Best Shampoo for Natural Hair of 2026

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

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Shampoo for natural hair is specially formulated to cater to the unique needs of curly, coily, and kinky hair. These shampoos are free from harmful chemicals like sulfates, parabens, and silicones that can strip the hair of its natural oils and cause dryness and breakage. Instead, they contain natural ingredients like aloe vera, coconut oil, and shea butter that moisturize and nourish the hair, leaving it soft, shiny, and manageable. Some shampoos for natural hair also contain essential oils like peppermint and tea tree oil that soothe the scalp and promote healthy hair growth. Overall, shampoo for natural hair is a must-have for anyone looking to maintain healthy, beautiful curls.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Pantene Gold Series Sulfate Free Shampoo & Conditioner Kit Cover #TOP 1
Pantene Gold Series Sulfate Free Shampoo & Conditioner Kit
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Cantu Sulfate-Free Cleansing Cream Shampoo Cover #TOP 2
Cantu Sulfate-Free Cleansing Cream Shampoo
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Aunt Jackie's Oh So Clean Shampoo for Natural Curls and Waves, 12 oz Cover #TOP 3
Aunt Jackie's Oh So Clean Shampoo for Natural Curls and Waves, 12 oz
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Shampoo for Natural Hair

Pantene Gold Series Sulfate Free Shampoo & Conditioner Kit

4351293389
Gold
Pantene Gold Series Sulfate Free Shampoo & Conditioner Kit Cover
Pantene Shampoo and Sulfate Free Conditioner Kit, with Argan Oil, Pro-V Gold Series, for Natural and Curly Textured Hair, 16.9 fl oz, Kit

Pantene Gold Series Sulfate Free Shampoo & Conditioner Kit is a paraben-free, sulfate-free and dye-free formula that nourishes and hydrates natural and curly textured hair. The Argan Oil infused formula helps to soften hair, leaving it noticeably strong and healthy-looking. Customers have praised the product for its pleasant smell, its ability to make hair easier to manage, and its ability to leave hair feeling soft and less frizzy.

What We Like
Paraben-free, sulfate-free and dye-free formula
Nourishes and hydrates hair
Leaves hair soft and manageable
Pleasant smell

Cantu Sulfate-Free Cleansing Cream Shampoo

07531-12/3EU
Orange
Cantu Sulfate-Free Cleansing Cream Shampoo Cover
Cantu Sulfate-Free Cleansing Cream Shampoo with Shea Butter for Natural Hair, 13.5 oz

Cantu Sulfate-Free Cleansing Cream Shampoo with Shea Butter for Natural Hair is a great choice for those with Type 2 waves, Type 3 curls, & Type 4 coils. It is formulated with no mineral oil, sulfates, parabens, silicones, phthalates, alcohol, paraffin or propylene, and is cruelty-free. Customers love that it lathers up nicely, rinses out easily, and leaves hair feeling soft and nourished. The only downside is that it can be drying for some hair types.

What We Like
Formulated without harsh ingredients
Helps reduce breakage and nourish hair
Leaves hair feeling soft and nourished

Aunt Jackie's Oh So Clean Shampoo for Natural Curls and Waves, 12 oz

Aunt Jackie's Oh So Clean Shampoo for Natural Curls and Waves, 12 oz Cover
Aunt Jackie's Curls and Coils Oh So Clean Deep Moisturizing and Softening Hair Shampoo for Natural Curls, Coils and Waves, Enriched shea Butter, 12 oz

Aunt Jackie's Oh So Clean Deep Moisturizing and Softening Hair Shampoo is a 12 oz shampoo that cleanses and softens the most difficult to manage hair with a blend of healthier ingredients and natural conditioners. It is enriched with coconut oil, shea butter, and extra virgin olive oil that thoroughly and gently cleanse natural hair curls, coils, and waves while keeping them moisturized. This shampoo is proudly made in the USA.

What We Like
Enriched with coconut oil, shea butter, and extra virgin olive oil
Thoroughly and gently cleanse and soften the most difficult to manage hair
Made with healthier ingredients and natural conditioners

SheaMoisture Strengthen & Restore Shampoo

764302215837
light yellow
SheaMoisture Strengthen & Restore Shampoo Cover
SheaMoisture Strengthen and Restore Shampoo Pure Jamaican Black Castor Oil for Damaged Hair To Cleanse and Nourish Hair 13 oz

SheaMoisture Strengthen & Restore Shampoo is a sulfate-free, clarifying shampoo that removes buildup while infusing hair with nourishing moisture. Formulated with Jamaican Black Castor Oil and Shea Butter, this shampoo helps to strengthen damaged hair, chemically processed hair and heat styled hair. It is perfect for those who regularly color, straighten, perm or heat style their hair, as well as kinky, curly or wavy natural styles. This cruelty-free shampoo helps revive damaged hair by gently cleansing and providing nourishing moisture.

What We Like
Natural ingredients
Effective for damaged hair
Helps control frizz
Promotes hair growth
Works well for thin or fine hair

Natural Sant Onion Biotin Shampoo

Natural Sant Onion Biotin Shampoo Cover
NATURAL SANT - Onion Biotin and Rosemary Shampoo & Treatment Set for Stronger, Thicker and Longer Hair - Soft and Shine, Hair Loss and Thinning, Growth Shampoo, Paraben Free, Silicone Free

Natural Sant Shampoo combines the power of onion extract, rosemary, and biotin to promote healthier hair. This natural formula helps you combat hair loss while nourishing your scalp. You will appreciate how it restores moisture to damaged hair, enhancing its density and strength. Additionally, the hydrating properties of this treatment keep your hair soft and manageable, making styling easier. With improved blood circulation from the onion and rosemary, you can expect faster and stronger hair growth, giving you the vibrant locks you desire.

What We Like
Soft and clean hair
Amazing scent
Effective for dry scalp
Beautiful packaging
Quick delivery

African Pride Aloe & Coconut Water Pre-Shampoo

40034573-1
African Pride Aloe & Coconut Water Pre-Shampoo Cover
African Pride Moisture Miracle Pre-Shampoo Hair Detangler with Aloe & Coconut Water | Minimizes Breakage, Hydrates & Strengthens | Pre-Poo Treatment 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

CeraVe Gentle Hydrating Shampoo

9300000195890419
Off White
CeraVe Gentle Hydrating Shampoo Cover
CeraVe Gentle Hydrating Shampoo, With Ceramides, Niacinamide & Hyaluronic Acid For Soft, Healthy Looking Hair & Scalp, Sulfate Free & Color Safe Shampoo, For All Hair Types, 12 Oz

The CeraVe Hydrating Shampoo is perfect if you have a sensitive scalp or want gentle care for your hair. It’s free from harsh ingredients like sulfates, parabens, and fragrances, making it safe for those prone to allergies or irritation. This shampoo is packed with moisturizing ingredients like ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid, which help keep your scalp and hair hydrated for up to 72 hours. Plus, it balances your scalp’s pH while effectively removing buildup, leaving your hair smoother and more hydrated after just one wash. Suitable for all hair types, including color-treated and curly hair, it’s a versatile choice for everyone.

What We Like
Gentle and lightweight formula
Hydrating for scalp and hair
Fragrance-free and non-irritating
Suitable for sensitive scalp
Free of harsh chemicals

Coconut Oil & Shea Butter Shampoo By Creme Of Nature

75724428003
honey
Coconut Oil & Shea Butter Shampoo By Creme Of Nature Cover
Creme of Nature Pure Honey Moisturizing Dry Defense Shampoo, Gently Cleanses & Restores Moisture, With Coconut Oil & Shea Butter, For Dry, Dehydrated or Brittle Hair, 12 oz

Creme Of Nature Pure Honey Moisturizing Dry Defense Shampoo is a perfect solution for dry, dehydrated hair. Infused with a blend of pure honey, certified natural coconut oil, and shea butter, this shampoo helps restore moisture for healthy looking hair. It provides healthy shine and cleanses hair, leaving it soft and smooth.

What We Like
Infused with pure honey, certified natural coconut oil, and shea butter
Restores moisture for healthy looking hair
Provides healthy shine for dry, dehydrated hair
Cleanses hair and leaves it soft and smooth

Carol's Daughter Moisturizing Shampoo

15041859
White
Carol's Daughter Moisturizing Shampoo Cover
Carol's Daughter Black Vanilla Moisture Sulfate Free Shampoo for Curly, Wavy or Natural Hair, Moisturizing Hair Care for Dry, Damaged Hair, 12 Fl Oz

Transform dry and damaged hair with Carol's Daughter Moisturizing Shampoo. This sulfate-free shampoo hydrates both thin and thick natural hair with shea butter, aloe, and rosemary, leaving it softer, more manageable, and with a healthy shine. The lightweight formula cleanses and restores moisture without weighing down textured hair. Suitable for all curl types, complete your hair care routine with other products from Carol's Daughter Set. To use, wet your hair completely, apply the shampoo, and massage it gently into your hair and scalp before rinsing well. Follow with a moisturizing conditioner for best results. Founded by Lisa Price, a black woman, Carol's Daughter carries a full line of textured hair care products for women and men to care for all waves, curls, and coils.

What We Like
Moisturizing and hydrating
Pleasant scent
Soft and shiny hair
Sulfate free formula
Effective cleansing

Carol's Daughter Goddess Strength Shampoo

820645006973
White
1 Count
Carol's Daughter Goddess Strength Shampoo Cover
Carol's Daughter Goddess Strength Fortifying Shampoo For Wavy, Coily and Curly Hair, Sulfate Free Shampoo with Castor Oil for Weak Hair, 11 Fl Oz

Get stronger natural hair from the first wash with Carol's Daughter Goddess Strength Shampoo. This moisturizing shampoo cleanses curly hair while moisturizing, making hair instantly stronger and less prone to breakage. The anti-breakage formula delivers 15x stronger hair and 94% less breakage in one use. Blended with castor oil, it hydrates dry, damaged, and frizzy hair. This shampoo is perfect for weak, breakage-prone hair, and it supports the strength of hair as it grows and gets longer. The Carol's Daughter Collection is created for natural hair with various curl types, and you can complete the routine with other products such as the conditioner, hair oil, and leave-in. To use, massage the shampoo into your hair, lather, and rinse.

What We Like
Effective moisture and hydration
Improves hair softness and shine
Amazing, pleasant scent
Reduces hair shedding
Suitable for textured hair types
Buying Guide Image

Explore Your Options of Shampoo for Natural Hair

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Shampoo for Natural Hair

Natural hair can be a beautiful and empowering expression of your individuality. However, it also requires a unique set of care and maintenance to keep it healthy and vibrant. One of the most crucial steps to achieving healthy hair is choosing the right shampoo. With so many options available, it can be challenging to know where to start. In this guide, we'll break down everything you need to know about selecting the best shampoo for natural hair.

Understanding Your Hair Type

Before selecting a shampoo, it's essential to understand your hair type. Natural hair can range from fine and straight to thick and curly, with many variations in between. Each hair type requires different care and maintenance. For example, curly hair tends to be drier and more fragile, requiring a moisturizing shampoo that won't strip the hair of its natural oils. On the other hand, fine hair may require a volumizing shampoo that won't weigh it down.

Ingredients to Look For

When selecting a shampoo for natural hair, it's crucial to pay attention to the ingredients list. Look for shampoos that are free of harsh chemicals like sulfates and parabens, which can strip the hair of its natural oils and cause dryness and breakage. Instead, opt for shampoos that contain natural ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, and aloe vera, which can help to nourish and moisturize the hair.

Ingredients to Avoid

Just as important as the ingredients to look for are the ingredients to avoid. Avoid shampoos that contain alcohol, as it can be drying to the hair. Also, avoid shampoos that contain silicone, which can create a buildup on the hair that can be difficult to remove.

pH Balance

Another essential factor to consider when selecting a shampoo for natural hair is pH balance. The pH level of your hair can range from 4.5 to 5.5, making it slightly acidic. Shampoos that are too alkaline can disrupt the natural pH balance of your hair, causing dryness and damage. Look for shampoos with a pH level that is close to the natural pH of your hair.

Brand Recommendations

When it comes to selecting a brand of shampoo for natural hair, there are many options available. Some popular brands include Shea Moisture, Cantu, and Carol's Daughter. These brands offer a range of shampoos that are specifically designed for natural hair, with ingredients that are gentle and nourishing.

Conclusion

Choosing the right shampoo for natural hair can be challenging, but with the right knowledge and understanding, it doesn't have to be. By considering your hair type, ingredients, pH balance, and brand recommendations, you'll be well on your way to achieving healthy and vibrant natural hair. Remember, taking care of your hair is an investment in your overall health and well-being.

Editor's Notes

During our shampoo for natural hair research, we found 48 shampoo for natural hair products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 300,785 customer reviews through our big data system to write the shampoo for natural hair list. We found that most customers choose shampoo for natural hair with an average price of $7.49.

The shampoo for natural hair are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of shampoo for natural hair, including Pantene, Cantu, Aunt Jackie's, SheaMoisture, Natural sant. 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.