Ethique Solid Shampoo Bar Review: A True Liquid Shampoo Alternative

Quick answer

Ethique's solid shampoo bar is a concentrated, climate positive alternative that effectively replaces up to three plastic bottles of liquid shampoo. Made from cold-processed plant oils and packaged in compostable materials, it delivers the cleaning power expected from traditional hair care. To get the longest lifespan out of the bar, you must store it on a proper draining rack away from standing water. Overall, it is one of the easiest zero-waste bathroom swaps you can make.

What the wider world says

External reviewers praise Ethique for bringing solid shampoo into the mainstream market. Vogue highlighted that the bar lasts as long as three bottles without shredding hair. Meanwhile, The Guardian noted that Ethique made the solid bar format finally work for normal hair types.

Our take

We appreciate that Ethique has solved the performance gap that often plagues solid hair care products. Formulation-wise, using cold-processed plant oils allows the bar to act like standard shampoo without leaving a heavy residue. However, solid formats require a minor shift in shower habits. There can be an initial adjustment period for your hair, and if you leave the bar sitting in water, it will dissolve quickly. Using a proper draining dish is essential to ensure you reach its full potential.

Who it's for

This bar is ideal for anyone looking to eliminate plastic from their routine, particularly those with three near-empty plastic bottles sitting in their shower right now. It suits shoppers who want a Climate Positive certified product wrapped in compostable packaging.

Who it isn't for

Skip this if you do not have space for a dedicated draining dish in your shower setup. It is also not for those unwilling to give their hair time to adapt during a brief adjustment period.