Sustainable beauty has been on my radar for a while, but when it came to my haircare routine, I was hesitant. Could I really swap out my beloved shampoo and conditioner for bars, pastes, or even apple cider vinegar? Would my hair still feel clean and manageable? To find out, I put some of the most recommended eco-friendly haircare products to the test. Here’s what I learned.
Why Switch to Sustainable Haircare?
Traditional shampoos and conditioners come in plastic bottles, often loaded with sulfates, parabens, and synthetic fragrances that can harm both our hair and the environment. Even products marketed as “clean” or “green” aren’t always as eco-friendly as they claim. That’s why I wanted to explore zero-waste, plastic-free, and natural haircare options that could work for me without compromising on quality.
What I Tried and Loved
1. Shampoo and Conditioner Bars
I started with Ethique’s Shampoo and Conditioner Bars, a brand that’s frequently praised for its performance and sustainability.
- The Verdict: After a slight learning curve, I loved them. My hair felt clean, soft, and hydrated. Plus, each bar lasts way longer than a bottled shampoo, saving money in the long run.
Buy Ethique Shampoo & Conditioner Bars on Amazon
2. Plaine Products (Refillable Bottles)
For those who aren’t ready to give up liquid shampoo, Plaine Products offers a refillable system with aluminum bottles that you send back when empty.
- The Verdict: It works just like any high-end salon shampoo. My hair felt nourished, and I appreciated the company’s commitment to being zero-waste.
Buy Plaine Products Shampoo & Conditioner on Amazon
3. DIY Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse
Instead of traditional conditioner, I tried an apple cider vinegar rinse to see if it could smooth and detangle my hair naturally.
- The Verdict: Surprisingly effective! It left my hair super soft and manageable, though the smell took some getting used to. I recommend diluting it with water and adding a few drops of essential oil.
4. EcoRoots Natural Hair Oil
To keep my hair hydrated between washes, I used EcoRoots’ Natural Hair Oil, made with avocado and rice bran oils.
- The Verdict: My curls drank this up! It added shine without feeling greasy, making it a great eco-friendly alternative to commercial serums.
Buy EcoRoots Natural Hair Oil on Amazon
Other Eco-Friendly Haircare Tips
Aside from switching up my products, I also made a few lifestyle tweaks to make my routine even more sustainable:
- Washing Less Often: Instead of daily washing, I trained my hair to go 3-4 days between washes.
- Using a Bamboo Hairbrush: I swapped my plastic brush for a biodegradable bamboo brush, which also helped with frizz.
- Making My Own Dry Shampoo: A mix of cornstarch and cocoa powder worked wonders on second-day hair.
- Eco-Friendly Hair Ties: Traditional hair ties shed microplastics, so I switched to plastic-free hair ties made of organic cotton.
Final Thoughts
Going sustainable with my haircare was easier than I expected, and my hair honestly looks and feels better for it. While there was a brief adjustment period, the long-term benefits—both for my hair and the planet—made it totally worth it. Whether you’re just dipping your toes into sustainable beauty or ready to go full zero-waste, there’s an eco-friendly haircare swap out there for you.
Would you try any of these swaps? Let me know!
