![DIY Luxurious Shampoo Bars for Less Than $1 Per Bar [RECIPE] | Seasons Foundry](http://seasonsfoundry.com/cdn/shop/articles/shampoo_bar_blog.png?v=1713734796&width=1100)
@seasonsfoundry What I learned about shampoo bars and how to make your own for less than $1 each. #plasticfree #sustainable #sustainableliving #zerowaste #shampoobar ♬ original sound - Seasons Foundry
Shampoo Bar Basics
In order to make shampoo bars for less than $1 each it's best to buy the base in bulk. I use the Stephensons brand base and buy it in the 25lb sustainable box (there's a 2lb version here) which is about 405 ounces total. Each shampoo bar is about 2.2oz in these molds from Amazon (sponsored link).
So let's do some math!
405oz box/2.2oz bar = 184 bars
As of the time of this posting, a 25lb box is $142.95 which breaks down to $0.35 per ounce. So each bar is $0.77 plus a few dropperfuls of oil and fragrance puts these right at around $0.98 per bar, colorant optional.
You'd have to use 15 bars per month to use this up in a year. So this will last you a looong while.
INGREDIENTS
- 16oz of Stephensons 25lb Melt & Pour - Syndopour 200-MB or (smaller version here - but it ships in plastic )
- 1ml Argan Oil
- 1ml Avocado Oil
- 1 to 3ml’s of your favorite Fragrance
- 1ml Vitamin E Oil
- OPTIONAL - Coloring (Beet Root or Indigo)
- Dissolved Beet Root Powder in a small amount of isopropyl alcohol.
METHOD
Step 1:
Melt the Stephensons Melt & Pour Base - Can use the microwave or double boiler. (microwave time 2 - 4 mins, 30 seconds at a time. )
Step 2:
Once the base is melted and looks like an oil, add your hair treatment oils. (Check out the list below for Oils by Hair Type)
Step 3:
Add the optional coloring, (dissolved beet root powder in isopropyl alcohol) & mix well. Once fully mixed, add the vitamin E oil.
Step 4:
Pour Into Molds
MORE ON CHOOSING HAIR TREATMENT OILS:
Incorporating specific oils into shampoo bars can tailor them to various hair types, enhancing their effectiveness. Here’s a breakdown of beneficial oils for different hair types:
1. Oils for Dry or Damaged Hair
- Argan Oil: Rich in vitamin E and fatty acids, great for moisturizing and revitalizing damaged hair.
- Coconut Oil: Deeply penetrates the hair shaft, providing moisture and protection against heat and environmental damage.
- Olive Oil: Helps to moisturize and strengthen hair by penetrating the hair shaft and preserving moisture.
2. Oils for Oily Hair
- Jojoba Oil: Similar to the natural oils produced by the scalp, helps to regulate oil production without causing buildup.
- Grapeseed Oil: Lightweight and non-greasy, it moisturizes hair without leaving it oily and helps to tighten and tone the scalp.
- Tea Tree Oil: Has antibacterial properties, helping to cleanse the scalp and normalize sebum production.
3. Oils for Normal Hair
- Sweet Almond Oil: Rich in vitamins and minerals, it’s perfect for nourishing and strengthening normal hair, improving manageability and shine.
- Sunflower Oil: Contains oleic acid and sesamol, which help protect against hair loss and provide a natural sheen.
4. Oils for Curly or Frizzy Hair
- Shea Butter Oil: Provides intense moisture and restores the natural oils on the scalp, ideal for managing frizz and adding definition to curls.
- Avocado Oil: Loaded with monounsaturated fats, proteins, and vitamins that moisturize, repair, and strengthen curly and frizzy hair.
5. Oils for Color-Treated Hair
- Macadamia Oil: High in fatty acids and great for smoothing hair, protecting color-treated locks from becoming dry and brittle.
- Marula Oil: Rich in antioxidants and oleic acids, excellent for sealing hair cuticles, adding shine, and keeping color vibrant.
Each oil offers unique benefits, so choosing one based on your hair type can significantly enhance the health and appearance of your hair.
Not Interested in DIY'ing your way to sustainable shampoo? Visit the Seasons Foundry Shop for recommended brands.