Best Shampoo for Dreadlocks Hair of 2026

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

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Shampoo for dreadlocks hair is a specialized product designed to clean and maintain the unique texture of dreadlocks. These shampoos are formulated with ingredients that gently cleanse the hair without causing damage or unraveling the locks. They also help to reduce buildup, which can be a common issue with dreadlocks. Some shampoos for dreadlocks hair also contain conditioning agents that help to prevent breakage and keep the hair looking healthy and shiny. Whether you are a new dreadlock wearer or a seasoned pro, using a specialized shampoo can help you achieve and maintain the perfect look for your dreadlocks.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

DreadHead HQ 4 Dreadlocks Soap Combo Cover #TOP 1
DreadHead HQ 4 Dreadlocks Soap Combo
ftb score rating icon 9.8
GIRL+HAIR Cleanse+ Moisturizing Shampoo Cover #TOP 2
GIRL+HAIR Cleanse+ Moisturizing Shampoo
ftb score rating icon 9.7
G+H CLEAR+ Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse Cover #TOP 3
G+H CLEAR+ Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 5 Shampoo for Dreadlocks Hair

#TOP 1

DreadHead HQ 4 Dreadlocks Soap Combo

DreadHead HQ
K-4-SOAP
DreadHead HQ 4 Dreadlocks Soap Combo Cover
4 Dreadlocks Soap Combo for Dreads Shampoo By Dreadheadhq

The DreadHead HQ Dreads Shampoo is designed to keep your dreadlocks exceptionally clean, helping you maintain a fresh and healthy look. This shampoo also encourages your dreads to develop more quickly, so you can enjoy well-formed locks sooner. Additionally, it supports hair growth, which is great if you want fuller and thicker dreadlocks over time. With this product, you get a reliable way to care for your dreads without worrying about leftover residue, ensuring your hair feels light and clean after every wash.

What We Like
Effective cleaning
Speeds dread formation
Promotes hair growth
Residue-free formula
#TOP 2

GIRL+HAIR Cleanse+ Moisturizing Shampoo

G+H Cleanse+
GIRL+HAIR Cleanse+ Moisturizing Shampoo Cover
GIRL+HAIR Cleanse+ Moisturizing Shampoo | Restorative for Dry, Damaged Hair | Treat Dry, Itchy Scalp | With Shea Butter, Tea Tree Oil (10.1 fl oz)

The GIRL+HAIR Moisturizing Shampoo offers a gentle yet effective cleanse that keeps your hair hydrated and healthy. Designed for daily use, it cleans your hair thoroughly without stripping away essential moisture, making it ideal if you want to avoid dryness. This shampoo also cares for your scalp with ingredients like Neem Oil and Tea Tree Oil, which help reduce itchiness, dandruff, and buildup, promoting a healthier scalp environment. Plus, Shea Butter deeply moisturizes and adds shine, especially benefiting dry, coarse, or frizzy hair. Suitable for all hair types, including color-treated and styled hair, this shampoo supports your hair’s natural strength and flexibility while keeping it soft and manageable.

What We Like
Gentle, sulfate-free cleansing
Scalp soothing with Neem and Tea Tree Oils
Deep hydration from Shea Butter
Suitable for all hair types
Supports healthy hair elasticity and shine
#TOP 3

G+H CLEAR+ Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse

CLEAR+
green
G+H CLEAR+ Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse Cover
G+H CLEAR+ Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse | Clarifying Formula to Remove Buildup, Prevent Dandruff & Itchiness | For Healthy, Shiny & Soft Hair | Sulfate & Paraben-Free | 10.1 Fl Oz

G+H CLEAR+ Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse is a sulfate and paraben-free shampoo that helps remove buildup and repairs damaged follicles. It balances hair and scalp pH, soothes and detoxes the scalp, and promotes healthy hair growth. It also works as a natural hair detangler, making it great for cleansing and removing hair extensions. This shampoo is dermatologist created and safe for all hair types, including color-treated and processed hair. It is vegan and free of harmful ingredients such as sulfates, parabens, and artificial colors.

What We Like
Removes buildup caused by hair products
Helps repair damaged hair follicles
Safe for all hair types and color-treated hair
Natural, vegan, and free of harmful ingredients
#TOP 4

SIKKA Natural Neutralizing Shampoo

SIKKA
Clear
SIKKA Natural Neutralizing Shampoo Cover
SIKKA Natural Neutralizing Shampoo, Sulfate-Free, Ayurvedic Herbs and Shea Butter - For for natural hair and dreadlocks

The SIKKA Neutralizing Shampoo is a gentle, sulfate-free cleanser designed to care for natural hair and dreadlocks. It uses a natural blend of Ayurvedic herbs and nourishing oils to clean your hair without stripping away moisture, keeping your strands soft and shiny. This shampoo also includes vitamin E and vegetable glycerin, which help to hydrate and strengthen your hair from root to tip, making it easier to manage. Suitable for all hair types, it fits seamlessly into your daily hair care routine, providing both cleanliness and nourishment every time you wash.

What We Like
Sulfate-free formula
Deep cleansing without dryness
Vitamin E and glycerin hydration
Suitable for all hair types
#TOP 5

DreadHead HQ Maintenance Dread Kit

DreadHead HQ
K-8-MAINTAIN
DreadHead HQ Maintenance Dread Kit Cover
Maintenance Dread Kit for Dreadlocks

The DreadHead HQ Dread Kit is designed to keep your dreadlocks healthy and well-maintained. Trusted by tens of thousands of users worldwide, this kit offers reliable care for your dreads. By using this product, you can ensure your hair stays clean and nourished, which helps prevent buildup and promotes strong, lasting locks. The kit is part of the shampoo category, making it easy to incorporate into your regular hair washing routine. With the DreadHead HQ Dread Kit, you’ll enjoy the convenience of a trusted brand that specializes in dreadlock maintenance, giving you confidence in your hair care.

What We Like
Trusted by thousands worldwide
Promotes healthy dreadlocks
Easy to use shampoo
Reliable hair care
Buying Guide Image

The Best Shampoo for Dreadlocks Hair You Should Consider

Introduction

Dreadlocks hair is an amazing hairstyle that can be worn with pride. It requires special care to keep it looking and feeling its best, and one of the most important parts of that care is finding the right shampoo. With so many different shampoos on the market, it can be daunting to find the one that's best for your dreadlocks hair.

In this article, we'll discuss some of the key factors to consider when choosing the right shampoo for your dreadlocks and give you some advice on finding the perfect product. Read on to learn more about how to choose the right shampoo for your dreadlocks hair.

Factors to Consider

When picking a shampoo for dreadlocks, there are several factors that you should take into account. First, you want to make sure that the shampoo you choose won't strip away the oils that your dreadlocks need to stay healthy. Some shampoos, especially those that are heavily scented and full of chemicals, can strip away the natural oils that your dreadlocks need to stay moisturized.

Second, you want to make sure that the shampoo you use won't leave behind any residue or buildup. Many shampoos contain harsh chemicals that can be difficult to rinse out, leaving behind a residue that can make your dreadlocks look and feel greasy.

Finally, you want to make sure that the shampoo you choose is specifically formulated for dreadlocks hair. Some shampoos are designed to work better on curly hair, while others are designed to work better on straight hair. It's important to choose a shampoo that is specifically designed to work well on dreadlocks hair.

Tips for Choosing the Right Shampoo

Now that you know the key factors to consider when choosing a shampoo for your dreadlocks hair, here are some tips to help you find the perfect product.

First, look for a shampoo that is sulfate-free. Sulfates are a type of chemical that can strip away the natural oils from your dreadlocks, so it's best to avoid them. Look for a shampoo that is specifically formulated for dreadlocks and is free from sulfates.

Second, look for a shampoo that is free from artificial fragrances and harsh chemicals. Many shampoos contain artificial fragrances and harsh chemicals that can cause irritation and damage to your dreadlocks. Choose a shampoo that is free from these ingredients to help keep your dreadlocks healthy and looking their best.

Third, look for a shampoo that is specifically formulated for dreadlocks. Many shampoos that are marketed as "universal" can contain ingredients that can be damaging to your dreadlocks. Choose a shampoo that is specifically designed for dreadlocks hair to ensure that it won't damage your dreadlocks.

Finally, look for a shampoo that is specifically designed to be moisturizing. Dreadlocks hair needs plenty of moisture to stay healthy, so look for a shampoo that is designed to help keep your dreadlocks hydrated.

Conclusion

Choosing the right shampoo for your dreadlocks hair can be a daunting task. However, with a few tips and advice, you can make sure that you find the perfect product for your dreadlocks. Consider the factors mentioned above and use the tips provided to help you find the perfect shampoo for your dreadlocks hair. With the right shampoo, you can keep your dreadlocks looking and feeling their best.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do you need special shampoo for dreadlocks?

Yes, using a special shampoo and conditioner is important for maintaining the strength and health of dreadlocks. Regular shampoo and conditioner can cause buildup and make the dreadlocks appear dirty or greasy. The best dreadlock shampoo and conditioner will help prevent dirt accumulation and keep the dreadlocks clean and healthy.

2. What can I use to wash my dreadlocks?

Foam shampoo is recommended for washing dreadlocks. Gently dab the foam shampoo directly onto the scalp instead of massaging it, as massaging may cause loose hair and unravel the dreadlocks. After distributing the shampoo on the scalp, rinse the hair and press the foam down through the dreadlocks and tips to ensure thorough cleansing.

3. What shampoos to avoid with locs?

When choosing a shampoo for dreadlocks, it is important to avoid shampoos with certain ingredients. These include silicones, surfactants, ethanolamines, phthalates, parabens, natural organic ingredients, clarifying agents, and harsh surfactants. These ingredients can cause buildup and damage to the dreadlocks.

4. Can I wash my dreads with Dawn soap?

While Dawn soap can be used occasionally for heavy-duty removal of buildup, it is not recommended for regular use on dreadlocks. Lemon dish soap, such as Dawn, can be effective in removing wax buildup. However, using it regularly may strip the hair of its natural oils and cause dryness.

5. How often should you wash your hair with dreadlocks?

To maintain healthy and clean dreadlocks, it is recommended to wash and detox your hair every two to three weeks. This helps remove any products, oil, or debris that may be trapped in the strands and scalp. Regular washing, moisturizing, and protecting of the dreadlocks will promote healthy hair growth.

6. How often should dreads be washed?

Locs should be washed at least every 7-10 days. This helps prevent environmental dirt, scalp buildup, and lint from making the dreadlocks look dull and dry. Regular washing is essential for keeping the locs healthy and hydrated.

7. How often should locs be washed?

To maintain a healthy scalp and odor-free dreadlocks, it is recommended to wash your locs at least once a week. Use a residue-free dreadlock shampoo to ensure thorough cleansing without leaving any buildup behind.

Editor's Notes

During our shampoo for dreadlocks hair research, we found 24 shampoo for dreadlocks hair products and shortlisted 5 quality products. We collected and analyzed 32,298 customer reviews through our big data system to write the shampoo for dreadlocks hair list. We found that most customers choose shampoo for dreadlocks hair with an average price of $31.59.

The shampoo for dreadlocks hair are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of shampoo for dreadlocks hair, including DreadHead HQ, GIRL+HAIR, SIKKA. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 393 consumers with an average rating of 4.4.

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.