Top Shampoos and Conditioners for Curly Hair
(Photo : Vecteezy / Milan Markovic)

When it comes to curly hair, finding the right shampoo and conditioner can make all the difference. Yes, if you have curly hair, you should consider the right hair products that are formulated to keep your coils bouncy and healthy.

Curly Hair

Curly hair tends to be drier than straight hair, so using products that are specially formulated for curls can help maintain moisture and keep your locks looking bouncy and shiny. These products often contain more moisturizing ingredients and fewer harsh cleansers, which can strip your hair of its natural oils. 

Co-washes, or conditioner washes, are also popular among curly-haired folks as they are heavier in moisturizing ingredients and can help clean your hair without stripping it. 

Additionally, using a good shampoo and conditioner is key for curly hair, as it provides the moisture and care your strands need to look their best. So, if you are looking to upgrade your haircare routine, consider switching to a shampoo and conditioner designed specifically for curly hair.

Shampoos Formulated for Curly Hair

Curly hair shampoos are essential for wash day routines, avoiding scalp irritation. They are gentle, preserving oils and sebum, without drying alcohols or sulfates. However, occasional clarifying shampoos are needed to remove buildup.

Gentle Lather Shampoo by Jessicurl

Jessicurl's Gentle Lather Shampoo, priced at $18, offers a mild cleanse suitable for curly hair and can be used as often as needed without drying or weighing it down. Available in scents like Citrus Lavender and Island Fantasy, this low-lather formula is ideal for all hair types, leaving hair clean and refreshed. Simply shake the bottle, apply to wet hair, massage into the scalp, and rinse well for best results.

EverPure Curl Shampoo by L'Oreal Paris

L'Oreal Paris EverPure Curl Shampoo, priced at $17, offers lightweight, anti-frizz hydration for curly hair with its sulfate-free formula enriched with coconut oil. It provides up to 48 hours of curl definition without weighing hair down. For best results, use EverPure Hydracharge conditioner to maintain soft, manageable, and hydrated curls. L'Oreal Paris EverPure products are vegan and formulated without sulfates, parabens, dyes, and gluten, ensuring color care and hair health.

Bain Hydratation Douceur Shampoo by Kérastase

Kérastase Bain Hydratation Douceur Shampoo comes in two sizes: 250 milliliters for $42 and 80 milliliters for $22. It gently cleanses the scalp and hair, removing impurities and buildup, making it suitable for curly hair. The formula is enriched with manuka honey and ceramide to soften, enhance curls, and reduce frizz.

Conditioners Formulated for Curly Hair

Curly conditioners offer superior slip for easy detangling and moisturization, combating frizz and dryness. Silicones in some conditioners provide thermal protection and a sleek finish, rinsing out easily with water-soluble formulas. Leave-in conditioners can substitute for deep conditioning, especially beneficial for fine or low-density hair.

Advanced Climate Control Defrizzing Conditioner by Ouidad

The Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Defrizzing Conditioner is priced at $24. This creamy, nourishing conditioner is infused with ceramides to lock in moisture and enhance natural texture. Its Anti-Frizz Nano Technology provides a frizz-free foundation by smoothing frizz and locking out humidity, encouraging curl definition.

Be Curly Conditioner by Aveda

Be Curly Conditioner, sold at $31.90 for a 6.7-ounce tube, is part of a four-step curl perfecting system that reduces frizz and defines curls up to 57%. Aveda's conditioner is made with a blend of wheat protein and organic aloe that can enhance your waves and curls. These ingredients expand when hair is wet and retracts when dry while giving off a refreshing citrus aroma.

Ultra Hydra Source Conditioner by Biolage Professional

For ultra-dry hair, the Biolage Professional Ultra Hydra Source Conditioner ($42) is a top choice. Formulated with aloe, apricot kernel oil, and cupuacu butter, this conditioner deeply nourishes and hydrates very dry, coarse hair, protecting against breakage, frizz, and flyaways. For best results, apply to wet hair, leave in for about three minutes, and rinse thoroughly.