Your questions about shampoo bars answeredWhat is the best shampoo bar?Eco Warrior’s deeply nourishing shampoo bar is our favourite, thanks to its ultra-creamy lather, high percentage of naturally derived ingredients and nourishing formula that left our tester’s hair feeling healthy, smooth and refreshed. Bonus points were awarded for ticking the sulphate- and silicone-free box, while still delivering a satisfying cleanse. We can’t knock it for its size or price, either. The Only Curls curl cleansing shampoo bar delivers a sulphate-free hit of hydration and shine for curly hair, meanwhile, the Okiki Skincare’s olive oil and neem shampoo bar is easy to foam and delivers long-lasting moisture to afro hair. We also really like Davines’s Dede shampoo bar for its velvety smooth lather and silky results.While putting these shampoo bars through their paces, our testers considered the different formulations, with attention paid to the ingredients used and whether the formulas were sulphate- and silicone-free, which, while not something everyone looks for, can be beneficial for your hair. We looked at various things, including:Lather: We tested how easily each bar produced a rich, foamy lather when worked into wet hair, and whether it felt creamy or thin.Application: We assessed how smoothly the lather spread through our hair, whether it coated evenly, and how easily it rinsed out without leaving residue.Scent: We noted the fragrance of each bar in the shower, how it lingered on the hair once dry, and whether it was overpowering or subtle.Ethical credentials: We checked whether the bars were vegan, cruelty-free, and made with responsibly sourced ingredients where possible.Cracking or crumbling after use: We monitored whether the bars cracked, crumbled, or maintained their shape and longevity over multiple uses.How to use a shampoo barTo use a shampoo bar, start by wetting your hair thoroughly. Rub the bar directly onto your hair or between your hands to create a lather, then massage it into your scalp and along the lengths of your hair. Rinse thoroughly with water to remove all the shampoo. Afterwards, store the bar in a dry place between uses to keep it from getting soft and ensure it lasts longer.Why you can trust IndyBest reviewsMaxine Harrison is an SEO writer at The Independent. She has written several reviews for IndyBest, including roundups of the best detangling tools for afro hair and Ruka Hair ponytail extensions. Everything she reviews is tested in a real-life environment, and she only includes products that she would recommend. Lois Borny has been writing for the IndyBest team since 2021. She is well versed in the beauty brands to know (and avoid). She’s tested everything from hand creams to lip balms, and has a particular interest in sustainable haircare and skincare. When testing items, Lois factors in quality, value for money and only recommends products she believes to be worth your money. We’ve also found the best leave-in conditioners for taming flyaways and frizz