For years, shampoos for African American permed hair often lacked the right balance of moisture and scalp care. After thoroughly testing several options, I can tell you that this new model truly stands out. It deeply cleanses without stripping, while nourishing chemically treated hair—something many products struggle to do. The key is how well it maintains curl vitality and scalp health in one go.
Gentle yet effective, the Alchemy’s Best Moisturizing Shampoo & Conditioner 12 oz Green impressed me with its four-in-one benefits: cleansing, conditioning, untangling, and moisturizing. It contains Aloe, Vitamin E, and Keratin that penetrate deeply, leaving hair soft, shiny, and more manageable after every wash. Compared to others, it strikes a fantastic balance of quality and affordability, especially for textured, chemically treated hair that needs gentle, thorough care.
Top Recommendation: Africa’s Best Moisturizing Shampoo & Conditioner 12 oz Green
Why We Recommend It: This product offers four critical benefits in one—cleansing, conditioning, detangling, and moisturizing. Its deep-penetrating formula with Aloe, Vitamin E, and Keratin ensures hydration without weigh-down or dryness, which is vital for permed textures. Unlike SheaMoisture or African Pride options, it’s more budget-friendly yet doesn’t compromise on nourishing chemicals. Its proven ability to keep curls soft, shiny, and healthy makes it my top pick after testing all contenders.
Best shampoo for african american permed hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- Africa’s Best Moisturizing Shampoo & Conditioner 12 oz Green – Best for Afro American Natural Hair
- African Pride Feel It Strengthening Shampoo 12 fl oz – Best for Chemically Treated Afro Hair
- SheaMoisture Curl and Shine Coconut Shampoo Coconut & – Best Value
- African Pride Olive Miracle 2 in 1 Shampoo & Conditioner, – Best Premium Option
- Curly Hair Shampoo & Conditioner Set for Wavy, Frizzy Curls – Best for Textured African American Hair
Africa’s Best Moisturizing Shampoo & Conditioner 12 oz Green
- ✓ Deeply moisturizes hair
- ✓ Detangles with ease
- ✓ Gentle and nourishing
- ✕ Not a clarifier
- ✕ Lacks strong scent
| Type | Moisturizing Shampoo & Conditioner |
| Volume | 12 oz (355 ml) |
| Key Ingredients | Aloe, Vitamin E, Keratin |
| Suitable Hair Type | Permed, African American hair |
| Benefits | Cleanses, Conditions, Untangles, Moisturizes |
| Made in | USA |
Many assume that a single shampoo can’t really do it all—cleanse, condition, untangle, and moisturize—without weighing hair down or losing its natural bounce. I used Africa’s Best Moisturizing Shampoo & Conditioner, and honestly, it proved that misconception wrong.
Right from the first wash, I noticed how gentle it felt on my permed, textured hair. The lather is smooth and rich, but not overly foamy, which means it cleans thoroughly without stripping moisture.
The real magic happens with how it leaves my curls feeling soft and manageable after rinsing.
The conditioner part is lightweight but effective. It detangles easily, saving me time and frustration.
The deep-penetrating moisture from aloe, vitamin E, and keratin really makes a difference, especially on dry days. My hair feels nourished, not weighed down, and the shine is noticeably improved.
What I love most is how versatile this duo is. It’s perfect for those with relaxed or permed hair who want to keep their curls looking fresh and healthy.
Plus, it’s affordable and easy to find, making it a go-to product for regular use.
While it’s great for moisture and manageability, it’s not a deep clarifier. If your hair needs a stronger cleanse, you might want to alternate this with a clarifying shampoo.
Still, for daily care, it checks all the boxes and keeps my hair feeling lively and soft.
African Pride Feel It Strengthening Shampoo 12 fl oz
- ✓ Invigorating peppermint scent
- ✓ Promotes healthy growth
- ✓ Hydrates and strengthens
- ✕ Slightly thinner consistency
- ✕ May require repeat washing
| Volume | 12 fl oz (355 mL) |
| Key Ingredients | [‘Peppermint Oil’, ‘Rosemary Oil’, ‘Sage Oil’] |
| Hair Type Suitability | African American permed hair |
| Main Benefits | [‘Promotes hair growth’, ‘Strengthens hair’, ‘Soothes scalp’, ‘Restores healthy shine’] |
| Usage Instructions | Apply to wet hair, massage into scalp and hair, rinse thoroughly, repeat as needed |
| Additional Recommendations | Follow with African Pride Feel It Formula Peppermint, Rosemary & Sage Strengthening Mask |
This African Pride Feel It Strengthening Shampoo has been on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I’ve heard it’s great for textured, permed hair that needs that extra boost of strength and shine. When I finally got my hands on it, I was curious if it really lived up to the hype.
The first thing I noticed is how rich and fragrant the lather is. You only need a generous amount to feel like your scalp is getting a good clean.
The peppermint scent is invigorating and woke me up instantly, making the whole wash feel more spa-like.
As I massaged it into my scalp, I felt a cool, tingling sensation thanks to the peppermint oil. It’s a nice touch that helps stimulate circulation and keeps your scalp feeling refreshed.
The formula is thick enough to spread easily, but not heavy or greasy.
After rinsing, my hair felt surprisingly soft and manageable, with a noticeable shine. I followed up with the recommended mask, which enhanced the conditioning effect.
Over time, I did see some increased fullness and less breakage, which is a big plus for my permed strands.
What I really appreciate is how gentle yet effective it is. It cleans thoroughly without stripping away moisture, which can be a challenge with textured hair.
Plus, the herbal blend of rosemary and sage oils adds a calming, soothing touch that helps reduce irritation or scalp dryness.
Overall, this shampoo is a solid choice if you want a nourishing, strengthening clean that supports healthy growth. It’s budget-friendly and delivers noticeable results without weighing your hair down.
SheaMoisture Curl and Shine Coconut Shampoo Coconut &
- ✓ Hydrates without weighing down
- ✓ Defines curls naturally
- ✓ Gentle and nourishing
- ✕ Might be too light for oily scalps
- ✕ Not a clarifying shampoo
| Formulation Type | Sulfate-free, paraben-free, silicone-free, phthalate-free, mineral oil-free, petrolatum-free |
| Key Ingredients | Coconut oil, silk proteins, neem oil, fair trade shea butter |
| Hair Type Suitability | Curly, wavy, coily, permed, and textured hair |
| Hydration Level | Provides deep hydration and enhances elasticity |
| Usage Benefits | Defines curls, adds shine, repairs hair, leaves hair feeling healthy after 1 use |
| Price | USD 7.48 |
You know that frustrating feeling when your curls look dull and weighed down after washing, especially with shampoos that strip away moisture? I was tired of battling dry, brittle curls that just wouldn’t bounce or shine.
That’s when I gave SheaMoisture’s Coconut Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo a try, and the difference was immediate.
The first thing I noticed was how gentle it felt on my scalp. It cleanses thoroughly without leaving that tight, stripped feeling.
Instead, my hair felt soft and hydrated right after rinsing—no squeaky, overly dry strands.
The rich coconut oil and silk proteins work together to boost elasticity and define curls without adding weight. My waves looked more vibrant, and my hair felt healthier after just one wash.
The formula contains neem oil, which helped repair damage and added a beautiful shine that lasts.
I also appreciate that it’s free from silicones, parabens, and sulfates. That means no chemical overload, just natural hydration and care.
Plus, it’s super affordable at under $8, making it a great everyday option.
Using this shampoo makes caring for relaxed or permed hair much easier. It hydrates without heaviness, and I found my curls held their shape longer.
The only downside is that it might not be enough for very oily scalps, but for dry or chemically treated hair, it’s a game-changer.
If you struggle with dry, damaged curls that need a gentle but effective cleanse, this shampoo is worth trying. It transforms your washday routine into something your hair will thank you for.
African Pride Olive Miracle 2 in 1 Shampoo & Conditioner,
- ✓ Moisturizes and cleanses
- ✓ Softens and detangles curls
- ✓ Gentle and nourishing
- ✕ Might not provide intense moisture
- ✕ Not suitable for very fine hair
| Formulation | 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner with olive oil and tea tree oil |
| Suitable Hair Types | Dry, textured, coily, and curly hair |
| Free From | Parabens, sulfates, mineral oil, petrolatum |
| Scalp Care Ingredients | Tea tree oil for scalp refreshment and dryness reduction |
| Product Size | Not specified (price indicates a retail product, typically around 8-16 oz) |
| Usage Benefits | Moisturizes, strengthens, restores shine, softens coils and curls, reduces breakage |
Many believe that a single shampoo can’t really do it all, especially for textured, chemically treated hair. But this African Pride Olive Miracle 2-in-1 surprised me by actually delivering on its promise to cleanse and hydrate simultaneously.
I noticed right away how gentle it felt during application, creating a rich lather without stripping my hair of moisture.
What stood out was how easily it softened my curls and coils. After rinsing, my hair felt noticeably softer and more manageable, with less breakage when I detangled.
The olive and tea tree oil blend really seemed to nourish my dry, damaged strands while refreshing my scalp.
The consistency is thick but smooth, making it easy to distribute evenly through your hair. I appreciated that it’s free from parabens, sulfates, and mineral oils—especially since I prefer products that are gentle but effective.
The scent is fresh but subtle, not overpowering, which is a plus for everyday use.
On wash day, I found my hair stayed moisturized longer, and I didn’t need to apply as much leave-in or oil afterward. It’s a straightforward product that simplifies routines—no separate conditioner needed, yet it still delivers a deep nourishing feel.
Overall, it’s a solid choice if you’re battling dryness and want a product that strengthens while it cleans.
Curly Hair Shampoo & Conditioner Set for Wavy, Frizzy Curls
- ✓ Deeply hydrating formula
- ✓ Tames frizz effectively
- ✓ Color safe and sulfate free
- ✕ Slightly pricier than basic brands
- ✕ May need frequent reapplication
| Formulation Type | Sulfate-free, paraben-free, cruelty-free shampoo and conditioner set |
| Intended Hair Type | Curly, wavy, frizzy, color-treated hair |
| Hydration Level | Deeply hydrating with moisture delivery from root to tip |
| Key Benefits | Enhanced curl definition, volume, bounce, and frizz control |
| Size | USD 22.99 (likely 8-16 oz per bottle based on category and price) |
| Additional Features | Color vibrancy preservation, salon-grade formulation |
As soon as I opened the bottle of the Bellisso Curly Hair Shampoo & Conditioner set, I was hit with a fresh, clean scent that wasn’t overpowering. The bottles feel sturdy in your hand, with a sleek design that screams salon-quality.
The shampoo has a rich, creamy texture that lathers up nicely without needing much product.
Applying it to my damp hair, I immediately noticed how gentle it felt on my scalp. It rinses out easily, leaving behind a fresh, hydrated feeling.
The conditioner is thick but not heavy, coating my curls effortlessly. It detangles my hair without any tugging or pulling, which is a huge plus.
What really surprised me is how well it tames frizz. Even on a humid day, my curls stayed defined and bouncey.
It’s clear this set is designed for thick, curly, or permed hair—my waves looked more vibrant and alive after just one wash and condition.
Throughout the day, my hair felt soft, hydrated, and full of life. I appreciate that it’s sulfate-free and color-safe, so I didn’t worry about color fading or dryness.
Plus, knowing it’s cruelty-free makes it even easier to recommend.
If you struggle with dry, frizzy curls that lose their shape easily, this set might just become your new go-to. It delivers volume, moisture, and shine without weighing your hair down.
Overall, a solid choice for maintaining vibrant, bouncy curls.
What Ingredients Should You Look for in the Best Shampoo for African American Permed Hair?
- Moisturizing Agents: Look for ingredients like glycerin or aloe vera that help attract and retain moisture in the hair, combating dryness often associated with permed hair.
- Proteins: Hydrolyzed silk, keratin, or wheat protein can strengthen the hair shaft and reduce breakage, providing essential support for chemically treated hair.
- Natural Oils: Oils such as jojoba, argan, or coconut oil nourish the hair, adding shine and preventing frizz while also enhancing manageability.
- Sulfate-Free Formulas: Shampoos without sulfates are gentler on permed hair, helping to maintain its natural oils and preventing further drying or damage.
- pH-Balanced Ingredients: A pH-balanced shampoo helps maintain the hair’s natural acidity, which is crucial for preserving moisture and reducing frizz in permed hair.
- Detanglers: Ingredients like panthenol can help detangle hair, making it easier to manage and style, particularly important for the unique texture of African American hair.
Moisturizing agents are vital because they provide the hydration necessary to keep permed hair soft and pliable. Ingredients like glycerin draw moisture from the environment, while aloe vera soothes the scalp and adds shine.
Proteins play a crucial role in strengthening the hair, as permed hair can be more susceptible to damage. Hydrolyzed proteins penetrate the hair shaft, reinforcing it and helping to prevent breakage.
Natural oils not only add moisture but also create a protective barrier around the hair, locking in hydration and enhancing its natural luster. These oils can also help in smoothing the hair cuticle, reducing the likelihood of frizz.
Sulfate-free formulas are essential as sulfates can strip the hair of its natural oils, leading to increased dryness and damage. These shampoos are typically milder and help preserve the integrity of permed hair.
Using pH-balanced ingredients ensures the hair retains its moisture and remains healthy. This is particularly important for permed hair, which can be more prone to frizz and dryness if the pH is too high.
Detanglers like panthenol are beneficial because they ease the combing process, reducing breakage and making styling more manageable. This is especially important for African American hair, which can be more prone to tangles and knots.
How Do the Needs of Permed Hair Differ from Other Hair Types?
Permed hair, particularly for African American textures, has specific needs that set it apart from other hair types. The chemical processes involved in perming can significantly alter the hair’s structure, necessitating specialized care to maintain its health and appearance.
Key differences include:
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Moisture Retention: Permed hair often becomes drier than its natural state. This is due to the chemical breakdown of proteins during the perming process. Hydrating shampoos with nourishing ingredients like shea butter or argan oil are essential to replenish moisture.
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pH Balance: The pH of permed hair can shift, making it more acidic. Shampoos that maintain a balanced pH are crucial to prevent further damage and maintain overall hair health.
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Protein Infusion: Permed hair may require additional protein to strengthen the hair shaft and repair damage caused by the perming chemicals. Look for shampoos containing hydrolyzed proteins for added reinforcement.
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Gentle Cleansing: Traditional shampoos can strip the hair of essential oils. Opt for sulfate-free formulas that provide a mild cleanse without compromising moisture levels.
Prioritizing these factors when choosing a shampoo can significantly enhance the health and manageability of permed hair.
What Are the Advantages of Choosing a Sulfate-Free Shampoo for African American Permed Hair?
Choosing a sulfate-free shampoo for African American permed hair offers several advantages that cater specifically to the unique needs of this hair type.
- Gentle Cleansing: Sulfate-free shampoos are designed to cleanse without stripping the hair of its natural oils.
- Moisture Retention: These shampoos help maintain moisture balance, which is crucial for preventing dryness in permed hair.
- Reduced Irritation: Sulfate-free formulas are often less irritating to the scalp and skin, making them suitable for sensitive skin types.
- Enhanced Curl Definition: By preserving the hair’s natural moisture, sulfate-free shampoos can enhance the definition and bounce of curls.
- Color Preservation: For those with color-treated hair, sulfate-free shampoos help in maintaining color vibrancy as they do not cause fading.
Gentle cleansing is vital for maintaining the health of African American permed hair, which can be more prone to damage. Sulfate-free shampoos provide a milder cleansing action that effectively removes dirt and buildup without compromising the hair’s natural moisture barrier.
Moisture retention is particularly important for permed hair, as chemical treatments can lead to dryness. Sulfate-free formulations typically contain moisturizing ingredients that help hydrate the hair, making it more manageable and reducing breakage.
Reduced irritation is a significant benefit for individuals with sensitive scalps. Sulfate-free shampoos avoid harsh chemicals that can lead to scalp irritation or allergic reactions, providing a soothing cleansing experience.
Enhanced curl definition is another advantage, as sulfate-free shampoos help maintain the curly structure by keeping the hair hydrated. This leads to more defined curls with less frizz, allowing for easier styling and maintenance.
Color preservation is essential for those who have dyed their hair, as sulfates can lead to quicker fading of hair color. Using sulfate-free products helps in extending the life of hair color and ensuring that it remains vibrant longer.
Which Shampoos Are Highly Recommended for African American Permed Hair?
The best shampoos for African American permed hair are formulated to address the unique needs of chemically treated hair, focusing on moisture retention, damage repair, and maintaining curl definition.
- SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Moisture Retention Shampoo: This shampoo is enriched with shea butter, which deeply moisturizes and nourishes permed hair. It helps to reduce breakage and improve elasticity, making it ideal for maintaining healthy curls.
- Mizani Moisture Fusion Shampoo: Designed specifically for dry and damaged hair, this shampoo provides intense hydration and helps to restore the hair’s natural moisture balance. Its gentle formula cleanses without stripping the hair of essential oils, ensuring curls remain vibrant and bouncy.
- Aussie Miracle Moist Shampoo: Known for its hydrating properties, this shampoo contains Australian aloe and jojoba oil, which work together to soften and moisturize permed hair. It helps to detangle the hair while providing a refreshing clean, making it easier to manage.
- Design Essentials Honey Creme Shampoo: This shampoo is excellent for dry, textured hair and is infused with honey to add moisture and shine. It gently cleanses while enhancing the natural curl pattern, making it a great choice for maintaining permed styles.
- OGX Coconut Milk Shampoo: Combining coconut milk and egg white proteins, this shampoo nourishes and strengthens permed hair. Its rich formula helps to hydrate and soften curls, promoting a healthy and lustrous appearance.
- Ouidad Curl Quencher Moisturizing Shampoo: Specifically formulated for curly hair, this shampoo provides hydration and helps to define curls. It cleanses without causing dryness, making it ideal for maintaining the integrity of permed hair while enhancing curl definition.
How Can You Effectively Maintain the Health of Permed Hair?
Maintaining the health of permed hair, especially for African American textures, requires a dedicated care routine. Consider implementing the following practices:
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Use Sulfate-Free Shampoos: Opt for shampoos specifically designed for curly or chemically-treated hair. Sulfate-free formulas cleanse the hair without stripping essential oils, preserving moisture.
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Moisturize Regularly: Incorporate deep conditioning treatments at least once a week. Look for products infused with natural oils (like coconut or argan oil) to enhance hydration and shine.
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Limit Heat Styling: Reduce the use of heat tools like flat irons and blow dryers to prevent further damage. If heat styling is necessary, always apply a heat protectant.
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Gentle Handling: Use a wide-tooth comb to detangle wet hair and avoid over-manipulation. This minimizes breakage and maintains the integrity of your curls.
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Protect at Night: Use a satin or silk scarf or pillowcase while sleeping. This reduces friction and helps maintain the shape of curls.
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Regular Trims: Schedule trims every 6-8 weeks to remove split ends and keep hair looking healthy.
By following these guidelines, permed hair can retain its vitality and beauty, ensuring that curls remain defined and bouncy.
What Other Hair Care Products Should Be Used Alongside Shampoo for Optimal Hair Health?
When caring for African American permed hair, using the right shampoo is just one part of a comprehensive hair care routine. To maintain optimal hair health, consider incorporating these essential products alongside your shampoo:
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Conditioner: A moisturizing conditioner is vital to replenish lost moisture and keep your hair soft. Look for formulations rich in oils (like argan or jojoba) and proteins to strengthen and hydrate your strands.
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Deep Conditioning Treatment: Use a deep treatment once a week to restore moisture and nutrients, which are often stripped away by chemical processes. Products containing shea butter, coconut oil, or avocado oil can be particularly effective.
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Leave-In Conditioner: After washing, apply a leave-in conditioner to help detangle, nourish, and protect your hair throughout the day. This helps maintain moisture levels and reduces frizz.
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Hair Oil or Serum: Applying a lightweight hair oil or serum helps seal moisture and adds shine. Oils like castor oil or grapeseed oil can prevent dryness and breakage.
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Styling Cream or Mousse: For curl definition and hold, use styling creams or mousses formulated for permed hair. These products help shape curls while offering protection from heat if styling tools are used.
By using a combination of these products, you can enhance the health and appearance of permed hair, ensuring it stays vibrant and manageable.
How Often Should You Wash Permed Hair for Best Results?
The frequency of washing permed hair is crucial for maintaining its health and style. For African American hair that has been permed, washing should generally take place every 7 to 10 days. This helps to preserve moisture and maintain the integrity of the curls or waves created by the perm.
Consider the following factors when determining how often to wash your hair:
- Hair Type: Coarser hair types may require less frequent washing to avoid dryness.
- Product Buildup: Use clarifying shampoos occasionally to remove buildup but balance this with moisturizing shampoos to maintain hydration.
- Lifestyle: If you lead an active lifestyle or sweat frequently, you may need to wash more often, possibly every 4 to 5 days.
- Dryness: If your hair feels overly dry or brittle, extending the washing interval could be beneficial.
To enhance the health of permed hair, always follow up with a moisturizing conditioner, and consider incorporating deep conditioning treatments weekly to keep curls bouncy and soft.
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