Best Cleansing Conditioner of 2026

Lisa Bechard Avatar
Lisa Bechard
Last Updated: Jan 31, 2026

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Cleansing conditioners are becoming increasingly popular in the hair care industry. This type of product is a combination of shampoo and conditioner, designed to gently cleanse and condition the hair without stripping away natural oils. They are ideal for those with dry, damaged, or frizzy hair, as they provide a deep conditioning treatment while also cleansing the scalp. Cleansing conditioners are formulated with natural ingredients and are free of harsh chemicals such as sulfates and parabens. They are a great alternative to traditional shampoo and conditioner, leaving hair feeling soft, smooth, and hydrated.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

PURA D’OR Moisture Protect Cleansing Conditioner Cover #TOP 1
PURA D’OR Moisture Protect Cleansing Conditioner
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Ouidad Curl Shaper Double Duty Cleansing Conditioner Cover #TOP 2
Ouidad Curl Shaper Double Duty Cleansing Conditioner
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Kristin Ess Hair Frizz Management Cleansing Co-Wash Cover #TOP 3
Kristin Ess Hair Frizz Management Cleansing Co-Wash
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Cleansing Conditioner

#TOP 1

PURA D’OR Moisture Protect Cleansing Conditioner

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PURA D’OR Moisture Protect Cleansing Conditioner Cover
PURA D’OR Moisture Protect Cleansing Conditioner (16oz) Detangles & Restores Hair with Argan Oil, Lavender, No Sulfate, All Hair Types, Men & Women (Packaging may vary)

PURA D’OR Moisture Protect Cleansing Conditioner is a hair conditioner that softens and detangles hair, controls dry and frizzy hair, and reduces flyaways without weighing your hair down or leaving it flat. It is formulated with natural ingredients to improve hair manageability by leaving it silky, healthy, full of life, and easier to style. Customers have reported that it helps with split ends repair, breakage control, and cleansing. It also has a lovely fragrance and leaves hair soft and shiny.

What We Like
Deep cleansing without residue
No scalp dryness or irritation
Soft, shiny, bouncy hair
Affordable and long-lasting
Pleasant scent for most
What We Don't Like
Strong herbal scent for some
Requires more product for long hair
#TOP 2

Ouidad Curl Shaper Double Duty Cleansing Conditioner

94116
Ouidad Curl Shaper Double Duty Cleansing Conditioner Cover
Ouidad Curl Shaper Double Duty Weightless Cleansing Conditioner, 16 Fl Oz, 94116

Ouidad Curl Shaper Double Duty Weightless Cleansing Conditioner is a conditioner made in the United States with a weight of 1.0 lb. It comes in an item package dimension of 2.5" L x 2.5" W x 9.12" H. The conditioner contains Anastatica Hierochuntica Extract, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Oil, and other ingredients that are useful for your hair.

What We Like
Moisturizes and softens hair
Enhances curls and reduces frizz
Pleasant scent
Lightweight and creamy texture
Effective co-wash and conditioner
What We Don't Like
Strong scent for some users
May cause dryness for few

Kristin Ess Hair Frizz Management Cleansing Co-Wash

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Kristin Ess Hair Frizz Management Cleansing Co-Wash Cover
Kristin Ess Hair Frizz Management Cleansing Conditioner for Curly Hair, 8.45 fl oz (Pack of 1)

Kristin Ess Hair Frizz Management Cleansing Co-Wash is a great product for curly girls, frizzy hair, humidity control and damage. It is sulfate free, color safe and keratin safe. Natural oils remain intact to moisturize and restore. Customers love the product for its ability to keep their hair clean and soft, and for its frizz control. However, it can be difficult to work through the hair in the shower.

What We Like
Gentle cleansing
Hydrates curls
Light pleasant scent
Soft manageable hair
Non-greasy shine
What We Don't Like
May feel heavy on fine hair
Not very moisturizing for some
#TOP 4

Creme of Nature Argan Oil Hair Conditioner

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Creme of Nature Argan Oil Hair Conditioner Cover
Creme of Nature Creamy Hydration Co-Wash Cleansing Conditioner, Gently Cleanses & Hydrates, Sulfate-Free, Color Safe, Infused with Argan Oil, 12 oz

Creme of Nature Argan Oil Hair Conditioner is a creamy hydration co-wash cleansing conditioner that gently removes product build-up while delivering unstoppable frizz-free curls, waves, kinks and coils with exotic shine. Made in the United States, this conditioner is perfect for hydrating your tresses.

What We Like
Soft, moisturized hair
Pleasant, strong scent
Good for fine and curly hair
Effective cleansing and conditioning
Convenient all-in-one formula
What We Don't Like
Packaging leakage issues
Potential for oily or greasy feeling
#TOP 5

Love Beauty And Planet Charcoal & Bergamot Conditioner

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Love Beauty And Planet Charcoal & Bergamot Conditioner Cover
Love Beauty And Planet Cleansing Conditioner Delightful Detox for Cleansed Hair Charcoal & Bergamot Vegan, Paraben-free, Silicone-free, Cruelty-free Clarifying Conditioner 13.5 oz

Love Beauty And Planet Charcoal & Bergamot Conditioner is a clarifying cleansing conditioner that is safe for colored hair, infused with nature-inspired ingredients like Bamboo Charcoal and Bergamot, and is free from paraben, silicone, dye, cruelty, and phthalate. The Coconut Oil in the formula cleanses and nourishes hair leaving it clean and conditioned while the plant-based detanglers help to detangle and prevent breakage.

What We Like
Soft, smooth hair
Pleasant, long-lasting scent
Good for oily hair
Does not strip natural oils
What We Don't Like
Not a cleansing conditioner
Fragrance may be too strong
#TOP 6

Unwash Bio-cleansing Conditioner Hair Cleanser

U-HC-9405
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13.5 Fl Oz
Unwash Bio-cleansing Conditioner Hair Cleanser Cover
Unwash Bio-Cleansing Conditioner - Gentle, Hydrating Co-Wash Cleansing Conditioner, Sulfate & Paraben Free, for Curly, Coily & Dry Hair, 13.5 fl oz

Unwash Bio-cleansing Conditioner Hair Cleanser is a sulfate and paraben-free co-wash cleansing & conditioning cream that gently cleanses your hair without stripping it of natural oils. It is ideal for all hair types, including color-treated hair, and is available in 2.5 oz, 13.5 oz, and 33.8 oz bottles. This shampoo replacement provides a non-lather formula that moisturizes hair follicles, leaving your hair soft and shiny.

What We Like
Gentle cleansing, non-drying
Enhances shine and softness
Preserves hair color
Reduces frizz and tangles
Long-lasting with small amounts
What We Don't Like
May not fully remove buildup
Pump packaging occasionally faulty
#TOP 7

Tea Tree Lavender Mint Moisturizing Cowash

201163
Tea Tree Lavender Mint Moisturizing Cowash Cover
Tea Tree Lavender Mint Moisturizing Cowash, Cleansing Conditioner, For Coarse, Curly + Dry Hair, 16.9 fl. oz.

Tea Tree Lavender Mint Moisturizing Cowash is a creamy, non-lathering formula that gently cleanses the scalp while helping to replenish essential moisture with monoi, pequi and jojoba oils. It helps detangle, fight frizz and add shine while locking in natural oils leaving hair soft and manageable. It is vegan, sulfate-free, paraben-free, and gluten-free, making it suitable for all hair types.

What We Like
Refreshing scent
Moisturizing formula
Gentle cleansing
Easy-to-use pump
Good for frequent use
What We Don't Like
Slightly drying for some
Higher price point
#TOP 8

Eva NYC Gentle Daily Cleansing Conditioner

Daily Cleansing
Eva NYC Gentle Daily Cleansing Conditioner Cover
Eva NYC Gentle Daily Cleansing Conditioner for Weightless Healthy Hair - Amino Acids Known To Enhance Moisture + Shine - Nourishing + Lightweight - For Fine to Medium Hair - Lavender Scent - 10 fl oz

The Eva NYC Cleansing Conditioner is designed to gently cleanse your hair every day while keeping it healthy. It nourishes your strands with important nutrients, leaving your hair feeling light and fresh rather than heavy or greasy. This product contains amino acids, which help improve moisture, shine, and make your hair easier to manage. Its lightweight formula cleans your hair without stripping away natural oils, so dull or limp hair becomes shiny and bouncy. To use, simply apply it after shampooing, massage it from mid-lengths to ends, leave it on for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly for best results.

What We Like
Soft, manageable hair
Reduces frizz and shedding
Light, clean scent
Easy detangling
Non-greasy formula
What We Don't Like
Requires extra rinsing
May feel sticky for some
#TOP 9

KERACOLOR Clenditioner Cleansing Conditioner

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KERACOLOR Clenditioner Cleansing Conditioner Cover
KERACOLOR Clenditioner Cleansing Conditioner Color Safe Prevents Fade - Replaces Your Shampoo, Keratin Infused, 33.8 Fl Oz

KERACOLOR Clenditioner Cleansing Conditioner is a color-safe conditioning cleanser made in the United States. It neutralizes hard water minerals and prevents discoloration and color fade. Customers report that it keeps their scalp happy, helps color last, and is soap free. However, some customers have reported that it can make their hair dry and straw-like.

What We Like
Softens and smooths hair
Protects and maintains color
Reduces static and tangles
Gentle, daily use formula
Mild or no scent
What We Don't Like
May feel heavy for some
Higher price
#TOP 10

Unwash Bio-Cleansing Conditioner

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Unwash Bio-Cleansing Conditioner Cover
Unwash Bio-Cleansing Conditioner - Gentle, Hydrating Co-Wash Cleansing Conditioner, Sulfate & Paraben Free, for Curly, Coily & Dry Hair, 33.8 fl oz

Unwash Co-Wash is a unique Bio-Cleansing conditioner that replaces traditional shampoo. Its non-lather formula contains cationic cleansers that remove dirt and surface buildup without stripping natural oils or color from your hair. This conditioner moisturizes while it cleanses, leaving your locks smooth, silky, and easy to manage without any added weight. It is made without harsh chemicals, parabens, or sulfate detergents. Unwash Co-Wash is suitable for all hair types and textures, including colored hair, and can be used daily or weekly. Skipping the shampoo cycle can help reduce frizz and damage while drying your hair faster.

What We Like
Soft and shiny hair
Doesn't weigh hair down
Great for color-treated hair
Mild and non-drying cleanser
Pleasant scent
What We Don't Like
May not remove buildup completely
Pump dispenser issues
Buying Guide Image

The Ultimate Cleansing Conditioner Buying Guide

What is a Cleansing Conditioner?

A cleansing conditioner is a type of shampoo and conditioner combination that can be used to cleanse, nourish, and condition your hair in one step. The shampoo component of the product is a combination of mild cleansers that clean the hair without stripping away natural oils. The conditioner component of the product is specifically formulated to nourish and condition the hair, leaving it soft and manageable.

While cleansing conditioners are becoming increasingly popular, they are not a new invention. Cleansing conditioners have been around since the 1970s and were originally created to help people with curly, wavy, and frizzy hair. The idea was to use a gentler cleanser that still helped to remove dirt and oil from the hair, but was less damaging to the hair than traditional shampoos.

Benefits of Using a Cleansing Conditioner

Cleansing conditioners have several beneficial effects on the scalp and hair. They are generally gentler on the hair than traditional shampoos and do not strip away natural oils. This helps to maintain the natural moisture balance of the hair, making it softer and more manageable. Additionally, because they do not contain harsh detergents, they are less likely to irritate the scalp and cause dryness and flaking.

Cleansing conditioners are also a great choice for those who are looking to reduce their use of sulfates and other harsh chemicals. Many traditional shampoos contain sulfates, which can be drying and damaging to the hair. Cleansing conditioners do not contain sulfates, making them a great choice for those who are looking to reduce their use of harsh chemicals.

How to Choose a Cleansing Conditioner

When it comes to choosing a cleansing conditioner, there are several factors to consider.

First, consider your hair type and texture. If you have thick, coarse, or frizzy hair, look for a cleansing conditioner that is specifically formulated for that type of hair. For finer or more delicate hair, look for a gentler formula that won’t weigh down your hair.

Second, look at the ingredients list. Avoid products that contain sulfates, parabens, and other harsh chemicals. Instead, look for natural ingredients such as aloe vera, jojoba oil, and shea butter, which can help to nourish and condition the hair.

Finally, consider your budget. Cleansing conditioners range in price from budget-friendly to high-end. Keep in mind that higher-priced products may contain higher-quality ingredients, but that doesn’t always mean they are better for your hair. It’s important to read the labels and do your research to find the best product for your needs.

Conclusion

Cleansing conditioners are an excellent choice for those looking to cleanse, nourish, and condition their hair in one step. By choosing the right product for your hair type and budget, and avoiding harsh chemicals, you can enjoy softer, more manageable hair.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do cleansing conditioners really work?

Yes, cleansing conditioners do work effectively on various hair types. They are particularly beneficial for over-bleached, highlighted, dry, brittle, curly, or frizzy hair. Cleansing conditioners help repair and nourish the hair without the need for an additional step in the hair care routine.

2. Can you use regular conditioner as cleansing conditioner?

Yes, you can use a regular conditioner as a cleansing conditioner. The important thing is that the conditioner is approved for use on hair. Conditioners contain positively charged cationic surfactants that attach to the negatively charged hair, allowing it to cleanse the hair. So, any approved conditioner can be used as a cleansing conditioner, regardless of whether it is specifically labeled as a 'cowash' product.

3. How often should you use cleansing conditioner?

Cleansing conditioners can be used as frequently as traditional shampoos, depending on your hair type. For oily or fine hair, it is generally recommended to use cleansing conditioner daily or every other day. However, for dry, coarse, or curly hair, longer intervals between washes, such as once a week or more, can be tolerated.

4. Does cleansing conditioner clean hair?

Yes, cleansing conditioners are specifically formulated to both condition and clean the hair. Unlike regular conditioners, cleansing conditioners contain a mild amount of cleansing agents that help remove impurities from the hair while providing moisturizing benefits. This allows for a single product to cleanse and condition the hair simultaneously.

5. What is the difference between cleansing conditioner and regular conditioner?

The main difference between cleansing conditioners and regular conditioners is that cleansing conditioners are designed to both condition and cleanse the hair. Regular conditioners solely provide moisture and nourishment to the hair. Cleansing conditioners contain a small amount of cleansing agents that enable them to clean the hair while conditioning it.

6. How often should I CoWash?

It is generally recommended to co-wash once a week to maintain a clean and well-moisturized scalp and hair. Co-washing products act as a gentle cleanser for the hair, so using them in between regular wash days can help keep the hair refreshed and moisturized. Adjust the frequency based on your hair's specific needs and how it responds to co-washing.

Editor's Notes

During our cleansing conditioner research, we found 48 cleansing conditioner products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 44,133 customer reviews through our big data system to write the cleansing conditioner list. We found that most customers choose cleansing conditioner with an average price of $14.01.

The cleansing conditioner are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of cleansing conditioner, including PURA D'OR, Ouidad, Kristin Ess, Creme of Nature, Love Beauty And Planet. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Lisa Bechard Avatar

Lisa Bechard is a skin therapist with 12 years of working experience in the beauty industry and also an experienced beauty writer who has expertise in skincare, medical aesthetics and cosmetic surgery, and wellness. Her writing skills are excellent and all her content is very persuasive and insightful.

Cleansing Conditioner Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand PURA D'OR Ouidad Kristin Ess Creme of Nature Love Beauty And Planet unwash Tea Tree EVA·NYC KERACOLOR unwash
Item Form Liquid Cream Liquid Liquid Liquid Cream,Liquid Cream Liquid Liquid Liquid
Hair Type Damaged Curly Frizzy Curls,Waves Chemically Treated All Coarse, Curly, Dry All All Color Treated
Material Feature Natural Cruelty Free Sulfate Free Natural Sulfate Free Natural Creamy, non-lathering formula gently cleanses the scalp while helping to replenish essential moisture with monoi, pequi and jojoba oils - - Natural
Product Benefits Breakage Control, Cleansing, Softening, Split Ends Repair, Strengthening Conditions curls and infuses moisture to help enhance natural curl pattern. Aids in detangling process. Cleansing Hydrating Cleansing Strengthens hair. Removes unwanted dirt. Seals in moisture & reduces frizz. Safe for all hair types, color-safe. Color Safe. Vegan. Sulfate Free (Without SLS, SLES, ALS). Paraben Free. Made without Gluten. - - Strengthens hair. Removes unwanted dirt. Seals in moisture & reduces frizz. Safe for all hair types, color-safe.
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.7
Where to Buy