Best Plastic-Free Conditioner For Every Hair Type

After plastic-free conditioner? Look this way!

After switching to solid shampoo bars, I’ve been on the hunt for some plastic-free conditioner that doesn’t dry out my hair.  I’ve been using solid conditioner bars since the start of this year. However, over the long run, I noticed my long-ish hair becoming dry and prone to breakage.  A problem I’ve never suffered from before.  

I tried using an apple cider rinse, which I categorically did not enjoy.  I didn’t feel that it worked for me, and don’t even ask me about the lingering smell that persisted even when my hair was dry.  All I’ll say is that perhaps my hair is more porous than most.

Although solid conditioner bars are easily accessible, and the default zero-waste option, I wanted to see what plastic-free conditioner options were out there that aren’t solid bars.  As sharing is caring, I thought I’d share the fruits of my plastic-free conditioner research with you lovely lot.  Don’t say I’m not good to you!  

The Plastic-Free Conditioner Options

Lavender + Rose Geranium Hair Conditioner

This preservative and silicone-free lavender and rose geranium hair conditioner from Wild Sage & Co is infused with broccoli seed oil (yes, broccoli) for naturally shiny and silky smooth hair.  Priced at £20 for 175 ml, it does cost a pretty penny, but apparently, you don’t need to use as much as you would with a regular conditioner. 

Packaged in: a glass bottle and metal lid.

Bentonite Clay Plastic-Free Conditioner  

This bentonite clay conditioner is by Afro Bob Tro.  Priced between £9.50 and £18, it’s pH balanced to suit afro hair. 

This plastic-free conditioner contains no preservatives, colours, silicones, sulphates, mineral oils, or parabens.  What’s more, it’s packed full of natural ingredients, such as shea, argan, grapeseed, hemp, olive, and coconut oils. These have been selected for their conditioning properties. Meanwhile, pro-vitamin B5, panthenol, and wheat protein are added for strength and shine. 

Packaged in: glass jar with metal lid

February 2022 update: this conditioner is no longer available and I am struggling to find something similar that suits Afro hair. As soon as I do, I will update this post.

Argan Oil

This fairtrade and certified organic Argan Oil from Conscious Skincare is a plastic-free option that costs from £12 and can be used in place of a conditioner.  Simply add a few drops to your hair before washing to use as a deep conditioner. Alternatively, rub a drop or two into the ends of your hair. Argan Oil is easily absorbed into your hair and helps to boost shine and condition even if your hair is dry.  It also has hair-strengthening properties and assists in detangling.

Packaged in: metal bottle with metal lid

Herbal Hare Conditioner

This jar of plastic-free conditioner from Trawden Soap Kitchen is cruelty-free, paraben-free, silicone-free, and vegan-friendly. It also contains no artificial fragrances or colourants.  Prices range from £6 to £11.50, and you can choose between a herbal or citrus scent. Shampoos and an intensive conditioning mask are also available, in the same plastic-free packaging.

Packaged in: glass jar with metal lid.

I’m going to give the Herbal Hare one a go first and will report back on my findings!  In the meantime, check out my handy guide to plastic-free bathroom products for more inspiration!

February 2022 update: I’ve been using this oil for many years now to condition my hair, and I am really loving it. I apply around 3 drops to damp hair, which I then comb through and it does the trick. It also smells like chocolate orange, which is no bad thing! For some context, I have hair that hasn’t been colour-treated, is quite fine and oily, and isn’t heat-damaged. My hairdresser told me my hair doesn’t really need conditioner as it will weigh down my fine hair, so this is a great option for me.