…and now, for something totally different.

I read this article about a month ago. I was immediately inspired to try something different. What can I say- I’m just a rebel like that. So, with the exception of my hands, I stopped using soap. Altogether… no soap for about a month now. I know what you’re thinking.

“EWWW, YOU DIRTY HIPPY! I BET YOU STINK!”

I never said I stopped showering, I just said I don’t use soap when I do it. I won’t go in to every detail, but it involves a washcloth and the usual warm water shower. I didn’t tell anyone at first, because I figured I’d see if anyone noticed, though Ryan didn’t even know until I informed him two weeks in to the experiment. (I also just use deodorant instead of antiperspirant… but that’s been for a couple of years now)

The result? My skin is obviously not dry. It isn’t greasy, either. It just feels nice. The texture of my hair is different as well. It’s naturally curly, and, even though I keep it really short, it is less frizzy and the curls seem to form more naturally (I still use a touch of some sort of styling product in it, and as far as I can tell, it all rinses out when I shower). If you’ve got curly hair, I highly recommend NOT using shampoo. Even if you don’t take the full plunge into soap-free-ness, the reduction in frizz is pretty awesome.

I’m still considering this to be an “experiment” since I haven’t been out in the real heat yet, but I have made it through a couple of races (road and MTB) as well as some 70+ degree rides, and, as far as I (and any honest friends I’ve asked) can tell, I smell normal.

Anyone else care to try?

One thought on “…and now, for something totally different.

  1. Have you noticed if this no-soap experiment has helped or made worse your saddles sores? Do you still get those or does your concoction work? If so, will you please re-post your concoction so I can try it? I forgot what you used. Thanks.

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