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10 Best Drugstore Shampoos for Curly Hair for 2024

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best drugstore shampoo and conditioner for curly hairAre you looking for the best drugstore shampoo and conditioner for curly hair? You’ve come to the right place! Curly-haired individuals often struggle with finding products that won’t strip away their natural oils, leaving them dry, frizzy, and brittle.

To help make sure your curls stay healthy and manageable, we’ve rounded up 10 of our favorite drugstore shampoos specifically designed for those with curly locks.

Read on to learn what ingredients to look out for when searching through different options, as well as how to best shampoo and condition your curls so you can keep them looking their absolute best all year long.

Key Takeaways

  • Nourish and repair curls with hydrating oils like coconut, shea, moringa, and flaxseed.
  • Look for sulfate-free formulas that are gentle on curly hair and do not strip natural oils.
  • Consider your curl pattern when selecting products to ensure the best results.
  • Use heat protection and apply oils and conditioners after showering to enhance moisture and reduce frizz.

Top 10 Best Drugstore Shampoos and Conditioners for Curly Hair

Finding the right shampoo and conditioner for your curly hair can be a challenge, but luckily there are some amazing drugstore options that won’t break the bank. Love Your Curls Shampoo, OGX Coconut Fine Curls Shampoo, SheaMoisture Curl Shine Shampoo, Olaplex Bond Maintenance Shampoo, Davines LOVE Curl Shampoo, Garnier Fructis Curl Nourish Shampoo, Design Essentials Almond Avocado Shampoo, Mizani True Textures Moisture, L’Oreal Paris EverCurls Curly Shampoo, and Briogeo Curl Charisma Shampoo are all excellent choices for those with wavy or curly locks.

Love Ur Curls Shampoo

Love Ur Curls LUS BrandsView On Amazon
You’ll love the way this concentrated, light-lather formula nourishes and repairs your curls, leaving them soft, defined, and frizz-free. LUS Nourishing & Defining Curl Shampoo is infused with shea butter and moringa oil to strengthen hair while helping to define curls.

It’s a vegan, cruelty-free, gluten-free formula that gives great body without any crunch or cast left behind.

Plus, it has an amazing smell that won’t overpower you all day long. As one customer put it, I get loads of compliments after using this shampoo – my waves are really defined! With its ability to hydrate dry, curly hair while taming frizz at the same time, LUS Nourishing & Defining Curl Shampoo is an excellent choice for those looking for curl care solutions on a budget!

Pros
  • Infused with shea butter & moringa oil
  • Vegan
  • Cruelty-free
  • Gluten-free
  • Little product needed per use
  • Smells great
Cons
  • Hard bottles can make squeezing out product difficult
  • Price could be lower

OGX Coconut Fine Curls Shampoo

OGX Lightweight + Coconut FineView On Amazon
OGX’s Lightweight + Coconut Fine Curls Shampoo is designed to define and moisturize curls without leaving any oily residue. It boasts a weightless formula that is sulfate-free, paraben-free, and suitable for all curl types.

The shampoo contains flaxseed and coconut oils, which promote bounce, shine, and volume. Additionally, it helps strengthen hair with the help of conditioner up to five times in two washes*. This luxurious liquid has light lather properties that gently wash away impurities while restoring its natural luster.

Pros
  • Weightless formula
  • Sulfate-Free & Paraben Free
  • Flaxseed & Coconut Oils promote Bounce, Shine, and Volume
  • Strengthens Hair with Conditioner (up to 5x stronger)
  • Gently Washes Away Impurities & Restores Natural Luster
Cons
  • More expensive than other products
  • Some concerns about counterfeit product

SheaMoisture Curl Shine Shampoo

SheaMoisture Shampoo Curl and ShineView On Amazon
SheaMoisture’s Curl Shine Shampoo nurtures, repairs, and strengthens natural hair with its ethically traded and sustainably produced formula. Its paraben-free formula is infused with coconut oil to deeply moisturize and protect hair.

It also contains hibiscus flower extracts to improve elasticity and reduce breakage, leaving your curls frizz-free with definition.

Enjoy a rich creamy lather that gently washes away impurities while restoring shine back into locks. The small amount of product needed helps maintain healthy curls without weighing them down.

Pros
  • Nurtures & repairs natural hair
  • Ethically sourced & sustainably produced
  • Paraben-free; silicone-free
  • Contains Coconut Oil for deep moisture & protection
  • Hibiscus Flower Extracts help reduce breakage
Cons
  • Can be expensive compared to other products
  • May contain counterfeit items
  • Not ideal for all curl types

Olaplex Bond Maintenance Shampoo

Olaplex No.4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo,View On Amazon
Olaplex Bond Maintenance Shampoo repairs your damaged, broken hair and gives you up to 48 hours of defined curls with its sulfate-free formula. It reduces frizz and increases shine while leaving your hair feeling clean and healthy.

This bond-building shampoo is designed to restore strength and moisture for all hair types, making wavy hair curlier in just two weeks.

Pros
  • Repairs damaged and broken hairs.
  • Reduces frizz and increases shine.
  • Provides up to 48 hours of curl definition.
Cons
  • Strong scent could cause headaches.
  • Expensive relative to similar products.
  • Possible counterfeit product.

Davines LOVE Curl Shampoo

Davines LOVE Curl Shampoo |View On Amazon
Davines’ LOVE Curl Shampoo is a luxurious liquid and creamy formula designed to nourish, define, and add volume to textured hair for effortless curls. It’s specifically formulated with an almond scent, which helps condition the curls while leaving them soft and bouncy.

Infused with plant protein and coconut oil, this cleanser strengthens weak strands by reducing frizz without weighing down your hair or stripping its natural oils.

Enjoy a rich lather that gently washes away impurities while reviving shine for up to 48 hours of defined curls! Customers swear by it: they say only a little product is needed as it does wonders for their locks – helping maintain healthy curly tresses enhanced with body & bounce!

Pros
  • Defines & adds volume to textured hair
  • Conditions & hydrates curly hair
  • Little product needed
Cons
  • Strong almond/floral scent
  • Expensive

Garnier Fructis Curl Nourish Shampoo

Garnier Fructis Curl Nourish SulfateView On Amazon
Garnier Fructis Curl Nourish Shampoo nourishes and defines your curly locks, leaving them soft and bouncy like never before – a true blessing for those with textured hair! This sulfate-free, paraben-free formula is infused with plant protein and coconut oil to reduce frizz while strengthening the hair.

It also helps create up to 48 hours of defined curls without stripping away natural moisture or dulling color.

The light lather makes this shampoo easy to use without overdrying the scalp or weighing down the hair too much – something that all curl types can appreciate! Some people have found that its coconut scent may be overpowering, so be aware of this if fragrance sensitivity is an issue for you.

Additionally, some users report buildup when used regularly, which means alternating between other shampoos may help keep your curls looking their best in between washes.

Pros
  • Infused with plant protein & Coconut Oil
  • Defines & Reduces Frizz
  • Up To 48 Hours Of Defined Curls
Cons
  • Coconut Scent May Be Overpowering
  • Regular Use Can Result In Buildup
  • Weighs Down Hair

Design Essentials Almond Avocado Shampoo

Design Essentials Moisturizing and DetanglingView On Amazon
Design Essentials Almond Avocado Shampoo is the perfect way to nourish and soften your curls, while helping them look their best! This sulfate-free shampoo is enriched with plant protein and almond oil to help define curls, reduce frizz, and give up to 48 hours of defined curl definition.

The light lather won’t strip natural moisture from your hair, leaving it hydrated after each use. It also strengthens weak or brittle strands for a healthier-looking mane. With only a little product needed per wash, you can maintain healthy locks without weighing down your tresses.

Plus, Design Essentials has over 30 years of experience, so you know that quality is guaranteed when purchasing this product!

Pros
  • Hydrating & moisturizing – almond & avocado oils
  • Detangles & saves time – 30 mins less styling time
  • Strengthens weak/brittle curls
  • Promotes body & softness
  • Sulfate-free compatible w/ extensions
Cons
  • More expensive than other products
  • Sample sizes not widely available

Mizani True Textures Moisture

Mizani True Textures Moisture ReplenishView On Amazon
Mizani’s True Textures Moisture will leave your curls feeling soft, hydrated, and shiny. It is perfect for all hair types. This intense moisturizing shampoo gently cleanses without stripping away natural oils.

The formula is paraben-free, helping to reduce frizz and enhance curl definition while maintaining the strength of your locks. With its lightweight yet deeply nourishing properties, this shampoo can help restore moisture balance in even the driest strands.

Pros
  • Intense moisture
  • Gentle cleanse
  • Paraben-free
  • Suitable for all hair types
Cons
  • May not work for dry hair
  • Results may vary
  • Follow directions

L’Oreal Paris EverCurl Curly Shampoo

LView On Amazon
L’Oreal’s EverCurl Curly Shampoo is an absolute must for anyone wanting to deeply moisturize their curls and reduce frizz, while providing long-lasting definition. It is formulated with a sulfate-free, salt-free, and surfactant-free formula that won’t strip hair or dull color.

This shampoo delivers lightweight hydration without weighing down the hair, nourishing curls and enhancing the natural curl pattern. It also controls frizz for up to 48 hours of defined curls. Plus, it’s safe for use on all color-treated hair! You can even pair it with EverCurl Sculpt & Hold Cream Gel for added conditioning effects.

Pros
  • Sulfate-, salt-, surfactant-free formula won’t strip hair or dull color
  • Nourishes curly strands by delivering lightweight hydration without weighing down the hair
  • Enhances natural curl pattern and controls frizz
  • Safe to use on all colored hair
Cons
  • Results may vary depending upon individual scalp/hair type
  • Works best when used as part of a complete system

Briogeo Curl Charisma Shampoo

Briogeo Curl Charisma Hydrating Shampoo,View On Amazon
Briogeo’s Curl Charisma Shampoo nourishes and softens curls while gently cleansing without stripping away their natural oils. The sulfate-free, salt-free formula is specifically formulated for curly hair and helps provide up to 48 hours of curl definition.

This shampoo contains rice amino acids that seal the hair cuticle, locking out humidity which can cause frizz. Tomato fruit ferment enhances moisture retention to support uniform curl formation while ultra-hydrating shea butter and avocado oil enhance softness.

Pros
  • Nourishes & Softens Hair
  • Enhances Definition of Curls/Waves/Coils
  • Seals Cuticles & Locks Out Humidity
  • Enhances Moisture Retention
  • Ultra Hydrating Shea Butter & Avocado Oil
Cons
  • Not Suitable For All Hair Types

What to Look for in a Shampoo for Curly Hair

What to Look for in a Shampoo for Curly Hair
When searching for the best drugstore shampoo and conditioner for curly hair, it is important to look for products that contain hydrating ingredients such as natural oils like jojoba, avocado, or shea butter.

Also, be sure to avoid harsh detergents and sulfates, which can strip away your curls’ natural oils.

Hydrating Ingredients

Look for hydrating ingredients like jojoba, avocado, and shea butter to nourish your curls and tame frizz. Natural oils such as argan oil or coconut oil can help restore the curly texture of your hair while reducing heat damage from styling products.

Heat styling requires protective products that provide moisture while creating a barrier between heat sources and strands of hair. Curl cream is great for achieving beachy waves or defined curls with lasting hold but without the crunchiness associated with traditional gels or mousses.

Lastly, look out for natural ingredients like shea butter, which helps to control frizz by deeply moisturizing each strand of curl!

No Sulfates or Harsh Detergents

When caring for your curls, it’s important to avoid sulfates and harsh detergents that can strip away natural oils.

Hydrating oils like jojoba, avocado, and shea butter help nourish strong curls without damage.

Sulfate-free formulas are gentler on hair, meaning less risk of stripping out essential natural oils, leaving your locks soft with no greasy residue either.

How to Properly Shampoo and Condition Curly Hair?

How to Properly Shampoo and Condition Curly Hair
Transitioning to the new subtopic, it’s important to understand how to properly shampoo and condition curly hair. It’s essential to ensure that an appropriate balance of moisture is achieved while cleansing – too much can lead to limp curls or frizz.

When washing your curls, massage a generous amount of product into wet hair with your fingertips before rinsing thoroughly.

After shampooing, use a heavy-duty conditioner focusing more on mid-lengths and ends than roots.

Here are some tips when caring for curly hair:

  • Consider curl patterns – if you have tighter coils, go for lighter products such as leave-in conditioners instead of heavier creams or oils, which may weigh them down.
  • Invest in heat protection – from flat irons and blow-drying tools, especially during the summer months.
  • Use styling products based on preferred scent preferences and texture needs like gels, mousses, etc.

Finally, make sure you keep those locks hydrated by applying oil or conditioning sprays regularly post-shower!

Benefits of Using the Right Shampoo and Conditioner for Curly Hair

Benefits of Using the Right Shampoo and Conditioner for Curly Hair
With the right shampoo and conditioner, you can achieve more defined curls, reduced frizz, enhanced moisture and hydration, improved curl definition and bounce. These products help to nourish your hair with natural ingredients while avoiding harsh chemicals that strip away natural oils.

In addition to this, they also protect against environmental stressors such as heat styling damage so that you can enjoy beautiful curls day after day.

Defined Curls

For defined curls, try styling products like curl cream or mousses that contain natural and organic ingredients such as coconut oil and argan oil. These products help nourish the hair while protecting it from heat damage. The formula should also be sulfate-free so as not to strip the hair of its natural oils.

This will help maintain a healthy balance for curly hair without leaving it feeling dry or frizzy.

Applying these products correctly can also define your curl pattern and enhance your styling techniques by adding lasting moisture with their moisturizing effects.

Finding the best drugstore shampoo and conditioner specifically formulated for curly hair is key in achieving beautiful defined curls.

Reduced Frizz

By using the right ingredients, you can reduce frizz and achieve defined curls. The product selection for curly hair should be determined by your individual hair type and preference. Heat styling requires a protective product, such as curl creams or natural oils like coconut oil or argan oil, to help tame frizz while still enhancing definition.

Avoid harsh chemicals like sulfates, which can strip away natural oils from the scalp, leading to dryness and dullness of locks. This will only worsen existing frizz issues! To ensure that your curls remain bouncy and well-defined, use products specifically designed for heat protection when styling with hot tools.

With proper care through careful product selection, along with avoiding over-styling or brushing wet strands, you’ll soon find yourself enjoying beautiful ringlets without any annoying flyaways!

Enhanced Moisture and Hydration

Experience long-lasting hydration and deep moisturizing for your curls with the right shampoo and conditioner. Look for rich, creamy formulas that are sulfate-free to avoid stripping away natural oils.

Moisturizing oils like jojoba, avocado, or shea butter can help nourish curly hair while curl-enhancing ingredients such as keratin or coconut oil will help smooth out frizziness.

Conditioners should also be used to lock in moisture. Let it sit a few minutes before rinsing so you get maximum hydration! Heat protection is key too. Use leave-in conditioners or oils on wet hair before styling with heat tools if desired.

With the right products infused with natural ingredients like argan oil and aloe vera extract at hand, you’ll have beautiful curls that look healthy all day long!

Improved Curl Definition and Bounce

You can help bring out the best in your curls with a shampoo and conditioner that nourishes, strengthens, and adds definition. Curl enhancers like keratin, coconut oil, and argan oil make thick, curly hair smoother while taming frizz.

Moisturizing agents such as shea butter, coconut oil, and glycerin hydrate dry, curly hair to keep it looking healthy. Heat protection products are also important for styling to avoid damage or breakage from hot tools.

When selecting a product for your type of curl pattern, consider ingredients carefully. Use natural, organic elements while avoiding harsh chemicals like sulfates or parabens, which may strip oils from the scalp, leading to inflammation or flakiness over time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the difference between shampoo and conditioner for curly hair?

Did you know that over 70% of people with curly hair face problems with frizz and dryness? Shampoo helps cleanse the scalp, while conditioner nourishes it. Both work together to keep curls hydrated and healthy. Find sulfate-free formulas tailored for your curl type that will moisturize, define, and protect from heat and environmental stressors.

How often should someone with curly hair shampoo and condition?

Curly hair should be washed every two to three days with a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner. Condition first, then shampoo the scalp. Let the conditioner sit for a few minutes before rinsing for maximum hydration and frizz reduction.

Use protective styling products when heat styling or diffusing curls to avoid damage.

Are there any natural or home remedies for curly hair?

Yes! Natural remedies for curly hair can help restore moisture and definition. Try coconut oil, argan oil, shea butter, or aloe vera to nourish and hydrate your curls.

What are the benefits of using a sulfate-free shampoo?

Sulfate-free shampoos are great for curly hair as they cleanse without stripping away natural oils. They help define curls and reduce frizz while nourishing the scalp with natural ingredients like coconut oil and glycerin.

For curly hair, styling products like mousse and curl cream can help create defined curls or beachy waves.

Conclusion

If you have curly hair, it’s important to use the right shampoo and conditioner. The right products can make all the difference in defining and taming your curls.

From OGX Coconut Fine Curls Shampoo to Olaplex Bond Maintenance Shampoo, there are a number of drugstore shampoos and conditioners available that are specifically designed for curly hair.

Look for sulfate-free formulas that nourish and moisturize, and hydrate dry and frizzy hair. Additionally, make sure to use leave-in conditioners or oils to keep your curls healthy and frizz-free.

With the right shampoo and conditioner, you can keep your curls looking their best.

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Mutasim Sweileh

Mutasim is a published author and software engineer and beard care expert from the US. To date, he has helped thousands of men make their beards look better and get fatter. His work has been mentioned in countless notable publications on men's care and style and has been cited in Seeker, Wikihow, GQ, TED, and Buzzfeed.