Solid Soap-Based Shampoo Bars (for soft water only):
Note: All of these shampoo bars are soap-based. This means they will work only if you have soft water. For hard water, see hard water options below.
J.R. Liggetts $25.63 for three 3.5 oz bars
Chagrin Valley Soap & Salve Company $11.95 for 5.6 oz
Molly Muriel $8 for 5 oz
Radico $9.95 for 4.4 oz
Liquid Soap-Based Shampoos (for soft water only)
Nature’s Brands $11.99 for 8 oz
Bubble & Bee Organic
For soft water only:
Lemon Shampoo (clarifying) $14.99 for 8 oz
Peppermint & Tea Tree (normal to dry)
For soft to moderately soft water:
Rosemary Mint Head to Toe Wash $19.99 for 12 oz
Holy Naturals
For soft to moderately hard water:
Shampoo $25.99 for 8 oz packaged in glass
Liquid Shampoos for ALL Water Types
Bubble & Bee Bubble Bath $16.95 for 8 oz
Is technically a bubble bath but works great as a shampoo
Lavender
Coconut & Lime
Beauty From Bees Shampoo $26 CAD for 8 oz (about $18 USD)
(Note: conditioner does not meet our ingredients standard)
How to Choose?
The “cleanest” shampoos are going to be soap-based shampoos. Soap and syndets (synthetic detergents) are both cleansing agents, but they differ in composition, pH, effectiveness in different water conditions, and their impact on skin and hair. Soap is made through saponification, a chemical reaction between natural oils or fats and an alkali like sodium or potassium hydroxide. This process creates a cleansing agent that is biodegradable and eco-friendly. Soap tends to react with minerals in hard water, forming residue or “soap scum,” which can make hair feel greasy or gummy right after washing. You will typically want to follow up with a vinegar rinse after using a soap-based shampoo to balance the cuticle pH. This will take the place of conditioner.
Syndets, on the other hand, are made using synthetic or naturally derived surfactants like Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate (SCI), or Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate for example. (None of these mentioned meet our standards for recommendations. We typically look to glucoside-based shampoos as the next best thing to soap.) Syndets, aka synthetic detergents, lather well in both soft and hard water without leaving residue.
When choosing between soap and syndets, the best option depends on personal preference, skin or hair type, and water conditions. Soap is a great choice for those who prefer natural, biodegradable products and don’t mind the extra step of balancing pH, particularly when using it for hair care. Syndets, however, are more convenient, work well in all water types, and are ideal for sensitive skin or daily use. Ultimately, both have their advantages and drawbacks, and selecting the right one comes down to individual needs and priorities.
Some of our choices above (Bubble & Bee Head-to-Toe Wash, Holy Naturals Shampoo) are combinations of soap and detergent and will work in soft to moderately hard water typically.
Difference Between Soap-Based Shampoos and Syndets
| Feature | Soap-Based Shampoos | Syndet Shampoos |
|---|---|---|
| Main Ingredients | Saponified oils (e.g., olive, coconut, castor oil) | Synthetic detergents (e.g., Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate) |
| pH | Alkaline (8-10) | Slightly acidic (4.5-6.5) |
| Water Hardness Sensitivity | Can cause buildup in hard water | Works well in all water types |
| Residue | May leave residue, requiring an acidic rinse | Usually rinses clean |
| Foam & Lather | Less lather in hard water | Richer lather |
| Ingredients Safety | Will have a “cleaner” label | Contain synthetic detergents |
| Environmental Impact | Biodegradable, fewer synthetic ingredients | Some detergents may be less eco-friendly |