The Best Shampoos and Conditioners for Curly Hair

Are you looking for the best shampoos and conditioners to suit your curly hair? Read on to find out how to choose the best products to keep your curls looking amazing!

What are the challenges of curly hair?

• Curly hair can be prone to dryness, tangles, and frizz, and more difficult to style than straight hair.
• Curly hair also tends to be more delicate and prone to breakage.
• As many shampoo products are formulated with straight hair in mind, people with curly hair may have difficulty finding hair care products that work well for their hair type. 

What to look for in curly hair shampoos and conditioners?

There are a few key factors to consider when looking the best shampoos and conditioners for curly hair:

• Sulfate-free: Sulfates are a type of surfactant that can strip hair of its natural oils and cause it to become dry and brittle. Look for shampoos and conditioners that are sulfate-free to help keep your curls moisturized and healthy.
• Moisturizing: Curly hair tends to be dry and prone to frizz, so it’s important to choose products that will add moisture to your curls. Ingredients like glycerin, shea butter, and coconut oil help to hydrate and nourish your hair.
• Gentle: Curly hair can be easily damaged, so it’s important to choose a shampoo and a conditioner that are gentle and won’t strip your hair of its natural oils. Avoid products with alcohol or other harsh chemicals and opt for ones that are specifically formulated for curly hair.
• Curl-defining: If you want to enhance your curls, look for a shampoo and conditioner designed to do just that. These products often contain ingredients like protein and styling polymers that can help to shape and hold your curls in place.
• Frizz control: Frizz is a common problem for people with curly hair, so try and find a shampoo and conditioner that can help to control frizz and flyaways. Ingredients like silicone can help to smooth and tame your curls, giving them a more polished and defined look.

1. Blu Atlas Shampoo

When it comes to keeping your curls moisturized and healthy, you can’t go wrong with Blu Atlas Shampoo, which focuses on natural and highly moisturizing ingredients that are beneficial to curly hair. 

This shampoo contains saw palmetto, a herb that helps promote hair growth and improve the overall health of the scalp. Vegan biotin, which is a type of B-vitamin, is designed to strengthen and improve the overall health of the hair. Jojoba protein is a conditioning agent that will help to repair and protect damaged hair, while aloe vera is a natural moisturizer that will soothe and hydrate the scalp, particularly important for those with curly hair. 

Blu Atlas shampoo cleans with natural coconut-derived surfactants, effectively removing dirt, oil, and other impurities from the hair and scalp without stripping away oils.

For the ultimate experience for your curly hair, follow up Blu Atlas Shampoo with Blu Atlas conditioner – a light conditioner that moisturizes without weighing down the hair. With nourishing ingredients like argan oil, avocado oil, and barley protein, it addresses hair concerns like dullness, dryness, breakage, and frizz. 

We also love that both the Blu Atlas Shampoo and Conditioner come in two great scents – original and coconut apricot, both of which are gentle enough to be used daily. 

2. DevaCurl No-Poo Original Zero Lather Conditioning Cleanser

This product is a little different as it is technically not a shampoo – it is a sulfate-free, conditioning cleanser that is specifically formulated for curly hair. It is designed to gently cleanse the hair and scalp while providing moisture and nourishment to hair.

One of the key benefits of this product is that it helps to define and enhance curls, leaving them looking bouncy and healthy. It is also formulated with a blend of botanical ingredients that nourish and moisturize the hair, helping to reduce frizz and improve its overall health. 

The No-Poo Original formula is free from harsh chemicals and sulfates, which can strip the hair of its natural oils and cause damage. Instead, it uses a blend of natural ingredients to gently cleanse and nourish the hair.

3. Kinky-Curly Come Clean Moisturizing Shampoo

Kinky-Curly Come Clean Moisturizing Shampoo is a sulfate-free shampoo designed for curly hair. It is intended to cleanse the hair and scalp gently while also providing moisture and nourishment.

We like that it is made up of natural ingredients including aloe vera and sea kelp, which hydrate and condition the hair. Furthermore, the shampoo contains no harsh sulfates or chemicals that can strip the hair of its natural oils.

Another advantage of Kinky-Curly Come Clean Moisturizing Shampoo is that it reduces frizz and improves overall curl definition. The shampoo also contains a natural ingredient blend that helps to strengthen and protect the hair, making it less prone to breakage and damage. 

Overall, this shampoo is excellent for those with curly hair who want to nourish, moisturize, and define their curls.

3. Pantene Pro-V Curl Perfection Conditioner

A great low-cost option, Pantene Pro-V Curl Perfection Conditioner is a conditioner that is specifically formulated for curly hair. It is designed to nourish and moisturize the hair, helping to accentuate and enhance curls.

One of the key benefits of this product is that it reduces frizz and improves the overall health and manageability of curly hair. This is due to its being formulated with a blend of conditioning agents that smooth and detangle the hair, making it easier to comb and style. Additionally, the Pantene Pro-V Curl Perfection Conditioner includes Pantene’s Pro-V nutrient blend, designed to nourish and strengthen the hair, reduce breakage and improve its overall health.

Another benefit of this conditioner is that it is lightweight and non-greasy, so it won’t weigh down curls or leave your hair feeling greasy. It is also created with a pleasant, refreshing scent that leaves the hair smelling clean and fresh.

Overall, Pantene Pro-V Curl Perfection Conditioner is a great choice for those with curly hair looking to nourish, moisturize, and define their curls without it blowing the budget.

4. Garnier Fructis Curl Nourish Conditioner

One of the primary advantages of this product is that it improves the overall health and manageability of curly hair, thanks to a combination of conditioning agents that smooth and detangle, making hair easier to comb and style.

Garnier Fructis Curl Nourish Conditioner contains ingredients such as shea butter and coconut oil that help to moisturize and replenish the hair, leaving it soft and healthy. The conditioner is lightweight and non-greasy, with a pleasant, refreshing scent.

5. TGIN Moisture Rich Sulfate Free Shampoo

A great natural option, TGIN Moisture Rich Sulfate Free Shampoo is specifically formulated for curly hair. It is designed to gently cleanse the hair and scalp while providing moisture and nourishment to the hair. 

The shampoo is made with a blend of natural ingredients, including argan oil and shea butter, which hydrate the hair, leaving it feeling soft and healthy. It is also free from harsh sulfates and chemicals, which can strip the hair of its natural oils and cause damage. Another benefit of TGIN Moisture Rich Sulfate Free Shampoo is that it reduces frizz and improves the overall definition of curls, leaving them looking their shiny best. 

The shampoo also contains a blend of natural ingredients that strengthen and protect the hair, including aloe vera, making it less prone to breakage and damage. 

Overall, this shampoo is a great choice for those with curly hair looking to nourish, moisturize, and define their curls. It is gentle, suitable for daily use, and has a pleasant scent.

6. Tresemme Flawless Curls Conditioner

Conditioners are extremely important for curly hair as it can be prone to dryness.

Tresemme Flawless Curls Conditioner is a conditioner that is specifically formulated for curly hair. The product is formulated with a blend of conditioning agents that help to smooth and detangle hair, making it easier to comb and style. It is also enriched with nourishing ingredients like vitamin B1 and sunflower oil, which help to moisturize the hair, leaving it feeling soft and looking healthy.

Tresemme Flawless Curls Conditioner is suitable for all curl types, including wavy, curly, and coily, and is also safe for use on color-treated hair.

7. CurlSmith Curl Quenching Conditioning Wash

CurlSmith Curl Quenching Conditioning Wash is a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner for curly hair. 

It is designed to gently cleanse the hair and scalp while providing moisture and nourishment. The conditioning wash has a blend of natural ingredients, including aloe vera and hibiscus and is free from sulfates and harsh chemicals which can strip the hair of its natural oils and cause damage. 

The Curl Quenching Conditioning Wash improves the overall definition of curls and reduces frizz, leaving the hair looking bouncy and healthy. It is also formulated with a blend of natural ingredients that strengthen and protect the hair, making it less prone to breakage. 

The conditioning wash has a refreshing scent and is suitable for all curl types. It is also safe for use on color-treated hair.

8. The Mane Choice – Prickly Pear Paradise No-Poo Superfood Infused No Shampoo Cleansing Foam

It is increasingly common for curly hair products to use formulations without shampoo in order to keep curls moisturized and hydrated. 

The Mane Choice Prickly Pear Paradise No-Poo Superfood Infused No Shampoo Cleansing Foam is a sulfate-free cleansing foam that supports and moisturizes the hair and scalp without the use of shampoo. It is formulated with superfoods like prickly pear and coconut oil, and is gentle on the hair and scalp – it cleanses without stripping away essential natural oils or causing irritation. It will also help to control frizz and promote smoother, more manageable hair. 

The no-poo (no shampoo) formula means that you can cleanse your hair without needing to use a traditional shampoo, which helps prevent dryness. 

Overall, this product may be a good choice for those looking for a sulfate-free, nourishing cleansing foam that is gentle on the hair and scalp.

9. SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo

Shea Moisture’s Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo is a sulfate-free shampoo, created to rescue and moisturize dry, damaged hair. It is made with natural and certified organic ingredients, including coconut oil, hibiscus flower, and neem oil, which all help to define curls and reduce frizz – they also leave your hair smelling amazing! 

The shampoo is gentle enough for daily use and is free from sulfates, parabens, and phthalates, making it safe for color-treated hair. It is also vegan- and cruelty-free and does not contain any synthetic fragrances or artificial colors. 

Overall, this shampoo is designed to improve the health and appearance of the hair, and we think it does a great job.

10. Ethique Professor Curl™ Curl-Defining Solid Shampoo Bar

Ethique’s Professor Curl™ Curl-Defining Solid Shampoo Bar is a sulfate-free shampoo bar designed to cleanse and define curls. Using a shampoo bar is a great option for curly hair, as the ingredients tend to be gentler than those used in traditional shampoo.

This shampoo bar is made with natural ingredients, including cocoa butter, mango butter, and coconut oil, to feed and hydrate the hair. The shampoo bar helps to enhance curls and reduce frizz, and is free from sulfates, parabens, and palm oil. It is also vegan and cruelty-free and does not contain any synthetic fragrances or artificial colors.

The shampoo bar comes in zero-waste packaging and is compact and convenient for travel. Overall, it is a gentle and effective option for cleansing and defining curls.

11. Kerastase Curl Manifesto Shampoo

Kerastase is always a reliable brand when it comes to hair care, and its Curl Manifesto Shampoo is no different. It is a sulfate-free shampoo to strengthen and define curls, formulated with natural ingredients, including jojoba oil and ceramides to help hydrate the hair. 

The shampoo helps to enhance the natural shape of curls and reduce frizz and is suitable for all curl types. Free from sulfates, parabens, silicon, and fragrances, the product is safe for color-treated hair. It has a lightweight formula that does not weigh the hair down, and curls are left looking full of life after washing. It is also free from synthetic fragrances and artificial colors.

12. Pantene Gold Series New Length Root Stimulating Shampoo

Another product designed with curly, kinky, and coily hair in mind, this is an easy to find budget option for those that need a specialized curly hair shampoo.

Pantene’s Gold Series New Length Root Stimulating Shampoo is a sulfate-free shampoo formulated to nourish the hair and promote healthy growth. It includes a blend of natural ingredients, including pro-vitamin B5, argan oil, and castor oil, which help to protect and moisturize the hair. 

The shampoo is designed to stimulate the scalp and is gentle enough for daily use. It is safe for color-treated hair and is free from sulfates and parabens. For those who may be sensitive to them, the shampoo does not contain any synthetic fragrances. 

It is suitable for all hair types, including relaxed, natural, and chemically treated hair.

13. Briogeo Curl Charisma Hydrating Conditioner 

Briogeo’s Curl Charisma Hydrating Conditioner is formulated with natural ingredients, including shea butter, avocado oil, and honey, which moisturize and strengthen the hair. Rice amino acids prevent environmental moisture from causing frizz and flyaways, while tomato fruit ferment and mollis leaf extract define curls.

The conditioner is suitable for all curl types. It is free from sulfates, parabens, and silicones, and is safe for color-treated hair. The conditioner also has a lightweight formula that leaves curls looking bouncy and healthy. 

Free from synthetic fragrances and artificial colors, it works best paired with a Briogeo shampoo product. 

14. OGX Quenching Coconut Curls Conditioner

Coconut is the star ingredient of this budget friendly product! Quenching Coconut Curls Conditioner by OGX is a luxurious conditioner that contains natural ingredients including coconut oil, coconut milk, and coconut water, which help to moisturize and strengthen the hair. 

The conditioner is suitable for all curl types and helps to enhance the natural shape of curls while reducing frizz. It contains no sulfates, parabens, or dyes and is suitable for color-treated hair. The conditioner has a light formula that leaves your hair looking amazing.

15. Olaplex No 4

This shampoo works for all hair types but is a great option for curly hair. Olaplex No. 4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo is a sulfate-free shampoo designed to repair and strengthen damaged hair. 

It is formulated with the brand’s signature bond-building ingredient, Bis-Aminopropyl Diglycol Dimaleate, which helps to repair and rebuild the hair’s structure and restore its strength. 

Some benefits of using Olaplex No. 4 for curly hair include repairing and strengthening damaged hair, reducing frizz, enhancing shine, and improving the overall health of the hair.

16. Odele Curl Defining No Lather Shampoo

Odele’s Curl Defining No Lather Shampoo is a sulfate- and silicone-free shampoo designed to support and define curls. 

This stylish product is formulated with natural ingredients, including shea butter, aloe vera, and avocado oil. The shampoo helps to define and enhance curls, leaving them looking bouncy and polished. It can also help to reduce frizz, making it easier to manage and style curly hair.

The shampoo is suitable for all curl types, including wavy, curly, and coily hair, and is safe for color-treated hair. It is free from sulfates, silicones, and parabens, making it a gentle option for curly hair.

17. Aveda Be Curly Conditioner

Be Curly Conditioner by Aveda is a conditioner that is designed to enhance and define curls. It contains natural ingredients including wheat protein and organic aloe to soothe and hydrate hair. 

The conditioner helps to reduce frizz and flyaways and is color safe. It contains no sulfites, parabens, or synthetic fragrances and is suitable for all curl types. It also has a pleasant plant-based scent which will make you look forward to using it. 

18. Maui Moisture Curl Quench + Coconut Oil Conditioner

Curl Quench + Coconut Oil Conditioner by Maui Moisture made with indulgent botanical ingredients including coconut oil, papaya extract, and mango butter to moisturize and strengthen your hair. 

All types of curls can use the conditioner, which also lessens frizz and helps to accentuate the curls’ natural shape. It is safe for color-treated hair and has no silicones, sulphates, or parabens.

19. Kristin Ess Moisture Rich Curl Shampoo for Curly + Wavy Hair

Kristin Ess Curl Shampoo is a sulfate-free and paraben-free shampoo formulated for curly hair.

It gently cleanses and defines curls while adding moisture and shine to the hair. The shampoo’s ingredients include glycerin and shea butter, and it is designed to enhance and define curls, giving them a full and healthy look. It is gentle on hair and suitable for all curl types, and it can be used on a daily basis without causing build-up or weighing hair down.

The shampoo is non-drying, meaning it does not strip hair of its natural oils, leaving it feeling soft and hydrated. In addition, it is fragrance-free, suitable for those with a sensitive scalp or allergies to fragrances.

20. Function of Beauty Curly Hair Shampoo Base with Chia Extract

We love this unique product – it allows you to customize the formula to suit your individual hair needs! You can add up to three booster shots of your choice depending on whether you want to tame frizz, strengthen your hair, or define your curls.

It is designed to nourish and moisturize curls, and is made with chia extract, rich in essential fatty acids that nourish and hydrate. The shampoo is gentle on hair and cleanses without stripping natural oils or causing build-up.

It is free of sulfates and parabens that can strip hair of its natural oils and cause damage. 

21. Ceremonia Yucca & Witch Hazel Deep Hydrating Shampoo

This formula, which contains natural oils like yucca and witch hazel, protects your scalp’s natural oils while also effectively cleansing. As a result, there is no buildup and your hair is left bouncy and clean. 

It is free of sulfates and parabens and is safe for use on color-treated hair. It is suitable for all hair types and can be used on a daily basis. 

The shampoo gently cleanses the hair without removing its natural oils. It is vegan and cruelty-free, making it a good choice for those who prefer to use products that are not tested on animals.

22. Ouidad Curl Quencher Moisturizing Shampoo

To finish off our list of the best shampoos and conditioners for curly hair, we have Ouidad Curl Quencher Moisturizing Shampoo. 

This is a shampoo again designed specifically for curls, made with hydrating ingredients including avocado and olive oil. The shampoo cleans the hair and scalp gently, removing excess oil and dirt without irritating the scalp. It is intended to enhance curls, leaving your hair shiny and looking its best. The shampoo is suitable for color-treated hair and will not remove or fade the color. 

It is appropriate for all curl types and can be used daily.