Top 10 Best Shampoo and Conditioner for Curly Hair

Hi there! As someone with curly hair, I know how hard it can be to find the right shampoo and conditioner. That’s why I’ve put together this list of the top 10 best options on the market. Whether you have tight coils or loose waves, these products will help you achieve the bouncy, defined curls of your dreams.

Curly Hair 101: What You Need to Know

Curly hair is prone to dryness and breakage, so it’s important to use products that will moisturize and strengthen your strands.
Many shampoos and conditioners contain harsh sulfates that can strip your hair of its natural oils, so look for options that are sulfate-free.
The best products for curly hair will enhance your natural texture and help define your curls, rather than weighing them down or making them feel crunchy.

The Top 10 Best Shampoo and Conditioner for Curly Hair

DevaCurl No-Poo Original Zero Lather Conditioning Cleanser
As the name suggests, this product is a conditioner and shampoo in one. Its gentle formula cleanses your hair without lathering, which helps preserve your curls’ natural oils. It’s also sulfate-free and contains moisturizing ingredients like grapeseed oil and peppermint extract.
Personally, I love this product because it leaves my hair feeling clean and soft, without any dryness or frizz.
Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Defrizzing Shampoo
This shampoo is specifically designed for curly hair that’s prone to frizz. Its sulfate-free formula cleanses your hair while also providing humidity protection. It contains wheat protein and jojoba oil to help strengthen and moisturize your curls.
I’ve found that this shampoo really helps keep my curls defined and frizz-free, even on humid days.
SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo
This shampoo is formulated with natural ingredients like coconut oil and hibiscus flower extract to moisturize and define your curls. It’s sulfate-free and also contains silk protein to help strengthen your hair.
I’ve been using this shampoo for years and it’s always been a go-to for me. It smells amazing and really helps bring out the best in my curls.
Not Your Mother’s Curl Talk Shampoo
This affordable shampoo is formulated with rice protein and sea kelp to help define and enhance your curls. It’s sulfate-free and also contains quinoa extract to help prevent breakage.
I was pleasantly surprised by this shampoo – it works really well and is a great budget-friendly option.
Cantu Shea Butter for Natural Hair Sulfate-Free Cleansing Cream Shampoo
This cleansing cream shampoo is formulated with shea butter and coconut oil to moisturize and soften your curls. It’s sulfate-free and also contains honey to help add shine.
I’ve found that this shampoo is really gentle on my hair and doesn’t leave it feeling stripped or dry.
As I Am Coconut Cowash Cleansing Conditioner
This product is a conditioner and cleanser in one, and is formulated with coconut oil and tangerine extract to help cleanse and moisturize your curls. It’s sulfate-free and also contains castor oil to help prevent breakage.
I was skeptical of using a cowash at first, but this product really impressed me. It left my hair feeling soft and clean, without any stripping.
Briogeo Curl Charisma Rice Amino + Avocado Hydrating Shampoo
This shampoo is formulated with rice amino acids and avocado oil to help hydrate and define your curls. It’s sulfate-free and also contains quinoa extract to help prevent breakage.
I recently tried this shampoo and was really impressed with how well it worked. It left my curls feeling soft and defined, without any frizz.
Living Proof Curl Conditioning Wash
This product is a conditioner and cleanser in one, and is formulated with conditioning agents to help hydrate and define your curls. It’s sulfate-free and also contains glycerin to help add moisture.
I’ve been a fan of Living Proof’s products for a while now, and this one is no exception. It left my curls feeling soft and hydrated, without any greasiness.
Curlsmith Curl Quenching Conditioning Wash
This product is a conditioner and cleanser in one, and is formulated with avocado oil and coconut oil to help hydrate and define your curls. It’s sulfate-free and also contains aloe vera to help soothe your scalp.
I recently tried this product and was really impressed with how well it worked. It left my hair feeling soft and hydrated, without any buildup.
Kinky-Curly Come Clean Shampoo
This shampoo is formulated with natural ingredients like mandarin orange extract and sea kelp to help cleanse and clarify your curls. It’s sulfate-free and also contains peppermint oil to help stimulate your scalp.
While this shampoo can be a bit drying if you use it too often, I’ve found that it’s great for getting rid of buildup and leaving my curls feeling clean and refreshed.

FAQs

What should I look for in a shampoo and conditioner for curly hair?

When looking for a shampoo and conditioner for curly hair, it’s important to look for products that are sulfate-free, moisturizing, and curl-enhancing. Natural ingredients like coconut oil, avocado oil, and honey can also be beneficial for curly hair.

How often should I wash my curly hair?

This can vary depending on your hair type and personal preference, but generally it’s best to wash curly hair no more than once or twice a week to avoid drying it out.

Can I use regular shampoo and conditioner on curly hair?

Regular shampoo and conditioner can be too harsh for curly hair, as they often contain sulfates that can strip your hair of its natural oils. It’s best to use products that are specifically formulated for curly hair.

What’s the best way to apply shampoo and conditioner to curly hair?

When applying shampoo, focus on massaging it into your scalp and roots, rather than rubbing it all over your hair. When applying conditioner, focus on the ends of your hair, as this is where curly hair tends to be the driest.

Can I use a hair mask on curly hair?

Yes! Hair masks can be a great way to give your curls an extra boost of moisture and nourishment. Look for masks that are specifically formulated for curly hair and leave them on for at least 10-15 minutes before rinsing.

What’s the best way to dry curly hair?

Avoid using a traditional towel to dry your hair, as the rough fibers can cause frizz and breakage. Instead, use a microfiber towel or an old t-shirt to gently blot your hair dry. You can also let your hair air dry or use a diffuser attachment on your hair dryer to dry your curls without disrupting their natural shape.