The 15 Best Shampoos and Conditioners for Healthy Hair

After many years, you can still struggle with your hair, which seems to only have two settings: “butterball greasy” and “bushel of hay”. This is especially true during hot summers with dry winds or harsh wet winters. It might be time to keep in mind that taking care of hair is an essential part of our daily routine. However, with so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to decide which shampoo and conditioner to get.

Choosing the right shampoo and conditioner can make a huge difference in the health and appearance of our hair. In this article, we have compiled a list of the 15 best shampoos and conditioners that are highly recommended by experts and customers alike. From hydrating to volumizing, these products cater to different hair types and concerns and are guaranteed to leave your hair looking and feeling its best.

​​When it comes to choosing the best shampoo and conditioner, there are a few things to remember. First, take a look at the ingredients list. Avoid products with sulfates, parabens, formaldehyde, and hexachlorophene, as these can dry out your hair and make it brittle. If you’re looking for volume, consider shampoos with caffeine. On the other hand, if your hair needs some extra moisture, look for ingredients like aloe vera, jojoba oil, and ceramides.

It’s also important to consider your hair type. The best shampoo for thick hair might not work for someone with thin hair, so be sure to choose a formula that’s tailored to your specific needs. According to celebrity stylist Bobby Eliot, shampoos for curly hair are generally heavier and may weigh down someone with fine hair. Conversely, a shampoo for shine may not be suitable for someone with naturally oily hair. If you have thick hair, look for a formula that offers smoothing or shine-enhancing benefits. By taking these factors into account, you can find the perfect shampoo and conditioner to keep your locks looking their best.

Best Shampoo and Conditioner for Dandruff

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If you’re prone to scratching your scalp now and again, Oribe’s Serene Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo and Conditioner set is a godsend. Formulated with salicylic acid, it is effective in eliminating dandruff and soothing itchy scalps while leaving their hair feeling soft and smelling wonderful. The gentle yet powerful formula is also well-suited for those with sensitive skin. Despite the high price tag, many users say it’s well worth the investment for a luxury shampoo that works.

Best Shampoo and Conditioner for Oily Hair

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The BIOSILK Silk Therapy Duo Set of Shampoo and Conditioner is a must-try for those who want to revive their hair and give it a healthy-looking glow. They love the way it makes their hair feel silky and soft, and how it adds shine to dull and damaged hair. The scent is also a highlight, described as pleasant and long-lasting. Users appreciate that the product is sulfate-free, making it gentle on their hair and scalp. Although some clients find the product a bit pricey, they agree that it is worth the amazing results it delivers.

Best Shampoo and Conditioner for Thinning or Fine Hair

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Many customers highly recommend the OGX Thick & Full + Biotin & Collagen Shampoo and Conditioner Set. They love how the product adds volume and thickness to their hair, leaving it looking fuller and healthier. Customers also appreciate that the product is sulfate-free and safe for color-treated hair. They note that the product has a pleasant scent and leaves their hair feeling soft and manageable. Although some customers find the product to be a bit drying, the majority agree that it is an effective solution for thin and fine hair.

Best Drugstore Shampoo and Conditioner

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The Herbal Essences Shampoo and Conditioner Set is a gentle and moisturizing hair care solution that is made with natural ingredients like rose hips and jojoba oil. This set helps to nourish and protect hair, leaving it feeling soft, shiny, and healthy. Customers rave about the pleasant scent and how well it works for all hair types, including those with dry or damaged hair. Some customers mention that it helps to reduce frizz and tangles, while others appreciate that it is free of paraben and sulfates.

Best Shampoo and Conditioner for Curly Hair

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The Aussie Miracle Moist Shampoo and 3 Minute Miracle Deep Conditioner Hair Treatment Bundle promise to provide deep hydration and nourishment to curly hair. The shampoo is formulated with Australian Macadamia Nut Oil, which helps to moisturize and soften hair, while the 3 Minute Miracle Deep Conditioner is designed to repair and strengthen hair from within. The product is affordable and easy to use, making it a great option for those on a budget. However, some users may find that the conditioner is not effective enough for their severely damaged hair, and the fragrance may be too strong for some.

Best Clarifying Shampoo and Conditioner

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CHI Keratin Reconstructing Shampoo and Conditioner’s formulation is especially effective for a once-in-awhile detox that gives your hair a glossy shine. Reviewers rave about CHI Keratin Reconstructing for its ability to leave their hair feeling soft, smooth, and looking healthy. The shampoo is particularly effective for those with damaged or color-treated hair, thanks to its restorative keratin formula. Users appreciate that CHI is gentle on their hair while still being effective in repairing damage and enhancing shine. Despite the higher price point, it’s a worthwhile investment for healthier-looking hair.

Best Sulfate-Free Shampoo and Conditioner

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The Kristin Ess Hair The One Purple Shampoo and Conditioner Set is a hair care product that supplies salon-quality results. Kristin Ess purple shampoo is designed to clarify and remove buildup, while the conditioner is formulated to hydrate and smooth the hair. The product is sulfate-free, which is great for those with sensitive skin or hair. It is also affordable and easy to use, making it a great option for those who want to achieve salon-quality hair at home. However, some users may find that the fragrance may be too strong for some.

Best Shampoo and Conditioner for Color-Treated Hair

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BIOLAGE Color Last Shampoo & Conditioner Bundle has garnered high praise from customers who appreciate its ability to keep color-treated hair looking vibrant and healthy. Users note that the conditioner leaves their hair feeling soft and silky while preventing fading and maintaining shine. The paraben-free formula is also gentle on their hair and scalp. Reviewers agree that the price is reasonable for a high-quality color-preserving conditioner.

Best Shampoo and Conditioner for Natural Hair

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The Garnier Fructis Sleek and Shine Shampoo and Conditioner Set is a great choice for those who want to achieve sleek and shiny hair without breaking the bank. Customers love how the product helps to smooth and tame frizz, leaving their hair feeling soft and shiny. They also appreciate the affordable price of the product and the convenience of being able to purchase it as a set. Although some buyers find the scent to be strong, the majority enjoy the fruity and pleasant fragrance.

Best Shampoo and Conditioner for Specific Hair Types

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The TRESemmé Moisture Rich Shampoo and Conditioner Set is a highly recommended product. Customers love the way it leaves their hair feeling soft and moisturized, and appreciate the large size of the bottles that provide great value for money. Although some customers have reported their hair feeling weighed down or greasy, the majority have had a positive experience. The scent of the shampoo and conditioner is strong, which is a plus for those who enjoy a fragrant hair care product.

Best Shampoo and Conditioner for Damaged Hair

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The L’Oreal Paris Elvive Total Repair 5 Repairing Shampoo and Conditioner Set is a hair care product designed to repair damaged hair. The shampoo and conditioner can repair five signs of damage, including split ends, weakness, roughness, dullness, and dehydration. It is an affordable and effective option for those looking to repair their damaged hair. The shampoo and conditioner are easy to use, have a pleasant fragrance, and offer great value for money. But, the product may not work for everyone, and the conditioner may leave a buildup on hair if not rinsed thoroughly. It also contains sulfates, which may not be suitable for those with sensitive skin or hair.

Best Shampoo and Conditioner for Volume

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Many reviews mention that R+Co Dallas Biotin Thickening Shampoo and Conditioner Packette works well for adding volume and thickness to fine hair without weighing it down. This product contains a combination of beneficial ingredients, such as biotin, pro-vitamin B5, and coconut oil, that can enhance the strength and thickness of any hair type. Moreover, R+Co shampoo is impressive due to its UV-protection properties, which can help hair color last longer, especially during the summer months spent on the beach. Additionally, the absence of sulfates in all the brand’s shampoos is a plus for those with color-treated hair. The shampoo’s thickening properties are particularly helpful for those whose hair has become brittle due to treatments, but anyone looking for more volume can enjoy it. Yet, some customers mentioned that the shampoo did not lather well and that the price was too high for the amount of product received.

Best Shampoo and Conditioner for Scalp Issues

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The Moroccanoil Hydrating Shampoo and Conditioner Bundle is a perfect choice for anyone wanting to achieve healthy-looking hair that is well-nourished and hydrated. Customers love how the product leaves their hair feeling soft, smooth, and hydrated. They enjoy the luxurious feel of the product and the pleasant scent. It works wonders for those with dry and damaged hair. Although some buyers find the product a bit expensive, many of them claim that they will buy it again.

Best Shampoo and Conditioner for Dry Hair

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The Olaplex №4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo and №5 Bond Maintenance Conditioner have received rave reviews from satisfied customers. They praised the shampoo’s ability to revive damaged hair and provide moisture, shine, and softness. It is also said to be great for preventing breakage and repairing split ends. Customers loved the pleasant scent of the shampoo and appreciated that it is cruelty-free and vegan. Overall, the Olaplex is a must-try for anyone looking for a high-quality shampoo that can repair and strengthen damaged hair.

Best Shampoo and Conditioner for Hair Extensions

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The product standout for hair extensions is Verb Hydrating Shampoo and Conditioner Set. Reviewers value the natural ingredients and the way their hair feels after use. They have also noticed an improvement in their hair’s overall health and appearance since using the Verb set. If you’re looking for a hydrating shampoo and conditioner set that is gentle on your hair and scalp, Verb shampoo and conditioner are worth consideration.

Determining how often to wash your hair is a key decision to protect your hair. While some people shampoo daily, others may only do so once a week. The decision is typically based on how dirty the hair looks or feels, including the presence of product buildup, dirt, or oil. Additionally, physically active people may need to shampoo more frequently.

Remember to consider your hair type when deciding how often to shampoo and condition it. Frequent washing can strip your hair of its natural oils and dry out your scalp, so it’s best to avoid over-washing. Those with fine or greasy hair should generally wash their hair every other day, while individuals with medium to thick, wavy, curly, coiled, or damaged hair can go longer between washes — usually two to four days. It’s essential to pay attention to signs like product buildup, an itchy scalp, or regular exercise, as these factors can affect how often you need to wash your hair. In some cases, you may be able to extend the time between washes by co-washing, which involves using conditioner to cleanse your hair.

15 BEST HAIR OILS FOR CURLY HAIR YOU SHOULD KNOW

Taming those gorgeous curls can be a whole different ball game! Curly hair is undeniably beautiful, but it can also be susceptible to dryness, frizz, and breakage. In addition to using hair care products such as masks for curly hair, the good news is that hair conditioner is also a potential product. It provides intense hydration, definition and shine. Here is a list of 15 of the best hair oils specially formulated to help you achieve the best curls! We’ll explore a variety of options to meet different hair needs, from budget-friendly options to luxurious treatments. So get ready to ditch the frizz and embrace your gorgeous curls!

OUR TOP PICKS

GARNIER ULTIMATE BLENDS COCONUT HAIR OIL FOR FRIZZY HAIR

Garnier’s Coconut Hair Oil for Frizzy Hair is great for people with dry, damaged, or frizzy curls. It’s made with plant-based ingredients, so it’s good for the environment. Many tests show it makes hair smoother and defines curls well. Most people who tried it liked how soft it made the ends of their hair. Plus, it keeps hair hydrated and healthy. The bottle is a good size at 150ml, and it doesn’t have any harmful chemicals. If you have dry, damaged, or frizzy hair, this oil could be a good choice for you.

KÉRASTASE L’HUILE ELIXIR ULTIME HYDRATING HAIR OIL SERUM

Can’t be left out of the conversation of luxurious hair oils is Kérastase’s L’Huile Elixir Ultime Hydrating Hair Oil Serum. This multi-tasking oil is designed to be suitable for all hair types, but it truly shines for those with fine or limp curls. The lightweight formula absorbs quickly to deliver rich hydration without weighing down your strands. This oil is packed with a blend of botanical oils like marula, argan, and camellia, which work together to tame frizz, boost shine, and strengthen your curls for a healthy, bouncy look.

CHARLOTTE MENSAH MANKETTI HAIR OIL

Formulated specifically as an oil for curly hair, Charlotte Mensah Manketti Hair Oil has garnered multiple awards, making it a standout addition to your hair care routine. This luxurious blend features organic manketti nut and ximenia oils, renowned for their deeply nourishing properties. Serving as a savior for dry and dehydrated curls, it works wonders by imparting shine, taming frizz, and promoting scalp health. Whether you’re seeking a quick shine boost post-styling or opting for an overnight treatment for intensive conditioning, Charlotte Mensah Manketti Hair Oil ensures to elevate your curls, rendering them resilient, manageable, and beautifully defined.

AUSSIE MIRACLE CURLS CURL-DEFINING OIL 

Looking for a budget-friendly option that still delivers great results? Aussie Miracle Curls Curl-Defining Oil might be your new curl BFF. This drugstore favorite is infused with coconut and jojoba oil, offering a wave of hydration to quench thirsty curls. The lightweight formula absorbs quickly, sealing the hair cuticle to lock in moisture and reduce frizz. This translates to softer, shinier curls with enhanced definition, all without that dreaded weighed-down feeling. Plus, it’s paraben-free, making it a good choice for those with sensitive scalps.

LIVING PROOF CURL MOISTURISING SHINE OIL

If you’re seeking a curl-loving oil that prioritizes shine and healthy hydration, Living Proof Curl Moisturizing Shine Oil is a strong contender. This silicone-free formula stands out for its unique biomimetic properties. That essentially means the oil mimics your hair’s natural lipids, seamlessly integrating with your curl structure. This allows it to deliver deep moisture without feeling greasy or heavy. The result? Smooth, hydrated curls with a radiant, healthy shine. Living Proof Curl Moisturizing Shine Oil is versatile too, working wonders before shampooing to add a protective layer, during styling to enhance definition, or even as a post-styling treatment for a touch of extra polish.

OUIDAD MONGONGO CURL TREATMENT OIL

Ouidad’s Mongongo Curl Treatment Oil is a serious contender for the title of best oil for curly hair, especially for those seeking a natural, multi-tasking treatment. This lightweight formula is packed with Mongongo Oil, rich in omega-6 fatty acids, which  nourishes and strengthens curls. It also blends in Broccoli Seed Oil and American Palm Seed Oil to further soften and add shine. Ouidad’s Mongongo Oil goes beyond just surface benefits. It forms a protective barrier to lock in moisture and shield your curls from heat styling and UV damage. The result is defined, frizz-free curls with a healthy, radiant glow. Plus, it’s free of harsh sulfates, silicones, and parabens, making it a great choice for those with sensitive scalps or who prefer a more natural approach to hair care.

PANTENE GOLD SERIES INTENSE HYDRATING HAIR OIL

Designed specifically for all hair types, Pantene’s Gold Series Intense Hydrating Hair Oil offers a compelling option for curly hair on a budget. This paraben-free, sulfate-free, and dye-free formula is infused with the goodness of argan oil, known for its lightweight yet deeply moisturizing properties. The oil absorbs quickly into hair strands, helping to repair dryness and breakage, common woes for curly hair. This translates to stronger, healthier curls with a noticeable boost in shine. Whether you apply it to wet hair for enhanced manageability during styling or use it on dry hair for a touch of extra frizz control and shine, Pantene Gold Series Intense Hydrating Hair Oil promises to add a touch of luxury to your curl care routine at an affordable price.

SHEAMOISTURE 100% PURE ARGAN OIL

Known for its dedication to curly hair care, SheaMoisture offers a 100% Pure Argan Oil that’s a fantastic choice for a natural, multi-purpose treatment. This lightweight oil absorbs quickly to deliver a boost of hydration without weighing down your curls. Packed with Vitamin E and essential fatty acids, it helps to soften and smooth dry, frizzy hair.  This oil is a true multi-tasker – use it as a hair serum, hair oil treatment, or even an anti-frizz solution.  You can even apply it to your skin for an extra dose of moisture.  SheaMoisture’s 100% Pure Argan Oil is a budget-friendly option that allows you to experience the benefits of this “liquid gold” for both your hair and skin.

DEVACURL HIGH SHINE MULTI-BENEFIT CURL OIL

This oil proves to be an excellent choice for individuals with looser, wavier curl patterns, as confirmed by the positive feedback from nearly all our testers who found it effortless to apply evenly without weighing down their hair. Impressively, it excelled in our lab tests for smoothing, a sentiment echoed by the majority of our testers. While a few noted a slight heaviness, most agreed that it effectively avoided leaving greasiness on their ends, making it particularly appealing for those aiming for sleekness without unwanted oily residue. With a convenient size of 50ml and a paraben-free formulation, this oil emerges as a promising solution for managing frizzy hair, offering both easy application and effective smoothing properties.

PATTERN JOJOBA HAIR & SCALP OIL BLEND

Specifically designed for curlies, coilies, and tight textures, Pattern’s Jojoba Hair & Scalp Oil Blend is a lightweight, residue-free formula that offers a touch of heaven for your hair.  This blend combines the power of jojoba oil, known for its similarity to the hair’s natural sebum, with safflower oil, rosehip oil, olive oil, and lavender oil.  Together, these oils work in beautiful harmony to deliver deep moisture without feeling greasy. This is especially beneficial for low porosity hair, helping it retain moisture and prevent breakage. Pattern’s Jojoba Hair & Scalp Oil Blend goes beyond just strands, though. Massaging it into your scalp can help soothe itchiness and reduce flaking caused by dryness, promoting a healthy scalp environment for happy hair growth.

AVEDA NUTRIPLENISH BY AVEDA MULTI-USE HAIR OIL

Aveda’s Nutriplenish Multi-Use Hair Oil is a versatile option that caters to all hair types, including curly hair. This 100% naturally derived formula boasts a concentrated blend of 5 superfood power oils, including organic coconut, olive, and grape seed oil. These oils work together to deliver a powerful punch of hydration and shine, without leaving your curls greasy or weighed down. The key to its versatility lies in its multiple uses. Apply it pre-shampoo as a deep conditioning treatment for dry, thirsty curls. Use it on towel-dried hair for a leave-in treatment that boosts manageability and adds shine during styling.  Aveda’s Nutriplenish Multi-Use Hair Oil is a great choice for those looking for a natural, multi-tasking product that caters to the specific needs of curly hair.

OGX RENEWING + ARGAN OIL OF MOROCCO

If you’re searching for a budget-friendly yet effective hair oil for your curls, OGX Renewing + Argan Oil of Morocco is a strong contender. This lightweight oil is infused with argan oil, a popular choice for its moisturizing and nourishing properties. It absorbs quickly into hair strands, helping to tame frizz and boost shine without leaving a greasy residue. This oil is designed to renew and strengthen hair, promoting elasticity and manageability for your curls. OGX Renewing + Argan Oil of Morocco is also paraben and sulfate-free, making it a good option for those with sensitive scalps or who prefer a more gentle hair care routine.

IMBUE CURL WORSHIPPING SHINE OIL

Specifically designed for curly hair, Imbue Curl Worshipping Shine Oil promises to be a curl-loving hero in your hair care routine. This vegan and “Curly Girl Method”-friendly formula is free of ingredients that can weigh down curls, like sulfates, silicones, and drying alcohols. Instead, it boasts a lightweight cocktail of plant-powered oils like avocado, coconut, cupuaçu, and grapeseed oil. This nourishing blend works wonders on dry, frizzy curls, delivering deep hydration to quench thirst and smooth frizz. Imbue Curl Worshipping Shine Oil is a multi-tasker. Use it on damp hair to lock in moisture and enhance definition during styling, or apply it to dry hair for a touch of extra shine and frizz control. This oil is also gentle enough to be used as an overnight treatment for deep conditioning, leaving your curls soft, manageable, and beautifully defined.

PURA D’OR ORGANIC SWEET ALMOND OIL

For those seeking a natural and affordable option, Pura D’Or Organic Sweet Almond Oil is a great choice for curly hair. This lightweight oil is readily absorbed by hair strands, delivering a dose of hydration without feeling greasy or heavy.  Packed with vitamin E, sweet almond oil helps to strengthen and nourish curls, promoting elasticity and manageability. While it might not be as intensely moisturizing as some other options on this list, it’s a versatile choice for various hair care needs. Use it as a pre-poo treatment to add moisture and soften strands, or apply a small amount to dry hair for a touch of frizz control and shine. Plus, Pura D’Or’s Organic Sweet Almond Oil is a budget-friendly option, making it a great choice for those who are new to using hair oils or want a simple, natural solution for their curly hair routine.

AUSSIE WORK THAT CURL HAIR SERUM WITH JOJOBA SEED OIL

Looking for a budget-friendly curl definer that packs a punch? Aussie Work That Curl Hair Serum with Jojoba Seed Oil might be your new go-to. This drugstore favorite is formulated specifically for curly hair, and boasts a lightweight yet effective formula. The key ingredient here is jojoba seed oil, which is similar to the hair’s natural sebum. This allows it to absorb quickly and deliver targeted hydration without weighing down your curls.  Aussie Work That Curl Hair Serum promises to define your curls, tame frizz, and add a touch of shine, all at an affordable price point. Plus, it’s a vegan formula, making it a great choice for those with specific preferences.  Whether you use it as a finishing touch after styling or apply it to damp hair for enhanced definition, this Aussie serum is a convenient and wallet-friendly option to help you achieve your best curl life.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A HAIR OIL FOR CURLY HAIR

Let’s delve into some key factors to consider when choosing the perfect one for your unique curls:

  • Hair type and porosity: Curly hair comes in a spectrum of textures, from loose waves to tight coils. High porosity hair absorbs moisture quickly but can lose it just as fast, so it might benefit from thicker oils. Low porosity hair has a tighter cuticle and struggles to absorb moisture, so lightweight oils are ideal.
  • Desired benefits: Are you seeking deep hydration for dry curls? Frizz control? Definition and shine? Knowing your priorities will help narrow down your options.
  • Oil properties: Some popular oils for curly hair include argan oil (lightweight and moisturizing), jojoba oil (similar to hair’s natural sebum), coconut oil (deeply moisturizing but can weigh down fine hair), and avocado oil (rich in vitamins and promotes elasticity).
  • Ingredients: Curly hair can be prone to dryness, so be on the lookout for oils rich in fatty acids and vitamins. If you have a sensitive scalp, you might want to avoid products with sulfates, silicones, or drying alcohols.
  • Budget: Hair oils range in price from budget-friendly drugstore options to luxurious salon brands. There’s a great oil out there for everyone, so consider your budget and hair care needs.

By considering these factors, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect hair oil to nourish, define, and enhance your beautiful curls!

WHEN SHOULD YOU  APPLY OIL TO CURLY HAIR?

Hair oils serve as excellent aids in locking in moisture, primarily after conditioning, but they also prove beneficial when applied to dry ends between wash days or utilized as a deep conditioning treatment before shampooing.

CONCLUSION

With this arsenal of 15 of the best hair oils for curly hair at your fingertips, you’re well on your way to unlocking your hair’s full potential.  Remember, the “best” hair oil is the one that caters to your unique curl pattern, hair porosity, and desired results.  So, explore the options we’ve shared, consider the buying guide, and get ready to embrace your gorgeous, healthy curls!