As a hairstylist with over two decades of experience, I've seen countless haircare trends come and go. But the shampoo bar revolution? That's here to stay. Today, we're putting two industry leaders head-to-head: the cult-favorite Lush and the heritage-inspired Viori.
The Science Behind the Suds
Let's start with what really matters - the formulas. Lush bars typically rely on:
- Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) for that rich lather we all love
- Bright colors and fun shapes that make them Instagram-worthy
- Strong fragrances that linger after your shower
Viori takes a completely different approach with:
- Fermented Longsheng rice water - a centuries-old Chinese haircare secret
- pH-balanced formulas (3.5-6.5) that protect your scalp's natural barrier
- Subtle, natural fragrances that won't overwhelm sensitive noses
Why This Matters for Your Hair
Most shampoo bars, including many from Lush, have a high pH that can:
- Lift hair cuticles, causing frizz
- Strip natural oils, leading to rebound greasiness
- Irritate sensitive scalps over time
The Longevity Factor
Here's something most beauty influencers won't tell you - not all shampoo bars last equally long. Through my professional testing:
- Lush bars typically last about 30 washes
- Viori bars consistently reach 60+ washes
The secret? Viori uses cold-processing and natural binders like:
- Cetyl alcohol
- Stearic acid
- Shea and cocoa butters
Who Should Choose Which?
Best for Oily Hair
If you're battling grease, consider:
- Lush Seanik: Salt and lemon for oil control
- Viori Citrus Yao: Gentle citric acid that won't over-dry
Best for Dry/Damaged Hair
For parched strands, try:
- Lush Godiva: Coconut oil-rich (but can weigh hair down)
- Viori Terrace Garden: Lightweight rice protein for deep moisture
The verdict? While Lush wins for fun factor, Viori takes the crown for hair health, longevity, and ethical sourcing. But don't just take my word for it - try them both and see which your hair prefers!