You’ve fallen for a solid shampoo but you’re wondering how to use it correctly for clean, shiny hair? In this article, we’ll take you step-by-step through the correct technique for using your solid shampoo, from preparing your hair to rinsing, as well as our tips for avoiding common mistakes.

Steps for washing hair with solid shampoo
Washing hair with solid shampoo requires a slightly different technique to liquid shampoo, but it’s very simple to master. Here are the essential steps:
- Wet your hair thoroughly under running water. It should be completely soaked, from roots to ends.
- To lather shampoo, you have two options: rub it directly onto your scalp with gentle strokes, or create lather by rubbing it between your wet hands.
- Concentrate on the scalp – that’s where the dirt is! Avoid applying shampoo to the lengths, as this can dry them out. The foam that runs off during rinsing will be enough to clean them.
- Gently massage your scalp with your fingertips to cleanse thoroughly.
- Rinse generously with clean water until no trace of foam remains. Insufficient rinsing can leave unpleasant residues.
Don’t forget to store your solid shampoo in a dry place between uses.
How to prepare your hair before using solid shampoo
Good hair preparation is the key to a successful wash with solid shampoo. Start by detangling your hair dry, before even wetting it. It’s a simple but important step: it prevents the formation of stubborn knots and protects your hair from breakage during the wash. A wooden brush is ideal for this step, but your usual brush will also do.
Once you’ve detangled your hair, let’s move on to the next step: wetting it completely. Take the time to soak your hair thoroughly in warm water, from roots to ends. This step is crucial, as a solid shampoo needs a good wet base to lather and distribute evenly. Don’t hesitate to make sure every strand is thoroughly wet before applying the shampoo.
Mistakes to avoid with solid shampoo
The biggest trap with solid shampoo is to use it like liquid shampoo. Rubbing the tablet directly into your hair can leave a residue and create an unpleasant sticky effect. Instead, lather the product between your hands before applying it. And don’t forget the quantity: these shampoos are super-concentrated, so a small dose is more than enough.
For storage, avoid leaving your solid shampoo in a puddle of water: it will soften and melt. Use a soap dish that drains water well, ideally one with grooves. Your shampoo will last much longer.
Sticky hair after solid shampoo: causes and solutions
If you’re just starting out with solid shampoo, you should be aware that a period of adaptation is normal. It may take 2 to 3 weeks for your hair to get used to this new type of washing. This transition is a natural step towards a more ecological hair routine.
An important point to control: the quantity of shampoo. These little tablets are super-concentrated. A dab of foam is more than enough for average hair. If you use too much, your hair may become sticky.
How to store solid shampoo
A well-preserved solid shampoo can last a very long time. A single 70g pebble replaces around two 200ml bottles of liquid shampoo, with around 30 washes in all. But to make the most of it, you need to store it properly.
The golden rule? Keep it dry. Humidity is its worst enemy. Here are the essentials for keeping it dry:
- Place it on an open-work soap dish that lets the water run off.
- Choose a cool, dry place to store it
- Avoid leaving in puddles after use
- For travel, slip it into a small airtight box.
A good drying cycle after each use is all it takes to prolong its life. No need for complicated equipment: a simple soap dish that allows air to circulate will do the trick.
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