Let's talk about the shampoo revolution happening in showers everywhere. Those little bars of concentrated haircare magic are replacing plastic bottles left and right - but with so many options, how do you choose the right one? Today, we're putting two fan favorites head-to-head: Viori and Humby.
I've tested both extensively (yes, my shower looks like a shampoo bar laboratory), and what I discovered might surprise you. This isn't just about which one cleans your hair - it's about which one will actually transform your hair health over time.
The Secret Sauce: What Makes These Bars Different
At first glance, both brands promise natural ingredients and eco-friendly formulas. But dig deeper, and you'll find some game-changing differences:
- Viori's heritage: Inspired by the Red Yao tribe's centuries-old rice water hair rituals
- Humby's approach: Classic natural ingredients with essential oil blends
- The pH factor: One maintains your scalp's natural balance, while the other might disrupt it
Why Fermented Rice Water is a Game Changer
Viori's star ingredient isn't just marketing fluff. That fermented rice water contains:
- Inositol (B8): Strengthens hair follicles and may slow graying
- Panthenol (B5): Boosts elasticity and shine
- Amino acids: Repairs damage at the cuticle level
The Real-World Test: How They Perform
In my months-long testing (yes, I sacrificed my hair for science), here's what stood out:
Viori's lather surprised me - rich and creamy, not what you'd expect from a solid bar. My color-treated hair felt clean but not stripped, and here's the kicker - after six weeks, I noticed fewer hairs in my brush.
Humby's bars delivered on moisture, sometimes almost too much. While great for my dry winter ends, my roots needed extra rinsing. The tea tree variant gave an amazing tingle, but I wondered - was that actually good for my scalp long-term?
The pH Factor Most People Miss
This is where things get scientific (but stick with me - it's important). Your scalp's natural pH is slightly acidic (around 5.5). Most shampoo bars, including many of Humby's, are alkaline (pH 8-10). This can:
- Disrupt your scalp's protective barrier
- Cause dryness and irritation over time
- Make hair cuticles rough and frizzy
Viori's pH-balanced formula (4.5-6.5) works with your scalp's natural chemistry instead of against it. After switching, my chronic dry scalp issues actually improved.
The Verdict: Which One Wins?
If you want:
- Hair transformation (stronger, thicker, healthier growth) → Choose Viori
- Deep moisture and aromatherapy benefits → Humby does well
- Scalp health and pH balance → Viori is the clear winner
At the end of the day, my brush tells the story - fewer stray hairs since switching to Viori. But I'll admit, I still keep a Humby bar around for those days when I crave that minty scalp tingle.
Have you tried either of these? I'd love to hear your experiences - drop a comment below and let's compare notes!