plastic waste.
Crafted with natural vegan ingredients such as tea plants and peppermint oil, this zero-waste shampoo is both cruelty-free and purifying, helping to balance and restore hair health.
Characteristics:
- Natural vegan ingredients, including cocoa butter and rosemary extract, are carefully blended to create these shampoo bars, which purify and nourish the hair and scalp.
- With a pH-balanced formula, these bars promote optimal hair and scalp health.
- The shampoo bar helps to control oil and dandruff, while the conditioner bar works to moisturize and nourish the hair.
- In addition to their nourishing properties, these bars are also plastic-free, eco-friendly, and zero-waste, making them an ideal choice for environmentally conscious consumers.
Pros
- Natural vegan ingredients are used to create these eco-friendly shampoo bars.
- Certified cruelty-free shampoo.
- Suitable for all hair types, this shampoo is formulated to be pH balanced.
- Designed with sustainability in mind, this shampoo has zero-waste packaging, made with eco-friendly materials.
- This plastic-free shampoo bar effectively purifies the hair and scalp, helping to control excess oil and dandruff.
Cons
- Requires some adjustment to get used to.
- May leave the hair feeling dry or stripped, depending on the hair type and usage.
Argan’s Oil Shampoo And Conditioner Bar Set
Handmade in the USA, this set of bars is 100% vegan and entirely free from plastic, embodying a commitment to both ethical and environmental responsibility.
Infused with nourishing essential oils, these bars effectively moisturize and support healthy hair.
Characteristics:
- Essential oils are incorporated into these bars, which are composed entirely of natural ingredients that provide nourishment and moisture to both the hair and scalp.
- These shampoo bars offer a zero-waste alternative to traditional products, as they are entirely plastic-free.
- Produced by hand in the USA, these bars are crafted with a commitment to quality and ingredient purity.
- With long-lasting formulas, these shampoo and conditioner bars offer excellent value for money while also reducing waste.
Pros
- Plastic-free
- Handmade in the USA.
- Contains natural oils, including argan, which provides hydration to the hair and scalp.
- Long-lasting, providing good value for money and reducing waste.
Cons
- Some users may find the bars take some time to lather, requiring more effort to distribute evenly throughout the hair.
- The bars may not be good for all hair types, as the ingredients may not provide enough moisture for extremely dry hair.
HiBAR Shampoo and Conditioner Bar Set
These solid shampoo bars are perfect for those who are always on the go.
It is plastic-free, travel-sized, and comes in compostable packaging.
The Volumize variant helps to add volume and texture to the hair.
Characteristics:
- Shampoo bars are plastic-free alternatives to traditional hair products, helping to reduce waste and promote sustainability.
- These eco-friendly shampoo bars are designed to provide volume to the hair, making it ideal for individuals with fine or thin hair.
- It is color-safe and suitable for all hair types.
Pros
- By coming in solid bar form, this eco-friendly and sustainable option stands out as a plastic-free alternative that can significantly reduce waste.
- With a formulation of all-natural ingredients, these shampoo bars provide gentle cleansing suitable for daily use, making them an excellent choice for those with sensitive skin.
- This set is designed to enhance hair volume, with natural components such as coconut and shea butter that nourish and strengthen hair, providing it with a fuller and thicker appearance.
- Conveniently travel-friendly, these shampoo bars can be easily carried in a purse or gym bag without the risk of spills or leaks.
Cons
- Some individuals may find the scent of it to be too strong or overpowering.
- The shampoo bars may take some time to get used to, as they don’t lather in the same way as traditional liquid shampoos and conditioners.
- The Volumize set may not be suitable for individuals with extremely dry or damaged hair, as it may exacerbate the dryness.
PURA D’OR Anti-Thinning Biotin Shampoo and Conditioner
This set is perfect for those who want to prevent hair loss and promote the growth of healthy hair.
It is clinically tested and proven to be effective in blocking DHT (dihydrotestosterone), which is one of the main causes of hair loss.
It is safe for colored hair and helps to nourish and strengthen the hair.
Characteristics:
- This shampoo and conditioner set comes in 16 oz bottles, making it a long-lasting choice for those looking for a reliable hair care routine.
- The formula is free from harsh chemicals, including sulfates and parabens, making it a gentler choice for those with sensitive scalps.
- The gold-label hair care set features natural components, including biotin, argan, and nettle extract, which work together to nourish and strengthen hair.
- The shampoo and conditioner set is easy to use and lathers well, ensuring that hair is thoroughly cleansed and conditioned.
Pros
- This set is clinically tested and proven to help prevent hair thinning and promote growth, making it an excellent choice for those looking to improve the health and thickness of their hair.
- The set includes both shampoo and conditioning, ensuring a complete hair care routine that nourishes and strengthens hair from root to tip.
- The DHT blocker formula helps prevent hair loss caused by DHT, which is a hormone linked to hair thinning and balding, making it an ideal choice for both men and women experiencing hair loss.
- The set is suitable for all hair types, including color-treated hair.
Cons
- Some users may find the price of this set to be higher than other hair care products on the market.
- While the formula is suitable for all hair types, some users with very dry or damaged hair may find that it is not moisturizing enough on their own.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the best eco-friendly shampoo and conditioner is not only good for our health, but also for the environment. By reducing our plastic waste and minimizing our carbon footprint, we can take small steps toward a more sustainable future.
In this article, we have compared 13 different cruelty-free and eco-friendly shampoos and conditioners based on their ingredients, packaging, and overall effectiveness. Each product has its unique advantages, disadvantages, and characteristics, making it important to consider which shampoo is best for your type of hair and personal preferences.
If you struggle with frizzy hair, it may be worth considering switching to a vegan shampoo that contains natural oils or olive oil. For those seeking a refreshing and eco-friendly alternative to traditional shampoo, apple cider vinegar can also be used for cleansing.
We hope that this comprehensive guide has helped you make an informed decision and find the best eco-friendly shampoo bars that suit your needs. By making this simple change in your daily routine, you can help reduce plastic waste and protect the environment, all while enjoying healthier, happier hair.
FAQ
The best eco-friendly shampoo bars are cruelty-free and made with natural, sustainable, and biodegradable ingredients such as castor oil, palm oil, and coconut oil.
They should not contain dangerous chemicals, palm oil, or synthetic fragrances that can affect our health or the environment.
To ascertain whether it is an environmentally friendly shampoo, it is essential to scrutinize its list of ingredients and packaging.
To ensure that a product is truly environmentally friendly, it’s worth checking for certifications such as USDA Organic or the Leaping Bunny logo, which indicates that the product is cruelty-free.
I’m Amelia. I have been working with hair care product shampoo and conditioner for 6 long years. This website is an outlet of my deep passion for hair, Shampoo and Conditioner. Basically, I'm here to guide you on shampoo and conditioner.