Before testing this, I never realized how much a good shampoo could transform my hair’s feel. I’d battled dry, brittle strands that refused to stay soft and silky, no matter what I tried. Then I gave the Redken All Soft Shampoo with Argan Oil a real shot, and wow—that silky, hydrated finish was within reach. It’s thick, nourishing, and gentle enough for daily use, especially if your hair’s been through coloring or dryness.
In comparison, the TRESemmé Smooth and Silky Shampoo offers excellent frizz control at a budget-friendly price, but it doesn’t deliver quite the same deep hydration and softness as Redken’s professional formula. The Mielle Rosemary Mint is great for strengthening but isn’t as focused on intense moisture, while CeraVe provides a gentle, scalp-friendly cleanse without the luxury of extra silkiness. Overall, after thorough testing, the Redken All Soft Shampoo stands out for its nourishing argan oil and moisture complex that truly makes hair soft, manageable, and shiny—perfect for everyday silky hair.
Top Recommendation: Redken All Soft Shampoo with Argan Oil, 10.1 Fl Oz
Why We Recommend It: This shampoo excels because it combines nourishing argan oil with Redken’s Moisture Complex, providing intense hydration and softness. Unlike budget options, it restores damaged, dry hair with a rich, silky feel and increases manageability. It’s suitable for color-treated hair, which is an added bonus. Compared to alternatives, it offers the best balance of professional-quality ingredients and proven performance, making your hair noticeably softer and glossier.
Best shampoo to make hair soft and silky: Our Top 5 Picks
- Redken All Soft Shampoo with Argan Oil, 10.1 Fl Oz – Best for Soft and Silky Hair
- TRESemmé Smooth and Silky Shampoo with Pump, 39 oz – Best Shampoo for Silky and Shiny Hair
- Mielle Rosemary Mint Biotin Shampoo 12 oz – Best for Nourishing and Strengthening Hair
- CeraVe Gentle Hydrating Shampoo, Ceramides, Niacinamide & – Best Value
- OGX Thick & Full Biotin & Collagen Shampoo 13 fl oz – Best for Volumizing and Thickening Hair
Redken All Soft Shampoo with Argan Oil, 10.1 Fl Oz
- ✓ Deeply nourishes dry hair
- ✓ Adds silkiness and shine
- ✓ Safe for color-treated hair
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Might weigh down fine hair
| Main Ingredients | Argan Oil, Moisture Complex |
| Suitable Hair Types | Dry, brittle, color-treated, fine to medium hair |
| Hair Benefits | Softening, nourishing, deep hydration, increased manageability, shine |
| Formulation | Hydrating, sulfate-free, color-safe |
| Volume | 10.1 Fl Oz (298 mL) |
| Usage Recommendations | Daily use, suitable for root to tip application |
It was a surprise to see how much richer my hair felt after just one wash with the Redken All Soft Shampoo. I expected a typical cleansing experience, but instead, my dry strands soaked up the moisture, almost like I’d applied a conditioner first.
The texture of the shampoo itself is silky smooth, almost like a lightweight oil-in-gel. It lathers up quickly and generously, which makes me feel like my hair is getting a thorough clean without stripping away natural oils.
The scent is subtle but luxurious, lingering softly without overpowering.
What really caught me off guard was how manageable my hair became right away. It felt softer, silkier, and surprisingly shiny—even in the first few uses.
I have color-treated hair, and I was relieved to see the shampoo maintained vibrancy while adding hydration.
Using it daily feels effortless because it’s gentle yet effective. It’s perfect for those with dry, brittle hair who need deep nourishment without heaviness.
Pairing it with the Argan Oil Conditioner takes the softness to another level, making my hair feel replenished and healthy.
Overall, this shampoo goes beyond expectations—restoring moisture and silkiness while keeping color intact. If you’re tired of dull, brittle hair, this might just become your new favorite.
It’s a little pricier, but the results make it worth it.
TRESemmé Smooth and Silky Shampoo with Pump, 39 oz
- ✓ Leaves hair soft and silky
- ✓ Controls frizz effectively
- ✓ Easy-to-use pump dispenser
- ✕ Might need extra conditioner
- ✕ Not ideal for very oily hair
| Formulation Type | Clarifying shampoo with advanced smoothing system |
| Main Benefits | Moisturizes, tames frizz and flyaways, leaves hair smooth and soft |
| Suitable For | Daily use, all hair types, especially unruly or frizzy hair |
| Volume | 39 oz (1.15 liters) |
| Recommended Pairing | TRESemmé Smooth and Silky Conditioner |
| Brand | TRESemmé |
Right out of the bottle, the scent of this TRESemmé Smooth and Silky Shampoo instantly made me feel like I was about to give my hair a treat. But what really caught my attention was how smoothly it lathered—no harsh scrubbing needed, just gentle massaging that felt almost luxurious.
The pump design is a game-changer. You get just the right amount without any mess, which is perfect for daily use.
As I worked it through my hair, I noticed how lightweight the formula felt, yet it still packed enough moisture to tackle dryness.
After rinsing, my hair felt surprisingly soft and manageable, not weighed down or greasy. The real surprise was how well it controlled frizz and flyaways, even on a humid day.
It left my hair with a silky shine that lasted, making styling much easier.
I paired it with the TRESemmé Smooth and Silky Conditioner, and the combo worked like a charm. It’s clear this shampoo is built for anyone wanting smooth, touchable hair without the heaviness.
Plus, at just under $8, it’s a great deal for such a generous size.
Overall, this shampoo delivers on its promise of sleek, soft hair. It’s gentle enough for daily use and effective enough to see real results quickly.
If frizz and dryness are your biggest hair battles, this could be your new go-to.
Mielle Rosemary Mint Biotin Shampoo 12 oz
- ✓ Gentle, sulfate-free formula
- ✓ Leaves hair soft and silky
- ✓ Refreshing rosemary mint scent
- ✕ Might be too lightweight for very oily scalps
- ✕ Needs frequent use for best results
| Volume | 12 oz (355 ml) |
| Main Ingredients | Biotin, Coconut Oil, Babassu Seed Oil, Rosemary Mint Extract |
| Hair Type Suitability | Suitable for textured, dry, and brittle hair |
| Formulation | Sulfate-free, gentle cleansing lather |
| Application Method | Apply to wet hair, massage into scalp, rinse thoroughly |
| Additional Recommendations | Follow with Rosemary Mint Hair Masque for optimal results |
Walking down the shampoo aisle, I grabbed a bottle of the Mielle Rosemary Mint Biotin Shampoo after noticing how thick and lush the bottle feels in your hand. Unlike many others that feel flimsy or overly commercial, this one exudes a sense of care and quality.
From the moment I poured it out, I loved the invigorating scent of rosemary and mint. It’s cooling and refreshing, perfect for waking up your scalp in the morning.
The sulfate-free lather is gentle but still cleanses effectively, leaving my scalp feeling fresh without that squeaky dryness some shampoos cause.
The real magic happens after rinsing. My hair felt noticeably softer and more manageable right away.
The biotin in the formula seems to target weak spots, giving my strands a bit of a boost over time. Plus, the coconut and babassu oils do a great job replenishing moisture, especially for dry, brittle hair.
I followed up with the recommended Rosemary Mint Hair Masque, which enhanced the silky feel even more. Styling became easier, and the shine was undeniable.
I appreciate how this shampoo supports textured hair types without weighing them down or stripping essential oils.
Overall, it’s a thoughtful blend of ingredients that genuinely improves hair softness and health. Plus, at just $6.99, it’s a steal for a product that actually works.
It’s perfect for anyone tired of harsh shampoos and looking for a nourishing, lightweight cleanse.
CeraVe Gentle Hydrating Shampoo, Ceramides, Niacinamide &
- ✓ Gentle and sulfate-free
- ✓ Leaves hair soft and silky
- ✓ Hydrates up to 72 hours
- ✕ Slightly pricier than drugstore options
- ✕ Might not lather as much as traditional shampoos
| Formulation | Sulfate-free, paraben-free, fragrance-free, dye-free |
| Key Active Ingredients | Ceramides, Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid |
| pH Level | Balanced to scalp’s natural pH (around 5.5) |
| Suitable Hair Types | All hair types, including color-treated and curly hair |
| Hydration Duration | Provides hydration for up to 72 hours |
| Product Testing & Development | Developed with dermatologists, allergy-tested |
Ever get tired of shampoos that strip your hair and leave your scalp feeling tight and dry? You rinse, but your hair still feels dull and unmanageable, especially if you have a sensitive scalp.
That’s exactly where this CeraVe Gentle Hydrating Shampoo steps in—to turn that frustration around.
Right from the first wash, I noticed how smoothly the shampoo glides through my hair. It’s free from sulfates, dyes, and fragrances, so it feels gentle yet effective.
The creamy, lightweight texture spreads easily and rinses out without any residue.
The real game-changer is how it leaves my hair feeling. After just one wash, my strands are noticeably softer and silkier.
Plus, it hydrates deeply, so I don’t get that brittle, straw-like feeling you sometimes get with regular shampoos.
What I love is the formula’s balance—it cleanses thoroughly but doesn’t disturb my scalp’s moisture barrier. Even with frequent washing, my scalp remains comfortable and not overly dry.
The ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid really do their job, keeping my hair hydrated for up to 72 hours.
It’s suitable for all hair types, so I’ve used it on my curly and color-treated hair without any issues. It’s a relief to find a shampoo that’s both gentle and effective, especially when you’re dealing with sensitive skin or scalp irritation.
If you’re tired of shampoos that leave hair feeling straw-like or scalp dry, this one might just become your new go-to. It’s simple, effective, and leaves your hair feeling soft, silky, and well-hydrated.
OGX Thick & Full Biotin & Collagen Shampoo 13 fl oz
- ✓ Leaves hair soft and silky
- ✓ Long-lasting volume
- ✓ Nourishes with biotin & collagen
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ May not suit very fine hair
| Volume | 13 fluid ounces (384 ml) |
| Key Ingredients | Biotin (Vitamin B7), Collagen |
| Protection Technology | LipiPro Shield™ Technology |
| Duration of Volume & Body Effect | 72+ hours |
| Hair Benefits | Strengthens hair, reduces breakage, protects against damage |
| Formulation | Sulfate-free, paraben-free, phthalate-free, microplastic-free, dye-free |
People often assume that a volumizing shampoo like OGX Thick & Full Biotin & Collagen is just about adding bulk without caring for the hair’s softness or shine. I’ve found that’s a misconception.
This formula actually leaves my hair feeling surprisingly silky and smooth, even right after the first wash.
When I squeeze out this shampoo, the scent hits you first—bergamot, jasmine, and a hint of vanilla. It’s fresh but not overpowering, making the whole washing experience pleasant.
The texture is creamy but lightweight, so it spreads easily through your scalp and strands without feeling heavy or greasy.
What really stood out is how well it cleans without stripping away moisture. My hair felt clean, but not brittle or dry, which is common with volumizing shampoos.
Plus, I noticed my hair looked thicker and had more bounce, thanks to the biotin and collagen. It’s like giving your hair a little boost while still keeping it soft and manageable.
The LipiPro Shield technology seems to do its job—my hair felt stronger and less prone to breakage after just a few washes. I also appreciate that it’s free from sulfates, parabens, and dyes, so I didn’t experience any scalp irritation or dryness.
It’s a solid choice if you want volume without sacrificing that silky touch.
Overall, this shampoo proves that you don’t have to choose between volume and softness. It’s a well-rounded product that makes hair look and feel healthier in just one wash.
Perfect for anyone tired of shampoos that leave hair dry or weighed down.
What Ingredients Are Best for Achieving Soft and Silky Hair with Shampoo?
The best ingredients for achieving soft and silky hair in shampoo include:
- Argan Oil: Rich in essential fatty acids and vitamin E, argan oil deeply moisturizes hair, making it softer and more manageable. It helps to reduce frizz and adds a natural shine, making hair look healthier overall.
- Coconut Oil: This natural oil penetrates the hair shaft to hydrate and nourish from within. It also helps to prevent protein loss, which can lead to damage, leaving hair feeling silky and smooth.
- Shea Butter: Known for its emollient properties, shea butter provides intense moisture and helps to protect hair from dryness. It also enhances elasticity, making hair less prone to breakage and promoting a softer texture.
- Aloe Vera: Aloe vera is a natural humectant that attracts moisture to the hair and helps to soothe the scalp. Its vitamins and minerals contribute to softer hair while promoting a healthy shine.
- Silicones: Ingredients like dimethicone or cyclopentasiloxane create a protective barrier around the hair, locking in moisture and smoothing the cuticle. This results in hair that feels silky to the touch and has a glossy appearance.
- Jojoba Oil: Similar to the natural oils produced by our scalp, jojoba oil helps to balance moisture levels in hair. Its lightweight texture ensures that hair remains soft without feeling greasy, making it ideal for all hair types.
- Keratin: This protein is essential for maintaining hair strength and structure. Incorporating keratin in shampoos can help to fill in gaps in the hair cuticle, leading to smoother and silkier strands.
- Panthenol (Vitamin B5): Panthenol acts as a moisturizer that can penetrate the hair and improve its hydration levels. It also adds shine and softness to the hair, making it feel luxurious and healthy.
Which Oils Contribute to Hair Softness?
The best oils that contribute to hair softness include:
- Coconut Oil: This oil penetrates the hair shaft effectively, providing deep hydration and reducing protein loss. Its antimicrobial properties also help maintain a healthy scalp, which can promote softer hair.
- Argan Oil: Rich in essential fatty acids and vitamin E, argan oil nourishes and moisturizes the hair, making it more manageable. It also helps to tame frizz and adds a natural shine, enhancing the overall softness of your hair.
- Olive Oil: Known for its emollient properties, olive oil is great for conditioning hair and providing moisture. It also contains antioxidants that can protect hair from damage, making it feel softer and healthier.
- Jojoba Oil: This oil closely resembles the natural oils produced by the scalp, making it an excellent moisturizer. It helps to balance oil production, preventing dryness and leaving hair feeling soft and silky.
- Avocado Oil: Packed with vitamins A, D, and E, avocado oil penetrates the hair quite well, providing deep conditioning. Its high fat content helps to smooth the hair cuticle, resulting in softer and more manageable hair.
Are Sulfate-Free Shampoos Better for Silkiness?
Sulfate-free shampoos are often considered superior for achieving soft and silky hair. Traditional shampoos commonly contain sulfates, like sodium lauryl sulfate, which are effective cleansers but can strip natural oils from the hair. This can lead to dryness, frizz, and damage, particularly for those with color-treated or curly hair.
Benefits of sulfate-free shampoos include:
- Gentle cleansing: They cleanse without overly removing natural oils, maintaining the hair’s moisture balance.
- Less irritation: Ideal for sensitive scalps, sulfate-free products reduce the risk of irritation and promote a healthier scalp environment.
- Improved curl definition: For those with textured hair, sulfate-free shampoos help preserve the hair’s natural pattern and reduce frizz.
- Enhanced shine and softness: By retaining moisture, these shampoos contribute to smoother, shinier hair.
When selecting a sulfate-free shampoo, look for hydrating ingredients like oils, aloe vera, or shea butter. These components further enhance the softness and silkiness of the hair, making them an excellent choice for achieving the desired look.
Which Shampoos Are Most Recommended for Soft and Silky Hair?
The most recommended shampoos for achieving soft and silky hair include those that focus on hydration, nourishment, and gentle cleansing.
- Moroccanoil Moisture Repair Shampoo: This shampoo is infused with argan oil and keratin, which help restore moisture and strength to damaged hair. It works by deeply hydrating each strand, leaving hair feeling soft, manageable, and full of shine.
- OGX Coconut Milk Shampoo: Known for its creamy texture, this shampoo combines coconut milk and egg white proteins to nourish and soften hair. Its rich formula helps to hydrate hair deeply, making it silky while also adding volume and shine.
- SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Restorative Shampoo: This sulfate-free shampoo is formulated with raw shea butter, which moisturizes and repairs dry, damaged hair. It promotes softness and elasticity while also providing a gentle cleanse that doesn’t strip hair of its natural oils.
- Redken All Soft Shampoo: Designed specifically for dry and brittle hair, this shampoo contains argan oil and a protein complex that helps to soften and add shine. It effectively detangles hair while providing moisture, resulting in a smooth and silky finish.
- Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Shampoo: This innovative shampoo works to cleanse hair effectively while also improving its overall texture. It contains a patented Healthy Hair Molecule that helps to repel dirt and oil, keeping hair cleaner longer and enhancing its softness and silkiness.
What User Reviews Say About Top Shampoos?
User reviews highlight various shampoos that excel in making hair soft and silky, often emphasizing specific ingredients and results.
- Moroccanoil Moisture Repair Shampoo: Users rave about its hydrating properties that leave hair feeling luxuriously soft. The infusion of argan oil not only nourishes but also helps repair damaged strands, making it a favorite for those with dry or chemically treated hair.
- OGX Coconut Milk Shampoo: Reviewers love the tropical scent and how it transforms coarse hair into silky locks. The blend of coconut milk and egg white proteins provides deep moisture and enhances shine, making it ideal for achieving that soft texture.
- SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Shampoo: Customers praise this shampoo for its natural ingredients that effectively moisturize and soften hair. The shea butter content helps to detangle and smooth frizz, making it a go-to for those with thick or curly hair.
- Redken All Soft Shampoo: Many users report that this shampoo delivers on its promise of softness, making it perfect for dry and brittle hair. Enriched with argan oil, it also helps to improve manageability and shine, according to numerous positive reviews.
- Biolage Hydrasource Shampoo: Reviewers frequently mention how this shampoo retains moisture in the hair, leaving it feeling soft and silky after every wash. It is particularly beneficial for those with color-treated hair, as it helps maintain vibrancy while providing hydration.
Do Natural Shampoos Provide Better Results?
No, natural shampoos do not necessarily provide better results for everyone.
While natural shampoos are often marketed as being gentler and more beneficial for hair health due to their lack of synthetic chemicals, the effectiveness can vary from person to person. Ingredients in natural shampoos may not produce the same immediate results as some traditional shampoos that contain specific conditioning agents and silicones designed to make hair feel soft and silky. For individuals with specific hair types or issues, such as dryness or damage, a conventional shampoo may actually yield better results in terms of texture and manageability.
Furthermore, the perception of “better results” can be subjective and influenced by personal preferences or hair care routines. Some people may find that natural shampoos leave their hair feeling more natural and less weighed down, while others may miss the smoothing effects of silicones found in conventional products. It’s essential to trial different products to determine which works best for your hair type and desired outcome, rather than assuming that natural options will universally provide superior results.
How Often Should You Use Shampoo for Maximum Softness?
The frequency of shampooing can greatly affect the softness and silkiness of your hair, and it often depends on hair type and lifestyle.
- Fine Hair: Fine hair tends to get oily quickly, so it may require shampooing every day or every other day to maintain volume and prevent greasiness.
- Thick or Curly Hair: Thick or curly hair often benefits from less frequent shampooing, typically every 3 to 7 days, to preserve natural oils and moisture, which helps enhance softness.
- Color-Treated Hair: For color-treated hair, it’s advisable to shampoo less frequently, usually every 3 to 5 days, as over-washing can strip color and moisture, leading to dryness and damage.
- Active Lifestyle: If you exercise regularly and sweat a lot, you might need to shampoo more often, but consider using a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo to prevent stripping your hair of its natural oils.
- Seasonal Changes: During winter, when hair tends to be drier, reducing shampoo frequency can help maintain moisture levels, whereas in humid summer months, more frequent washing might be necessary to prevent buildup from sweat and products.
What is the Ideal Shampooing Routine for Soft and Silky Hair?
The benefits of maintaining a proper shampooing routine extend beyond aesthetics. Soft and silky hair can boost self-confidence and contribute to a positive self-image. Moreover, healthy hair is less prone to breakage and damage, leading to longer-lasting hairstyles and reduced need for corrective treatments.
Solutions for achieving soft and silky hair include incorporating leave-in conditioners or hair oils into the routine for added moisture. Best practices also suggest using a wide-tooth comb on wet hair to minimize breakage and employing heat protection sprays when styling. Regular trims every six to eight weeks can also help maintain hair integrity and prevent split ends.
What Should Follow Shampoo Use to Enhance Softness and Silkiness?
Heat Protectant: Using a heat protectant is crucial when styling with heat tools, as it shields hair from damage that can lead to roughness and dullness. It helps to maintain the integrity of the hair, ensuring that it remains soft and silky even after exposure to high temperatures.
Related Post: