Best Formaldehyde-Free Shampoo of 2025

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

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Formaldehyde-free shampoo is a hair care product that does not contain formaldehyde, a chemical commonly used in hair straightening treatments. This type of shampoo is becoming increasingly popular among consumers who are concerned about the potential health risks associated with formaldehyde exposure. Formaldehyde-free shampoos are typically made with natural ingredients and are designed to gently cleanse and nourish the hair without stripping it of its natural oils. These shampoos are suitable for all hair types and can be used daily to promote healthy, shiny hair while avoiding exposure to harmful chemicals.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Curly Girl Curl Definition Shampoo Cover #TOP 1
Curly Girl Curl Definition Shampoo
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Free & Clear Shampoo Cover #TOP 2
Free & Clear Shampoo
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Vanicream Medicated Dandruff Shampoo Cover #TOP 3
Vanicream Medicated Dandruff Shampoo
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Formaldehyde-Free Shampoo

#TOP 1

Curly Girl Curl Definition Shampoo

Curly Citrus Shampoo
12 Ounce
Curly Girl Curl Definition Shampoo Cover
Curly Girl, Curl Definition Shampoo, (Sulfate, Paraben, Formaldehyde, DEA, MEA Free), Citrus 12 oz

Curly Girl Curl Definition Shampoo is a sulfate, paraben, formaldehyde, DEA, and MEA free shampoo that is suitable for all hair types. It gently removes impurities and protects color treated strands. Customers love the product for its superior curl definition and its ability to hydrate all hair types. However, some customers have noted that the product strips their hair and the labels on the bottles can wash off in the water.

What We Like
Sulfate, Paraben, Formaldehyde, DEA & MEA free.
Superior Curl Definition
May Be Use On All Hair Types
Hydrating for all hair types
#TOP 2

Free & Clear Shampoo

PPAX1223405
Free & Clear Shampoo Cover
Vanicream Shampoo For Sensitive Skin 12 OZ (Pack of 3)

Free & Clear Shampoo is a liquid shampoo designed for sensitive scalps. It removes build-up, creates shine, and boosts volume. It is free from fragrances and most chemicals, and is suitable for adults with thick hair. Customers report that it cleans well, but is a bit expensive, and that it is necessary for eczema. It is also allergy and respiratory friendly, and leaves hair very shiny. However, some customers find that it does not make their hair feel clean.

What We Like
Cleans well
Suitable for eczema
Allergy and respiratory friendly
Leaves hair very shiny
#TOP 3

Vanicream Medicated Dandruff Shampoo

345334206088
White
8 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Vanicream Medicated Dandruff Shampoo Cover
Vanicream Dandruff Shampoo – pH Balanced Mild Formula Effective For All Hair Types and Sensitive Scalps - Free of Fragrance, Lanolin, and Parabens – 8 Fl Oz

Vanicream Medicated Dandruff Shampoo is formulated with maximum over-the-counter strength for the control and reduction of the symptoms for dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. It is free of proteins, sulfates, gluten, dyes, fragrance, masking fragrance, lanolin, parabens, and formaldehyde releasers. Customers have found it to be effective in relieving dry scalp, itchiness, and flaking, and have noted that it does not cause any reactions on sensitive skin. However, some customers have found that it can dry out their hair.

What We Like
Maximum OTC strength for dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis
Free of common chemical irritants
Effective in relieving dry scalp, itchiness, and flaking
Does not cause reactions on sensitive skin

ACURE Curiously Clarifying Shampoo

ET1024
White/Green
8 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
ACURE Curiously Clarifying Shampoo Cover
ACURE Curiously Clarifying Shampoo - 8 Fl Oz - Performance-Driven Hair Care Gently Cleanses, Removes Buildup, Boosts Shine & Replenishes Moisture - Lemongrass & Argan, 100% Vegan

ACURE Curiously Clarifying Shampoo is a performance-driven hair care product that gently cleanses and removes buildup without stripping hair. Infused with lemongrass, this vegan shampoo boosts shine and replenishes moisture. Customers report that it leaves their hair feeling squeaky clean and shiny, although some find it doesn't lather as much as they'd like.

What We Like
Gentle ingredients
Removes product buildup
Boosts shine and replenishes moisture
#TOP 5

SEEN Fragrance-Free Shampoo: Gentle and Effective

10101020101
8.6 Fl. Oz
SEEN Fragrance-Free Shampoo: Gentle and Effective Cover
SEEN Shampoo, Fragrance Free - Non-Comedogenic & Sulfate-Free Hair Shampoo- Dermatologist-Developed - Safe for Sensitive, Eczema & Acne Prone Skin

SEEN Fragrance-Free Shampoo is a dermatologist-developed, non-comedogenic, and sulfate-free shampoo that provides luxurious lather without leaving the hair or scalp feeling stripped. It is safe for sensitive, acne-prone, and eczema-prone skin. This shampoo is formulated without fragrances, sulfates, silicones, phthalates, parabens, dyes, pore-clogging oils, formaldehyde-releasing preservatives, cocamidopropyl betaine, and gluten. It is color-safe and keratin-safe, and can be used daily. The key ingredients, hemisqualane and bisabolol, provide color and heat protection, reduce frizz, keep hair looking and feeling smooth, and offer natural skin-soothing benefits.

What We Like
Gentle and effective for all skin and hair types
Non-comedogenic and sulfate-free
Safe for sensitive, acne-prone, and eczema-prone skin
Formulated without harmful ingredients
Provides color and heat protection, reduces frizz, and keeps hair looking and feeling smooth
#TOP 6

Boldly Basic Fragrance Free Shampoo

Boldly Basic
Clear
Boldly Basic Fragrance Free Shampoo Cover
Boldly Basic Fragrance Free Shampoo - Gentle on Sensitive Skin and Hair - Unscented - Dermatologist Tested - Sulfate Free - Paraben Free - Gluten Free - Non Comedogenic and Hypoallergenic

Boldly Basic Shampoo is designed to be gentle on sensitive skin and hair. Dermatologist tested, this formula ensures it won’t irritate your scalp, making it a safe choice for both adults and children. You can enjoy a completely fragrance-free experience, as this shampoo contains no hidden scents or harsh chemicals. Plus, it is free from sulfates, parabens, and other common irritants, allowing you to cleanse without worry. Knowing it’s made in the USA adds an extra layer of trust in its quality and safety for your family.

What We Like
Gentle for sensitive skin
Fragrance-free formula
Free from harsh chemicals
Safe for all ages
#TOP 7

FRAGFRE Intense Hydrating Shampoo

FF-IHS-08
clear
8 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
FRAGFRE Intense Hydrating Shampoo Cover
FRAGFRE Intense Hydrating Shampoo 8 oz - Fragrance Free Hypoallergenic Sulfate Free Moisturizing Shampoo - Safe on Colors and Sensitive Scalps - Strenghtens Dry Hairs - Vegan Gluten Free Cruelty Free

FRAGFRE Intense Hydrating Shampoo is a gentle, soothing wash that's great for your scalp and hair. It is free from sulfates and combines aloe vera extract for sensitive scalps. It works best on all hair types, including treated, fragile and sensitive scalps. It is made with a deeply hydrating formula that eliminates dry, damaged hair and transforms your locks into soft, silky hair. It is free of Fragrances, Colors, Parabens, Sulfates, Formaldehydes, Petrolatum, Phthalates, BHT, Irritating Alcohols & Preservatives and More. It is vegan and cruelty-free.

What We Like
Gentle and soothing wash
Free of harmful chemicals
Unlock a frizz free wash
Unbelievably moisturizing
Odorless shampoo
#TOP 8

OTACI Herbal Shampoo with Ivy

8699512010083
OTACI Herbal Shampoo with Ivy Cover
OTACI Herbal Shampoo with Ivy for All Hair Types, Everyday Use, No Paraben, No Silicon, No Alcohol, No Formaldehyde, Vegan & Cruelty Free Shampoo 13.5 Fl Oz

OTACI Herbal Shampoo offers effective scalp control, helping you maintain a flake-free and healthy scalp with regular use. Infused with the essence of Ivy, this shampoo delivers a refreshing scent reminiscent of beautiful Black Sea forests, enhancing your hair care experience. Its gentle formula is vegan and free from harsh chemicals like parabens and silicones, ensuring a safe cleanse for your hair and scalp. Additionally, the hydrating properties of Ivy extract soothe and comfort your scalp, making each wash a calming ritual. With OTACI Herbal Shampoo, you can enjoy a cleaner, healthier scalp every day.

What We Like
Effective scalp control
Refreshing forest-like scent
Vegan and cruelty-free
Hydrating and soothing
#TOP 9

Odele Clarifying Shampoo 13 Fl Oz

Odele
Odele Clarifying Shampoo 13 Fl Oz Cover
Odele Clarifying Sulfate-Free Shampoo, a Deep Weekly Clean that Removes Buildup for All Hair Types & Textures, 13 Fl Oz

Odele Clarifying Shampoo is designed to provide a deep clean while revitalizing your hair. Its gentle formula effectively eliminates product buildup and impurities, making it ideal for regular use. If you have color-treated hair, you’ll appreciate that this shampoo is safe for your vibrant hues, removing chlorine and hard water deposits without dulling your color. Suitable for all hair types, this shampoo features a pleasant, gender-neutral fragrance that enhances your shower experience. Plus, with its dermatologist-tested formulation, you can trust that it’s free from harmful sulfates and other additives, ensuring peace of mind with each wash.

What We Like
Deep cleansing
Color-safe formula
Gentle and effective
Natural fragrance
Vegan and cruelty-free
#TOP 10

No nothing Sensitive Volume Shampoo

A3653
No nothing Sensitive Volume Shampoo Cover
No nothing Sensitive Volumizing Shampoo - Fragrance Free Shampoo - Hypoallergenic, Vegan, Paraben Free and Clear Shampoo - Unscented Volume Shampoo for Sensitive Scalp and Skin – 10.15 oz

The No nothing Sensitive Volume Shampoo is a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and pH-balanced formula that provides fullness and volume for thin and fine hair while being gentle on sensitive skin and scalp. The shampoo is free of harsh chemicals and common irritants, making it safe for eczema-prone skin, contact dermatitis, and psoriasis. Dermatologist developed and tested, this shampoo is a healthier option that is 100% vegan and comes in fully recyclable bio-based sugar case plastic bottles.

What We Like
Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic
Buying Guide Image

The Right Formaldehyde-Free Shampoo for You

Why Choose Formaldehyde-Free Shampoo?

Formaldehyde is a common ingredient found in many personal care products, including shampoo. It is used as a preservative to prevent bacteria growth, but it can also be harmful to our health. Exposure to formaldehyde can cause irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat, as well as allergic reactions and possibly even cancer. Therefore, it is important to choose a formaldehyde-free shampoo to avoid these potential risks.

How to Identify Formaldehyde in Shampoo

To identify if a shampoo contains formaldehyde, you will need to check the ingredient list. Formaldehyde can be listed under several different names, including:

  • Formaldehyde
  • Formalin
  • Methanal
  • Methyl aldehyde
  • Methylene oxide
  • Preservative
  • Quaternium-15
  • DMDM hydantoin

If you see any of these names on the ingredient list, the shampoo contains formaldehyde.

Choosing a Formaldehyde-Free Shampoo

When shopping for a formaldehyde-free shampoo, look for products that are labeled as "formaldehyde-free" or "preservative-free." You can also look for shampoos that are made with natural ingredients, such as plant-based oils and extracts. These ingredients are less likely to contain formaldehyde or other harmful chemicals.

Additionally, consider choosing a shampoo that is certified by a reputable organization, such as the Environmental Working Group (EWG). The EWG rates personal care products on a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the safest and 10 being the most toxic. Products that receive a rating of 1 or 2 are considered to be the safest and most trustworthy.

Conclusion

Choosing a formaldehyde-free shampoo is important for maintaining the health and safety of yourself and your family. By looking for products that are labeled as "formaldehyde-free" and checking the ingredient list, you can avoid this potentially harmful chemical. Additionally, choosing a shampoo that is made with natural ingredients and certified by a reputable organization can provide added peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do all shampoos contain formaldehyde?

Not all shampoos contain formaldehyde itself, but many may contain formaldehyde-releasing compounds as preservatives. These compounds release tiny amounts of formaldehyde to prevent the growth of microorganisms in the product.

2. How do I know if my shampoo has formaldehyde?

Identifying formaldehyde in shampoo can be challenging as there is no universal naming system for these ingredients. However, formaldehyde-releasers are typically listed towards the end of the ingredient label.

3. How bad is formaldehyde in hair products?

Formaldehyde in hair products can have negative health effects, including an increased risk of headaches, asthma, contact dermatitis, and potentially cancer. It's important to be cautious and choose formaldehyde-free hair products to minimize these risks.

4. What does formaldehyde do to your hair?

In hair products, formaldehyde helps to bond keratin proteins to the hair shaft, allowing the hair to retain a specific shape or style. This bonding helps to protect the hair from losing the desired effect.

Editor's Notes

During our formaldehyde-free shampoo research, we found 48 formaldehyde-free shampoo products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 72,531 customer reviews through our big data system to write the formaldehyde-free shampoo list. We found that most customers choose formaldehyde-free shampoo with an average price of $20.99.

The formaldehyde-free shampoo are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of formaldehyde-free shampoo, including Curly Girl, Free & Clear, Vanicream, Acure, SEEN. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 93 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.