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The Wonders of Coconut Oil: A Game-Changer for Your Skin and Hair
If you’ve been on the hunt for a natural, multitasking ingredient that can level up your self-care routine, let’s talk about coconut oil. This tropical treasure isn’t just for cooking—it’s a powerhouse for your skin and hair too. At Shower Blocks, we’re all about keeping things simple, sustainable, and oh-so-effective, and coconut oil fits right into that vibe. Whether you’re slathering it on with our solid shower gels or working it into your locks with our shampoo bars, this ingredient is a total win. Ready to dive into why coconut oil deserves a spot in your bathroom products? Let’s break it down—skin first, hair next. Your Self-care Secret Coconut oil has been a skincare staple for centuries, and for good reason—it’s loaded with benefits that keep your skin happy, hydrated, and healthy. Here’s why it’s a must-have in your routine, especially when paired with Shower Blocks’ solid shower gels and soaps. Deep Hydration Without the Greasy Messacked with fatty acids like lauric acid, it locks in moisture and keeps your skin soft and supple. Unlike some heavy lotions that leave you feeling sticky, coconut oil absorbs beautifully, giving you that dewy glow we all crave. Pair it with a Shower Blocks solid shower gel, and you’ve got a moisture-packed cleanse that’s perfect for everyday use. Our coconut oil-infused formulas leave your skin feeling nourished, not stripped—because who has time for flaky, tight skin?A Natural Shield Against the ElementsYour skin takes a beating daily—think pollution, UV rays, and harsh weather. Coconut oil acts like a lightweight barrier, protecting your skin from environmental stressors. Its antioxidants, like vitamin E, help fight off free radicals that can speed up aging. So, whether you’re stepping out of the shower with our coconut oil soap bar or just need a quick hydration boost, you’re giving your skin some serious TLC. Bonus points: it’s all-natural, so you’re keeping things clean and green.Soothes Irritation and RednessGot sensitive skin that freaks out at the slightest provocation? Coconut oil is a gentle giant. Its anti-inflammatory properties calm irritation, making it a go-to for conditions like eczema or post-shave redness. At Shower Blocks, we craft our solid shower soaps with coconut oil to ensure they’re kind to even the most temperamental skin. Lather up, rinse off, and feel the soothing vibes—no harsh chemicals, just nature doing its thing.Fights Acne (Yes, Really!)Oily skin squad, don’t sleep on this! Coconut oil might sound counterintuitive for acne-prone skin, but its antimicrobial properties—thanks to lauric acid—can help tackle breakout-causing bacteria. It’s not about clogging pores; it’s about balance. Use it sparingly or in a Shower Blocks solid shower gel, and you’ll cleanse without over-drying, keeping your skin’s natural oils in check. Say goodbye to angry pimples and hello to a clearer complexion.A Gentle Makeup RemoverWho needs fancy wipes when you’ve got coconut oil? It melts away makeup—even stubborn waterproof mascara—without tugging at your skin. Dab a little on, wipe it off, then follow up with a coconut oil-infused Shower Blocks soap for a double cleanse that leaves your face fresh and radiant. It’s a low-waste, budget-friendly hack that fits perfectly into our eco-conscious ethos.Creates Luxurious Lather in Soap BarsHere’s a fun fact: coconut oil is a soap-making superstar! When used in solid shower gels and soaps—like the ones we whip up at Shower Blocks—it creates those big, fluffy bubbles we all love. That rich, creamy lather doesn’t just feel luxe; it helps cleanse deeply while keeping your skin moisturized. The high lauric acid content in coconut oil gives our soap bars that satisfying froth, making your shower feel like a mini spa sesh. Plus, it’s stable and long-lasting, so your bar stays solid and effective, wash after wash. Why Shower Blocks Loves Coconut Oil for Skin At Shower Blocks, we’re obsessed with making personal care sustainable and fun. Our solid shower gels and soaps harness coconut oil’s magic to deliver a creamy, bubbly lather that cleanses, moisturises, and pampers your skin—all without the plastic bottle guilt. Whether you’re into our tropical-scented bars or something a little zestier, coconut oil is the MVP that keeps your skin glowing and the planet smiling. Coconut Oil For Hair: Your Locks' New BFF Now, let’s switch gears and talk hair. Coconut oil isn’t just a skin savior—it’s a haircare hero too. From taming frizz to boosting shine, this stuff works wonders when you pair it with Shower Blocks shampoo bars. Here’s why your strands will thank you. Intense Moisture for Dry, Brittle HairIf your hair’s been feeling more like straw than silk, coconut oil is here to save the day. Its fatty acids penetrate deep into the hair shaft, delivering hydration where it counts. Unlike some conditioners that just coat the surface, coconut oil nourishes from within. Lather up with a Shower Blocks shampoo bar infused with coconut oil, and you’ll rinse away dirt while locking in moisture—perfect for reviving parched locks.Say Bye to Frizz and FlyawaysHumidity got your hair looking like a lion’s mane? Coconut oil smooths things out. It forms a protective layer around each strand, keeping moisture in and frizz-causing water out. Use it as a pre-wash treatment or let our coconut oil-packed shampoo bars work their magic during your shower. Either way, you’re getting sleek, manageable hair that doesn’t fight you every morning.Strengthens and Reduces BreakageWeak, snapping hair is the worst, right? Coconut oil’s proteins help reinforce your strands, making them less prone to breakage. Studies even show it can reduce protein loss in hair—something most oils can’t claim. Pair that with a Shower Blocks shampoo bar, and you’ve got a gentle cleanse that strengthens while it cleans. No more brushing out a tangle of split ends—just strong, healthy hair.Boosts Shine Like Nobody’s BusinessDull hair days are officially canceled. Coconut oil reflects light like a pro, giving your locks that glossy, just-left-the-salon shine. Massage a tiny bit into your ends post-wash, or let our coconut oil shampoo bars do the heavy lifting during your routine. It’s low effort, high reward—and who doesn’t want hair that turns heads?Scalp Love: Dandruff Be GoneA healthy scalp equals healthy hair, and coconut oil delivers. Its antifungal and moisturizing properties tackle dryness and dandruff, leaving your scalp calm and flake-free. Our Shower Blocks shampoo bars with coconut oil cleanse without stripping your scalp’s natural oils, so you’re not stuck in that dry-itchy-oily cycle. It’s a win-win for your roots and your confidence. The Shower Blocks Takeaway Coconut oil is the ultimate multitasker, and we’re here for it at Shower Blocks. For your skin, it’s all about hydration, protection, and those dreamy bubbles from our solid shower gels and soaps—leaving you with a glow that’s next-level. For your hair, it’s strength, shine, and scalp TLC, brought to life with our shampoo bars. It’s natural, it’s effective, and it’s a vibe that fits our mission: personal care that’s good for you and the planet. So, when you’re browsing our products, look out for coconut oil in our lineup—it’s the secret sauce that keeps you glowing and your hair flowing. To learn more about our ingredients you can see a quick overview in our ingredients page. For more detail check out our blog for specific articles.
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Making the Switch to Solid Shampoo: The Benefits of Shampoo Bars
Say goodbye to plastic shampoo bottles and hello to a more sustainable and eco-friendly alternative: shampoo bars. Shampoo bars are solid bars of shampoo that offer a number of benefits over traditional liquid shampoo. Eco-Friendly: Shampoo bars eliminate the need for plastic shampoo bottles, reducing waste and helping to preserve the environment. When you make the switch to solid shampoo, you’ll be doing your part to reduce your carbon footprint and protect the planet for future generations. Long-Lasting: Shampoo bars are highly concentrated and provide long-lasting performance. You’ll get more washes out of a single bar of shampoo than you would from a bottle of liquid shampoo, making them more economical in the long run. Gentle on Hair and Scalp: Shampoo bars are made with nourishing ingredients that are gentle on your hair and scalp. Whether you have dry or oily hair, our shampoo bars will leave your hair feeling clean, refreshed, and revitalised. And, because they’re free of harsh chemicals, they’re safe for color-treated hair and won’t strip away natural oils. Soap-Free: Our shampoo bars use a combination of ingredients to create a gentle and effective product. This type of shampoo is called a “syndet” which is short for synthetic detergent. Unlike soap-based bars, our shampoo bars are free from harsh alkalis, making them perfect for those with sensitive skin. The syndet we use is a naturally derived soap-free cleansing product that is formulated with a blend of moisturisers, oils and other ingredients to clean and care for your hair and scalp. Our bars are also free from harsh chemicals, such as sulfates (SLS/SLES) and parabens, making them suitable for those with sensitive scalps. Convenient: Shampoo bars are compact and travel-friendly, making them the perfect solution for those who are always on the go. They’re also easy to use and lather up just like traditional liquid shampoo. At Shower Blocks, we believe in the power of solid shower and shampoo products to make a positive impact on the environment. That’s why we’ve created a range of shampoo bars that are both eco-friendly and effective. Have you tried one yet?
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Reducing Plastic Waste In The Shower: An Introduction
At Shower Blocks, we believe in creating sustainable and effective products that reduce the amount of plastic waste generated in the bathroom. That’s why we’re proud to offer a wide range of solid shower gel and other options to help you switch to a plastic-free shower. According to a report by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, it is estimated that by 2050 there will be more plastic in the ocean than fish by weight. This is a daunting reality, especially considering the significant amount of plastic waste generated in the bathroom. From shampoo bottles to body wash containers, the bathroom is a major source of plastic waste. But there is a solution… Shower Blocks is leading the way in offering a convenient and sustainable alternative to bottled body wash. Each of our solid shower gel blocks is long-lasting, provides an effective clean without harsh chemicals, and comes packaged in fully recyclable and biodegradable packaging. With a variety of scents to choose from, including invigorating peppermint and fruity mango & passionfruit, you’re sure to find a Block that meets your needs. In addition to solid shower gel, you can reduce the amount of plastic waste generated in the shower through the use of alternative products like shampoo bars, conditioner bars, as well as traditional soap bars. Why is reducing plastic waste in the shower important? Plastic takes hundreds of years to decompose, and much of it ends up in our oceans, causing harm to marine life and the environment. According to a report by the World Wildlife Fund, plastic pollution is one of the greatest threats to ocean health, and it is estimated that every year, 100,000 marine animals and 1 million seabirds die from plastic ingestion or entanglement. By making simple changes in the shower, you can play a significant role in protecting the planet. In fact, a study by Zero Waste Scotland found that switching from bottled shower products to solid alternatives can reduce plastic waste by up to 90%. Not only is the plastic-free shower good for the environment, but it’s also good for you. Our solid shower gel, as well as our other products, are made with natural ingredients and are gentle on the skin, providing a better shower experience. By making the switch to a plastic-free shower, you can make a positive impact on the environment and improve your personal well-being. Join us in our mission to remove single use plastics from showers all over the UK (and globe)! Sources: Ellen MacArthur Foundation. (2017). The New Plastics Economy: Rethinking the future of plastics & catalyzing action. https://www.ellenmacarthurfoundation.org/-/media/files/publications/the-new-plastics-economy-rethinking-the-future-of-plastics.pdf World Wildlife Fund. (n.d.). Plastic Pollution. https://www.worldwildlife.org/threats/plastic-pollution Zero Waste Scotland. (n.d.). Shampoo Bars: The Benefits. https://www.zerowastescotland.org.uk/resources/shampoo-bars-benefits
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Palm Oil Statement
Dear customers, At Shower Blocks we know just how contentious an issue Palm Oil has been over the last few years. Historically palm oil production has been responsible for a significant amount of deforestation in some of the world’s most biodiverse forests. Habitats of many animals have been destroyed, with the Orangutans perhaps being the most widely covered. The loss of those forests also contributes to the growing carbon problem, contributing to climate change, and creates a work environment that creates and exploitation of workers and even child labour. That’s a huge list of reasons as to why there has been such a swell of voices against Palm Oil’s usage around the world. It’s been a global problem, not just a western problem. In 2004 the WWF were part of a group leading to the creation of the RSPO (Roundtable of Sustainable Palm Oil). The RSPO has created a production standard that creates the best practices for the manufacture, sourcing and distribution of palm oil globally. The outcome of this is the creation of numerous sustainable palm tree farms, creating a circular economy in those areas. There is no deforestation associated with RSPO certified farming operations with many of those operations doing further work to develop and give back to the communities in which they operate. Why though, if palm oil has been so bad, do we not just use other types of oil in their place? As a consumer that would feel like the most logical solution. It’s something that isn’t quite that simple though. Palm oil has properties that other oils do not possess for the manufacture of both cosmetic and food products and is why 35% of total vegetable oil usage worldwide is from palm oil. In reference to soap products, palm oil is extremely high in palmitic acid, a fatty acid that is key in creating a hard bar of soap. Other oils can contribute to a hard bar of soap (for example castile soaps are solely made of olive oil and are very hard), however the high palmitic acid content in palm oil actually leads to a longer lasting bar of soap too. This is where as a business we start to compose the question on what the right thing to do actually is. A longer lasting product also means a product that is using up less resources overall. Palm oil is also extremely efficient on land. Compared to olive oil, palm oil yields 5 x more oil per hectare. In soap making, coconut is probably the closest, and yields only half what palm does. This isn’t a close race with a small margin of victory. The result of a high yield operation is one that contributes positively to sustainability, also logically leads to a far more effective cost price. An ingredient that both makes our product last longer than the alternative, and also yields significantly more per hectare logically makes a lot of sense, and whilst a tough decision, is one I feel is the right decision. At Shower Blocks we have a key pillar on which we stand. Our core mission sits around sustainability and is to replace shower gels to remove plastic bottles from circulation where possible. To do this we must compete on value. We’re extremely proud to have been able to produce a product that lasts the length of an every-day shower gel product. Our price per wash is around the same value without using chemical detergents. Our soap base is 100% natural (in fact only our colours and fragrances contain any non-naturally derived ingredients). Without palm oil as an ingredient we would not have been able to achieve this. Our commitment is that we will only ever use segregated RSPO certified Palm oil. It’s imperative that we monitor our suppliers to ensure that certifications are constantly in place to ensure we contribute positively. Not only that, as with all our ingredients, we commit to being open and transparent around our sourcing. You can see where we source each and every ingredient from in our Ingredient page. If you have any questions or comments surrounding our usage of palm oil, packaging or other elements of Shower Blocks that you think we could do better, please get in touch with us with your ideas. Yours truly, Neil WhippeyFounderShower Blocks
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