Shampoo bars are having a moment — and for good reason. They're plastic-free, travel-friendly, long-lasting, and when made well, genuinely better for your hair than most bottled shampoos. But with a growing number of options on the market, how do you know which one is right for you?
The answer comes down to your hair type. Here's a straightforward guide to help you find your match.
First: What Makes a Good Shampoo Bar?
Not all shampoo bars are created equal. Some are made with synthetic detergents (SLS, SLES) — essentially a solid version of conventional shampoo. These lather well but can strip your hair of its natural oils over time.
True cold-press shampoo bars are made with saponified oils — the same process used to make natural soap bars. They're gentler, more nourishing, and better for your scalp in the long run. There's typically a short adjustment period of 1–2 weeks as your scalp recalibrates, but most people find their hair feels better than ever once it does.
All of our shampoo bars at Pacific Coast Soap Works are cold-press, natural, and free from synthetic detergents.
For Normal Hair
Lemongrass Shampoo Bar
A great all-rounder for normal hair that doesn't skew particularly oily or dry. Lemongrass essential oil is refreshing and clarifying without being stripping — perfect for everyday use. It also has natural insect-repelling properties, making it a great choice for outdoor adventures.
For Dry or Damaged Hair
Rosemary Shampoo Bar
Rosemary has been used for centuries to nourish dry, brittle hair and stimulate the scalp. Our Rosemary Shampoo Bar is particularly well suited to normal-to-dry hair and is known to enhance natural highlights in brown and red hair. If your hair feels dull or lacks moisture, this is your bar.
For Oily Hair or Oily Scalp
Herbal Shampoo Bar
Formulated with herbs that help balance scalp oil production, our Herbal Shampoo Bar is ideal for hair that tends to get greasy between washes. It cleanses thoroughly without over-stripping, which actually helps regulate oil production over time.
For All Hair Types (Including Colour-Treated)
BC Bull Kelp Soap & Shampoo Bar
BC Bull Kelp is mineral-rich and deeply nourishing — making it one of the most versatile bars in our lineup. It works as both a body bar and a shampoo bar, and its gentle, mineral-packed formula is suitable for all hair types including colour-treated hair. If you want one bar that does everything, this is it.
For Outdoor Use & Travel
Camper Soap and Shampoo Bar
Designed for people who spend time outdoors, our Camper Bar is a true all-in-one — body wash, shampoo, and shaving soap in a single compact bar. It's biodegradable, waterway safe, and DEET-free, making it ideal for camping, hiking, and backcountry travel. Works well for all hair types.
For Pets
Pet Shampoo Bar
Yes, we make one for your dog (or horse). Our Pet Shampoo Bar is gentle enough for animals, free from harsh chemicals, and leaves coats clean and soft. Because your pets deserve natural too.
Tips for Getting the Best Results From a Shampoo Bar
- Lather in your hands first — rather than rubbing the bar directly on your hair, work up a lather in your palms and apply that to your scalp
- Focus on the scalp — massage thoroughly at the roots; the lather will work its way through the lengths as you rinse
- Rinse thoroughly — cold-press bars can leave a slight residue if not rinsed well, especially in hard water areas
- Give it 1–2 weeks — your scalp may need time to adjust if you're switching from conventional shampoo; stick with it
- Try an apple cider vinegar rinse — if you're in a hard water area, a diluted ACV rinse after shampooing can help remove any mineral buildup and leave hair extra shiny
Ready to Find Your Bar?
Browse our full shampoo bar collection and find the one that fits your hair. Not sure? Our Guest & Travel Soap Slices are a great low-commitment way to try a few before going full size.