Best Detangling Shampoo of 2025

Lisa Bechard Avatar
Lisa Bechard
Last Updated: Jan 10, 2025

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Detangling shampoo is a lifesaver for those with knotty and tangled hair. This type of shampoo helps to smooth out the hair strands, making them easier to comb through without causing any breakage. The formula is typically enriched with ingredients such as keratin, argan oil, and shea butter, which work to nourish and strengthen the hair while also providing hydration. Detangling shampoo is suitable for all hair types, including curly, wavy, and straight hair. It's a great option for anyone who wants to simplify their hair care routine and achieve a more manageable and healthy-looking mane.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Fairy Tales Tangle Tamer Detangling Shampoo and Conditioner Set for Kids Cover #TOP 1
Fairy Tales Tangle Tamer Detangling Shampoo and Conditioner Set for Kids
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Design Essentials Honey Creme Moisture Retention Super Detangling Conditioning Shampoo Cover #TOP 2
Design Essentials Honey Creme Moisture Retention Super Detangling Conditioning Shampoo
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Avlon Keracare Hydrating Detangling Shampoo Cover #TOP 3
Avlon Keracare Hydrating Detangling Shampoo
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Detangling Shampoo

#TOP 1

Fairy Tales Tangle Tamer Detangling Shampoo and Conditioner Set for Kids

Fairy Tales Tangle Tamer Detangling Shampoo and Conditioner Set for Kids Cover
Fairy Tales Tangle Tamer Detangling Shampoo and Conditioner for Kids - Ultra Moisturizing and Anti Frizz Protection - Paraben Free, Sulfate Free - 12 Oz each Bottle - 2 pack

The Fairy Tales Tangle Tamer Detangling Shampoo and Conditioner Set for Kids is an ideal detangling and smoothing solution for unruly knots & curly tops. Use the set together with Fairy Tales Detangling Spray for the best results. This safe toddler shampoo and conditioner set transforms kids' hair into soft, silky perfection, making it perfect to use with your favorite detangler brush. The shampoo and conditioner contain Panthenol and Vitamin E, which calm, eliminate frizz and moisturize. Moreover, the ingredients are enriched with Keratin and Vitamin B that strengthen, smooth and detangle all hair types. The product is sulfate, paraben, phthalate, gluten, soy, dairy, and nut-free.

What We Like
Safe for toddlers
Transforms hair to soft, silky perfection
Contains Keratin and Vitamin B to strengthen and detangle hair
Sulfate, paraben, phthalate, gluten, soy, dairy, and nut-free

Design Essentials Honey Creme Moisture Retention Super Detangling Conditioning Shampoo

dss11-32-oz
White
Design Essentials Honey Creme Moisture Retention Super Detangling Conditioning Shampoo Cover
Design Essentials Honey Creme Moisture Retention Super Detangling Conditioning Shampoo, White, 32 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

Design Essentials Honey Creme Moisture Retention Super Detangling Conditioning Shampoo is a quick lather shampoo for increased moisture penetration, perfect for women, men, and children with natural waves and coils, relaxed strands, color treated hair, locs, and gray hair. It is gentle, sulfate and alcohol free, non-stripping formula that can be used daily to soften the hair for easy detangling. Made with Honey Creme, this key ingredient conditions and smooths the hair cuticle to promote healthy hair growth, increased manageability, and overall shine.

What We Like
Gentle, sulfate and alcohol free, non-stripping formula
Promotes healthy hair growth, increased manageability, and overall shine
Suitable for women, men and children with all hair types and textures
#TOP 3

Avlon Keracare Hydrating Detangling Shampoo

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Avlon Keracare Hydrating Detangling Shampoo Cover
Avlon Keracare Hydrating Detangling Shampoo, 32 Ounce

Avlon Keracare Hydrating Detangling Shampoo is a deep cleanser designed for use prior to a conditioning shampoo. It is formulated to help detangle and hydrate hair, leaving it soft and manageable. Customers have reported that it works great on thick, curly, and damaged hair, and that it leaves hair smelling good and feeling soft. Some customers have had issues with the seal being broken, and have experienced drying and itchiness to the skin and scalp.

What We Like
Leaves hair smelling good and feeling soft
Works great on thick, curly, and damaged hair
Value for money
#TOP 4

Creme of Nature Coconut Milk Shampoo

Creme of Nature Coconut Milk Shampoo Cover
Shampoo with Coconut Milk by Creme of Nature, Detangling and Conditioning Formula for Normal Hair, 12 Fl Oz

The Creme of Nature Coconut Milk Shampoo is a detangling and conditioning formula designed for normal hair. This shampoo is easy to use and is manufactured in the United States. The package dimensions of the product are 2"L x 2"W x 8"H.

What We Like
Detangles and conditions hair
Easy to use
Made in the United States

Mielle Organics Pomegranate & Honey Shampoo

MO64235-VP
Mielle Organics Pomegranate & Honey Shampoo Cover
Mielle Organics Pomegranate & Honey Moisturizing and Detangling Shampoo, Hydrating Curl Cleanser For Dry, Damaged Type 4 Hair, Repair, Restore, and Prevent Frizz, 12-Fluid Ounces

Mielle Organics Pomegranate & Honey Moisturizing and Detangling Shampoo is a weightless, nutrient-rich cleanser that can instantly smooth and soothe dry and damaged hair without weighing it down or leaving behind a dulling residue. This daily replenishing shampoo quenches even the unruliest Type 4 hair, taming stubborn tangles, frizzy hair, and flyaways while defining coily or curly hair for bouncy, shiny locks and long-lasting hydration. It is infused with pomegranate extract, honey, babassu oil, silk protein, and other natural, restorative ingredients to moisturize and strengthen curly hair.

What We Like
Gentle cleansing formula
Tackles tough tangles
Smells great
Moisturizing and strengthening
Weightless and residue-free

Johnson's No More Tangles 2-in-1 Detangling Hair Shampoo & Conditioner

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Transparent
Johnson's No More Tangles 2-in-1 Detangling Hair Shampoo & Conditioner Cover
Johnson's Kids No More Tangles 2-in-1 Detangling Shampoo & Conditioner for Kids & Toddlers, Gentle & No More Tears, Hypoallergenic & Free of Parabens, Sulfates & Dyes, 20.3 fl. oz

Johnson's No More Tangles 2-in-1 Detangling Hair Shampoo & Conditioner is a gentle, tear-free formula designed specifically for kids and toddlers. This 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner helps to unlock knots and tangles for soft, smooth, and easy-to-manage hair. It is hypoallergenic, free of parabens, phthalates, sulfates, and dyes, and pediatrician-tested. It is designed to meet or exceed the top internationally recognized regulatory standards.

What We Like
Tear-free formula is gentle to the eyes
Unlocks knots and tangles for soft, smooth hair
Hypoallergenic and free of parabens, phthalates, sulfates, and dyes
Pediatrician-tested and designed to meet or exceed the top internationally recognized regulatory standards
#TOP 7

SheaMoisture Detangling Shampoo

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SheaMoisture Detangling Shampoo Cover
Shea Moisture Detangling Shampoo, 13.5 ounces

The SheaMoisture Detangling Shampoo is designed to help you manage shrinkage-prone hair, turning it into a luxurious, manageable mane. This shampoo is sulfate-free and coconut oil-free, making it a gentle choice for your hair care routine. It's particularly beneficial for those with 3-4C hair types, as it cleanses effectively while also detangling your locks. You’ll appreciate how it simplifies your hair care process, allowing you to maintain healthy and beautiful hair with ease.

What We Like
Transforms shrinkage-prone hair
Sulfate-free formula
Ideal for 3-4C hair types
Cleanses and detangles
#TOP 8

Fairy Tales Tangle Tamer Super Charge Detangling Shampoo

DETPOO32.A
Shampoo
Fairy Tales Tangle Tamer Super Charge Detangling Shampoo Cover
Fairy Tales Tangle Tamer Super Charge Detangling Shampoo for Kids - Paraben Free, Sulfate Free, Gluten Free, Nut Free - 32 oz

Fairy Tales Tangle Tamer Super Charge Detangling Shampoo is a detangling and smoothing solution for unruly knots and curly tops. Enriched with Keratin and Vitamin B, this shampoo calms, eliminates frizz and moisturizes with Panthenol and Vitamin E. It is sulfate free, paraben free, gluten free, and nut free, and is perfect to use with a detangler brush. Customers love this shampoo for its natural ingredients and how it makes their kids' hair silky and easy to brush out.

What We Like
Enriched with Keratin and Vitamin B
Calms, eliminates frizz and moisturizes with Panthenol and Vitamin E
Sulfate free, paraben free, gluten free, and nut free
Makes hair silky and easy to brush out
Great for the whole family
#TOP 9

African Pride Aloe & Coconut Water Pre-Shampoo

40034573-1
African Pride Aloe & Coconut Water Pre-Shampoo Cover
African Pride Moisture Miracle Aloe & Coconut Water Pre-Shampoo Detangler & Pre-conditioner - Helps Minimize Hair Breakage for Natural Coils & Curls, 18 oz.

African Pride Moisture Miracle Aloe & Coconut Water Pre-Shampoo is a naturally formulated hair care product that moisturizes, cleanses, detangles, and conditions hair using the benefits of Aloe Vera and Coconut Water. The product is enriched with Aloe Vera and Coconut Water, which nourish, condition, protect, and strengthen natural coils and curls. It is free of harmful components and can be used by anyone looking for safe and high-quality hair care products.

What We Like
Contains Aloe Vera and Coconut Water
Naturally formulated and free of harmful components
Moisturizes, cleanses, detangles, and conditions hair
#TOP 10

Kera Care Hydrating Detangling Shampoo

920140
Cranberry
8 oz
Kera Care Hydrating Detangling Shampoo Cover
KeraCare Hydrating Detangling Shampoo 8 oz - Moisturize, Detangle and Soften Hair - Remove Excess Oil - Minimize Hair Breakage - Superior Detangling

Kera Care Hydrating Detangling Shampoo is a liquid shampoo that moisturizes and conditions hair for a healthy-looking appearance and feel. It removes excess oils from hair and scalp without overstripping hair, and helps minimize hair breakage. Customers love the product for its amazing lather and clean scent, and it leaves hair soft and easy to work with. However, some customers find it a bit pricey and not as moisturizing as they would like.

What We Like
Moisturizes and conditions hair
Removes excess oils from hair and scalp
Helps minimize hair breakage
Amazing lather and clean scent
Leaves hair soft and easy to work with
Buying Guide Image

The Basics of Choosing the Detangling Shampoo

Introduction

Making sense of the huge variety of detangling shampoos on the market can be a daunting task. With the sheer range of products available, it can be difficult to determine which one is suitable for your needs. To make the decision easier, we've compiled a comprehensive guide to help you select the best detangling shampoo for your hair.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Detangling Shampoo

When selecting a detangling shampoo, there are a few important factors to consider. These include the type of hair you have, the ingredients in the shampoo, and the cost.

Hair Type

The type of hair you have will largely determine the type of detangling shampoo you should be using. For those with fine or oily hair, it’s best to opt for a lightweight shampoo that won’t weigh down the hair or cause it to look greasy. For those with thick and coarse hair, a shampoo with a higher concentration of moisturizing ingredients is recommended.

Ingredients

It's important to take a look at the ingredients list of any shampoo you're considering. Look for products that contain natural ingredients like aloe vera, jojoba oil, and shea butter, as they are known to help nourish and protect hair. Additionally, avoid shampoos that contain sulfates, parabens, and other harsh chemicals, which can strip hair of its natural oils and cause it to become dry and brittle.

Cost

The cost of detangling shampoos can vary greatly. Generally, lower cost shampoos are more likely to contain harsh ingredients, so it's best to opt for something a bit pricier that has been formulated with natural ingredients. If you have a tight budget, look for products that are labeled as “sulfate-free” or “paraben-free” to ensure that you're getting a quality product at an affordable price.

Tips for Using Detangling Shampoo

Once you've selected the right shampoo for your hair, it's important to use it correctly in order to get the best results. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

  • Always use lukewarm water when washing your hair in order to prevent it from becoming overly dry.
  • For those with curly hair, it's best to comb it out before shampooing to avoid tangles.
  • Use a wide-tooth comb or brush to detangle your hair after shampooing to prevent breakage.
  • Rinse your hair thoroughly to ensure that all the shampoo is removed.

Conclusion

Choosing the right detangling shampoo can be a challenge, but it doesn't have to be. By taking into account your hair type, the ingredients in the shampoo, and the cost, you can easily find the best product for your needs. Additionally, following the tips outlined above will help ensure that you get the best results from your detangling shampoo. With this guide, you can now select the perfect detangling shampoo for your hair with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What does a detangling shampoo do?

A detangling shampoo smooths the hair shaft, reducing friction and preventing tangles. It typically contains leave-in conditioner properties, similar to detangling sprays, to make hair more manageable and less prone to tangling.

2. Do detangling shampoos work?

Detangling shampoos are effective in reducing tangles. They often contain rich butters or oils that provide slip to the hair, making it easier to comb through. However, these shampoos may weigh down finer hair textures.

3. What is the best thing to detangle matted hair with?

For detangling matted hair, a wide-tooth comb is recommended. The spaced design of the comb helps minimize resistance and prevents breakage. Avoid using small-tooth combs, as they can cause more tugging and damage to the hair.

4. What is the best thing for super tangled hair?

To tackle super tangled hair, you can use various tools and products. These include a wide-tooth comb, a detangling brush, a pin-curl or rat-tail comb, a detangling primer, a detangling spray, and hair oil. These options help provide slip and make the detangling process easier.

5. Is it better to detangle hair wet or dry?

It is generally recommended not to towel dry your hair before detangling, regardless of hair type. Vigorously rubbing your hair with a towel can cause damage and more tangles. Instead, gently squeeze out excess water and start detangling when the hair is damp.

6. Why does apple cider vinegar detangle hair?

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) can detangle hair by smoothing the hair cuticles, causing them to lie flat against the hair shaft. This makes it easier to separate tangled hair and reduces friction. ACV is known for its hair benefits, including detangling and improving overall hair health.

7. Why is my hair so knotty after I wash it?

There are several reasons why hair can become knotty after washing. Dry, dehydrated, or damaged hair is more prone to tangles. Not thoroughly rinsing out the conditioner can also contribute to tangles. Additionally, lack of brushing can lead to knots and tangles in the hair.

Editor's Notes

During our detangling shampoo research, we found 48 detangling shampoo products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 121,835 customer reviews through our big data system to write the detangling shampoo list. We found that most customers choose detangling shampoo with an average price of $14.13.

The detangling shampoo are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of detangling shampoo, including Fairy Tales, Design Essentials, Avlon, Creme of Nature, Mielle Organics. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 461 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

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.