Best Shampoo of 2026

Lisa Bechard Avatar
Lisa Bechard
Last Updated: Jan 12, 2026

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Your crowning glory deserves the best care and it all starts with the right shampoo. Choosing a shampoo is no longer just about getting rid of dirt and oil, but it’s also about nourishing, repairing, and enhancing the natural beauty of your hair. With endless options available, each promising various benefits, the hunt for the perfect shampoo may seem overwhelming, which is why we've created this comprehensive buying guide on the Best Shampoo, to help you make an informed choice.

We've dived into the deep end of shampoo selections, analyzing ingredients, studying brands and testing effectiveness to give you a curated list of top-notch options suitable for a range of hair types and concerns. So whether you're battling dandruff, hoping to solve hair loss, looking to enliven dull locks, or simply wanting a daily cleansing solution, we've got a shampoo recommendation for you. Dive into this guide and find your perfect match to give your hair the love it deserves.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Dove Intensive Repair Shampoo Cover #TOP 1
Dove Intensive Repair Shampoo
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Dove Coconut & Hydration Shampoo Cover #TOP 2
Dove Coconut & Hydration Shampoo
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Dove Daily Moisture Shampoo Cover #TOP 3
Dove Daily Moisture Shampoo
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Shampoo

Dove Intensive Repair Shampoo

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Dove Intensive Repair Shampoo Cover
Dove Shampoo Intensive Repair for Damaged Hair with Bio-Protein Care Technology and Amino Serum 28 Fl Oz

Dove Repair Shampoo is designed to bring life back to your damaged hair. With each wash, it strengthens your hair up to 10 times compared to regular shampoos. The formula, enriched with Glutamic Amino Serum, effectively reduces 98% of visible damage caused by breakage. It also features Bio-Protein Care technology, which replenishes your hair with essential proteins, ensuring it looks healthier and stronger. For the best results, apply the shampoo to wet hair, lather, and rinse, followed by a conditioner. This product is a great choice for anyone looking to restore their hair's vitality.

What We Like
Soft, smooth, manageable hair
No residue or buildup
Repairs and strengthens damaged hair
Light, pleasant scent
Affordable, salon-like quality
What We Don't Like
Scent not for everyone

Dove Coconut & Hydration Shampoo

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Dove Coconut & Hydration Shampoo Cover
Dove Shampoo Coconut & Hydration for Dry Hair with Bio-Protein Care Technology and Coconut Oil 28 Fl Oz

Dove Coconut Shampoo offers intense hydration, making your hair soft and smooth. With its unique formula enriched with Coconut Oil, this shampoo helps to lock in moisture for up to 24 hours, ensuring your hair stays nourished throughout the day. The Bio-Protein Care technology works to strengthen your hair by replenishing it with essential proteins with each wash. It's easy to use—just lather up in wet hair and rinse, followed by the matching conditioner for best results. This shampoo is also scientifically backed, offering a reliable solution for repairing and restoring damaged hair.

What We Like
Soft and hydrated hair
Mild, pleasant scent
No residue buildup
Effective for sensitive scalp
Good value size
#TOP 3

Dove Daily Moisture Shampoo

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Dove Daily Moisture Shampoo Cover
Dove Damage Therapy Shampoo Daily Moisture for Dry Hair with Bio-Protein Care Technology and Hyaluronic Serum 28 Fl Oz

Dove Daily Moisture is specially formulated for dry hair, ensuring it becomes soft, smooth, and easy to manage right from the first wash. Infused with Hyaluronic Serum, this shampoo aims for 100% smoothness, helping you achieve a sleek look effortlessly. The Bio-Protein Care technology in this product regenerates hair strength, providing essential protein with every wash. Simply apply to wet hair, lather, and rinse to experience the benefits of this scientifically backed shampoo that repairs and protects your hair, reducing damage over time.

What We Like
Long-lasting large bottle
Soft, smooth, manageable hair
Pleasant, light fragrance
Reduces frizz and breakage
Good value for price
What We Don't Like
May need less conditioner

BIOLAGE Hydra Source Shampoo

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BIOLAGE Hydra Source Shampoo Cover
Biolage Hydra Source Shampoo - Softens, Moisturizes & Adds Shine, For Dry Hair, Infused with Micro-Filtered Aloe Vera & Fermented Hyaluronic Acid, Vegan & Paraben-Free, Packaging May Vary

BIOLAGE Hydra Source Shampoo is a hydrating shampoo infused with Aloe that gently cleanses and quenches dry hair while attracting moisture. It helps optimize moisture balance for a weightless finish and provides up to 15X more moisturized hair after just one application. Suitable for all hair textures and types, this professional shampoo leaves hair soft and shiny. Paraben-free, Silicone-free, Mineral-oil free and colorant free.

What We Like
Soft and manageable hair
Moisturizing for color treated hair
Light, pleasant fragrance
Long-lasting large bottle
Leaves hair clean and fresh
What We Don't Like
Large bottle less convenient

Biolage Color Last Shampoo - For Color-Treated Hair, Nourishes, Strengthens, Hydrates and Adds Shine, Soybean Oil & Stearic Acid, Paraben & Mineral Oil-Free, Vegan, 33.8 Fl Oz

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Biolage Color Last Shampoo - For Color-Treated Hair, Nourishes, Strengthens, Hydrates and Adds Shine, Soybean Oil & Stearic Acid, Paraben & Mineral Oil-Free, Vegan, 33.8 Fl Oz Cover
Biolage Color Last Shampoo - For Color-Treated Hair, Nourishes, Strengthens, Hydrates and Adds Shine, Soybean Oil & Stearic Acid, Paraben & Mineral Oil-Free, Vegan, 33.8 Fl Oz

BIOLAGE Color Last Shampoo is a color safe shampoo designed to prolong color vibrancy and maintain salon-vibrant color. It is inspired by nature's orchid and is paraben and silicone-free. It is suitable for color-treated or natural hair and gives hair a shiny, vibrant color that lasts for weeks. Customers have found the shampoo to be moisturizing, lathers well, and leaves hair feeling clean and soft. Although the product is expensive, it is worth it for the long-lasting color and softness it provides.

What We Like
Long-lasting color protection
Salon-quality scent
Nourishing hydration
Vegan and paraben-free
Suitable for various hair types
What We Don't Like
May require conditioner

Nexxus Clean & Pure Clarifying Shampoo

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Nexxus Clean & Pure Clarifying Shampoo Cover
Nexxus Clean and Pure Clarifying Shampoo, With ProteinFusion, Nourished Hair Care Silicone, Dye And Paraben Free 33.8 oz

Nexxus Clean & Pure Clarifying Shampoo is a lightweight, hydrating shampoo that gently cleanses and nourishes hair. Formulated with an exclusive PROTEINFUSION blend of elastin protein and marine minerals, it replenishes vital nutrients and recovers hair's natural shine, movement and moisture. This silicone, dye and paraben free shampoo is safe for even dull, dry or damaged hair, and is great for all hair types.

What We Like
Leaves hair soft and clean
Removes residue and build-up
Lightweight, non-greasy feel
Pleasant, subtle scent
Good value for quality
What We Don't Like
Bottle design can be misleading
Scent may be too mild

BIOLAGE Volume Bloom Shampoo

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BIOLAGE Volume Bloom Shampoo Cover
Biolage Volume Boost Shampoo - Long-Lasting Volume, Gently Cleanses, Adds Lightweight Shine To Fine Hair, Soy Protein & Polymers, Vegan, Paraben-Free, 33.8 Fl Oz

BIOLAGE Volume Bloom Shampoo is a lightweight volumizing shampoo that gently cleanses and adds volume, shine, and root lift to thin and fine hair types. It is vegan, silicone-free, and paraben-free, and its professional salon formula reduces stripping, leaving hair clean with a boost of long-lasting volume. Customers love its lightweight formula, volumizing effect, and its pleasant grapefruit scent.

What We Like
Noticeable volume and fullness
Light minty herbal scent
Reduces scalp buildup
Gentle, high-quality ingredients
Long-lasting bottle size
What We Don't Like
Slightly higher price
Occasional underfilled bottle

Dove Volume & Fullness Shampoo

JP-B0DK5VKZX9-AQL-New
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Dove Volume & Fullness Shampoo Cover
Dove Shampoo Volume & Fullness for Fine, Thin Hair with Bio-Protein Care Technology and Biotin 28 Fl Oz

Dove Volume Shampoo is specifically formulated for those with fine, thin hair, helping you achieve fuller, bouncier locks. Infused with Biotin, this shampoo enhances your hair's volume throughout the day. With its Bio-Protein Care technology, it works to strengthen your hair by replenishing it with essential proteins, making each wash beneficial. Simply apply to wet hair, lather, and rinse for a refreshing clean. Backed by a decade of research, this product not only protects your hair but also repairs damage, leaving you with healthier-looking hair.

What We Like
Noticeable volume and fullness
Light, fresh scent
Gentle, non-drying formula
Affordable and easy to find
Soft, healthy hair feel
What We Don't Like
May cause minor dryness on ends
Fly-aways in humid conditions

BIOLAGE Ultra Hydra Source Shampoo

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BIOLAGE Ultra Hydra Source Shampoo Cover
Biolage Ultra Hydra Source Shampoo - Deeply Moisturizes Very Dry Hair, For Thick, Coarse Hair, Infused with Micro-dosed with Cupuaçu Butter & Salicylic Acid

BIOLAGE Ultra Hydra Source Shampoo is a professional haircare system designed for very dry and unmanageable hair. Infused with Cupuaçu Butter, this moisturizing shampoo intensely conditions hair and renews hydration for smooth results. It is vegan, paraben and silicone-free, mineral-oil free and colorant free, making it suitable for color-treated hair. With regular use, it helps to prevent breakage and leaves hair frizz-free and soft with a natural shine.

What We Like
Moisturizing without heaviness
Pleasant long-lasting scent
Works for all hair types
Leaves hair soft and shiny
Good value for quality
What We Don't Like
Slightly higher price point
#TOP 10

Avalon Organics Biotin B-Complex Thickening Shampoo

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Avalon Organics Biotin B-Complex Thickening Shampoo Cover
Avalon Organics Therapy Biotin B-Complex Thickening Shampoo, 32 oz

Avalon Organics Natural Biotin B Complex Thickening Shampoo is a certified organic, plant-based formula made with botanicals and essential oils. It gently cleanses and nourishes fine, thinning hair to help build volume. It is free of GMOs, parabens, harsh preservatives, synthetic colors or fragrances, and phthalates, and is always cruelty-free. Customers have reported that it helps reduce hair loss, makes hair feel soft and manageable, and produces a good lather. However, some customers have reported that it is too harsh on their hair and does not produce a rich lather.

What We Like
Reduces hair fall
Improves hair softness and shine
Soothes itchy or flaky scalp
Enhances hair thickness and volume
Pleasant scent
What We Don't Like
May cause dryness for some
Heavy essential oil scent
Best Shampoo Feature Image

The Ultimate Showdown: Finding the Best Shampoo for Your Hair

The importance of using the right shampoo for your hair cannot be overstated. A high-quality shampoo helps to keep your scalp healthy, promoting the growth of strong, shiny hair. It does this by removing excess oil and dirt build-up, while also providing essential nutrients and moisture that are necessary for a healthy scalp.

Additionally, a good shampoo can protect your hair from damage caused by environmental factors such as pollution, UV rays, and wind. Whether you have fine or coarse hair, choosing the right shampoo is key to maintaining optimal scalp health and achieving beautiful locks.

What Are the Different Types of the Shampoo

There are so many shampoos to choose from on the market these days that it can be tough to know which one to buy. With all of the conflicting information out there, it can be hard to determine which shampoo is best for you and your hair type. In this blog post, we will break down the important factors to consider when choosing a shampoo and provide tips for finding the best one for your needs. So, whether you have dry hairoily hair, or just need a little guidance in finding the right product, read on for help!

Clarifying shampoos, for example, are specially formulated to remove product buildup from the hair and leave it feeling clean, refreshed, and revitalized.

Color-protecting shampoos are designed to help maintain color vibrancy by using specialized ingredients that help lock in color.

Additionally, moisturizing shampoos nourish and hydrate dry or damaged hair, while volumizing shampoos add bounce and volume to fine or limp hair.

And finally, two-in-one shampoos offer convenience by combining the benefits of both a shampoo and conditioner into one product.

Whether you're looking for a shampoo to help fight frizz or one that will cleanse and condition your hair with ease, there is sure to be a type of shampoo that's right for you!

How to Find the Right Shampoo to Make Your Hair Look Its Best

Define Your Hair Type

The main thing to be able to choose a shampoo is to know your hair, keep in mind your age and gender at first, since women’s hair, can be subject to hormonal changes and shampoo, can help keep it healthy.

In addition, you must analyze some basic aspects, such as those related to its structure, that is, if it is a curly or straight hair and if you want this quality to become more or less evident, to give it the final appearance you are looking for when you comb it.

For each type, there are products designed precisely for this, which will help you achieve good results. On the other hand, each hair fiber in people has a greater or lesser thickness. This interferes with their being considered fine, with little or no volume.

This hair may also have some problems such as being more susceptible to damage that makes it brittle if it undergoes a chemical process, such as dyeing or a change in its texture to make it curly or straight.

Generally, it may have a tendency to become entangled with ease. This type of hair needs greater conditioning and shampoo that provides vitality with a nutritious complex.

Define Your Scalp Type

In addition, to know your hair fibers you should also be aware of your type of scalp and its tendency to produce sebum or dry out, causing sensitivity or itchy scalp frequently.

Some shampoos help you control excess fat and prevent your hair from losing volume throughout the day. Or they have a calming effect for those who get irritated.

Shampoo Ingredients

Ingredient plays an important role when choosing a shampoo.

If you have dry hair, you'll want to look for a shampoo with moisturizing ingredient such as glycerin or hyaluronic acid. For oily hair, look for shampoos with ingredient such as tea tree oil or charcoal that can help absorb excess oil.

If you have color-treated hair, choose a shampoo that is specifically designed for color-treated hair and contains ingredient such as UV filters or color-safe.

The ingredient in your shampoo can make a big difference in the health and appearance of your hair, so it's important to choose wisely.

Applied Treatments

Another factor that you cannot miss is whether your hair is natural or is under the effect of a product such as a dye, a permanent, if it has been discolored, etc. This is because the chemicals cause an inevitable alteration in the composition of the hair. So you need special care to prevent it from weakening, becoming brittle or losing its attractive and healthy appearance.

In these cases, there are also alternatives designed especially for each situation, which although they are not products that are used in hairdressers are considered as good and economical shampoos, with which it is easier to make hair look attractive.

What Are the Best Shampoos Brands

There are many different options when it comes to finding the best shampoo brands for your specific needs. Whether you're looking for a deep-cleansing shampoo that will remove buildup from styling products, or simply want a gentle, moisturizing formula to restore and condition dry and damaged hair, there are countless options out there to choose from.

Some of the most popular brands in this category include Kerastase, Joico, Dove, Nexxus, and L'Oreal Paris.

Kerastase is known for their high-quality shampoos and hair care products that are formulated with the latest research in hair science.

Joico is an affordable option that provides salon-quality results at a fraction of the price.

Dove offers gentle yet effective formulas that help to nourish and protect even the most sensitive skin types, while Nexxus is well-loved by professional hairstylists for their wide selection of premium products that deliver optimal results every time.

Whatever your individual needs may be, you're sure to find a shampoo brand that works for you among these top picks!

Conclusion

All of the shampoos on this list are excellent choices for those with normal to oily hair, but it’s important to find the one that works best for your individual scalp and hair type. Hopefully, our in-depth look at each shampoo has helped you determine which one is right for you. Now all that’s left to do is try them out! 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are hair shampoos safe?

Hair shampoos can contain chemicals that may be harmful to your health. Some ingredients can mimic human reproductive hormones, while others may cause cancer, eye and skin irritation, or allergies. It is important to read labels and be aware of the ingredients in your shampoo.

2. What is the healthiest type of shampoo?

The healthiest type of shampoo is a natural one that is rich in vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, and essential oils. These shampoos nourish the scalp and hair, promoting overall scalp health. Ingredients like aloe vera, shea butter, apple cider vinegar, castor oil, and quinoa can repair the hair and improve its health.

3. Why shouldn't you shampoo everyday?

Shampooing every day can be damaging to your hair. Shampoo is designed to clean the scalp and remove excess oil, but overuse or applying it all the way down the length of your hair can strip away the natural oils produced by the scalp, leaving the hair and scalp too dry.

4. What is the lawsuit against Shea Moisture shampoo?

In July 2016, a class-action lawsuit was filed against Sundial Brands and Nubian Heritage, alleging that they falsely marketed the Shea Moisture and Nubian Heritage brands of hair growth products as being able to promote hair growth when, in reality, they do not stimulate or cause hair growth.

5. Is Shea Moisture heavy on hair?

Shea butter, an ingredient in Shea Moisture shampoo, can be heavy and can sit on top of the hair strands rather than penetrating them. This can make the hair feel weighed down by products. Other oils can have a similar effect.

6. How often should hair be shampooed?

It is generally recommended to wash your hair once or twice a week. However, if you have had chemical treatments like bleach, perms, or relaxers that can make your hair drier, it is advisable to wash it less frequently to avoid damaging the hair or causing split ends.

Editor's Notes

During our shampoo research, we found 48 shampoo products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 483,907 customer reviews through our big data system to write the shampoo list. We found that most customers choose shampoo with an average price of $15.74.

The shampoo are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of shampoo, including Dove, Biolage, Nexxus, Avalon Organics. 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.

Shampoo Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Dove Dove Dove Biolage Biolage Nexxus Biolage Dove Biolage Avalon Organics
Item Form Liquid Liquid Liquid Liquid Liquid Liquid Liquid,Spray Liquid Liquid Liquid
Hair Type Damaged Dry Dry Dry Color Treated Dry,Damaged fine, Thin Thin Dry All
Age Range (Description) Adult Adult - Adult Adult Adult Adult - Adult Adult
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.8
Where to Buy