The Best Shampoos for Natural Hair

Are you struggling to find the best shampoo for your natural hair? With the changes in weather, wearing your hair out, and even sleeping without a scarf on, it’s almost impossible to keep your coils hydrated and full of life. But don’t worry, we’ve got the scoop on what to look for in natural hair shampoo. 

Natural hair types

First of all, you need to know your hair type and learn what kind of nourishment and ingredients your natural hair needs.

Dry hair

Dry hair can be difficult to manage. It’s often a sign of damage and can lead to brittle, breakable locks that just don’t absorb moisture the way they should. If you’re dealing with dry, coarse hair, it’s important to remember that gentle, nourishing products are key. When it comes to shampoo, look for options that are specifically formulated for dry hair. These shampoos will typically be more moisturizing and creamy than others, which can help tame frizz and keep your hair looking and feeling healthy.

Don’t forget that after shampooing, it’s essential to follow up with a good conditioner. This will help lock in the moisture that your shampoo added and keep your hair looking smooth and shiny. Just be sure to avoid shampoos that contain sulfates, these can actually strip away the natural oils that your hair needs to stay healthy and hydrated. With the right products and a little extra care, you can help your dry hair look and feel its best.

Oily hair

When your scalp is producing too much sebum, it can make your hair look greasy and dirty, even if you just washed it. If you’re dealing with oily hair, you’ll probably need to wash it more frequently than others to keep it looking shiny and healthy. But be careful not to use a shampoo that’s too harsh, as that can actually lead to hair loss.

When it comes to choosing a shampoo for oily hair, you’ll want to avoid formulas that are too moisturizing or creamy. These can add even more moisture and grease to your already oily scalp. Instead, look for shampoos that are specifically formulated to balance and strengthen your hair. Look for natural ingredients in your products to combat the oils. 

Tea tree oil has antimicrobial properties that can help reduce the amount of bacteria and yeast on the scalp, which can contribute to oily hair. Lemon juice is rich in citric acid, which can help to remove excess oils and buildup on the scalp. Apple cider vinegar can help to balance the pH of the scalp, which can help to control excess oil production. Aloe vera can help to soothe and moisturize the scalp while also reducing the oils.

Fine hair

If you have fine hair, you know that it can be a tricky thing to manage. On one hand, it’s naturally silky and tends to dry quickly, which is great. But on the other hand, fine hair can lack volume and tends to get oily more easily than other types. So, when it comes to choosing the right shampoo for fine hair, there are a few things to keep in mind.

First, avoid creamy shampoos. These can weigh down your fine hair and make it look flat and lifeless. Instead, look for volumizing and non-creamy shampoos. These are typically the lightest shampoos you can find, and they can help build body and lift your hair cuticles. Ingredients like hydrolyzed wheat protein can be especially helpful for fine hair, as they can increase the diameter of the hair shaft and make your hair look bulkier.

You should also keep an eye out for shampoos that are free from silicones. Silicones can make fine hair look greasy, and they can weigh it down.

Curly hair

When it comes to curly hair, you need to think outside the shampoo bottle! Opt for a formula that packs a punch with protein or is specifically designed for your curly locks. Moisturizing shampoos are also a must to combat dryness and frizz, and keep your curls looking bouncy and beautiful. Look for natural moisturizing ingredients in your bottle rather than synthetic ones.

1. Coconut oil: Coconut oil is a natural moisturizer that can help to hydrate the hair and scalp, and also helps to protect the hair from damage.
2. Aloe vera: Aloe vera is known for its soothing and moisturizing properties; it can help to hydrate the hair and scalp, and also reduce itching and flaking.
3. Honey: Honey is a natural humectant, which means it helps to retain moisture in the hair and scalp.
4. Avocado: Avocado is rich in fatty acids and vitamins that can help to moisturize and nourish the hair and scalp.
5. Shea butter: Shea butter is a natural emollient, which means it helps to soften and moisturize the hair and scalp.
6. Jojoba oil: Jojoba oil is similar to the natural oils produced by the scalp, which makes it an excellent moisturizer for the hair and scalp.
7. Olive oil: Olive oil is high in fatty acids and antioxidants, which can help to moisturize and protect the hair and scalp.
8. Glycerin: Glycerin is a natural humectant that can help to attract and retain moisture in the hair and scalp.

We have compiled a list of 21 of the best shampoos for natural hair. Some of these shampoos are versatile all-rounders while others are targeted more specifically to certain natural hair types.

1. Blu Atlas Shampoo – Classic

Are you looking for a gentle shampoo? Look no further than the Blu Atlas Shampoo Classic. It’s the best shampoo for natural hair. Formulated with hydrating saw palmetto and vegan biotin, this shampoo will nourish and fortify your hair, containing just the ingredients needed to bring out its natural beauty. Jojoba protein works to repair any strands that may be feeling stressed, while aloe vera soothes the scalp with its famed anti-inflammatory properties. 

Coconut-derived surfactants work to cleanse away dirt and oil without stripping away the natural oils in your hair. Whether you are looking to restore dull locks or just want to maintain the health of your hair, Blu Atlas Shampoo is custom-made to do both! Use it daily and combine the shampoo with the Blu Atlas Conditioner for the ultimate pampering experience your hair deserves.

2. Shea Moisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore Shampoo

This is a great natural hair care product if you have hair breakage or shedding. This shampoo uses Jamaican black castor oil, which is known for its awesome benefits: providing moisture and promoting healthy hair growth and elasticity. Not only that, but it’s sulfate-free and color-safe! It also has apple cider vinegar to help lower the pH of the hair and scalp, to help make hair smoother, easier to detangle, and reduce any scalp itchiness. 

Organic shea butter also helps to deeply moisturize and condition your hair, while peppermint stimulates the scalp, improves hair growth, and may prevent hair loss. This ethical shampoo is certified organic and fair trade, with no parabens, phthalates, mineral oil, or sulfates. On top of that, its packaging has a minimum of 25% post-consumer resin so you won’t have to worry about it being too polluting or wasteful!

3. Bounce Curl Clarifying Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo

Bounce Curl’s Clarifying Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a natural clarifying shampoo. The gentle pomegranate and pumpkin enzyme formula can thoroughly cleanse all hair types and provide light moisture for daily use. It’s packed with organic black seed oil, enzymes, pro-vitamin B5, biotin, rosemary, nobilis flower, and many more herbal plant extracts and scientifically-made ingredients, making it one of the best shampoos for restoring bounce to the hair. 

The natural and oil-based scent of the shampoo gives off a refreshing citrus aroma, giving users a sense of mental and physical wellbeing that’s so often missing from synthetic products. Not only will this shampoo help you achieve the beautiful, healthy bounce you’re looking for, but it also energizes and restores moisture levels, leaving your hair as luscious and soft as can be. 

This can be a great choice for anyone who wants to leave synthetic ingredients on the shelf and switch to a more natural and healthy alternative. If you want to start nurturing your natural hair and restoring its balance, Bounce Curl’s Clarifying Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo should be the first product in your arsenal.

4. tgin Moisture Rich Sulfate Free Shampoo

As someone with natural hair, it can be difficult to find the right shampoo that is gentle and effective while still getting great results. Thankfully, tgin’s Moisture Rich Sulfate Free Shampoo for natural hair, dry hair and curly hair has got you covered. This shampoo is specifically designed to gently and effectively cleanse the hair while preserving the natural oils. It is free of harsh detergents that tend to strip these oils away, so you can feel confident that your hair will be left feeling soft, smooth and hydrated. 

The added Pro-vitamin B5 also helps to reduce breakage and is fantastic for promoting healthy moisture levels. This is a cruelty-free product that doesn’t contain parabens, sulfates, petrolatum, lanolin, or artificial colors. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a natural, gentle shampoo that will still deliver amazing results.

5. Oribe Shampoo for Moisture & Control

Natural hair can be an amazing journey if you have the right products by your side. If your hair is curly, kinky, or thick and you’ve been complaining about frizz and lack of moisture, then take a look at Oribe’s Shampoo for Moisture & Control. This sulfate-free shampoo is formulated with a nourishing cleanser that infuses your strands with intense moisture, while taming and calming even the wildest of hair. It is specially designed to de-volumize thick hair, leaving it silky and smooth. 

The powerful key ingredients in this shampoo really rev up the moisture. Oribe’s amino acid complex, microemulsion smoothing system and polymer complex all join forces to create a powerhouse of moisture and protection against the damaging elements. No matter what type of natural hair you have, Oribe’s Shampoo for Moisture & Control triples your protection against oxidative stress and harsh UV rays, while it also fortifies and repairs damage to your hair as you lather. You’ll be left with perfectly soft and controlled tresses that are healthy and strong.

6. Aunt Jackie’s Curls & Coils Oh So Clean! Moisturizing & Softening Shampoo

This lather-rich shampoo is deeply moisturizing and specifically designed for natural curls. The shampoo is enriched with coconut oil, shea butter, and extra virgin olive oil. These ingredients provide intense moisture and nourishment to keep your natural curls looking and feeling soft and hydrated. Plus, the added conditioning ingredients make combing your curls much easier. 

To use this shampoo, thoroughly work it into your wet hair using gentle massaging motions. Do not shampoo vigorously. Focus on rubbing the scalp with your fingertips and getting the lather along the entire length of the strands. Once you’ve finished one shampoo, rinse and repeat to wash away any impurities left behind from the first shampoo. 

This shampoo is gentle enough for daily use. After rinsing and towel-drying, follow up with Aunt Jackie’s In Control “Anti-Poof” Moisturizing and Softening Conditioner for the perfect finish to your wash day. 

7. DevaCurl LOW-POO® ORIGINAL

Are you looking for a way to give your curls a boost? If you have dry, medium to coarse curls, the DevaCurl Low-Poo Original is the perfect shampoo for you. Its formula is packed with good-for-you ingredients and no harsh sulfates that can strip your curls of the natural oils they need to stay hydrated and healthy. This low-lathering cleanser is specifically designed to keep your curls nourished and hydrated. It helps keep your curls shiny, bouncy, and full of life. Plus, it’s free from sulfates and artificial fragrances, so you know you’re only using safe and natural ingredients. 

When you use the DevaCurl Low-Poo Original, you’ll notice a difference in your curls right away. Your hair will look and feel softer, shinier, and healthier. This shampoo will help repair any damage from styling and heat damage, and will restore your curls’ natural shape. If you’re serious about loving and taking care of your natural curls, the DevaCurl Low-Poo Original shampoo is a must-have.

8. Cantu Care for Kids Tear-Free Nourishing Shampoo 

This gentle, tear-free shampoo quickly and effectively cleanses and promotes healthy hair growth for kids with natural hair. With the perfect blend of pure shea butter, coconut oil, and honey, Cantu Care for Kids is free from harsh ingredients and provides the ultimate nourishment for fragile coils, curls, and waves. This nutrient-rich shampoo provides the ultimate luxurious hydration to quench your kids’ thirsty strands. 

While it cleanses and removes impurities, it’s also gentle enough to leave hair feeling refreshed and silky smooth without weighing it down. Plus, its signature natural blend of coconut oil, shea butter, and honey nourishes and protects against environmental or heat damage and split ends caused by brushing and styling. 

Cantu Care for Kids is a great choice for parents looking for a natural, gentle shampoo for their kids’ delicate hair. And with its tear-free formula, they can be sure every  wash is as comfortable and worry-free as possible. Plus, since it’s free from mineral oil, sulfates, parabens, silicones, phthalates, gluten, paraffin, and propylene, it’s safer on your kids’ sensitive skin.

9. As I Am Curl Clarity Shampoo

If you have curly hair, you know that combing and detangling can be quite a challenge. That’s why you need the right product that’ll make your life a lot easier. As I Am is here to help with their amazing Curl Clarity Shampoo. Made with coconut, amla, and tangerine, this vegan and cruelty-free shampoo is gentle on all hair types, especially those with curls, coils and waves. It’s also free from sulfates, parabens and phthalates, so you can be sure that it’ll only bring out the best in your locks. 

This miraculous shampoo is proven to detangle 78% better and ease combing by 62%. It’ll leave your curls bouncy, with a weightless feel. Plus, the natural and organic ingredients will nourish and moisturize your hair and scalp. Overall, As I Am Curl Clarity Shampoo is here to help make your curly hair life a lot easier!

10. EDEN BodyWorks Peppermint Tea Tree Shampoo

If you are seeking an all-natural way to nourish and heal your scalp, then look no further than Eden BodyWorks Peppermint Tea Tree Shampoo. This invigorating shampoo is packed with powerful peppermint and tea tree oils that work to soothe and comfort your scalp while reducing itchiness, dryness and dandruff. 

In addition to providing relief to the scalp, this gentle shampoo clarifies your hair and helps to remove excess product residue and dirt. It also helps to balance the hair’s pH and provide the ideal environment for healthy hair growth. Peppermint and tea tree oils are two of the most popular essential oils used in natural hair care. 

Peppermint oil is known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal properties, which make it a great remedy for scalp irritation and dryness. Tea Tree oil, on the other hand, is an impressive antiseptic that is often used to treat skin ailments, such as dandruff, dermatitis, and psoriasis. Combined, these two have created a wonderful shampoo for natural hair of any type or texture. 

11. Klorane Dry Shampoo with Oat Milk

Are you looking for an easy, non-contact solution to clean and style your natural hair? If so, Klorane Dry Shampoo with Oat Milk is the perfect choice. This plant-based dry shampoo eliminates oil, dirt, and odors leaving your hair clean, refreshed, and full of texture and volume. Instead of time consuming and damaging wash rituals, with this dry shampoo you just have to shake, spray, and brush. It comes in an ultra-fine powder that blends invisibly with your natural hair, so you don’t have to worry about any visible chalky residue. 

With Klorane, you don’t have to compromise your natural curls. Just spray it 10 inches away from your hair, focusing on the roots and give it a couple of minutes for the powder to fully absorb. It keeps your hair looking clean and voluminous for longer, so you can extend the life of your blowouts. If you’re looking for an easy and hassle-free solution for your natural hair, Klorane Dry Shampoo with Oat Milk is the answer.

12. Kinky-Curly Come Clean Moisturizing Shampoo

As naturalistas, all of us know the struggle of finding the perfect shampoo for our curls. We’re bombarded with commercials encouraging us to go for sulfate-free shampoos and try different ingredients. But when it comes to finding the best shampoo, sometimes it’s hard to know what to look for. One fantastic option for natural hair is Kinky-Curly Come Clean Moisturizing Shampoo. This shampoo is made specifically for those with dry and damaged hair, and it’s the perfect choice for textured tresses. 

The sulfate-free formula helps to remove dulling buildup while keeping the hair’s natural moisture balance in check. This shampoo is strong enough to give your curls a deep cleanse, but it’s still  gentle enough for everyday use. With natural ingredients like Sea Kelp, you’ll be able to help replenish the moisture in your hair while you’re sudsing up. Give your curls some love with Kinky-Curly Come Clean Moisturizing Shampoo, and bring the best out of your natural hair.

13. Design Essentials Natural Almond & Avocado Sulfate-Free Shampoo

Looking for a sulfate-free shampoo that is gentle enough for all hair types? Look no further than Design Essentials’ Natural Almond & Avocado Sulfate-Free Shampoo. This shampoo is perfect for those with naturally curly or kinky hair, as it helps to detangle hair easily and promote noticeable body and softness. Additionally, this shampoo is free from parabens, paraffin, petrolatum, and mineral oils, which is great for promoting healthy hair growth. 

This product will leave your  hair feeling moisturized and refreshed. So what are you waiting for? Give Design Essentials’ Natural Almond & Avocado Sulfate-Free Shampoo a try today.

14. K18 PEPTIDE PREP Detox Shampoo

This shampoo is perfect to cleanse your hair and help remove any build-up. With natural ingredients, it will nourish your hair while removing all the dirt, oil and bacteria. A single wash with Peptide Prep Detox Shampoo can reduce the amount of copper present in your hair, helping to keep it healthy and shiny. Non-sensitizing and dermatologist tested, this shampoo is perfect for all hair types.

15. MopTop Detox Shampoo 

If you’re anything like most women, you’re familiar with the dreadfully thick build-up of products on your hair. Normal oil, shampoo, and styling products build up over time, leaving your hair feeling dry, heavy, and prone to breakage. Thankfully, MopTop Detox Shampoo can help you break free from this cycle of damage. This shampoo is formulated to remove the buildup of minerals, silicone, wax, chlorine, and shea butter found in other products. 

As a result, your hair will be more balanced, moisturized, and silky. Even if you don’t have curly hair, this detox shampoo is a solid choice. It’s free of harmful parabens, sulfates, insoluble silicones, phthalates, and dyes, meaning it won’t damage your hair in the same way that many conventional shampoos can. Instead, it uses a coconut cleanser to naturally restore balance to your hair.

16. Jane Carter Solution Hydrating Invigorating Shampoo

If you have dry, brittle hair that struggles to stay hydrated, Jane Carter Solution Hydrating Invigorating Shampoo is perfect for you. Made with plant-based ingredients, this shampoo helps to restore the balance of moisture in your hair, leaving it feeling light, bouncy, and shiny. 

The ingredients contain natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to soothe and protect your hair from damage. Finally, the shampoo is sulfate-free, so it is gentle enough on your hair and scalp that you can use it every day. 

17. Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Strengthening Shampoo Infused with Biotin

Seeking that shampoo to help strengthen your hair and prevent split ends? Take a look at Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Strengthening Shampoo. This shampoo is infused with biotin to help promote a healthy scalp and keep your hair looking its best. 

Additionally, the Rosemary Mint Collection features products that are good for all hair types, so you can enjoy fuller, shinier locks without having to worry about dryness or breakage. Women-owned and operated, Mielle Organics knows how important it is to mix organic ingredients with traditional beauty practices to create effective solutions for all types of hair.

18. SheaMoisture Shampoo Curl and Shine for Curly Hair

Are you hunting for a sulfate-free shampoo that is also paraben and phthalate free? Look no further than SheaMoisture Curl and Shine Shampoo. This shampoo is designed to gently cleanse natural hair and improve its health while restoring shine. The ingredients include coconut oil to nourish and protect hair, hibiscus flower extracts to improve hair elasticity, and nothing but natural ingredients. 

SheaMoisture Curl shampoo is also silicone free, so you can rest assured that it will not cause any damage to your curls. All SheaMoisture products are ethically traded and cruelty-free, which makes them a fantastic choice for anyone seeking quality hair care products.

19. Aunt Jackie’s Curls and Coils Oh So Clean Moisturizing and Softening Shampoo

Years of using chemically-treated hair products and styling products can leave your hair brittle, dry, and frizzy. Aunt Jackie’s Curls and Coils Oh So Clean Moisturizing and Softening Shampoo is designed specifically for people with difficult to manage natural hair. The shampoo is made with a blend of healthier ingredients and natural conditioners that thoroughly and gently cleanse and soften the most damaged hair. 

Coconut oil, shea butter and extra virgin olive oil help to restore and protect the hair shaft, while the proprietary formula also contains brewer’s yeast and green tea extract. This shampoo is ideal for all hair types and textures, and is especially ideal for people with curly, wavy, coiled, kinky or mixed textures. After using the shampoo, hair is left feeling soft, moisturized and easier to maintain.

20. ​​As I Am Long and Luxe Strengthening Shampoo

As I Am Long & Luxe Strengthening Shampoo is a gentle, cleansing shampoo that strengthens longer hair lengths. External and Internal lab research has demonstrated the efficacy of this collection. The shampoo is rich and luxurious, lathering up nicely and leaving your hair feeling moisturized and soft. 

It has a sweet, lovely, floral scent, and it leaves your hair feeling shiny and clean. By cleansing the hair and scalp gently, this shampoo will help you comb through tangles, preventing further damage, and strengthening the hair as it grows longer. As I Am Long & Luxe Strengthening Shampoo helps keep your hair healthy and strong.

21. Not Your Mother’s Blue Sea Kale & Pure Coconut Water Shampoo

If you’re looking for a nourishing shampoo that won’t weigh down your natural hair, then Not Your Mother’s Blue Sea Kale and Pure Coconut Water Shampoo may just be what you need. This unique formula is packed with vitamins and electrolyte minerals, so your hair can stay healthy, vibrant, and resilient against everyday wear and tear. 

Blue sea kale is rich in antioxidants that will nourish and strengthen your hair follicles. The lightweight coconut water adds an extra boost of hydration and is sure to keep your natural hair moisturized all day. The combination of these ingredients provides a generous helping of vitamins and minerals that lock in moisture and repair any damage to your hair. 

Not Your Mother’s Blue Sea Kale and Pure Coconut Water Shampoo is tough on dirt and product buildup, but gentle enough for everyday use. And because this shampoo is free from harsh chemicals, you can be confident that your natural hair is getting the care it deserves.