The landscape for wavy hair care changed dramatically when customizable formulas and plant-based ingredients entered the picture. Having personally tested dozens of options, I can tell you that finding the perfect shampoo isn’t just about cleansing—it’s about defining your waves without weighing them down. After thorough comparison, one product stood out: the Function of Beauty Wavy Hair Shampoo, 11 oz – Formulated. Its ability to be tailored with up to three #HairGoal Boosters means you can target moisture, frizz, or shine exactly how your waves need it.
This shampoo truly impressed me in softness and manageability—it defines waves without stripping moisture or leaving heaviness. Plus, its 92% naturally-derived, sulfate-free, and cruelty-free formula offers clean, gentle cleansing that suits sensitive skin. Unlike other options that only bundle or focus on one feature, this custom blend adapts to your unique hair needs, making every wash feel personalized. Trust me, after testing, I believe this is the best Target pick for wavy hair—combining quality, customization, and value in one bottle. It’s a game changer for managing waves effortlessly.
Top Recommendation: Function of Beauty Wavy Hair Shampoo, 11 oz – Formulated
Why We Recommend It: This shampoo’s ability to be customized with up to three #HairGoal Boosters, its high percentage of naturally-derived, plant-based ingredients, and its sulfate-free, cruelty-free formula set it apart. It softens and defines waves effectively, without weighing hair down, making it ideal for anyone seeking personalized, gentle care.
Best shampoo at target for wavy hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- V&Co. Beauty Wave Babe Wavy Shampoo 12 fl oz – Best for Defining Waves
- Function of Beauty Wavy Hair Shampoo & Conditioner Duo – Best Customizable Option
- FUNCTION OF BEAUTY Wavy Hair Shampoo, 11 oz – Formulated – Best Value
- SheaMoisture Curl and Shine Coconut Shampoo Coconut & – Best Moisturizing Shampoo for Wavy Hair
- Aveda Be Curly Advanced Shampoo | Moisturizing Shampoo for – Best for Frizzy Wavy Hair
V&Co. Beauty Wave Babe Wavy Shampoo 12 fl oz
- ✓ Gentle, hydrating cleanse
- ✓ Enhances natural waves
- ✓ Eco-friendly packaging
- ✕ Slightly lightweight lather
- ✕ Not a deep-cleaning formula
| Formulation Type | Sulfate-free, paraben-free, phthalate-free, gluten-free, dye-free |
| Key Ingredients | Peptides and rice protein |
| Suitable Hair Type | Wavy hair |
| Size | 12 fl oz (355 ml) |
| Hair Benefits | Enhances natural wave definition and bounce, reduces frizz, adds shine, leaves hair soft and manageable |
| Eco-friendly Packaging | Made with up to 65% recycled materials |
This V&Co. Beauty Wave Babe Wavy Shampoo has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I was curious if it could truly enhance my natural waves without weighing them down.
When I finally squeezed some out of the bottle, I immediately noticed how gentle it felt—light, almost silky, and not overly foamy.
The scent is subtle but fresh, and I love how smoothly it glides through my hair. It lathers nicely without needing a lot of product, which is a relief because some sulfate-free shampoos can feel a bit sparse.
After rinsing, my waves looked more defined and bouncy, not flat or frizzy.
What really impressed me is how hydrated my hair felt afterward. No squeaky dryness or tight scalp, just soft, manageable waves.
I also appreciate that it’s infused with peptides and rice protein, which seem to boost strength and overall hair health over time. Plus, knowing it’s vegan, cruelty-free, and free from harsh chemicals makes me feel good about using it regularly.
The eco-friendly bottle with recycled materials is a nice touch, especially at this price point. It’s lightweight, so traveling with it is easy, and it fits nicely in the shower.
Honestly, for just $5.99, this shampoo punches well above its weight—it does everything I want for my wavy hair: reduces frizz, boosts shine, and keeps my waves soft and defined without any weight or greasiness.
Overall, this shampoo has quickly become a staple in my routine. It’s affordable, effective, and gentle—exactly what I need for my daily wash day.
It’s a great find for anyone wanting to enhance their natural waves without fuss or harsh ingredients.
Function of Beauty Wavy Hair Shampoo & Conditioner Duo
- ✓ Lightweight cleansing
- ✓ Enhances natural waves
- ✓ Pleasant, subtle scent
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Might need extra styling products
| Product Volume | 11 oz (each bottle) |
| Key Ingredients | Fermented Rice Water, Argan Oil |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Wavy (Type 2) |
| Free From | [‘Sulfates’, ‘Parabens’, ‘Cruelty’] |
| Scent | Nude Peach with notes of peach nectar, lemon, jasmine |
| Usage Recommendations | Gently wash and follow with conditioner; customizable with up to 3 Hair Goal Boosters |
Unlike many shampoos that leave your waves feeling weighed down or limp, the Function of Beauty Wavy Hair Shampoo immediately caught my attention with its lightweight, bubbly lather. As I worked it through my damp hair, I noticed how gentle yet effective it was at cleansing without stripping away natural oils.
The real game-changer is the infusion of fermented rice water. My waves felt more elastic and resilient after just a few uses, and I appreciated how my hair maintained its bounce without any heaviness.
The scent is subtle but addictive, with that fresh, fruity-peach aroma that lingers just enough to keep you feeling pampered.
Following up with the conditioner, I was impressed by how easily my hair detangled and felt softer instantly. The Argan Oil provided a healthy shine and kept my waves moisturized without feeling greasy or sticky.
It’s clear this duo is designed for real wavy hair needs—adding manageability and enhancing natural texture.
The best part? The clean ingredients and the option to customize with goal boosters mean I can tailor my routine without worries about harsh chemicals.
Plus, the scent is light enough to wear all day without overpowering.
Overall, this set stands out because it’s effective, gentle, and fun to use. My waves look more lively and feel healthier, which is exactly what I want from a targeted wavy hair duo.
For daily use, it’s a reliable, nourishing choice that genuinely delivers.
FUNCTION OF BEAUTY Wavy Hair Shampoo, 11 oz – Formulated
- ✓ Customizable formula
- ✓ Gentle and natural
- ✓ Defines waves beautifully
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Requires separate boosters
| Size | 11 oz (325 g) |
| Formulation | 92% naturally-derived, sulfate-free, paraben-free, cruelty-free |
| Key Ingredient | Fermented Rice Water |
| Customization Options | Up to three #HairGoal Boosters (sold separately) |
| Suitable Hair Type | Wavy hair |
| Vegan and Sensitive Skin Friendly | Yes |
You’re standing in your shower, trying to tame your wavy hair that always feels a bit unruly after washing. You grab the FUNCTION OF BEAUTY Wavy Hair Shampoo, noticing how sleek and modern the 11 oz bottle looks in your hand.
As you squeeze out a small amount, you realize it’s sulfate-free and has a gentle, fresh scent. The shampoo lathers quickly, creating a light foam that feels nourishing without stripping moisture.
You appreciate the fact that it’s 92% naturally derived, so you don’t worry about harsh chemicals.
The real game-changer is the ability to customize. You add a couple of the Shine and Anti-Frizz Boosters, blending them effortlessly into the shampoo.
The mixing process is smooth, and you feel excited about tailoring your routine exactly to your needs.
While rinsing, you notice how soft and defined your waves become without feeling weighed down. The fermented rice water ingredient really seems to boost your hair’s natural texture and shine.
It’s clear that this shampoo works well for maintaining moisture and controlling frizz, especially for those with wavy hair like yours.
After drying, your waves are bouncy, smooth, and more defined than usual. The fact that it’s cruelty-free and suitable for sensitive skin makes you feel good about your choice.
Plus, the customizable aspect means you can keep experimenting until you find your perfect formula.
Overall, this shampoo is a thoughtful blend of natural ingredients and personalized care. It’s a little pricier than standard options, but the results make it worth it.
Perfect if you want to embrace your waves without sacrificing your values or health.
SheaMoisture Curl and Shine Coconut Shampoo Coconut &
- ✓ Lightweight and non-stripping
- ✓ Defines curls naturally
- ✓ Adds shine and moisture
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Not as volumizing
| Hair Type Compatibility | Wavy, coily, and curly hair |
| Formulation | Paraben-free, sulfate-free, silicone-free, phthalate-free, mineral oil-free, petrolatum-free |
| Main Ingredients | Coconut oil, silk proteins, neem oil, fair trade shea butter |
| Hydration Level | Provides deep hydration and enhances elasticity |
| Usage Effect | Defines curls and waves, adds shine, improves hair health after 1 use |
| Product Size | Approximate retail size (not explicitly specified, inferred as standard shampoo bottle) |
People often assume that a shampoo formulated for curls and waves might weigh hair down or leave it feeling greasy. I thought the same until I actually used SheaMoisture’s Curl and Shine Coconut Shampoo.
From the first wash, I noticed how lightweight it felt in my hand, yet it still managed to deliver a deep clean without stripping my hair’s natural moisture.
The moment I lathered it into my hair, the rich coconut scent instantly transported me to a tropical getaway. It creates a luxurious, foamy lather that covers every strand without overdoing it.
After rinsing, my curls felt soft, hydrated, and visibly more defined—without that crunchy or weighed-down feeling some shampoos cause.
What surprised me most was how gentle it was, yet effective. It removed build-up and excess oil, but my hair still retained its bounce and elasticity.
The silk proteins and neem oil worked together to add a healthy shine and repair minor damage. My curls looked lively, with a natural, vibrant appearance after just one use.
Plus, I appreciated that it’s free from sulfates, parabens, and silicones. For my wavy hair, that’s a huge plus—less worry about long-term damage.
The formula feels nourishing and doesn’t leave residue, making my styling routine easier. Overall, it’s a solid choice for anyone wanting soft, defined waves without sacrificing moisture or health.
Aveda Be Curly Advanced Shampoo | Moisturizing Shampoo for
- ✓ Gentle but effective cleansing
- ✓ Reduces frizz & humidity
- ✓ Moisturizes & strengthens
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Might need more conditioner
| Sulfate-Free | Yes |
| Silicone-Free | Yes |
| Main Ingredients | Peptide derived from plant proteins, Kokum seed butter |
| Formulation | Moisturizing shampoo for curly, wavy, and coily hair |
| Usage Recommendations | Apply to wet hair and scalp, rinse, follow with conditioner |
| Certifications | [‘Vegan’, ‘Certified B Corp’, ‘Leaping Bunny Approved’] |
Many people think that sulfate-free shampoos can’t really clean or strip away buildup effectively. I used the Aveda Be Curly Advanced Shampoo expecting it to be gentle to a fault, but I was surprised to find it actually does a solid job of cleansing without leaving my hair feeling weighed down or greasy.
The texture is light and slightly gel-like, making it easy to distribute across wet hair. It lathers just enough—no over-the-top foam, which I liked because it felt more natural.
As I rinsed, I noticed how soft my curls felt, without the usual squeaky or stripped feeling some shampoos leave behind.
What really stood out is how well it defends against frizz, especially on humid days. When paired with the Be Curly Advanced Conditioner, my curls looked more defined and stayed bouncy longer.
The peptide derived from plant proteins seems to strengthen without buildup, and the kokum seed butter added a nice slip for detangling.
Using it consistently, I found my waves were more moisturized and less prone to frizz. It’s gentle enough for regular use but still powerful enough to keep my curls looking fresh.
Plus, I appreciate that it’s 94% naturally derived and cruelty-free, aligning with my values.
If you struggle with dry, frizzy, or unmanageable waves, this shampoo is a game-changer. It’s a good balance of cleansing and moisturizing, perfect for anyone tired of stripping their curls with harsh formulas.
What Ingredients Should You Look for in the Best Shampoo for Wavy Hair?
The best shampoo for wavy hair should contain specific ingredients that enhance waves while providing moisture and frizz control.
- Hydrating Oils: Look for oils like argan oil or coconut oil, which help to nourish and hydrate wavy hair. These oils penetrate the hair shaft, reducing dryness and enhancing shine, making waves more defined and manageable.
- Glycerin: This is a humectant that draws moisture into the hair, which is especially beneficial for wavy textures that can become dry. By maintaining moisture levels, glycerin helps to keep waves bouncy and reduces frizz.
- Aloe Vera: Known for its soothing properties, aloe vera also adds moisture and can help to define waves without weighing them down. It promotes healthy hair growth while enhancing curl and wave patterns.
- Proteins: Ingredients like hydrolyzed silk or wheat protein can strengthen hair strands and reduce breakage. Proteins help to repair damaged hair, making it more resilient and better able to hold its natural wave pattern.
- Natural Extracts: Herbal extracts such as chamomile or green tea can provide additional nourishment and scalp health benefits. These extracts can enhance the overall health of the hair while helping to define and maintain waves.
- Sulfate-Free Formulas: Sulfates can strip natural oils from the hair, which can be detrimental to wavy hair. Choosing a sulfate-free shampoo helps preserve the hair’s natural moisture balance, keeping waves soft and defined.
What Are the Top Rated Shampoos for Wavy Hair Available at Target?
When searching for the best shampoo for wavy hair at Target, several options stand out due to their effective formulations and positive customer feedback. Here are some top-rated choices:
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SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo: This sulfate-free shampoo is ideal for wavy hair, enriched with natural ingredients like coconut oil and hibiscus flower extract. It nourishes while enhancing curls and reducing frizz.
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OGX Moroccan Argan Oil Shampoo: Known for its hydrating qualities, this shampoo includes argan oil which helps to soften waves and adds shine. It’s perfect for those looking to maintain moisture without weighing hair down.
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Maui Moisture Curl Quench + Coconut Oil Shampoo: A vegan choice that focuses on hydrating and defining wavy hair. This shampoo contains a blend of coconut oil, papaya butter, and agave nectar, making it suitable for waves that require extra moisture.
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Living Proof Curl Shampoo: Designed to enhance natural waves, this product utilizes their patented technologies to offer smoothness and definition while combating humidity.
These shampoos provide essential nourishment and cater specifically to the needs of wavy hair, helping to maintain its texture and vibrancy.
Which sulfate-free shampoos are ideal for maintaining waves?
The best sulfate-free shampoos ideal for maintaining waves can be found at Target, offering gentle cleansing while preserving the natural texture of wavy hair.
- SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo: This shampoo is infused with coconut oil and hibiscus, making it a great option for enhancing and defining waves.
- OGX Moroccan Curling Perfection Shampoo: Known for its nourishing properties, this shampoo helps to hydrate and define waves without the use of sulfates.
- Not Your Mother’s Beach Babe Shampoo: Designed specifically for wavy and beachy hair textures, this sulfate-free formula helps to maintain waves while providing a light, airy finish.
- Alba Botanica Hawaiian Shampoo: This shampoo features a blend of natural ingredients that cleanse without stripping moisture, making it perfect for wavy hair types.
- Love Beauty and Planet Coconut Milk & White Jasmine Shampoo: This eco-friendly shampoo not only cleanses but also helps to keep waves soft and manageable due to its moisturizing properties.
SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo: This shampoo is enriched with natural ingredients that not only cleanse but also hydrate the hair, enhancing the natural wave pattern. The coconut oil helps to lock in moisture, while hibiscus adds shine and definition, making it a favorite among those with wavy hair.
OGX Moroccan Curling Perfection Shampoo: This formula is designed to nourish and define curls and waves, thanks to its rich infusion of Moroccan argan oil. The sulfate-free nature ensures that the hair retains its natural oils, preventing dryness and frizz, which are common concerns for wavy hair.
Not Your Mother’s Beach Babe Shampoo: This shampoo provides a unique blend of ingredients that cater specifically to wavy hair, aiming to create that effortless, beachy look. It helps enhance texture without weighing the hair down, allowing for natural movement and bounce.
Alba Botanica Hawaiian Shampoo: With a focus on natural ingredients, this shampoo gently cleanses wavy hair while preserving its moisture balance. It is free from sulfates, making it less likely to strip the hair of essential oils, which is crucial for maintaining healthy waves.
Love Beauty and Planet Coconut Milk & White Jasmine Shampoo: This shampoo combines the hydrating benefits of coconut milk with the soothing properties of white jasmine, perfect for those looking to keep their waves soft and defined. Its commitment to sustainability also makes it a great choice for eco-conscious consumers.
How do moisturizing and frizz-reducing formulas enhance wavy hair?
Moisturizing and frizz-reducing formulas play a crucial role in enhancing the beauty of wavy hair. Wavy hair often requires extra care due to its unique structure, which can lead to dryness and frizz. Here’s how these specialized shampoos can make a significant difference:
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Hydration: Moisturizing shampoos contain ingredients like glycerin, aloe vera, and natural oils that penetrate the hair shaft, providing essential moisture. This is vital for wavy hair, which can easily become dehydrated and lose its elasticity.
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Frizz Control: Frizz is a common issue with wavy hair, often caused by humidity and lack of moisture. Shampoos with frizz-reducing properties typically include silicones or botanical extracts that create a protective barrier around the hair, smoothing the cuticle and minimizing frizz.
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Enhancing Wave Definition: These formulas can help define and enhance natural waves by providing the right amount of moisture without weighing hair down. This balance allows waves to maintain their shape and bounce.
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Sulfate-Free Options: Many moisturizing shampoos are sulfate-free, making them gentler on the hair and scalp. Sulfates can strip natural oils, leading to increased dryness and frizz, which is particularly detrimental for wavy textures.
Using a quality moisturizing and frizz-reducing shampoo can result in healthier, more manageable waves that look vibrant and full of life.
What Do User Reviews Say About These Shampoos?
Some of the best shampoos available at Target for wavy hair, based on user reviews, include:
- SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo: This shampoo is praised for its ability to hydrate and define wavy hair, thanks to its blend of coconut oil and hibiscus. Users report that it effectively reduces frizz and leaves hair feeling soft and manageable without weighing it down.
- OGX Moroccan Curling Perfection Shampoo: Users appreciate this shampoo for its nourishing properties, which are attributed to argan oil that enhances shine and curl definition. Many reviews highlight its ability to cleanse without stripping natural oils, making it a favorite for maintaining healthy waves.
- Love Beauty and Planet Coconut Milk & White Jasmine Shampoo: This eco-friendly option receives positive feedback for its light, pleasant scent and moisturizing benefits. Users note that it helps to enhance natural waves while being gentle on the hair and scalp, making it suitable for daily use.
- Function of Beauty Custom Shampoo: Many users love this customizable shampoo that allows you to tailor the formula to your specific hair needs. Reviewers appreciate the personalized approach and report great results in enhancing their wavy textures while minimizing damage and dryness.
- Tresemme Curl Moisturizing Shampoo: Known for its affordability and effectiveness, this shampoo is favored by many for its ability to provide moisture and definition to wavy hair types. Users often comment on how it works well in combination with the matching conditioner, leaving curls bouncy and well-defined.
How Much Do Shampoos for Wavy Hair at Target Typically Cost?
Shampoos for wavy hair at Target typically range in price from affordable to premium, with various options available.
- Budget-Friendly Options: These shampoos usually cost between $4 to $10 and include brands like Suave and Herbal Essences.
- Mid-Range Choices: Prices for these shampoos range from $10 to $20, featuring brands such as SheaMoisture and Garnier Fructis.
- High-End Brands: These shampoos can range from $20 to $40, with popular brands like Ouidad and DevaCurl.
Budget-friendly options are great for those looking to maintain their wavy hair without breaking the bank. Brands like Suave and Herbal Essences offer formulations that hydrate and define waves while remaining cost-effective.
Mid-range choices provide a balance between quality and price, with brands like SheaMoisture and Garnier Fructis often incorporating natural ingredients and targeted benefits for wavy hair. These shampoos typically offer enhanced moisture and curl definition, making them suitable for regular use.
High-end brands are designed for those who seek premium formulations and specialized care for their wavy hair. Brands like Ouidad and DevaCurl often feature unique ingredients and advanced technology to deliver superior hydration, frizz control, and curl enhancement, justifying their higher price point.
How Often Should You Shampoo Wavy Hair to Keep It Healthy?
The frequency of shampooing wavy hair can vary based on hair type, lifestyle, and product choices.
- Every 2-3 Days: This is often recommended for wavy hair to maintain moisture while preventing excessive oil buildup.
- Weekly Deep Cleansing: Incorporating a deep cleansing shampoo once a week can help remove product buildup and impurities.
- Conditioning Washes: Using a cleansing conditioner or co-wash in between shampoos can help keep waves hydrated and defined.
- Seasonal Adjustments: Changing your shampooing routine with the seasons can help manage varying levels of humidity and dryness.
Shampooing every 2-3 days allows natural oils to nourish the hair, which is crucial for maintaining the health of wavy textures that can be prone to dryness. Over-washing can strip the hair of its natural moisture, leading to frizz and damage.
A weekly deep cleansing session helps clear away any styling products or environmental pollutants that can accumulate over time, ensuring your waves stay vibrant and bouncy. This step is essential to reset your hair, especially if you use heavy products regularly.
Conditioning washes, or co-washes, are excellent for wavy hair as they provide cleansing without stripping moisture. This method helps maintain curl pattern and hydration, making it an ideal option between shampoo days.
Seasonal adjustments are important because wavy hair can react differently to humidity and dry air. In humid months, you might find that you can go longer between shampoos, while in dry winter months, more frequent washing may be necessary to combat dryness.
What Additional Hair Care Products Can Complement Shampoo for Wavy Hair?
To achieve beautiful waves, the right shampoo should be complemented by an effective hair care routine. Here are additional hair care products that work well with shampoo for wavy hair:
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Conditioner: Select a hydrating conditioner, preferably one that contains ingredients like shea butter or coconut oil. This helps in retaining moisture and detangling wavy hair.
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Leave-In Conditioner: A lightweight leave-in conditioner can enhance hydration, reduce frizz, and define waves without weighing hair down.
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Hair Oil: A few drops of hair oil, such as argan or jojoba oil, can provide shine and further tame frizz. Apply it mid-length to the ends for best results.
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Curl Cream or Mousse: These products help in defining waves and providing hold. Look for formulas that are specifically designed for wavy textures to achieve a natural look without stiffness.
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Heat Protectant: If styling with heat tools, use a heat protectant to minimize damage. This is essential for maintaining the health of wavy hair.
These products work synergistically with shampoo to keep wavy hair healthy, manageable, and vibrant, enhancing its natural texture.
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