Best Shampoo To Curl Hair (2024 Update)
Getting bouncy, beautiful curls can be a challenge, especially if you weren’t born with naturally curly hair. Finding the right shampoo is key to helping shape and define curls to get the look you want. Before choosing a shampoo to help curl your hair, there are a few factors to consider.
First, look at the needs of your individual hair type. Does your hair tend to be dry or damaged? Then a moisturizing, nourishing shampoo should take priority. For fine or limp hair, a volumizing shampoo can help build body and bounce. If frizz is your main concern, search for smoothing, anti-frizz formulas. Understanding your hair goals and concerns will help narrow down your shampoo search.
Next, look at the active ingredients. What is the shampoo formulated with to help enhance and define curls? Ingredients like oils, butters, proteins, and vitamins can help strengthen and smooth hair. Botanical extracts may help hydrate and condition. Look for key words like “curl defining” or “frizz control” to find shampoos targeting your texture.
Should you splurge on a salon brand or save with a drugstore find? How often will you use it? Do you need something gentle enough for daily use? These are all questions to ask when deciding on a budget. Reading reviews can help determine if the investment is worthwhile.
Achieving stunning curls may seem difficult, but the right shampoo can make all the difference. With a little research, you can find your perfect match. Will you discover the holy grail shampoo that takes your curls to new heights? Let’s find out!
10 Best Shampoo To Curl Hair
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Ideal for hair that needs gentle, sulfate-free cleansing and hydration with added benefits of hyaluronic acid and castor oil.
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This product is ideal for defining and enhancing fine natural curls while also adding lightweight moisture to the hair.
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Ideal for curly and frizzy hair types, providing sulfate-free cleansing, anti-frizz benefits, and moisturizing results with coconut and hibiscus extracts.
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It is ideal for people with curly, wavy, and kinky-coily hair who want a gentle, moisturizing shampoo for soft, defined curls.
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The product is ideal for defining and enhancing curls.
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The product is ideal for hydrating and refreshing hair.
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This product is ideal for hydrating and nourishing curly hair with coconut oil, citrus oil, and honey while being paraben and sulfate-free.
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Ideal for enhancing and defining curls in curly hair, detangling, and adding moisture with jojoba oil and vitamin E.
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This product is ideal for enhancing and defining curly hair with a nourishing formula.
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This product is ideal for defining and moisturizing curly hair.
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1. Dream Curls Micellar Shampoo With Hyaluronic Acid.
The Dream Lengths Curls No Build-Up Micellar Shampoo is a revolutionary product that transforms water into an airy foam, gently cleansing both the scalp and hair while effectively removing stubborn build-up. This shampoo is perfect for those with curly to coily hair, as it helps achieve hydrated, defined, bouncy, and soft curls without weighing them down.
The Dream Lengths Curls line is formulated with nourishing, paraben-free ingredients that deeply hydrate locks from scalp to tip. The inclusion of hyaluronic acid and castor oil in the formula helps lock in long-lasting moisture and define curls by sculpting and retaining their shape.
For a dreamy curl routine, the Moisture Push Shampoo and Moisture Seal Conditioner work together to provide optimal hydration, while the No-Build Up Micellar Shampoo removes excess buildup. The Non-Stop Dreamy Curls leave-in conditioner defines curls and keeps them looking their best, while the Refresh and Reshape Curl spray is perfect for revitalizing curls throughout the day.
The Dream Lengths Curls line also boasts an irresistible fragrance, with sweet notes of pomegranate, caramel orchid, and milk sorbet. This indulgent scent will leave your hair smelling amazing all day long.
2. Ogx Lightweight + Coconut Fine Curls
Introducing OGX Lightweight + Coconut Fine Curls Shampoo and Conditioner, the perfect hair care duo to gently define and enhance your curls while keeping them bouncy and moisturized.
Formulated with a blend of natural ingredients, including flaxseed oil, coconut water, and citrus oil, this lightweight shampoo delicately cleanses your hair without weighing it down. It helps to de-frizz and promote curl volume, leaving your curls defined, shiny, and full of life.
The OGX Lightweight + Coconut Fine Curls Conditioner complements the shampoo by providing gentle conditioning and definition to your curls. Its non-oily, refreshing formula keeps your curls bouncy and moisturized without weighing them down.
Say goodbye to lifeless, frizzy curls and hello to beautifully defined, bouncy curls with OGX Lightweight + Coconut Fine Curls Shampoo and Conditioner.
3. Frizz-Free Curls Bundle: Shampoo, Conditioner, Mousse
The SheaMoisture Coconut and Hibiscus Curl and Shine Shampoo and Conditioner is the perfect solution for those with curly hair seeking bouncy and healthy curls. This hair care duo, when used in conjunction with the Frizz-Free Curl Mousse, is designed to work cohesively to create beautiful, defined curls.
This sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner gently cleanses and moisturizes curly, frizzy hair, while the anti-frizz mousse helps to style hair without leaving it feeling sticky or weighed down. The formula is enriched with nutrient-rich Coconut and Neem Oils, Silk Protein, and Fair Trade Shea Butter, which work together to reduce frizz and leave curls looking bouncy and shiny.
To use, simply apply the shampoo to wet hair, lather, and rinse thoroughly. Follow up with the conditioner, leaving it in for three minutes before rinsing. Finally, style with the curl mousse for a flawless finish.
All SheaMoisture natural hair care products are sustainably produced with natural ingredients and are cruelty-free. The brand takes pride in using only the finest ingredients to provide users with the best possible hair care experience.
Whether you have tight curls, loose waves or kinky coils, SheaMoisture Coconut and Hibiscus Curl and Shine Shampoo and Conditioner is the perfect choice for those seeking healthy, defined curls. Give it a try and experience the difference for yourself!
4. Curly Love Shampoo: Soft, Smooth Definition
The Little Goes a Long Way shampoo by LUS is a must-have addition to any curly hair care kit. Its light-lather concentrated formula is designed to cleanse your scalp and curls gently, without stripping away their natural oils. This means that each wash will leave your curls looking and feeling naturally fresh.
What sets this shampoo apart from others on the market is its infusion of Shea Butter and Moringa Oil. These hair-nourishing nutrients work together to repair, strengthen, moisturize, and reduce breakage, leaving curls soft, defined, and full of shine.
LUS hair care products are specifically designed to help bring out the natural waves, curls, spirals, kinks, and coils in all curl types, and this shampoo is no exception. It provides touchable, defined curls without any crunch, cast, or stickiness.
While this shampoo is suitable for all curl types, LUS recommends using it as part of their LOVE UR CURLS 3-Step System. It's the first step before using the Hydrating & Detangling Conditioner and the All-in-One Styler, both customized for your curl type.
The Little Goes a Long Way shampoo by LUS is clean, vegan, cruelty-free, gluten-free, and dermatologist-tested and approved. This means that it's hypoallergenic, non-irritating, and suitable for sensitive skin. It's also never tested on animals, so you can feel good about using it.
LUS is so confident in their product that they offer a 30-day money-back policy. As a team of real curlies, they understand that learning how to care for your curls is a journey, and they created these products to help bring out the best of your own unique curls.
5. Marc Anthony Strictly Curls Curl Defining Shampoo, 12.9 Ounces (129319)
Achieving defined curls has never been easier with the Vitamin E, Shea Butter, and hydrolyzed silk-infused curl defining shampoo. This product deeply cleanses hair while promoting hydration, strength, and frizz-free shine that is soft to the touch.
This curly hair shampoo is sulfate-free, enriched with shea butter, silk proteins, sunflower seed oil, aloe extract, and vitamin E to gently cleanse and redefine curls, while also nourishing the scalp.
Whether you have coiled, loose, or volumized curls, the Strictly Curls line has a variety of products to keep your curls looking beautiful and frizz-free. From hydrating masks to styling creams and leave-in conditioners, this line has everything you need to maintain your curls.
For over 20 years, Marc Anthony has been creating professional haircare products that cater to the needs of every hair type. Their sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners, moisturizers, Argan oils, Shea Butters, and more are salon-created to provide hair with the nourishment it truly deserves.
From curly hair and frizz control products to hair thickening products for high volume and hold, Marc Anthony has a range of salon-quality products to help you care for your hair, your way. Trust in their expertise and achieve the defined, frizz-free curls you've always wanted.
6. Ag Care Curl Fresh Hydrating
Curl Fresh Moisturizing Shampoo is the perfect solution for those with wavy, curly, and coily hair types. It contains rice protein, which deeply conditions brittle hair and improves its elasticity. With regular use, this shampoo can help you achieve healthy, defined curls.
The secret to Curl Fresh's success lies in its formulation. It contains pea protein, which nourishes your hair's protective barrier, reducing breakage, split ends, and frizz. This sulfate-free shampoo is infused with a blend of nourishing superfoods and botanicals, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a plant-based hair care solution.
Curl Fresh Moisturizing Shampoo features a delightful scent that is both light and fresh, thanks to its thoughtfully selected aromatic herbs and oils. It contains ginger, rosemary, citrus, and spearmint, which rejuvenate your hair and restore its natural luster.
This sulfate-free shampoo is best suited for medium and thick hair types. Its cleansing agents are gentle yet effective, providing the hydration that your curls need to stay strong and defined. Fortified with amino acids, this vegan and silicone-free shampoo delivers beautiful results without any harsh chemicals.
AG Care Essentials is committed to using naturally derived ingredients in its plant-based hair care line. All of their products are vegan and cruelty-free, and free from sulfates, gluten, DEA, PABA, parabens, DMDMH, and more. Curl Fresh Moisturizing Shampoo is a testament to their commitment to delivering beautiful hair care results without compromising on quality.
7. Coconut Curl Shampoo: Nourishing Waves.
Get ready to embrace your curls with the OGX Quenching Coconut Curls Shampoo. This 13-fluid ounce bottle is packed with nourishing ingredients that help detangle, define and enhance curls for tumbling waves full of bounce and shine.
Ideal for medium to coarse-textured hair, this curly hair shampoo is designed to enhance natural softness, while quenching and hydrating your spirals, leaving them smooth and bouncy. The nourishing blend contains coconut oil that helps add luster and softness to hair, citrus oil that helps clarify and reveal shine, and sweet honey, which has humectant properties that make it a great hair moisturizer.
The all-around sensory experience of this shampoo is one of its best features. The coconut milk, tangerine, and warm vanilla scent leaves locks with an irresistibly good smell every time you lather up. This sulfate-free surfactant hair care system is paraben-free and gentle on your tresses.
Not only does this shampoo help define and enhance your curls, but it also helps detangle them. With regular use, you can say goodbye to unruly and unmanageable curls. The OGX Quenching Coconut Curls Shampoo helps you achieve luxurious, decadent spirals that are easy to style and maintain.
8. Curl Define Shampoo & Conditioner Set
The Botanic Hearth Curly Hair Shampoo & Conditioner set is a must-have for those who are looking for a solution to tame their tangled hair. This set comes with a curl-enhancing formula that smoothens tangles and leaves hair feeling soft and manageable.
Not only does this set help with tangles, but it also helps repair dry and damaged hair. The active ingredients such as Jojoba oil and Vitamin E help fight frizz and dryness, reducing the occurrence of breakage.
The Botanic Hearth Curly Hair Shampoo is specially formulated to deeply moisturize and nourish hair and scalp. It gently cleanses the hair while providing the essential hydration that curly hair needs.
This set is also great for deep cleansing. The refreshing scent of the shampoo and conditioner leaves hair and scalp feeling clean, refreshed, and invigorated.
Botanic Hearth takes pride in their product’s ethical sourcing and cruelty-free formulation. Made or packaged in the USA, their products do not contain any nasty chemicals or added colors.
9. Coconut Curls Shampoo & Conditioner For Defined Curls
Introducing the OGX Quenching + Coconut Curls Shampoo, a nourishing formula that helps boost your curls and enhance their natural texture. This 13-fluid ounce bottle of shampoo is blended with coconut oil, which helps to detangle, define, and hydrate your waves and spirals, leaving your hair looking smooth and bouncy.
Ideal for medium to coarse-textured hair, this curly hair shampoo is designed to enhance natural softness and quench and hydrate your spirals, leaving them luxuriously smooth and decadent. With regular use, this shampoo helps to boost your curls and leaves them looking full of bounce and shine.
For those with thin strands, the OGX Thick and Full + Biotin and Collagen Conditioner is the perfect solution. This 13-fluid ounce bottle of conditioner helps to plump up the volume of your hair, giving you fuller and more abundant-looking locks. Ideal for flat to medium volume hair, this volumizing conditioner leaves your hair feeling thicker and healthy-looking as it helps to detangle your hair.
This conditioner is enriched with Vitamin B7 Biotin, which helps to strengthen your hair and maintain growth, collagen, a building block for healthy hair, and hydrolyzed wheat protein. With its nutrient-rich, plump-it-up formula, this conditioner helps to thicken your hair and leave it looking and feeling healthy.
OGX is committed to bringing you hair care products inspired by nature. With its nourishing formulas and natural ingredients, you can trust that your hair is getting the best care possible. Whether you're looking to enhance your curls or thicken your hair, the OGX Quenching + Coconut Curls Shampoo and Thick and Full + Biotin and Collagen Conditioner have got you covered.
Best Shampoo To Curl Hair FAQs
Can shampoo help define curls and reduce frizz?
Yes, shampoo can help define curls and reduce frizz. There are specific shampoos designed for curly hair that contain ingredients such as glycerin, which can help moisturize and tame frizz. These shampoos also typically have a lower pH level, which can help define curls by closing the hair cuticle and reducing the appearance of frizz.
It's important to note that while shampoo can be helpful in managing curly hair, it's not the only factor to consider. It's also important to use a conditioner that is specifically designed for curly hair, as well as styling products that can enhance and define curls. Additionally, it's important to avoid using hot tools such as flat irons and curling irons, which can damage the hair and further contribute to frizz.
Overall, incorporating a shampoo designed for curly hair into your hair care routine can be a great step towards reducing frizz and defining curls. However, it's important to consider all factors and use a comprehensive approach to managing curly hair.
Can shampoo help enhance natural curls?
Yes, shampoo can help enhance natural curls as long as you choose the right one. Look for shampoos that are designed specifically for curly hair, as they often contain ingredients that help define and enhance curls. These shampoos typically have a creamy or moisturizing consistency, which helps to combat frizz and dryness that can weigh down curls.
Additionally, you may want to consider using a conditioner after shampooing to further enhance your curls. Look for a conditioner that is also designed for curly hair, as these products often contain ingredients that help to moisturize and define curls. You may also want to try using a leave-in conditioner or curl-enhancing cream to further enhance your curls.
It's important to note that while shampoo and other hair products can help enhance natural curls, genetics play a large role in determining the texture and shape of your hair. However, by using the right products and techniques, you can help bring out the best in your natural curls.
Does shampooing curly hair make it frizzy?
Shampooing curly hair can potentially make it frizzy if not done properly. Curly hair is naturally prone to dryness, and using a shampoo that contains harsh ingredients can strip it of its natural oils, leaving it dry and prone to frizz. It is important to choose a shampoo that is specifically formulated for curly hair, preferably one that is sulfate-free, as sulfates can be particularly drying. Additionally, it is recommended to only shampoo curly hair once or twice a week, as over-shampooing can also contribute to dryness and frizz. To minimize frizz, it is also important to use a conditioner after shampooing, as this will help to restore moisture and smooth the hair cuticle. Finally, using a diffuser attachment on a hair dryer or air-drying hair can also help to minimize frizz by reducing the amount of manipulation on the hair.
How often should I shampoo curly hair?
The frequency of shampooing curly hair depends on various factors including hair type, scalp condition, and lifestyle. Curly hair tends to be dry as the natural oils produced by the scalp have a hard time reaching the hair shaft due to its texture. Therefore, it is recommended to shampoo curly hair less frequently than straight hair to avoid stripping natural oils. For most people, shampooing curly hair every 2-3 days is sufficient. However, if your scalp is oily or you sweat a lot, you may need to shampoo more frequently. On the other hand, if your scalp is dry and your hair is prone to breakage, you may need to shampoo less often, about once a week or every 10 days. It is important to use a sulfate-free and moisturizing shampoo to keep curly hair healthy and hydrated. Additionally, using a leave-in conditioner can help to detangle and define curls while providing extra moisture.
Is it necessary to use a conditioner after shampooing curly hair?
Yes, it is highly recommended to use a conditioner after shampooing curly hair. Curly hair is prone to dryness and damage due to its structure and natural oils cannot easily travel down the hair shaft. Shampooing can strip the hair of its natural oils, making it even drier. A conditioner helps to replenish moisture, nourish the hair, and detangle it. It also helps to define and enhance curls, making them more manageable and less frizzy. When choosing a conditioner, look for one that is specifically formulated for curly hair, as it will contain ingredients that cater to the unique needs of curly hair. It is also important to apply the conditioner correctly by focusing on the mid-lengths and ends of the hair, avoiding the scalp. Conditioning regularly can help to keep curly hair healthy, shiny, and bouncy.
Is sulfate-free shampoo better for curly hair?
Sulfate-free shampoo has become increasingly popular in recent years, especially among people with curly hair. Curly hair is often drier than straight hair, which means it needs more moisture to stay healthy and shiny. Sulfates are harsh detergents that strip the hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry and frizzy. This is particularly problematic for curly hair, which is already prone to dryness and frizz.
Sulfate-free shampoos, on the other hand, are gentler and more moisturizing. They don't contain the harsh chemicals found in traditional shampoos, which means they won't strip your hair of its natural oils. Instead, they work by cleaning your hair without drying it out, leaving it soft, shiny, and manageable.
So, to answer the question: Yes, sulfate-free shampoo is better for curly hair. It will help to keep your hair moisturized, reduce frizz, and enhance your natural curls. However, it's important to note that not all sulfate-free shampoos are created equal. Look for ones that are specifically formulated for curly hair and contain ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and jojoba oil, which are all great for moisturizing curly hair.
Should I use a clarifying shampoo on my curly hair?
Using a clarifying shampoo on curly hair can be beneficial but it should not be done too frequently. Clarifying shampoo is designed to remove buildup from hair products, minerals from hard water, and excess oil. Curly hair tends to be dry and prone to frizz, and using a clarifying shampoo can strip the hair of its natural oils, leaving it even drier and more prone to frizz.
However, if you use a lot of hair products or live in an area with hard water, using a clarifying shampoo once a month or every six weeks can help to remove buildup and give your curls a fresh start. It is important to follow up with a deep conditioning treatment to restore moisture to the hair. It is also important to choose a clarifying shampoo that is sulfate-free and gentle on curly hair.
Overall, using a clarifying shampoo on curly hair can be beneficial when used in moderation and followed up with proper conditioning and moisturizing.
What are the best shampoo brands for curly hair?
For curly hair, it is important to use a shampoo that is gentle, nourishing, and moisturizing. The best shampoo brands for curly hair are those that are specially formulated for this hair type. Some of the best shampoo brands for curly hair include:
1. DevaCurl – This brand is specifically designed for curly hair and is free from sulfates, parabens, and silicones.
2. Ouidad – This brand offers a range of shampoos that are gentle and hydrating for curly hair.
3. Shea Moisture – This brand has a range of shampoos that are formulated with natural ingredients that are gentle on curly hair.
4. Bumble and Bumble – This brand offers a range of shampoos that are designed to enhance and define curls while adding moisture.
5. Moroccanoil – This brand offers a range of shampoos that are enriched with argan oil, which is known for its hydrating properties.
Ultimately, the best shampoo for curly hair will depend on your individual hair type and needs. It is important to choose a shampoo that is gentle and nourishing, and that does not strip your hair of its natural oils.
What are the key ingredients to look for in a shampoo for curly hair?
When it comes to shampoo for curly hair, it's important to look for ingredients that provide moisture and hydration while also reducing frizz. One key ingredient to look for is aloe vera, which can help soothe and hydrate the scalp, as well as provide a natural shine to the hair. Another ingredient to consider is coconut oil, which is known for its moisturizing properties and can help prevent breakage and split ends.
Other ingredients to look for in a curly hair shampoo include shea butter, which can help soften and nourish curls, and glycerin, which can help retain moisture in the hair. Additionally, avoid shampoos with sulfates, as they can strip the hair of its natural oils and cause frizz.
Ultimately, the best shampoo for curly hair will depend on your individual hair type and needs. It's important to experiment with different products to find the one that works best for you.
What is the best shampoo to use for curly hair?
The best shampoo for curly hair is one that is specifically formulated for curly hair. Curly hair tends to be drier and more prone to frizz, so it is important to use a shampoo that is gentle, moisturizing, and helps to define curls.
Look for shampoos that contain natural ingredients such as coconut oil, shea butter, and argan oil. These ingredients help to nourish and hydrate curly hair, leaving it soft and manageable. Avoid shampoos that contain sulfates, as they can strip curly hair of its natural oils and cause frizz.
Some popular shampoos for curly hair include DevaCurl No-Poo Original Zero Lather Conditioning Cleanser, Ouidad Curl Quencher Moisturizing Shampoo, and SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo. Ultimately, the best shampoo for your curly hair will depend on your hair type, texture, and personal preferences. It may take some trial and error to find the perfect shampoo, but once you do, your curls will thank you.
