Best Shampoo for Curly Hair of 2026

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

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Shampoo for curly hair is specifically formulated to nourish and enhance the natural texture of curly hair. These shampoos are designed to be gentle on the hair, while also providing the necessary hydration and moisture to prevent frizz and breakage. They are made with natural ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and aloe vera, which help to define curls and leave hair looking healthy and shiny. Some of the best shampoos for curly hair also contain protein to strengthen the hair and prevent damage. With regular use, these shampoos can help to maintain the health and beauty of curly hair.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Moroccanoil Curl Enhancing Shampoo Cover #TOP 1
Moroccanoil Curl Enhancing Shampoo
ftb score rating icon 9.9
REDKEN All Soft Mega Curls Shampoo Cover #TOP 2
REDKEN All Soft Mega Curls Shampoo
ftb score rating icon 9.8
L'Oreal Paris EverCurl Sulfate Free Shampoo for Curly Hair Cover #TOP 3
L'Oreal Paris EverCurl Sulfate Free Shampoo for Curly Hair
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Shampoo for Curly Hair

Moroccanoil Curl Enhancing Shampoo

MO-CS250
Fragrance Originale
Moroccanoil Curl Enhancing Shampoo Cover
Moroccanoil Curl Enhancing Shampoo, 8.5 Fl. Oz.

Moroccanoil Curl Shampoo is a gentle cleansing formula designed to bring out the best in all curl types. The shampoo helps weightlessly strengthen and protect curls, leaving them bouncy and defined. The blend of argan oil, Abyssinian oil, and vegetable proteins nourishes and enhances curls, making them more manageable and less prone to frizz. With Moroccanoil Curl Shampoo, you can enjoy beautiful, healthy-looking curls every day.

What We Like
Gentle cleansing
Strengthens and protects curls
Enhances manageability
#TOP 2

REDKEN All Soft Mega Curls Shampoo

0884486510167
REDKEN All Soft Mega Curls Shampoo Cover
Redken All Soft Mega Curls Shampoo | For Extremely Dry Hair | Sulfate Free Shampoo | For Curly & Coily Hair | Nourishes & Softens Severely Dry Hair | With Aloe Vera

REDKEN Curls Shampoo is a nourishing sulfate free formula that gently cleanses, hydrates and softens severely dry, curly and coily hair. It instantly nourishes hair, improves manageability, controls frizz, defines curls and adds shine. Formulated with Redken's nourish complex, which includes Aloe Vera, Inca Inchi Oil, and Cactus Flower Extract, it helps improve moisture levels in dry hair. The vegan formula contains no animal-derived ingredients. When used with the full All Soft Mega Curls System, it provides up to 72 hours of hydration.

What We Like
Nourishing formula
Improves manageability
Controls frizz
Defines curls
Vegan formula
#TOP 3

L'Oreal Paris EverCurl Sulfate Free Shampoo for Curly Hair

071249341407
L'Oreal Paris EverCurl Sulfate Free Shampoo for Curly Hair Cover
L'Oreal Paris Sulfate Free Shampoo for Curly Hair, Lightweight, Anti-Frizz Hair Care with Coconut Oil, EverPure, 8.5 Fl Oz (Packaging May Vary)

L'Oreal Paris EverCurl Sulfate Free Shampoo for Curly Hair is a gentle formula that delivers deep moisture for up to 48 hours of curl definition with total system. It is sulfate-free, salt-free, and surfactant-free, so it won't strip hair or dull its color. The EverCurl Hydracharge System is designed to quench for soft, manageable, hydrated curls. Coconut oil helps control frizz and weigh down for 48-hour curl definition.

What We Like
Gentle on curls and color treated hair
Controls frizz and provides 48-hour curl definition
Sulfate-free, salt-free, and surfactant-free formula

SheaMoisture Curl and Shine Coconut and Hibiscus Shampoo

290209
peach
SheaMoisture Curl and Shine Coconut and Hibiscus Shampoo Cover
SheaMoisture Curl and Shine Coconut Shampoo Coconut & Hibiscus for Curly Hair Paraben Free Shampoo 13 oz

SheaMoisture Curl and Shine Shampoo is a phthalate free, paraben free, and cruelty-free shampoo that gently cleanses natural hair and improves hair's health and restores shine. This curl enhancing shampoo contains coconut oil to moisturize and protect hair while replenishing lost oil, and hibiscus flower extracts to improve hair elasticity while reducing the occurrence of breakage. The rich, creamy lather of this shampoo gently washes away impurities, leaving you with frizz free waves and curls!

What We Like
Moisturizes and nourishes hair
Amazing tropical scent
Defines and enhances curls
Paraben-free formula
Gentle on scalp

SheaMoisture Coconut Hibiscus Shampoo

01667
peach
SheaMoisture Coconut Hibiscus Shampoo Cover
SheaMoisture Shampoo Coconut and Hibiscus, for Thick, Curly Hair, to Cleanse & Hydrate, 24 oz

Get healthier, shinier, and bouncier curls with SheaMoisture Coconut and Hibiscus Curl and Shine Shampoo. This paraben-free and phthalate-free shampoo is specially designed for dry, curly, and natural hair. Infused with the goodness of coconut oil, it moisturizes and protects your hair while restoring the lost oil. The hibiscus flower extracts in this curl care shampoo improve hair elasticity and reduce breakage, giving you frizz-free waves and curls. Its rich, creamy lather gently washes away impurities, leaving your hair soft and shiny. All SheaMoisture curl enhancing hair products are ethically traded, sustainably produced, and cruelty-free.

What We Like
Hydrates and nourishes curly hair
Contains natural ingredients
Lightweight with pleasant scent
Value for quantity
Gentle on sensitive skin
#TOP 6

Marc Anthony Strictly Curls 3X Moisture Shampoo

Generic
Marc Anthony Strictly Curls 3X Moisture Shampoo Cover
Strictly Curls 3x Moisture Triple Blend Shampoo, 16 fl oz (Pack of 1)

The Marc Anthony Strictly Curls Shampoo is perfect for anyone wanting to care for their curly hair gently while adding extra moisture. Its special blend of coconut and shea butter cleans your curls without stripping away natural oils, helping to keep your hair shiny and hydrated. This shampoo is designed to reduce frizz and make detangling easier, so your curls look defined and bouncy. Plus, it’s free from harsh chemicals like parabens and sulfates, making it a safer choice for your hair. Using this shampoo with the matching conditioner will help you enjoy soft, manageable curls every day.

What We Like
Triple blend moisture formula
Frizz control and detangling
Free of harsh chemicals
Enhances natural curl bounce
#TOP 7

OGX Quenching + Coconut Curls Curl-Defining Shampoo

OGX
4090090
white
OGX Quenching + Coconut Curls Curl-Defining Shampoo Cover
OGX Quenching + Coconut, Curl-Defining Shampoo, Hydrating & Nourishing Curly Hair Shampoo with Coconut Oil, Citrus Oil & Honey, Paraben, Sulfate-Free Surfactants, 13 floz

OGX Quenching + Coconut Curls Curl-Defining Shampoo is a nourishing curl-enhancing shampoo blended with coconut oil, citrus oil and honey. It helps detangle, define and hydrate waves and spirals, leaving hair looking smooth and bouncy. Ideal for medium to coarse-textured hair, it quenches and hydrates your spirals, leaving them smooth and bouncy. The coconut milk, tangerine and warm vanilla scent leaves locks with an irresistibly good smell every time you lather up.

What We Like
Helps detangle, define and hydrate waves and spirals
Ideal for medium to coarse-textured hair
Coconut milk, tangerine and warm vanilla scent
#TOP 8

Aveda Be Curly Advanced Shampoo

VAAL010000
Off White
Aveda Be Curly Advanced Shampoo Cover
Aveda Be Curly Advanced Shampoo | Moisturizing Shampoo for Curly, Coily, Wavy Hair | Fights Frizz | Sulfate Free, Silicone Free | 94% Naturally Derived*, 8.5 Fl Oz

The Aveda Be Curly Shampoo is designed to gently cleanse your curly, coily, or wavy hair without stripping away natural moisture, thanks to its sulfate- and silicone-free formula. It helps reduce frizz by creating a protective layer around your curls, especially when paired with the matching conditioner, so your hair stays smooth even in humid conditions. Made with 94% naturally derived ingredients, including plant-based peptides and kokum seed butter, it strengthens and nourishes your hair, making detangling easier and reducing breakage. This shampoo is a great choice if you want to maintain healthy, defined curls with minimal fuss.

What We Like
Sulfate-free cleansing
Frizz protection
Natural ingredients
Strengthens and detangles
Moisturizes curls
#TOP 9

Ouidad Curl Quencher Moisturizing Shampoo

91008
Blue
Ouidad Curl Quencher Moisturizing Shampoo Cover
Ouidad Curl Quencher Moisturizing Shampoo - 8.5 fl oz, Nourished & Hydrated Curls, Vegan & Color Safe Shampoo with Chamomile & Vitamin A & E, For Tight Curls, No Silicones, Sulfates & Parabens

The Ouidad Curl Quencher Shampoo is designed to provide gentle yet effective cleansing for your curls. Its nourishing formula hydrates each strand, ensuring your curls are soft, defined, and shiny. Infused with chamomile and essential vitamins, this shampoo helps to repair and seal the hair cuticle, enhancing the overall health of your curls. It’s lightweight, so you can enjoy clean, moisturized hair without feeling weighed down. Plus, this vegan and color-safe product is free from harsh chemicals, making it a great choice for conscious consumers who want to care for their curls responsibly.

What We Like
Hydrating formula for soft curls
Lightweight and non-greasy
Free from harsh chemicals
Vegan and cruelty-free
#TOP 10

OGX Coconut Curls Moisturizing Shampoo

OGX
white
OGX Coconut Curls Moisturizing Shampoo Cover
OGX Quenching + Coconut Curls, Moisturizing Shampoo for Curly Hair, Detangling, Curl Enhancing, 25.4 fl oz

OGX Coconut Curls Shampoo is designed to enhance your natural curls while providing essential moisture. This luxurious formula helps to detangle your hair, making it easier to manage and style. Enriched with coconut oil, it nourishes your curls, giving them a beautiful shine. Additionally, the inclusion of sweet honey adds extra hydration, perfect for dry or damaged hair. With this shampoo, you can enjoy soft, bouncy curls that feel smooth and revitalized. Plus, it's gentle on your hair, being paraben-free and sulfate-free, ensuring a natural care experience.

What We Like
Detangles curly hair
Hydrates and nourishes
Enhances curl definition
Paraben and sulfate-free
Buying Guide Image

Learn More About Purchasing the Shampoo for Curly Hair

Introduction

For those with curly hair, finding the right shampoo can be a daunting task. With so many options available, it can be difficult to decide which shampoo will give you the results you're looking for. To help you choose the right shampoo for your curly hair, we've put together a guide to help you find the right product for your hair type.

Understand Your Hair Type

The first step in finding the right shampoo for your curly hair is to understand your hair type. Curly hair can range from wavy to kinky-curly, and each type requires different products for the best results. Knowing your hair type will help you narrow down your options and make it easier to choose the right shampoo for your hair.

Consider Your Hair Goals

Once you know your hair type, it's time to consider your hair goals. Are you looking for a shampoo that will help define your curls or one that will give you more volume? Do you want to add more moisture or strengthen your curls? Answering these questions will help you find the right shampoo for your hair type and goals.

Choose a Shampoo with Natural Ingredients

When it comes to curly hair, it's important to choose a shampoo with natural ingredients. Many shampoos can contain harsh chemicals that can strip your hair of its natural oils and leave it dry and brittle. Look for shampoos that contain natural ingredients like aloe vera, argan oil, and jojoba oil, which can help nourish and hydrate your curls.

Look for a Sulfate-Free Formula

Sulfates are a type of detergent that can strip your hair of its natural oils and lead to dryness and frizz. Look for a shampoo that is sulfate-free, as this will help protect your curls from damage.

Choose a Shampoo with Moisturizing Properties

If you have curly hair, it's important to choose a shampoo that will add moisture to your hair. Look for a shampoo that contains hydrating ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and glycerin. These ingredients can help lock in moisture and give your curls a healthy, hydrated look.

Consider a Co-Wash

If you want to add more moisture to your curls, you may want to consider using a co-wash. Co-washing is a popular method of cleansing curly hair without using shampoo. It involves using a conditioner to clean the hair without stripping away its natural oils. Co-washing can help keep your curls hydrated and help prevent dryness and frizz.

Avoid Over-Cleansing

If you have curly hair, it's important to avoid over-cleansing your hair. Over-washing your hair can lead to dryness and frizz, so it's important to use a shampoo that is gentle and moisturizing. It's best to limit washing your hair to once or twice a week, or use a dry shampoo in between washes.

Use the Right Technique

When it comes to washing your hair, it's important to use the right technique. Start by wetting your hair with lukewarm water and then apply the shampoo to the scalp and massage it in. Don't scrub your hair too hard, as this can lead to tangles and frizz. Then, rinse the shampoo out with lukewarm water and follow up with a conditioner.

Conclusion

Choosing the right shampoo for your curly hair can be a challenge, but with the right guidance, you can find the perfect product for your hair type. Remember to understand your hair type, consider your hair goals, look for natural ingredients, choose a sulfate-free formula, and avoid over-cleansing. With the right shampoo and technique, you can enjoy healthy, hydrated curls.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Does curly hair need special shampoo?

Contrary to popular opinion, curls need shampoo. A lot of naturals are die-hard co-wash fans, and this is totally fine, but a traditional shampoo is needed to help remove excess oil and product buildup, something a cleansing conditioner isn't designed to do.

Editor's Notes

During our shampoo for curly hair research, we found 48 shampoo for curly hair products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 232,280 customer reviews through our big data system to write the shampoo for curly hair list. We found that most customers choose shampoo for curly hair with an average price of $13.38.

The shampoo for curly hair are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of shampoo for curly hair, including Moroccanoil, Redken, L'Oreal Paris, SheaMoisture, OGX. 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.