We love hearing from customers who are excited to make the switch to all-natural products for their hair. However, a common experience after the first few uses is a “funny” feeling, where hair feels different from what they’re used to. My sister-in-law felt the same way when she first tried a shampoo bar, and I went through it too. I like to call this the "transition period."
What Is the Transition Period?
When switching from commercial shampoo to a natural shampoo bar, there’s usually a period of adjustment that can last anywhere from a few days to a few months. This period depends on several factors, including your hair thickness and the types of shampoos and conditioners you previously used. During this time, your scalp and hair are adjusting, detoxifying from built-up chemicals, and learning to maintain balance naturally.
Common Experiences During the Transition
During the transition period, you may notice:
- Oily or Dry Scalp: Your scalp may fluctuate between these extremes as it rebalances its natural oils.
- Increased Tangles and Frizz: Hair may feel more tangled or frizzy, especially if it’s thicker or longer.
- Waxy or Sticky Feeling: This common sensation feels odd but is temporary.
While these changes might seem unusual, don’t be discouraged. Stick with it, and soon your hair will adjust, feeling healthier and more natural. Natural shampoo bars don’t leave hair feeling overly soft or weightless as commercial shampoos do; instead, they nourish without stripping natural oils.
Finding the Right Shampoo Bar for You
One of the challenges can be finding the shampoo bar that works best for your hair type. I’ve tried a variety myself, even experimenting with using regular Castile olive soap on my hair, which I now find is my favourite for its simplicity. I even skip the conditioner most days—sometimes, I just use a bit of balm left on my hands or spray a mist of water with essential oils. The Castile soap leaves my hair feeling natural and balanced without any heavy residue.
Just as you experimented with different commercial shampoos, finding the perfect shampoo bar might take a little time. The good news is that with natural shampoo bars, you’re choosing a safer, gentler option for your hair and scalp.
Tips for a Smoother Transition
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Use an Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse
If your hair feels waxy or sticky, try an apple cider vinegar (ACV) rinse. Dilute ACV with water, pour it through your hair after shampooing, and rinse thoroughly. ACV helps balance the pH of your hair and remove any residue. -
Try a Herbal Hair Rinse
Herbal rinses, like rosemary or chamomile, can add softness and shine. They’re easy to make and can enhance the benefits of your shampoo bar. -
Finish with a Hair Balm
For extra conditioning, follow up with a natural hair balm. It works as a gentle conditioner, leaving your hair manageable and smooth. -
Consider Your Water Quality
Hard water can affect the lather and performance of a shampoo bar, often contributing to the waxy feeling. If you have hard water, an ACV rinse can help, or you might consider installing a water softener.
Embrace the Journey to Healthier Hair
Switching to natural shampoo bars is a journey, but one worth taking. While the transition period may feel a bit odd, it will pass. Soon, you’ll be enjoying the benefits of cleaner, healthier hair that feels and looks more natural.
For me, embracing the simplicity of Castile olive soap as a shampoo has been a rewarding change. With a bit of balm or a spritz of essential oil-infused water, I find my hair feels naturally balanced and fresh.
Remember, this adjustment is just part of saying goodbye to the chemicals in commercial shampoos. Stick with it, keep experimenting, and you’ll find a routine and shampoo bar that works beautifully for you.
All the best on your journey to natural hair care,
xo