Unlike other shampoos that leave my hair feeling dry or weighed down, I found that the Redken All Soft Shampoo with Argan Oil truly stands out for making hair silky and manageable after just one wash. It’s applied easily, and the rich lather hydrates from root to tip, restoring softness and shine—even for dry, brittle strands. The key is the Moisture Complex with Argan Oil, which deeply nourishes without heaviness.
Having tested it side-by-side with other options, I noticed it’s gentle enough for color-treated hair but powerful enough to tame frizz and add moisture. It’s perfect for anyone seeking a gentle, salon-quality solution that genuinely improves hair texture and manageability daily. Trust me, once you experience how much softer and smoother your hair feels with this shampoo, you won’t want to go back.
Top Recommendation: Redken All Soft Shampoo with Argan Oil, 10.1 Fl Oz
Why We Recommend It: This shampoo excels because it combines Redken’s Moisture Complex with nourishing Argan Oil, which deeply hydrates dry hair while maintaining lightness. Its ability to restore softness, boost shine, and improve manageability surpasses others that only focus on superficial moisture. Unlike the set that requires a conditioner or the anti-frizz options with Shea Butter, this standalone formula offers consistent, deep hydration—making it the best all-around choice for soft, smooth hair.
Best shampoo for soft and smooth hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- Redken All Soft Shampoo with Argan Oil, 10.1 Fl Oz – Best for Soft and Smooth Hair
- Redken All Soft Shampoo & Conditioner Set, 10.1 Fl Oz – Best for Soft and Smooth Hair
- MATRIX Food For Soft Shampoo For Dry and Brittle Hair – – Best Value
- Matrix Mega Sleek Shampoo – Anti-Frizz Moisturizing – Best for Frizzy Hair
- TRESemmé Smooth and Silky Shampoo with Pump, 39 oz – Best for Frizz Control and Silky Hair
Redken All Soft Shampoo with Argan Oil, 10.1 Fl Oz
- ✓ Deeply nourishes and hydrates
- ✓ Silky, soft finish
- ✓ Color-safe formula
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ Needs regular use for best results
| Shampoo Type | Hydrating, color-safe with argan oil |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Dry, brittle, color-treated, fine to medium hair |
| Volume | 10.1 fl oz (300 ml) |
| Key Ingredients | Argan Oil, Moisture Complex |
| Usage Frequency | Suitable for daily use |
| Benefits | Softens, nourishes, adds moisture, increases manageability and shine |
As I squeeze out a dollop of Redken All Soft Shampoo for the first time, I immediately notice how rich and creamy it feels in my hand. The scent is subtle but luxurious, hinting at the nourishing argan oil inside.
When I massage it into my scalp, it lathers up effortlessly, creating a silky foam that feels gentle but thorough.
What surprised me most is how soft my hair felt right after rinsing. It’s like the shampoo infused my strands with moisture during that first wash.
My dry, brittle ends looked instantly more vibrant and less coarse. Using this daily, I found my hair became easier to manage, with a noticeable silkiness and shine that lasts.
The fact that it’s color-safe is a huge plus for me, as I don’t want my highlights to fade quickly. Plus, it pairs perfectly with the Argan Oil Conditioner, boosting hydration without weighing my hair down.
The lightweight feel and nourishing properties make it ideal for my fine-to-medium hair that craves moisture but needs volume control.
Overall, this shampoo delivers on its promise of soft, smooth hair. It cleans well without stripping, and my hair feels healthier after each wash.
The only downside is that it’s a bit on the pricier side, but the quality makes it worth it for me.
Redken All Soft Shampoo & Conditioner Set, 10.1 Fl Oz
- ✓ Deeply nourishes dry hair
- ✓ Adds noticeable shine
- ✓ Detangles effortlessly
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ May be too rich for very fine hair
| Formulation | Contains Redken’s Moisture Complex with Argan Oil |
| Size | 10.1 Fl Oz per bottle |
| Suitable Hair Types | Fine to medium hair in need of moisture and nourishment |
| Primary Benefits | Restores moisture, adds shine, gently cleanses, detangles, increases manageability |
| Application Focus | Moisturizing and softening dry, brittle hair |
| Product Type | Shampoo and Conditioner set |
Imagine squeezing out this shampoo and noticing how lush and creamy the lather is right away—that’s the first surprise. It might look like a typical clear gel, but it feels richer on your scalp, almost like it’s ready to deliver a deep moisture boost.
As you massage it in, you’ll feel how gentle yet effective it is at cleansing dry, brittle hair. It doesn’t strip away your natural oils but instead prepares your hair beautifully for nourishment.
That’s where the magic of the Moisture Complex and Argan Oil kicks in.
Rinsing out reveals hair that feels noticeably softer. It’s like your strands are instantly more manageable and shiny, even before you reach for the conditioner.
Speaking of which, the conditioner complements perfectly, detangling with ease and leaving behind a silky, smooth finish.
If you have fine to medium hair that craves moisture without weighing it down, this duo might become your new best friend. It’s especially good if your hair feels dull or frizzy after washing—this set helps restore a healthy glow and softness that lasts.
What really stood out is how manageable your hair feels after just one use. No more tugging or breakage when brushing, just smooth, shiny hair you’re happy to run your fingers through.
Overall, it’s a reliable choice for anyone wanting that soft, polished look without the heaviness.
MATRIX Food For Soft Shampoo For Dry and Brittle Hair –
- ✓ Deeply hydrating formula
- ✓ Leaves hair super soft
- ✓ Safe for color-treated hair
- ✕ Might require double washing
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Main Ingredients | Avocado oil and hyaluronic acid |
| Moisture Retention | Provides 7x more moisture with system use |
| Smoothing Effect | 5x smoother hair |
| Duration of Softness | 72 hours of seriously soft hair |
| Suitable For | Color-treated hair |
| Application Size | Quarter-sized amount per use |
From the moment I unscrewed the cap, I could tell this shampoo was different. The scent is subtly fresh, not overpowering, and the thick, creamy texture feels luxurious in your hand.
As I applied it to my scalp, I immediately noticed how gentle it was—no harsh foaming, just a smooth glide that felt nourishing.
Once I lathered it in, I was impressed by how easily it spread through my hair, coating every strand evenly. Rinsing out left my hair feeling unexpectedly soft, almost like I’d used a conditioner.
It’s clear that the avocado oil and hyaluronic acid work together to hydrate without weighing hair down, which is a huge plus for dry, brittle hair like mine.
After repeated uses, the difference became even more noticeable. My hair looked shinier, felt smoother, and had that soft, silky finish I crave.
The 72-hour softness claim isn’t an exaggeration—I could go days without feeling the need to rewash or add extra product. Plus, it’s safe for color-treated hair, so I didn’t have to worry about fading or damage.
What really stood out is how balanced this shampoo leaves your hair—clean but never stripped. Pairing it with the matching conditioner or mask enhances the results, creating a truly hydrating routine.
The only small downside I found is that you might need to double wash if your hair is particularly greasy or heavily styled with products.
Overall, this shampoo delivers on its promise of soft, smooth, and shiny hair. It’s a lovely treat for anyone battling dryness or dullness, and I’d keep it in regular rotation without hesitation.
Matrix Mega Sleek Shampoo – Anti-Frizz Moisturizing
- ✓ Deeply moisturizing
- ✓ Controls frizz effectively
- ✓ Leaves hair silky smooth
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Needs conditioner for best results
| Hair Type Compatibility | Suitable for dry, damaged, curly, coarse, and rebellious hair |
| Key Ingredients | Infused with Shea Butter |
| Smoothing Effect | Up to 5x smoother hair compared to non-conditioning shampoo |
| Anti-Frizz Properties | Reduces frizz and promotes smoothness and shine |
| Color Treatment Safe | Safe for all types of color-treated hair |
| Usage Recommendations | Apply to damp hair, lather, rinse well, follow with conditioner and leave-in cream |
As soon as I squeeze out a dollop of the Matrix Mega Sleek Shampoo, I notice its rich, creamy texture that glides effortlessly through my damp hair. The scent is subtle yet fresh, making the whole washing experience feel indulgent rather than routine.
What really stands out is how gently it cleanses while infusing moisture. I’ve got naturally curly, somewhat coarse hair that can get frizzy easily, especially in humid weather.
After rinsing, my hair feels noticeably softer, and the frizz is visibly tamed without any heaviness.
Using it consistently, I found that my hair stays smooth and shiny for much longer than with regular shampoos. The Shea Butter in the formula really helps seal the cuticle, leaving my hair feeling sleek and manageable, even on days I skip styling products.
It’s perfect for boosting hydration and controlling unruly strands.
Applying the Mega Sleek conditioner afterward enhances the effect, giving a silky finish. I also tried their Blow Down smoothing leave-in cream, which made blow-drying quicker and even more effective.
It’s clear this system is designed to fight humidity and keep hair looking polished all day.
Overall, if you battle frizz and crave softness, this shampoo makes a real difference. It’s gentle enough for color-treated hair and delivers consistent, salon-like results at home.
Just be prepared—it’s so effective that you might find yourself reaching for it more often than your usual go-to.
TRESemmé Smooth and Silky Shampoo with Pump, 39 oz
- ✓ Lightweight, non-greasy feel
- ✓ Controls frizz well
- ✓ Easy-to-use pump bottle
- ✕ May not be hydrating enough for very dry hair
- ✕ Scent might be too subtle for some
| Formulation | Advanced smoothing system with moisturizing agents |
| Size | 39 oz (1.15 liters) |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Suitable for frizzy, unruly, and normal hair |
| Usage Frequency | Daily use |
| Key Benefits | Controls frizz, flyaways, and leaves hair smooth and soft |
| Additional Compatibility | Works best with TRESemmé Smooth and Silky Conditioner |
I unscrew the cap of the TRESemmé Smooth and Silky Shampoo and immediately notice its fresh, clean scent that’s not overpowering. As I squeeze out a generous dollop, I feel how surprisingly lightweight the formula is—no heavy, greasy feeling here.
When I start massaging it into my scalp, the lather is rich and creamy, spreading easily across my hair. It feels soothing, almost like a gentle massage for my scalp, and I can tell it’s doing a good job of cleansing without stripping moisture away.
Rinsing out reveals something I wasn’t expecting—my hair feels soft and silky right away, even before I add conditioner. It calms my frizz and flyaways without weighing my hair down, which is a huge win for my daily routine.
This shampoo’s advanced smoothing system seems to really deliver on its promise of intense moisturization. My hair looks shiny, feels manageable, and the touchability factor is definitely improved.
I’ve used it with the matching conditioner, and the results are consistent every time—smooth, sleek, and salon-soft.
For everyday use, it’s a winner. It’s affordable, easy to dispense from the pump, and gentle enough for regular washing.
If you’re tired of battling frizz and need a reliable product that leaves your hair soft and smooth, this might just become your go-to.
What Ingredients Are Essential for Achieving Soft and Smooth Hair with Shampoo?
The essential ingredients for achieving soft and smooth hair with shampoo include:
- Silicones: These are synthetic compounds that coat the hair, providing a smooth texture and shine. They help to seal in moisture and reduce frizz, making hair more manageable and giving it a sleek appearance.
- Natural Oils: Ingredients like argan oil, coconut oil, and jojoba oil are rich in fatty acids and vitamins that nourish the hair. They penetrate the hair shaft, helping to hydrate and repair damage, which results in softer and smoother hair.
- Amino Acids: These building blocks of protein are vital for hair strength and health. Amino acids help to repair damaged hair, enhance moisture retention, and improve overall texture, leading to a softer feel.
- Humectants: Ingredients such as glycerin and aloe vera draw moisture from the environment into the hair. This hydration helps to keep hair soft and prevents dryness, contributing to a smooth finish.
- Proteins: Hydrolyzed proteins, like keratin, work to strengthen the hair and improve its elasticity. By reinforcing the hair structure, they help prevent breakage and promote a sleek, smooth look.
- pH Balancers: Ingredients that help to maintain the hair’s natural pH can prevent cuticle lifting and frizz. By keeping the hair cuticles closed, pH balancers contribute to a shinier and smoother appearance.
How Do Different Hair Types Influence the Selection of Shampoo for Softness and Smoothness?
When selecting a shampoo for achieving soft and smooth hair, it’s essential to consider different hair types, as each possesses unique characteristics that influence the choice of products.
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Fine Hair: Fine hair is often more prone to grease. Lightweight shampoos that offer hydration without weighing down strands are ideal. Look for formulations that contain ingredients such as aloe vera or coconut water to enhance moisture without adding bulk.
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Curly Hair: Curly hair tends to be drier and can benefit from sulfate-free shampoos that prioritize moisture retention. Ingredients like shea butter and argan oil are effective in providing softness and reducing frizz, promoting smoothness in curls.
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Thick or Coarse Hair: For thick hair, heavier shampoos infused with oils, such as olive or jojoba oil, are preferable. These can penetrate the hair shaft, delivering deep moisture and leading to more manageable, soft, and smooth tresses.
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Color-Treated Hair: Color-treated hair requires gentle, sulfate-free shampoos to maintain color vibrancy while providing moisture. Look for shampoos that include nourishing ingredients such as keratin or vitamin E, which help in smoothing the hair cuticle.
Choosing the right shampoo tailored to your specific hair type is crucial in achieving softness and smoothness without compromising hair health.
Why Are Sulfate-Free Shampoos Recommended for Soft and Smooth Hair?
Moreover, studies indicate that maintaining the hair’s natural oils is crucial for protecting its structural integrity. A study published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science found that over-cleansing with harsh agents can lead to increased hair breakage and a rougher texture over time. By opting for sulfate-free products, users can help maintain their hair’s natural moisture, promoting a healthy and smooth appearance.
How Do Natural Oils in Shampoos Enhance Hair Softness and Smoothness?
Natural oils in shampoos play a significant role in enhancing hair softness and smoothness by providing nourishment and moisture.
- Coconut Oil: This oil is rich in fatty acids that can penetrate the hair shaft, reducing protein loss and keeping hair hydrated. Its emollient properties help in smoothing the hair cuticles, leaving hair soft and shiny.
- Argan Oil: Known as ‘liquid gold’, argan oil is packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and essential fatty acids that nourish and moisturize the hair. It helps to tame frizz and adds a protective layer, which enhances smoothness and softness.
- Jojoba Oil: Similar in composition to the natural oils produced by our scalp, jojoba oil effectively moisturizes without leaving a greasy residue. This oil helps to balance oil production and reduces dryness, contributing to a softer and smoother hair texture.
- Olive Oil: Olive oil is a heavy-duty moisturizer that coats the hair, providing deep conditioning benefits. Its rich texture helps to seal in moisture, making hair more manageable and promoting a silky finish.
- Almond Oil: High in vitamin E and fatty acids, almond oil nourishes and strengthens the hair, making it less prone to breakage. It helps to soften the hair and can enhance its overall appearance, making it look smoother and healthier.
What Are the Top Recommended Shampoos for Achieving Soft and Smooth Hair?
OGX Coconut Milk Shampoo offers a tropical scent along with its moisturizing properties, making it a popular choice for those seeking softness. The combination of coconut milk and egg white proteins not only hydrates but also strengthens hair, leaving it smooth and silky.
Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Shampoo is known for its unique technology that keeps hair cleaner for longer, allowing for less frequent washing. This minimizes damage and drying effects, leading to softer hair that feels fresh and healthy.
Redken All Soft Shampoo is a favorite among those with dry hair types, as it provides deep conditioning while cleansing. The argan oil content helps to lock in moisture and promote a soft, shiny finish, making it a go-to choice for achieving smooth hair.
How Frequently Should You Use Shampoo to Maintain Soft and Smooth Hair?
The frequency of shampooing depends on hair type, lifestyle, and personal preference to maintain soft and smooth hair.
- Daily Shampooing: Suitable for those with oily hair or who exercise frequently and sweat a lot. Daily use of a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo can help remove excess oil and dirt, keeping the hair clean without overly stripping natural moisture.
- Every Other Day: This is ideal for people with normal to slightly oily hair. Shampooing every other day can balance oil production while allowing the natural oils to condition the hair, promoting softness and smoothness.
- Twice a Week: Recommended for dry or curly hair types where natural oils are beneficial. Shampooing less frequently helps retain moisture, preventing frizz and enhancing the hair’s natural texture, which contributes to a smoother appearance.
- Weekly or As Needed: Best for those with very dry, damaged, or textured hair. Using a clarifying shampoo once a week can help remove buildup from products, while also using a deep conditioning treatment can restore softness and smoothness without the need for frequent shampooing.
- Co-Washing: Involves washing hair with conditioner instead of shampoo, suitable for dry or curly hair types. This method can help maintain moisture levels while cleansing the hair, making it softer and smoother without the harsh effects of traditional shampoos.
What Additional Hair Care Practices Improve the Efficacy of Shampoo for Soft and Smooth Hair?
In addition to choosing the best shampoo for soft and smooth hair, implementing various hair care practices can significantly enhance its effectiveness.
- Regular Conditioning: Conditioning after shampooing is crucial for maintaining moisture and softness in the hair. A good conditioner helps to detangle hair, reduce frizz, and provide essential nutrients that make hair smoother and more manageable.
- Heat Protection: Using heat protection products before styling can prevent damage caused by heat tools. These products create a barrier that shields the hair from high temperatures, which can lead to dryness and brittleness, ultimately keeping hair soft and smooth.
- Gentle Drying Techniques: Instead of vigorously towel-drying hair, it’s better to gently pat it dry or use a microfiber towel. This reduces friction and minimizes breakage, contributing to smoother and softer hair texture.
- Weekly Hair Masks: Incorporating weekly deep conditioning hair masks can provide an additional moisture boost. These masks are formulated to penetrate deeply into the hair shaft, repairing damage and enhancing smoothness over time.
- Limit Washing Frequency: Washing hair too frequently can strip it of natural oils, leading to dryness. Reducing the frequency of washes allows natural oils to nourish the hair, making it softer and smoother.
- Cold Water Rinse: Rinsing hair with cold water at the end of a wash can close the hair cuticles, sealing in moisture and resulting in shinier, smoother hair. This simple practice locks in the benefits of shampoo and conditioner for enhanced softness.
- Proper Brushing Techniques: Using a wide-tooth comb or a brush designed for wet hair can help prevent breakage. Brushing gently from the tips to the roots minimizes damage, ensuring the hair remains healthy and smooth.
- Scalp Care: A healthy scalp is the foundation for soft and smooth hair. Regularly massaging the scalp and using scalp treatments can improve blood circulation and promote healthier hair growth, which contributes to overall hair softness.