Shampoo Bar Is Not Soap – And Why It Matters for Your Hair?
Many people assume that every shampoo bar is simply soap in a different shape.
In reality, the difference between soap and a real shampoo bar can completely change how your hair and scalp feel.
This matters especially if you struggle with dryness, frizz, irritation, or hair that never feels quite right after washing.
What is soap?
Traditional soap is made by saponifying oils with an alkali, which creates a product with a high pH (around 9–10).
Hair and scalp naturally prefer a slightly acidic pH (4.5–5.5).
When soap is used on hair, it can cause:
-
dryness and tightness
-
frizz and dullness
-
scalp irritation
-
a rough or squeaky feel
This is why many people try shampoo bars once and assume they “don’t work”.
What is a real shampoo bar?
A real shampoo bar is not soap.
It is a solid version of liquid shampoo - and most liquid shampoos contain 75–90% water.
A shampoo bar uses gentle cleansing agents and is formulated with a pH close to that of the scalp. This helps to:
-
keep the hair cuticle smooth
-
reduce frizz and dryness
-
support scalp comfort
-
leave hair soft and manageable
It cleanses effectively without disturbing the natural balance of hair and skin.
Why pH matters
When pH is too high, the hair cuticle opens, leading to moisture loss, frizz, and sensitivity.
A pH-balanced shampoo bar helps keep the cuticle closed, so hair feels smoother, shinier, and healthier over time.
If your hair felt awful after using a shampoo bar, it wasn’t the format - it was the formula.
How to choose the right shampoo bar
Not every shampoo bar suits every hair type.
-
Fine hair needing volume → SKY
-
Frizzy and dry hair → ROSE
-
Normal or damaged hair → IVORY
Choosing the right formula makes all the difference.
Choosing better doesn’t have to be complicated
Shampoo bars don’t have to be harsh or confusing.
When formulated correctly, they can be just as gentle and effective as liquid shampoo - with less waste and more intention.
Ready to explore shampoo bars that are not soap?
Discover the COLOUR Collection and find the formula that suits your hair best.