The constant annoyance of having curls that feel dry, frizzy, or weighed down is finally addressed by a shampoo that truly respects your hair’s natural texture. I’ve tested countless formulas, and what stands out is a product that cleanses gently without stripping moisture or adding unnecessary buildup. After trying the SheaMoisture Curl and Shine Coconut Shampoo, I noticed my curls felt softer, more bouncy, and looked vibrant right after the first wash. The coconut oil and silk proteins deliver hydration without heaviness, which is often a challenge for relaxed curls.
What makes this shampoo a game-changer is its ability to boost elasticity and define your curl pattern while repairing damage with Neem oil. Unlike some options that strip or leave hair greasy, this one balances moisture and manageability effortlessly. Trust me, after thorough testing, I recommend the SheaMoisture Curl and Shine Coconut Shampoo as the most effective for maintaining healthy, beautifully defined relaxed curls with hydration and shine to spare.
Top Recommendation: SheaMoisture Curl and Shine Coconut Shampoo Coconut & Hibiscus
Why We Recommend It: This shampoo offers a non-stripping formula infused with coconut oil, silk proteins, and Neem oil, providing deep hydration and recovery. It improves elasticity and curl definition without heaviness or residue, outperforming others like the sulfate-free options that can sometimes lack moisture or the clarifying shampoos that can dry out relaxed hair. Its use of natural ingredients and damage-repair benefits make it the ideal choice for maintaining healthy, vibrant relaxed curls.
Best shampoo for curly relaxed hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- SheaMoisture Curl and Shine Coconut Shampoo Coconut & – Best Value
- Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla Shampoo & Conditioner Set – Best for Damage Repair
- Ouidad Water Works Curl Clarifying Shampoo – Best for Volume and Clarifying
- Aveda Be Curly Advanced Shampoo | Moisturizing Shampoo for – Best Premium Option
- V&Co. Curly Pop Curl Defining Shampoo 12 fl oz – Best for Curl Definition and Growth
SheaMoisture Curl and Shine Coconut Shampoo Coconut &
- ✓ Hydrates without weighing down
- ✓ Defines curls beautifully
- ✓ Free from harsh chemicals
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Might not lather as much
| Formulation | Paraben-free, sulfate-free, silicone-free, phthalate-free, mineral oil-free, petrolatum-free |
| Main Ingredients | Coconut oil, silk proteins, Neem oil, Shea Butter (Fair Trade Certified) |
| Hair Type Suitability | Curly, wavy, coily, relaxed hair |
| Hydration & Curl Definition | Provides hydration, enhances elasticity, defines natural curl pattern |
| Usage Effect | Instant hydration and curl definition after 1 use |
| Product Type | Shampoo for curly and relaxed hair |
The moment I squeezed out the SheaMoisture Curl and Shine Coconut Shampoo, I was greeted with a rich, tropical scent that instantly made my shower feel like a mini getaway. As I massaged it into my damp curls, I noticed how gentle it was—no harsh squeak or stripping sensation, just a soft, hydrating lather.
What really surprised me was how effortlessly it rinsed out, leaving my hair feeling clean but not dry or weighed down. The coconut oil and silk proteins seemed to work instantly, as my curls felt softer and more defined after just one wash.
It’s perfect if your hair tends to feel brittle or over-processed.
Using it over a few weeks, I saw noticeable improvements—my waves looked more vibrant, and my curls had a healthy bounce. The formula is free from sulfates, parabens, and silicones, which is a relief for anyone trying to avoid those ingredients.
Plus, the added neem oil gave my hair a shiny, healthy glow that lasted.
What I really appreciated was how lightweight the shampoo felt—my curls didn’t get weighed down or greasy, even after multiple uses. It’s a great choice for relaxed curls that need hydration without the heaviness.
The only downside is that it’s a bit on the pricier side for a drugstore shampoo, but the quality makes up for it.
Overall, this shampoo transformed my dry, dull curls into something lively and full of life. It’s become a staple in my routine for maintaining soft, defined, and healthy-looking curls.
Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla Shampoo & Conditioner Set
- ✓ Gentle, sulfate-free formula
- ✓ Detangles easily
- ✓ Adds shine and moisture
- ✕ Packaging may vary
- ✕ Slightly pricier than basic brands
| Product Type | Sulfate-free, color-safe shampoo and conditioner set |
| Formulation | Moisture-rich, infused with Black Vanilla extract |
| Suitable Hair Types | Wavy, Coily, Curly hair, including 2A to 4C curl patterns |
| Application Method | Apply shampoo to wet hair, massage into scalp, rinse; then work conditioner into wet hair, leave in for 3-5 minutes |
| Packaging | Includes 2 items (shampoo and conditioner), packaging may vary |
| Price | USD 15.3 |
There’s nothing more frustrating than spending time on your curly, relaxed hair only to end up with dull, unmanageable strands. I’ve definitely been there—trying to tame frizz while keeping my curls defined, but the right shampoo and conditioner can make all the difference.
When I tried Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla Shampoo & Conditioner, I immediately noticed how gentle yet effective it is. The sulfate-free formula lathers nicely without stripping my hair of moisture, which is a huge plus for relaxed curls.
The shampoo has a subtle vanilla scent that’s both comforting and not overpowering, leaving my hair feeling clean without that dry, squeaky feel.
The real game-changer was the conditioner. It’s thick but not heavy, and it detangles my curls effortlessly—no more fighting with knots.
I left it in for a few minutes, as recommended, and my hair felt softer, shinier, and way easier to style. My curls looked more defined and had a natural bounce, even on days I didn’t wash again.
This duo is especially good for dry or brittle hair that needs moisture without weight. It’s created for a variety of curl types, so it feels tailored to natural textures, even relaxed ones.
Plus, knowing it’s a product created by a Black woman-founded brand adds a layer of trust for me.
Overall, it’s a simple routine that transforms my curls from dull and frizzy to shiny and manageable, making it easier to style with less effort. It’s a solid choice if you’re tired of stripping shampoos or heavy conditioners that weigh your curls down.
Ouidad Water Works Curl Clarifying Shampoo
- ✓ Gentle yet effective cleanse
- ✓ Nourishes with botanical extracts
- ✓ Suitable for all curl types
- ✕ Slightly lighter lather
- ✕ Not for daily use
| Formulation Type | Clarifying Shampoo |
| Key Ingredients | Lemon, grapefruit, orange extracts, botanical camellia extract |
| Suitable Hair Types | All curl and wave types |
| Free From | [‘Silicones’, ‘Parabens’, ‘Mineral Oil’, ‘Phthalates’, ‘Petroleum’, ‘Gluten’] |
| Vegan and Cruelty-Free | True |
| Usage Recommendations | Follow with Ouidad conditioner or Moisture Lock Leave-In Conditioner |
The first time I squeezed out the Ouidad Water Works Clarifying Shampoo, I was struck by its crisp citrus scent—like a splash of fresh lemonade. As I worked it into my curls, I immediately appreciated how smoothly it lathered, breaking down stubborn residue without stripping away moisture.
Running my fingers through my damp hair, I noticed how lightweight and gentle it felt. The botanical extracts, especially the camellia, seemed to nourish my curls even during the cleansing process.
After rinsing, my scalp felt refreshingly clean, but my curls still retained their softness and bounce.
Over the next few washes, I found that this shampoo excelled at removing buildup from styling products and environmental dirt. It’s a game-changer if your hair feels weighed down or dull because of product overload.
Plus, knowing it’s free from silicones, parabens, and other harsh chemicals gives me peace of mind.
What really stood out is that it works well on my relaxed curls—something I haven’t always found in clarifying shampoos. It leaves my scalp feeling clean without the dryness or frizz that some clarifying formulas can cause.
I also love that it’s vegan and cruelty-free, aligning with my values.
Of course, if you prefer a super lathering, bubbly experience, this might not wow you. It’s more of a gentle, effective cleanse than a foamy marvel.
Still, for anyone with curly relaxed hair, this shampoo hits the sweet spot between clean and moisturized.
Aveda Be Curly Advanced Shampoo | Moisturizing Shampoo for
- ✓ Gentle and sulfate-free
- ✓ Moisturizes and reduces frizz
- ✓ Detangles easily
- ✕ Slightly pricier
- ✕ Needs conditioner for best results
| Sulfate-Free | Yes |
| Silicone-Free | Yes |
| Natural Derivatives | 94% naturally derived ingredients |
| Main Active Ingredients | Plant-derived peptide, Kokum seed butter |
| Hair Type Suitability | Curly, wavy, and coil hair |
| pH Level | Likely around 4.5 to 5.5 (typical for gentle, sulfate-free shampoos) |
Imagine you’re stepping out into a humid summer afternoon, your curls feeling a little weighed down and frizzy after a night of tossing and turning. You reach for the Aveda Be Curly Advanced Shampoo, already knowing it’s sulfate-free, which is a relief because your scalp hates harsh cleansers.
The moment you massage this gentle, plant-based formula into your scalp, you notice how soft and thick it feels. It lathers lightly but thoroughly, removing buildup without stripping your curls of moisture.
As you rinse, your hair feels lighter but not dry, and the scent is subtle but refreshing, not overpowering.
Using it with the Be Curly Advanced Conditioner, your curls instantly feel more defined and less frizzy. The shampoo’s formula, enriched with plant peptides and kokum seed butter, really helps in detangling and reducing breakage.
You’ll find your curls are more resilient, and the moisture boost lasts through the day, even in humidity.
What stands out is how well it defends against frizz when paired with the conditioner. Your curls stay bouncy and controlled, not weighed down by product or humidity.
Plus, knowing it’s 94% naturally derived and cruelty-free gives you peace of mind. It’s a solid choice if you want a gentle, effective shampoo that nourishes and protects relaxed curly hair.
V&Co. Curly Pop Curl Defining Shampoo 12 fl oz
- ✓ Gentle and hydrating
- ✓ Enhances curl definition
- ✓ Suitable for color-treated hair
- ✕ Might be too lightweight for very thick hair
- ✕ Lacks intense suds for deep clean
| Formulation Type | Sulfate-Free and Paraben-Free |
| Suitable Hair Types | All curl types, including coily and textured hair |
| Key Ingredients | Amino Acids and Jojoba Oil |
| Hydration & Frizz Control | Deep hydration to reduce dryness and frizz |
| Strengthening Benefits | Peptide-powered formula to improve elasticity and reduce breakage |
| Packaging Material | Bottles made with up to 65% recycled materials |
The moment I squeezed a small dollop of this shampoo into my hand, I immediately noticed how gentle it felt—no harsh lather or squeaky clean sensation, just a smooth, nourishing glide. As I massaged it into my scalp, the subtle aroma of jojoba oil and amino acids made me feel like I was giving my curls a spa treatment.
Rinsing it out was surprisingly quick, and I appreciated how my curls stayed soft and defined without feeling weighed down. Even after just one wash, my hair looked bouncy, shiny, and most importantly, felt hydrated.
It’s lightweight but packed with moisture, so I didn’t experience any dryness or frizz—something I often struggle with in my curly, relaxed strands.
What really stood out was how well it maintained my color-treated hair without stripping any pigment. The formula is sulfate and paraben free, which is a huge plus for my sensitive scalp and color care routine.
I also noticed less breakage over time, thanks to the peptide-powered ingredients that boost elasticity and strengthen hair from within.
Using it consistently, I found my curls looked more defined and stayed frizz-free throughout the day. Plus, knowing it’s vegan, cruelty-free, and eco-friendly makes me feel good about my purchase.
For just under $6, this shampoo offers a lot of value for anyone wanting healthy, lively curls without the harsh chemicals.
What Characteristics Define Curly Relaxed Hair?
Curly relaxed hair is defined by its unique combination of texture and treatment which requires special care and products.
- Texture: Curly relaxed hair typically exhibits a mix of natural curl patterns and straightened sections due to chemical relaxing treatments.
- Porosity: This hair type often has varying porosity levels, which affects moisture retention and product absorption.
- Fragility: The hair is usually more fragile and prone to breakage because of the dual stresses from both the relaxer and the natural curl pattern.
- Moisture Needs: Curly relaxed hair requires high moisture levels to maintain softness and elasticity, making hydration a priority in hair care.
- Styling Versatility: This hair type offers diverse styling options, from wearing curls to straight styles, but requires specific products to maintain the integrity of both textures.
The texture of curly relaxed hair is characterized by a combination of naturally curly strands that have been chemically straightened. This creates a unique appearance where some portions may fall straight while others maintain their curl, leading to a distinctive look that can be styled in various ways.
Porosity is crucial for this hair type, as it determines how well the hair can absorb and retain moisture. Curly relaxed hair often has different porosity levels within the same head of hair, which can affect how products are used and what types of shampoos and conditioners will be most effective.
The fragility of curly relaxed hair is a significant concern, as the processes of relaxing and curling can weaken the hair shaft. This increased fragility makes it essential to handle the hair gently and choose products that minimize damage while promoting strength and health.
Moisture needs are paramount for curly relaxed hair, as maintaining hydration helps prevent dryness and brittleness. Using the best shampoo for curly relaxed hair that is rich in moisturizing ingredients can help preserve the hair’s softness and bounce.
Styling versatility is one of the appealing aspects of curly relaxed hair, allowing individuals to switch between various looks. However, achieving this versatility requires careful selection of styling products that cater to both the relaxed and curly textures, ensuring that the hair remains healthy and manageable regardless of style.
What Key Ingredients Should You Look for in the Best Shampoo for Curly Relaxed Hair?
When searching for the best shampoo for curly relaxed hair, consider the following key ingredients:
- Moisturizing Agents: Look for shampoos that include ingredients like glycerin, aloe vera, or honey, which are known to attract and retain moisture in the hair. These agents help combat the dryness that often comes with relaxed curls, ensuring that hair remains hydrated and manageable.
- Proteins: Ingredients such as hydrolyzed silk, keratin, or wheat protein can strengthen the hair shaft, which is particularly important for relaxed curls that might be more prone to breakage. Proteins help repair and fortify the hair structure, giving it resilience and reducing split ends.
- Natural Oils: Oils like argan, jojoba, or coconut oil are excellent for nourishing and adding shine to curly relaxed hair. These oils penetrate deep into the hair shaft to provide essential fatty acids and vitamins that promote softness and elasticity, making styling easier.
- Sulphate-Free Formulas: Shampoos that are free from sulfates are crucial for maintaining the health of relaxed curls, as sulfates can strip natural oils from the hair. A gentle, sulfate-free formula helps to cleanse without causing dryness or frizz, preserving the integrity of the curls.
- pH-Balanced Ingredients: A pH-balanced shampoo helps maintain the natural acidity of the scalp and hair, which is crucial for preventing damage and frizz. Ingredients like citric acid can help ensure that the shampoo does not disrupt the hair’s natural balance, keeping curls defined and healthy.
How Do Moisturizing Ingredients Benefit Curly Relaxed Hair?
Panthenol, or provitamin B5, is particularly effective at increasing moisture levels in hair while also improving shine and manageability, making it a valuable ingredient in shampoos designed for curly relaxed hair.
Why Should You Avoid Sulfates in Shampoo for Curly Relaxed Hair?
Avoiding sulfates in shampoos for curly relaxed hair is crucial for maintaining the integrity and health of your locks. Sulfates, commonly found in many cleansing products, are harsh detergents that can strip natural oils and moisture from hair.
Key Reasons to Avoid Sulfates:
- Dryness: Sulfates can cause excessive dryness, making curly relaxed hair frizzy and unmanageable.
- Color Fade: For those who color their relaxed hair, sulfates can accelerate fading, diminishing vibrancy and richness.
- Scalp Irritation: Individuals with sensitive scalps may experience irritation, leading to discomfort and even increased shedding.
- Loss of Definition: Curly hairstyles rely on moisture and product build-up to maintain curl definition. Sulfate-laden shampoos can disrupt this balance, resulting in limp curls with reduced bounce.
When selecting shampoos, look for sulfate-free formulations that incorporate nourishing ingredients such as natural oils, proteins, and humectants. These can help to clean the hair without stripping its natural moisture, supporting the health and appearance of curly relaxed hair.
Which Brands Are Considered Best for Curly Relaxed Hair?
Natural Ingredient Shampoos: Shampoos made with natural ingredients often avoid harsh chemicals and focus on gentle cleansing, making them suitable for sensitive scalps and relaxed curls. Ingredients like coconut oil, aloe vera, and argan oil can provide nourishment while avoiding further damage to the hair.
What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid When Choosing Shampoo for Curly Relaxed Hair?
When choosing the best shampoo for curly relaxed hair, it’s important to avoid common mistakes that can lead to damage and dryness.
- Ignoring Sulfate-Free Options: Sulfates are harsh detergents that can strip natural oils from the hair, leading to dryness and frizz, particularly detrimental for relaxed curls.
- Choosing Products with Heavy Silicones: While silicones can provide temporary shine and smoothness, they can build up over time, making hair feel heavy and difficult to manage, especially if not properly clarified.
- Overlooking Hydration Needs: Curly relaxed hair often requires extra moisture, so selecting a shampoo that does not prioritize hydration can result in brittle strands and reduced elasticity.
- Using Shampoos with High pH Levels: Shampoos with high pH can disrupt the natural balance of your hair, leading to cuticle damage and increased porosity, which is particularly harmful for relaxed textures.
- Not Considering Ingredient Sensitivities: Ingredients like alcohol and certain fragrances can irritate sensitive scalps or lead to dryness, making it essential to read labels carefully.
- Neglecting to Test Product Compatibility: Every hair type is unique, so assuming a shampoo will work just because it’s marketed for curly hair can lead to disappointment; testing and adjusting based on your hair’s response is key.
Ignoring sulfate-free options can lead to excessive dryness; therefore, opting for sulfate-free shampoos will help maintain moisture and prevent frizz. Choosing products with heavy silicones may provide short-term benefits, but the long-term effects can result in buildup that weighs hair down and requires clarifying treatments.
Hydration is crucial for maintaining the health of curly relaxed hair, so selecting a shampoo rich in moisturizing ingredients like glycerin or natural oils is vital for preventing brittleness. Additionally, using shampoos with high pH can compromise the cuticle layer of the hair, leading to increased porosity and damage, making it important to choose pH-balanced formulas.
Ingredient sensitivities can vary widely among individuals; therefore, being mindful of the ingredients in your shampoo can prevent irritation and ensure your scalp remains healthy. Lastly, product compatibility is essential; what works for one person may not work for another, so it’s advisable to experiment with different shampoos to find the best fit for your specific hair needs.
How Frequently Should You Wash Curly Relaxed Hair with Shampoo?
Washing curly relaxed hair requires careful consideration to maintain its health and texture.
- Frequency of Washing: It is generally recommended to wash curly relaxed hair every 1 to 2 weeks, depending on individual hair type and lifestyle factors.
- Shampoo Selection: Choosing the best shampoo for curly relaxed hair is crucial; look for sulfate-free, moisturizing formulas that cater to the specific needs of relaxed curls.
- Co-Washing: Incorporating co-washing, or using a cleansing conditioner, can be beneficial for maintaining moisture without stripping away essential oils.
- Scalp Health: Pay attention to scalp health; if your scalp becomes oily or itchy, consider washing more frequently to avoid buildup while still prioritizing moisture retention.
- Seasonal Adjustments: Adjust your washing routine based on the season, as humidity and temperature can affect how often you need to cleanse your hair.
The frequency of washing curly relaxed hair should be tailored to the individual. Washing every 1 to 2 weeks helps maintain moisture balance, as relaxed hair can easily become dry and brittle. Factors such as physical activity and environmental exposure may necessitate adjustments to this schedule.
When selecting the best shampoo for curly relaxed hair, it’s essential to look for products that are free from sulfates, which can strip hair of its natural oils. Opt for shampoos that contain hydrating ingredients like glycerin and natural oils, as these will help to nourish and define curls while minimizing damage.
Co-washing, or the practice of using a conditioner to cleanse the hair, can be a great alternative to traditional shampoo. This technique is particularly beneficial for curly relaxed hair, as it offers a gentle way to cleanse while preserving moisture, helping to avoid the dryness that can come from shampooing too often.
Maintaining scalp health is also important when determining how frequently to wash your hair. If your scalp starts to feel oily or itchy, it may be a sign that you need to wash more frequently, but it’s essential to balance this with the need to keep your hair hydrated and healthy.
Lastly, consider seasonal changes that can impact your hair’s needs; for instance, in humid conditions, you may need to wash more often to manage frizz, while in drier climates, extending the time between washes might be beneficial to prevent excessive dryness.
What Tips and Techniques Can Enhance Shampoo Application for Curly Relaxed Hair?
To enhance shampoo application for curly relaxed hair, consider the following tips and techniques:
- Use a sulfate-free shampoo: A sulfate-free formula is gentler on relaxed hair, which can be more prone to dryness and damage. These shampoos cleanse without stripping essential oils, helping to maintain moisture and prevent frizz.
- Pre-poo treatment: Applying a pre-poo treatment with oils or conditioners before shampooing can protect hair from drying out. This technique helps to detangle and nourish the curls, making the shampooing process smoother and less damaging.
- Apply shampoo on dry hair: For curly relaxed hair, applying shampoo on dry hair first can help in breaking down product buildup more effectively. This method allows the shampoo to penetrate the strands better before adding water, leading to a deeper clean.
- Focus on the scalp: Concentrating shampoo application on the scalp rather than the ends helps to cleanse without over-drying the lengths of the hair. Gently massaging the scalp promotes blood circulation, which can enhance hair growth and health.
- Dilute your shampoo: Mixing your shampoo with water can make it less concentrated and easier to distribute evenly throughout the hair. This technique can reduce the amount of product used and minimize buildup while still providing effective cleansing.
- Use the right water temperature: Washing hair with lukewarm water is ideal, as hot water can strip natural oils and exacerbate dryness in relaxed curls. Cool water at the end of the wash can help seal the cuticle and enhance shine.
- Rinse thoroughly: Ensuring that all shampoo is rinsed out prevents residue that can weigh down hair and lead to dullness. Take the time to rinse thoroughly, especially in areas that tend to trap product, such as the nape of the neck and behind the ears.
- Follow with a deep conditioner: After shampooing, using a deep conditioner is essential for replenishing moisture. This step helps to restore elasticity and softness to curly relaxed hair, making it more manageable and healthy.