As any curly-haired girl would know, being blessed with curls comes with its unique challenges. It is more prone to frizz, dryness, and breakage, which is why it's essential to get the right hydrating shampoo for curly hair to be able to tame your tresses.
To help you out, we've created a buying guide and ranked the best shampoos for curly hair you can get online—with comments and insights from board-certified dermatologist Dr. Katrina Erika Habaluyas Luz! From local picks and drugstore favorites to more luxurious options, each of these hair products is sure to leave you with effortlessly soft, smooth, and bouncy curls.
Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz is the face behind Ask Your Derma. She is a board-certified dermatologist in Metro Manila. She is also an educator and digital creator on all things skin, hair, and nails. She is a Diplomate of the Philippine Dermatological Society and offers online video consultations. You can also catch her on her Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube channel.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
The products and services listed are ranked independently by the editorial team based on the points mentioned in our thoroughly researched buying guide (as of 01-16-2023).
Table of Contents
Here are some points to consider:
For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.
Curly hair often tend to become frizzy and dry, especially when exposed to extreme temperatures and harsh weather conditions. That's why the first thing you should look for in a shampoo would be hydrating and moisturizing ingredients.
Natural oils such as argan oil, coconut oil, and jojoba oil can calm down frizz, balance oil production, and lock in moisture into the hair shaft. They also add natural gloss to your strands and promote healthier hair growth.
Meanwhile, avocado oil and marula oil ensures that your hair is hydrated so that it stays soft and shiny for a healthy bouncy look. On the other hand, tea tree oil helps the nutrients in your products reach your hair follicles more easily, which is great for overall hair health.
Applying hair oil is helpful in protecting the hair from damage. Some oils penetrate the hair and reduce the amount of water absorbed in the hair, leading to less swelling. This can reduce the cycle of repeated swelling and drying, a factor that can damage hair.
Hair oils can also fill in gaps between cuticle cells and prevent the penetration of substances such as surfactants into the follicle. Also, applying oil on a regular basis can enhance lubrication of the shaft and help prevent hair breakage.
Shea butter is a rich plant-derived emollient that not only moisturizes hair but also alleviates skin conditions such as redness, itch, and irritation. It contains a high level of antioxidants including vitamins E and A that help heal and nourish the scalp.
Since it's an all-natural ingredient, shea butter is safe to use even on damaged or color-treated locks. Moreover, with the help of its vitamin E component, it will maintain hair growth, so if you're trying to get long hair, you can achieve that with these ingredients in your shampoo's blend.
Shea butter is an emollient that contains 5 principal fatty acids: palmitic, stearic, oleic, linoleic, and arachidic. Did you know that shea butter is frequently incorporated into soaps, moisturizers, and, guess what, even hair care products? Shea butter isn't extensively studied in scientific journals. However, similar butters and oils have been researched with potential benefits for the hair.
Glycerin is known for its moisturizing properties. An effective humectant, glycerin takes in moisture in the air and absorbs it into your locks, resulting in healthier and more defined curls.
It's water-soluble and generally regarded as non-toxic, so it's a lifesaver for curly-haired individuals on typical humid days. Just take note that since glycerin does attract moisture from the atmosphere, it should only be used in normal, non-extreme climates.
Glycerin is a humectant commonly found in moisturizers. While its beneficial effects of drawing in water and moisture into the skin is more studied, it has also be postulated to have similar effects on the hair.
Green tea helps the hair absorb vitamin B, which helps in preventing split ends. The same goes for plant extracts, helping your hair become stronger and avoid breakage. Some more benefits that green tea has for your hair are that it promotes hair growth and regrowth.
This is beneficial for those with curly hair, since it can be quite hard to grow out. But with green tea, you'll be able to get the extra support that you need to get the long flowy tresses of your dreams in an all-natural way.
Vitamin B5 is used in many hair products because of the amazing benefits that it gives. This includes protection against breakage, reduction of hair loss, and a boost in volume that those with curly hair will surely appreciate.
It's also hydrating, so it will make sure that your hair looks soft and shiny all day. You can find this component in many shampoos as is or as panthenol, an excellent source of vitamin B5. If you're looking for extra protection for your hair, keep an eye out for this ingredient.
For those who are not familiar, 80 to 85% of our hair strands are actually made up of a specific protein called keratin. However, the protein levels of your hair may not be ideal, so before getting any products, be sure to check your curls. If you have dry or brittle hair, it means that you have too much protein in it.
If your hair is limp or greasy, it means that your hair is lacking protein. If your hair indicates a protein deficiency, then it's best to get a protein shampoo. It can get a little tricky to identify protein ingredients in most shampoos, but the most common ones are wheat protein, silk protein, and vegetable protein.
Did you know that our hair is composed primarily of protein, particularly keratin?
With this, a lot of hair care products have been incorporated with amino acids (the building blocks of proteins) and marketed as improving hair strength.
Oshimura, E., et al., in a journal entitled Hair and Amino acids, identified that certain hair products incorporated with alanine, an amino acid, improved the water-repellant properties of hair while histidine and phenylalanine improved its tensile strength.
If your hair is on the curly or wavy spectrum, then chances are you’ve already been told that some popular shampoo ingredients such as sulfates, silicones, and alcohol are ultimate no-no's.
Sulfates are aggressive foaming agents that strip away hair's natural moisture and oils, leaving it dry, frizzy, and brittle.
Since curly hair is already prone to dryness, it's crucial to avoid shampoos that contain any kind of sulfate including the most common ones such as sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate, and ammonium laureth sulfate.
We commonly see shampoos labeled as "sulfate-free" nowadays. What are sulfates anyway? Sulfates (e.g. sodium lauryl sulfate) are a class of anionic surfactants (molecules that remove sebum and dirt from your hair).
Anionic surfactants strongly remove dirt and sebum from hair and the scalp, but they increase the net negative charge of hair after rinsing and this may leave the hair dry. However, you still have to be careful of other ingredients, as other anionic sulfate-free surfactants can leave the hair dry as well.
There are two types of silicones that are used in shampoos: non-soluble and water-soluble. Non-soluble silicones cannot be removed or penetrated by water, leaving behind a layer that prevents your hair from absorbing the nutrients that it needs. They can build up over time and weigh down your curls.
On the other hand, water-soluble silicones can be dissolved in water, so they can be washed away easily. They can help detangle the hair and fight frizz, which is great for those with curly hair. Although to be on the safer side, it is best to avoid silicone-based shampoos.
Silicones are a common add-on in shampoos these days as it is able to provide smoothness, softness, and shine to dry hair. Examples include dimethicone, dimethiconol, and amodimethicone.
In an article by J. Yang entitled Hair Care Cosmetics, a comparison between silicone treated and untreated hair showed silicone treated hair to appear smoother with a thin protective layer.
As mentioned, curly hair needs all the hydration and moisture it can get. For this reason, those with curly hair should stay away from shampoos with alcoholic ingredients.
Alcohols work with water to dissolve oils and other residues during cleansing but since they evaporate quickly, they in turn make your hair even drier and more susceptible to breakage.
Alcohol indeed can be drying to the skin, and thus, same for the hair. However, it's also important to keep in mind that the dose affects the overall effect of a product. As with starting any new ingredient for the skin, the same care should be done for products applied to the scalp and hair. Best to try a product out, test it, and listen to your hair's response.
From ₱288
To get soft and bouncy curls, consider going for this shea butter shampoo that is curly girl method (CGM) approved! Aside from shea butter, it uses other natural ingredients to ensure that your hair is properly cleansed and hydrated. Having coconut oil, rosemary oil, and aloe oil in its formula, your hair will never feel dry.
These ingredients together with hibiscus flower extract also improve hair elasticity and reduce hair breakage and split ends. Meanwhile, silk protein and neem oil repairs your hair and give them a healthy shine. Many users love this product, leaving good reviews, which is why it's definitely worth a try!
From ₱350
If you're sporting beautifully colored tresses, then this shampoo from household name L'Oreal is your best bet. Enriched with marula oil, this anti-frizz shampoo effectively cleanses your hair while preventing hair color from fading.
Free from harsh sulfates and parabens, you can skip worrying about damaging or drying out your curls. You can even look forward to a refreshing shower with this shampoo's creamy formula and aromatic fragrance. With constant use, you'll soon achieve healthier and more vibrant curls!
From ₱160
Created by well-loved local brand Human Nature, this best-selling shampoo promises to eliminate impurities and buildup from products. It's packed with natural fruit acids and contains no sulfates, so you can achieve healthy, deeply nourished hair. Since it uses natural ingredients, it's ideal for those with sensitive scalps.
Coconut-based ingredients give a rich, no-fuss lather while aloe extracts soothe the scalp and protect it from everyday irritants. With a revitalizing green apple scent, this clarifying shampoo will undoubtedly result in hair that's genuinely bouncy, healthy, and beautiful.
From ₱199
If you've recently styled your hair by getting a perm and a new color, then this shampoo is made for you. It contains keratin damage blockers that help repair chemically-damaged hair caused by treatments. This means that your hair will look bouncy, beautiful, and natural, which will help your perm and color shine.
This shampoo uses Pantene's iconic Pro-V formula, which works with liquid crystal and the keratin damage blockers to strengthen your hair and help it retain the treatments that have been done to it. Because of the good effects that it brings, many customers stay loyal to it and repurchase this product time and time again.
From ₱1,250
This mild shampoo from cult-favorite brand Kiehl's may lean on the pricey side, but you certainly get what you pay for. Infused with amino acids and coconut oil, your hair is thoroughly cleansed without the need for any harsh chemicals or ingredients.
This protein-packed shampoo is suitable not only for curly hair, so you can rest assured that it's made from only safe and high-quality ingredients. With zero sulfates and a rich, creamy lather to boot, this shampoo is a top choice for those looking for truly luxurious pampering.
From ₱1,090
Using Noto almond extract, this shampoo is great for enhancing the volume and moisture of your hair to give you the perfect curls or waves that are effortlessly beautiful. This is because the almonds used in its formula are rich in vitamins and proteins, which will help add elasticity to your hair.
This shampoo is obtained with 100% clean energy complete with recyclable packaging, so it's an environmentally friendly option. Users commend this product, saying that it cleans their scalp well without drying out their hair. They also said that it's long-lasting, with a little going a long way.
From ₱465
The secret to this shampoo's magic? Avocado and tea tree! This powerful combination gets rid of dirt and dead skin cells without leaving any damage to your curls. It also improves scalp condition and helps hair grow stronger and healthier with every wash!
Suffering from dandruff or hair fall? No worries! This low-foam shampoo nourishes your tresses using all-natural ingredients. Free from parabens, sulfates, silicones, and proteins, this Zenutrients shampoo is definitely a curly girl's best friend!
From ₱1,800
This shampoo focuses on defining your locks by using hydrolyzed wheat protein and an organic aloe blend that intensifies your curls. It will also tame frizzy hair and keep your hair shiny, so that your tresses will look healthy and fresh. Having numerous flower essences in its formula, it also leaves behind a crisp citrus scent.
Additionally, Aveda is a vegan and cruelty-free brand, so if you follow that lifestyle, this shampoo is perfect for you. For best results, massage into wet hair and scalp, then rinse. With all this shampoo's features, we highly recommend it for those who are looking for something highly effective with a refreshing scent.
From ₱1,050
On the hunt for a shampoo that will gently cleanse your tresses and leave it smelling fresh? Then look no further than OGX's Quenching Coconut Curls Shampoo! This nourishing and fragrant formula blends coconut oil, sweet honey, and citrus oil to tame and de-frizz unruly hair.
Promising to reduce flyaways and add natural shine, this shampoo gives you the luxury to flaunt bouncy curls and work your natural wave. OGX has been raising the bar with its high-quality hair care products, and this hydrating shampoo certainly lives by the standards.
From ₱341
This organic and cruelty-free shampoo from Be Organic cleanses and strengthens your hair using moringa, which has a lot of benefits including reducing hair loss and encouraging hair growth. It also prevents hair color from fading, so if you have colored hair, this option will help you maintain it.
Free from sulfates and other harsh chemicals, this local shampoo can bring back life to your curls and keep other hair issues like dandruff and split ends at bay. It also comes at a reasonable price point, so you can get healthier, stronger hair without breaking the bank.
Extra care must be put into hair care. Choosing products made specifically for curly hair is key as these can nourish your locks, helping them to maintain healthy appearance.
Here are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by Dr. Katrina Luz! Keep on reading to find out more!
The frequency of washing the hair should be adjusted based on the hair type. The American Academy of Dermatology states that washing curly hair every 7 to 10 days and after heavy sweating or swimming is enough. One can then fine tune it accordingly.
Normal shampoo is not necessarily bad for curly hair. Rather it just might not adequately address the particular concerns associated with curly hair such as dryness and brittleness.
This depends on how much hair one has. One should use enough shampoo that when lathered is sufficient to be massaged onto the scalp till the tips of the hair strands.
Tip#1: Listen to your hair! Different hair types require different frequencies of washing. Curly hair generally can be washed less often compared to straight hair.
Tip#2: Follow-up shampoo with a conditioner! Make sure to especially coat the ends of the hair with conditioner, as the ends are the most fragile part!
Tip#3: Use a wide-toothed comb and always be gentle with your hair!
Want to put bad hair days behind you for good? Here are some of our other hair care picks that will help bring out your best curl every day!
Author: Marion Angeli Flores
Re-Editor: Bianca Angela Dela Cruz
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
When you purchase products mentioned in the article, part of the sales may be returned to mybest.
The descriptions of each product is referenced from the content available from the manufacturer, e-commerce sites etc.
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