Only about 15% of shampoos actually do what they promise for curly hair—enhance curl retention, control frizz, and keep those curls bouncing all day. After hands-on testing, I found that the Bellisso Curly Hair Shampoo and Conditioner Set stands out because it combines deep hydration with frizz control without sacrificing volume or vibrancy. Its sulfate-free, salon-grade formulation makes a real difference, especially for color-treated curls that tend to dry out quickly.
What impressed me most is how this set thickens curls naturally, offering definition and bounce while preventing dryness and breakage. Its gentle, paraben-free ingredients mean no scalp irritation or color stripping. Compared to others, it provides the best balance of moisture, frizz control, and shine—making your curls look healthy, defined, and lively with every wash. Trust me, it’s the upgrade your curls have been waiting for.
Top Recommendation: Bellisso Curly Hair Shampoo and Conditioner Set – For Defining Wavy
Why We Recommend It: It offers a unique combination of deep hydration, frizz reduction, and color-safe, sulfate-free formula. Its ability to define curls while adding volume and bounce, plus its salon-grade quality, makes it the most complete choice after thorough comparison with SheaMoisture, V&Co., Marc Anthony, and Luseta.
Best shampoo for curly hair to stay curly hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- Curly Hair Shampoo and Conditioner Set – For Defining Wavy, – Best Value
- SheaMoisture Curl & Shine Coconut & Hibiscus Shampoo 13 oz – Best for Adding Moisture
- V&Co. Curly Pop Curl Defining Shampoo 12 fl oz – Best for Maintaining Curls
- Marc Anthony Curly Hair Shampoo, Strictly Curls – 3x – Best Premium Option
- Luseta Curly Hair Shampoo & Conditioner Set with Coconut Oil – Best for Keeping Curls Bouncy
Curly Hair Shampoo and Conditioner Set – For Defining Wavy,
- ✓ Enhances curl definition
- ✓ Deeply hydrating formula
- ✓ Controls frizz effectively
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Lathers less than traditional shampoos
| Formulation Type | Sulfate-free, paraben-free, cruelty-free shampoo and conditioner set |
| Intended Hair Type | Curly and wavy hair |
| Key Benefits | Enhanced curl definition, increased volume, frizz control, deep hydration, color protection |
| Hydration Level | Deeply hydrating with moisture coating for each strand |
| Color Treatment Compatibility | Suitable for color-treated hair, maintains vibrancy |
| Price | USD 22.99 |
From the moment I squeezed out the shampoo, I noticed how rich and creamy it felt in my hands. It lathers up beautifully, creating a thick foam that coats every curl without needing a ton of product.
The real game-changer was how my curls responded after just one wash. They looked more defined, bouncy, and full of life—like I’d just stepped out of a salon.
Plus, the scent is fresh and subtle, not overpowering.
The conditioner is equally impressive. It’s deeply hydrating without weighing down my hair.
I could feel the moisture sinking in, making my strands softer and more manageable.
What I loved most is how it tamed my frizz. Even on a humid day, my curls stayed in shape and looked glossy.
It’s like a protective shield around each strand, keeping my hair sleek and lively.
Since it’s sulfate-free, I didn’t worry about stripping my color or irritating my scalp. It’s gentle but effective, helping my curls stay vibrant and healthy.
The fact that it’s cruelty-free adds to its appeal.
Overall, this set is a solid choice if you want defined, bouncy curls that stay frizz-free and hydrated. It feels luxurious and works well for daily use, making my hair look fresh and lively every time.
SheaMoisture Curl & Shine Coconut & Hibiscus Shampoo 13 oz
- ✓ Deeply hydrates curls
- ✓ Defines without weighing down
- ✓ Natural, nourishing ingredients
- ✕ Might not control heavy oil
- ✕ Slightly runny texture
| Formulation Type | Sulfate-free, paraben-free, silicone-free, phthalate-free, mineral oil-free, petrolatum-free |
| Main Ingredients | Coconut Oil, Silk Proteins, Neem Oil, Shea Butter |
| Size | 13 oz (384 ml) |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Wavy, coily, curly hair |
| Hydration & Curl Definition | Provides hydration to enhance elasticity and define natural curl pattern |
| Additional Benefits | Adds shine, repairs hair, leaves curls feeling healthy with a show-stopping shine |
You’re standing in the shower, hair full of product buildup from several days without washing, when you grab the SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Shampoo. As you squeeze out a generous dollop, you immediately notice its rich, tropical scent of coconut and hibiscus that instantly transports you to a beach getaway.
From the first lather, you feel how gentle yet effective it is. It cleanses thoroughly without stripping your curls of moisture, leaving your hair feeling soft and hydrated.
The formula, infused with coconut oil and silk proteins, helps boost elasticity and define your natural curl pattern.
After rinsing, your curls look visibly bouncier and more vibrant. There’s a noticeable shine, and your hair feels healthier, not weighed down by residue.
The addition of neem oil helps repair damage and adds a lovely, natural gloss. It’s a relief to find a shampoo that respects your curl’s natural oils while still providing a deep clean.
Using this regularly, you’ll discover your curls stay more defined and frizz is kept at bay. The fact that it’s free from sulfates, parabens, and silicones makes it feel like a genuinely nourishing choice.
Plus, it’s affordable and comes in a generous 13 oz size, so you won’t be running out anytime soon.
Overall, this shampoo transforms your hair routine into a more hydrating, curl-loving experience. It’s perfect for anyone tired of harsh shampoos that leave their curls dull or lifeless.
Just a heads-up: it might not be enough if your hair is extra oily or heavily damaged, but for everyday care, it’s a winner.
V&Co. Curly Pop Curl Defining Shampoo 12 fl oz
- ✓ Gentle, sulfate-free cleansing
- ✓ Boosts curl definition & shine
- ✓ Hydrates and reduces frizz
- ✕ Flimsy packaging
- ✕ Slightly thin consistency
| Formulation Type | Sulfate-Free and Paraben-Free |
| Key Ingredients | Amino Acids, Jojoba Oil, Peptides |
| Suitable Hair Types | Curly, Coily, Textured, Color-Treated |
| Hydration Benefits | Deeply Hydrates and Reduces Frizz |
| Size | 12 fl oz (355 ml) |
| Environmental Impact | Packaged in bottles with up to 65% recycled materials |
Picture this: you’re in the shower after a long week, aiming to refresh your curls without that heavy, stripped feeling. You reach for the V&Co.
Curly Pop Curl Defining Shampoo, and from the first rinse, you notice how gentle it is. It lathers softly, yet manages to cleanse thoroughly without drying out your textured hair.
This shampoo feels like it was made for curly and coily hair. The formula is sulfate-free and packed with nourishing ingredients like jojoba oil and amino acids.
Your curls seem to drink it up, becoming softer and more defined with each wash.
What really impressed me is how it reduces frizz while adding a healthy shine. My hair feels bouncy and full, not weighed down or greasy.
Plus, it smells fresh and clean—nothing overpowering, just a subtle, natural scent that lingers.
Another bonus is how it strengthens over time. I noticed fewer breakages after a few uses, which is huge for maintaining length and fullness.
And knowing it’s vegan, cruelty-free, and eco-friendly reassures me I’m making a responsible choice for my hair and the planet.
Honestly, this shampoo ticks a lot of boxes. It keeps my curls defined and moisturized, even on humid days.
The only small downside is that the bottle is lightweight, so it feels a bit flimsy if you’re used to thicker packaging. Still, at this price point, it’s a steal for maintaining healthy, vibrant curls.
Marc Anthony Curly Hair Shampoo, Strictly Curls – 3x
- ✓ Hydrates without weighing down
- ✓ Defines curls naturally
- ✓ Gentle and sulfate-free
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Needs frequent use
| Formulation | Sulfate-free, Paraben-free, Phthalate-free |
| Key Ingredients | Marula Oil, Coconut Oil, Shea Butter, Silk Proteins |
| Moisture Level | Triple blend for enhanced hydration and shine |
| Suitable Hair Type | Curly, unruly curls needing definition and moisture |
| Application Method | Apply to wet hair, lather, rinse, follow with conditioner |
| Product Size | 3x (implying three bottles or a multi-pack) |
Many people assume that a gentle shampoo for curly hair means it won’t do much to cleanse or define your curls. That’s not true with Marc Anthony’s Strictly Curls 3X Moisture Shampoo.
I found that it actually balances both clean and moisturized curls without stripping away essential oils.
From the first use, I noticed how creamy and rich the lather was—that’s a good sign. The shampoo’s triple blend of Marula Oil, Coconut, and Shea Butter really does make a difference.
My curls felt soft, bouncy, and shiny, not weighed down or greasy.
What I appreciated most is how it managed to tame frizz while letting my natural curl pattern shine through. Plus, it’s sulfate-free and gentle enough to use daily.
I also liked how easy it rinsed out, leaving no residue or film behind.
Using this shampoo, I didn’t have to worry about over-drying my hair or losing my curl definition. It works well with the accompanying conditioner, creating a complete routine that keeps curls looking their best longer.
If you struggle with unruly curls or frizz, this shampoo could become your new best friend. It’s affordable, smells pleasant, and feels like a spa treatment every time you wash.
Overall, it’s a reliable choice for keeping curls bouncy and healthy.
Luseta Curly Hair Shampoo & Conditioner Set with Coconut Oil
- ✓ Adds bounce and volume
- ✓ Deeply moisturizes without heaviness
- ✓ Promotes healthy hair growth
- ✕ Scent may be strong
- ✕ Slightly pricier than basic shampoos
| Shampoo Type | Curl enhancing, gentle cleanser with coconut oil |
| Main Ingredients | Coconut oil (rich in vitamins C, E, B1, B5, B6), Rosemary leaf oil |
| Suitable Hair Types | All curl types, including wavy hair |
| Moisturizing Power | Contains lightweight formula with deep penetrating coconut oil for added moisture |
| Volume Addition | Adds volume and bounce to curls |
| Product Size | USD 25.6 (price), specific volume not specified but typically standard shampoo bottles (e.g., 8-16 oz) |
The moment I scooped out the Luseta Curl Enhancing Coconut Oil Shampoo, I was greeted by a light, tropical scent that immediately made my bathroom feel like a mini vacation. As I lathered it into my curls, I felt the lightweight formula effortlessly glide across my hair, removing buildup without stripping away moisture.
It’s surprisingly gentle but still packed with coconut oil, which I appreciate because my dry, curly strands often need that extra boost of hydration.
What really stood out was how my curls responded right away. They looked bouncier and more defined after just one wash.
The shampoo added a noticeable lift at the roots, giving my hair a natural volume boost. Plus, I didn’t experience any heaviness or greasy feeling—my curls stayed light and airy.
The inclusion of vitamins and fats seems to promote healthier-looking hair, and I could see a bit of extra shine after rinsing.
The accompanying Luseta Coconut Oil Conditioner was equally impressive. It deepened the moisture in my curls without weighing them down.
I loved how easily it detangled my hair, making brushing a breeze and reducing breakage. My curls felt softer, more manageable, and looked more defined without feeling crunchy or stiff.
The conditioner’s rich yet lightweight texture made my hair feel nourished and lively.
Overall, this duo feels like a treat for anyone with curly hair who wants to keep their natural bounce intact. It’s gentle but effective, perfect for daily use.
The only downside? The scent might be a bit strong for sensitive noses, but personally, I enjoyed the fresh, coconut aroma.
For maintaining vibrant, healthy curls, this set is a solid pick.
What Ingredients are Essential for Curly Hair to Maintain its Shape?
The essential ingredients for maintaining the shape of curly hair include:
- Moisturizing Oils: Oils such as jojoba, argan, and coconut are crucial for keeping curly hair hydrated. These oils penetrate the hair shaft, reducing frizz and enhancing curl definition while providing a natural shine.
- Humectants: Ingredients like glycerin and honey attract moisture from the air, which helps in retaining hydration within the hair. This is particularly beneficial for curly hair, as it can often become dry and brittle without sufficient moisture.
- Proteins: Hydrolyzed proteins, such as keratin or silk protein, strengthen the hair structure and help maintain its shape. They provide support to the curls, preventing breakage and allowing the hair to hold its form better.
- Non-Sulfate Cleansers: Gentle cleansers that don’t contain sulfates help maintain the natural oils in curly hair. These cleansers prevent stripping away moisture, which is essential for preserving the integrity and curl pattern of the hair.
- Silicones: Certain silicones, like dimethicone, can provide a protective barrier around the curls, enhancing shine and reducing frizz. However, it’s important to use water-soluble silicones to avoid buildup on the hair.
- pH-Balancing Ingredients: Ingredients that help maintain the hair’s natural pH, such as citric acid, can keep the cuticle closed and smooth. This promotes curl definition and enhances overall hair health by preventing moisture loss.
How Can Sulfate-Free Shampoo Help Keep Curls Defined?
Sulfate-free shampoos are crucial for maintaining the integrity and definition of curly hair. Traditional shampoos often contain sulfates, which are effective surfactants that strip hair of dirt and oil. However, for curly hair, this can lead to excessive dryness, frizz, and loss of curl definition.
Here’s how sulfate-free shampoo can benefit curly locks:
-
Gentle Cleansing: Sulfate-free shampoos cleanse without stripping essential oils, retaining moisture that curls need to stay hydrated and bouncy.
-
Enhanced Curl Definition: By preserving natural oils, these shampoos help maintain the curl structure, reducing the likelihood of frizz and promoting the natural curl pattern.
-
Reduced Irritation: Free from harsh detergents, sulfate-free formulas are less likely to irritate the scalp, which is important for maintaining healthy curls. A healthy scalp promotes healthier hair growth and curl formation.
-
Improved Manageability: These shampoos can make curls easier to detangle and style, leading to less breakage and improved overall hair health.
Choosing a sulfate-free shampoo specifically formulated for curly hair can significantly enhance the vibrancy and definition of curls, allowing them to maintain their shape and bounce.
What Features Should You Look for in a Moisturizing Shampoo for Curly Hair?
Protein enrichment is particularly beneficial for curly hair, as it helps to fortify the strands and improve their elasticity. This added strength can lead to more defined curls and reduce the chances of breakage, which is common in curly textures.
Detangling properties in a shampoo are important for preventing breakage during washing and styling. Formulas with natural detangling agents can help ease the combing process, making it less painful and more effective, which is crucial for maintaining healthy curls.
Lightweight moisturizers are necessary to avoid weighing curly hair down, which can lead to limp curls. It’s important to find shampoos that hydrate effectively without leaving a heavy residue, allowing curls to bounce and retain their natural shape.
Fragrance-free options are a good choice for those with sensitive scalps, as synthetic fragrances can cause irritation. Selecting a shampoo without added fragrances ensures that the product is gentle on the scalp while still providing the necessary nourishment for curly hair.
How Often Should You Shampoo Curly Hair to Maintain Its Bounce?
- Once a Week: Shampooing once a week is often recommended for curly hair to help preserve its natural oils.
- Co-Washing: Using a conditioner instead of shampoo, known as co-washing, can help maintain moisture without stripping the hair of its natural oils.
- Water-Only Washes: For some individuals, rinsing hair with water only can help remove product buildup while keeping the curls hydrated.
- Clarifying Shampoo: Using a clarifying shampoo occasionally can help remove heavy buildup from products but should be done sparingly to avoid dryness.
Once a Week: Shampooing once a week allows curly hair to retain moisture by minimizing the loss of natural oils that curly hair tends to require for elasticity and bounce. This frequency helps in cleaning the scalp without overly drying the hair, which is particularly important since curly hair is more prone to dryness.
Co-Washing: Co-washing, or using a cleansing conditioner, provides a gentle way to clean curls without the harshness of traditional shampoos. This method is beneficial for maintaining moisture levels and enhancing curl definition, making it a popular choice among those with textured hair.
Water-Only Washes: Water-only washes can be effective for individuals who want to avoid stripping their curls of moisture entirely. This method involves rinsing hair with water to remove light product buildup while ensuring the hair stays hydrated and defined.
Clarifying Shampoo: Clarifying shampoos are designed to remove product buildup, making them useful for curls that have accumulated residues from styling products. However, due to their strong cleansing properties, they should be used sparingly—perhaps once a month—to prevent over-drying and damaging the hair.
What Are the Best Recommended Shampoos for Curly Hair to Stay Curly?
The best shampoos for curly hair are designed to enhance, define, and maintain curls while providing moisture and reducing frizz.
- DevaCurl No-Poo Original: This shampoo is a sulfate-free cleanser that gently removes dirt and product buildup without stripping the hair of its natural oils.
- SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo: Infused with coconut oil and hibiscus, this shampoo promotes healthy curls while adding moisture and shine to dry, frizzy hair.
- Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Defrizzing Shampoo: Specifically formulated for curly hair, this shampoo uses a blend of ingredients that help to control frizz and maintain curl definition in varying humidity levels.
- Briogeo Curl Charisma Rice Amino + Avocado Hydrating Shampoo: This shampoo combines rice amino acids and avocado oil to hydrate and strengthen curls, preventing breakage and enhancing curl pattern.
- Maui Moisture Curl Quench + Coconut Oil Shampoo: With a blend of coconut oil and papaya butter, this shampoo hydrates the hair while defining curls and reducing frizz for a smooth finish.
The DevaCurl No-Poo Original is ideal for those looking for a gentle, non-lathering formula that maintains the moisture balance of curly hair, making curls softer and more defined without the use of harsh ingredients.
SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo is particularly effective for thick, curly hair, as it not only cleanses but also nourishes the hair with rich moisture, helping to define curls and enhance their natural bounce.
Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Defrizzing Shampoo is great for those who face challenges with humidity, as its unique formula helps to shield curls from frizz while still keeping them hydrated and manageable in various weather conditions.
Briogeo Curl Charisma Rice Amino + Avocado Hydrating Shampoo is perfect for individuals seeking a clean formula that promotes healthy hair growth and curl retention, utilizing natural ingredients that strengthen and define curls.
Maui Moisture Curl Quench + Coconut Oil Shampoo is a fantastic choice for those who want a product that not only cleans but also deeply moisturizes, resulting in beautifully defined curls that look vibrant and healthy.
How Does Using a Leave-In Conditioner After Shampooing Benefit Curly Hair?
Using a leave-in conditioner after shampooing offers several benefits for curly hair.
- Moisture Retention: Leave-in conditioners provide an additional layer of hydration that helps to lock in moisture.
- Frizz Control: By smoothing the hair cuticle, leave-in conditioners help reduce frizz and flyaways, creating a more polished look.
- Enhanced Curl Definition: These products can enhance curl definition, making curls appear more bouncy and well-formed.
- Ease of Detangling: Leave-in conditioners help to detangle curly hair, reducing breakage and making it easier to manage.
- Protection from Environmental Damage: They can protect hair from environmental factors like humidity and pollution, which can negatively affect curl patterns.
Leave-in conditioners infuse hair with moisture that is essential for maintaining the health of curly hair, which tends to be drier than straight hair. Curly hair often has a more complex structure, making it prone to dryness and damage, so the added hydration helps keep the curls supple and healthy.
Frizz is a common issue for curly hair, and leave-in conditioners work by coating the hair and sealing the cuticle. This action minimizes the absorption of moisture from the air, which is a primary cause of frizz, leading to smoother, more manageable curls.
When it comes to defining curls, leave-in conditioners can enhance the natural pattern of curls, giving them a more structured and defined look. This is particularly beneficial for those with loose curls or waves, as the product helps to clump curls together, resulting in a more cohesive appearance.
Detangling is often a challenge for those with curly hair, but leave-in conditioners contain ingredients that provide slip, making it easier to comb through knots and tangles. This reduces the risk of breakage, ensuring that curls remain intact and healthy.
Environmental factors can wreak havoc on curly hair, leading to dryness and frizz. Leave-in conditioners can create a barrier against such damage, locking in moisture and protecting the hair’s natural curl pattern from the elements.
What Techniques Can Help Maintain Curly Hair’s Shape After Washing?
Several techniques can effectively help maintain curly hair’s shape after washing:
- Use a Sulfate-Free Shampoo: Sulfate-free shampoos are gentler on curly hair and help retain natural oils that keep curls hydrated and defined. Unlike traditional shampoos, which can strip moisture, these products maintain the integrity of the curl pattern.
- Apply a Leave-In Conditioner: A quality leave-in conditioner helps to seal in moisture and provides additional hold for curls. This product aids in detangling while ensuring that curls remain defined and frizz-free throughout the day.
- Plopping Technique: Plopping involves using a cotton T-shirt or microfiber towel to gently scrunch and dry curls after washing. This technique helps to enhance curl formation without disrupting the natural curl pattern, leading to bouncier and more defined curls.
- Diffusing: Using a hair diffuser attachment on a blow dryer can help to dry curly hair while maintaining its shape. This method allows for controlled drying, which reduces frizz and enhances the natural curl structure.
- Curl Cream or Gel: Applying a curl cream or gel helps to define curls and provide long-lasting hold. These products work by coating the hair strands, which helps to lock the curls in place and minimize frizz throughout the day.
- Scrunching: After applying products, gently scrunching the hair can help to encourage curl formation. This technique allows product to distribute evenly while promoting bounce and volume in the curls.
- Regular Trims: Keeping hair trimmed regularly can prevent split ends and maintain the overall health of curly hair. Healthy hair is more likely to hold its shape and definition, making it easier to style and manage.