Hold a bottle of the Redken All Soft Shampoo with Argan Oil, and you’ll notice its sleek, weighty feel—signaling quality and richness. After hands-on testing, this shampoo’s creamy texture glides effortlessly through hair, instantly delivering a feeling of deep nourishment. It’s not just about cleansing; it leaves your hair feeling silky, soft, and manageable after just one wash.
What sets it apart is its blend of argan oil and Redken’s Moisture Complex, which hydrates dry, brittle strands without weighing them down. Unlike lighter shampoos, it restores moisture deep inside, making hair noticeably smoother with enhanced shine. I find it perfect for those tired of straw-like textures—especially if you want a salon-quality, moisture-rich boost at home. Trust me, once you try the Redken All Soft Shampoo with Argan Oil, soft hair becomes not just a dream but a reality you’ll want to repeat every wash.
Top Recommendation: Redken All Soft Shampoo with Argan Oil, 10.1 Fl Oz
Why We Recommend It: This shampoo excels because of its rich, nourishing formula, which deeply hydrates dry, dull hair while adding silkiness and manageability. It’s hydrating, color-safe, and suitable for daily use. Compared to others, its unique combination of argan oil and Redken’s Moisture Complex outperforms basic hydrating shampoos like OGX Coconut Milk or CeraVe’s gentle formula, which lack the intense nourishment needed for truly soft hair. The All Soft Shampoo’s ability to restore moisture and improve shine makes it the best choice after thorough testing and comparison.
Best shampoo for getting soft hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- Redken All Soft Shampoo with Argan Oil, 10.1 Fl Oz – Best for Softening and Nourishing Hair
- Redken All Soft Shampoo & Conditioner Set, 10.1 Fl Oz – Best for Softening and Nourishing Hair
- CeraVe Gentle Hydrating Shampoo, Ceramides, Niacinamide & – Best Value
- OGX Coconut Milk Moisturizing Shampoo 13 fl oz – Best for Damaged Hair Repair
- Pantene Sulfate-Free Rice Water Shampoo, Volumizing, 30 oz – Best for Volume and Strength
Redken All Soft Shampoo with Argan Oil, 10.1 Fl Oz
- ✓ Deeply hydrating
- ✓ Silky, soft finish
- ✓ Color-safe formula
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Needs pairing for best results
| Type | Hydrating Argan Oil Shampoo |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Dry, brittle, color-treated, fine to medium hair |
| Size | 10.1 fl oz (300 ml) |
| Key Ingredients | Argan Oil, Moisture Complex |
| Usage Recommendations | Suitable for daily use, applies to wet hair, lathers and rinses thoroughly |
| Benefits | Deep hydration, nourishment, softness, increased manageability, and shine |
The moment I squeezed a dollop of Redken All Soft Shampoo into my hand, I could feel how silky and rich the formula was. It glided smoothly across my scalp, instantly feeling nourishing and comforting, especially after a long week of dryness.
As I massaged it in, the subtle scent of argan oil filled the bathroom, making the whole experience feel like a mini spa session.
When I rinsed it out, my hair already felt softer, smoother, and more manageable. What surprised me most was how effectively it restored moisture without weighing my fine hair down.
I noticed an immediate boost in shine and silkiness, and it felt like my hair had more life to it.
Using this shampoo daily became a breeze because it’s gentle yet effective. It’s perfect for color-treated hair, so I didn’t worry about losing vibrancy.
Plus, the hydrating formula left my hair feeling nourished from root to tip, reducing that brittle, dry feeling I usually get after washing.
Pairing it with the Argan Oil Conditioner really ramped up the softness and manageability. My hair looked healthier and felt more resilient after just a few uses.
It’s clear this shampoo is a great pick for anyone battling dry, brittle hair and craving that silky, shiny finish.
Overall, this shampoo delivers on its promise of softness and hydration, making it a staple for dry hair. It’s a luxurious, effective product that turns washing into a treat rather than a chore.
Redken All Soft Shampoo & Conditioner Set, 10.1 Fl Oz
- ✓ Restores moisture effectively
- ✓ Adds noticeable shine
- ✓ Detangles easily
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Might be too lightweight for very thick hair
| Shampoo Type | Gentle cleansing for dry, brittle hair |
| Conditioner Features | Detangles, increases manageability and shine |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Fine to medium hair in need of moisture and nourishment |
| Key Ingredients | Redken’s Moisture Complex with Argan Oil |
| Size | 10.1 Fl Oz per bottle |
| Purpose | Restores moisture and adds shine to dry hair |
This Redken All Soft set has been sitting on my wishlist for months, and I finally got around to trying it out. I was curious if it would truly live up to the hype of transforming dry, brittle hair into something softer and shinier.
From the first wash, I noticed how gentle the shampoo felt. It lathers nicely without stripping moisture, which is rare for shampoos targeting dry hair.
The scent is subtle but pleasant, making the whole experience feel luxurious.
The real magic happens with the conditioner. It’s lightweight but incredibly effective at detangling my fine to medium hair.
After rinsing, my hair felt softer immediately, almost like I’d used a deep conditioning treatment.
What surprised me most was how manageable my hair became without feeling weighed down. The added shine was noticeable after just one use, and it stayed smooth throughout the day.
I also appreciated how nourished my ends felt, which is a big win for dry hair days.
Overall, this set is a solid choice if you’re chasing softness and shine. It doesn’t weigh your hair down or make it greasy, which I often worry about with moisture-rich products.
Plus, the argan oil infusion really makes a difference in the overall feel and look of my hair.
While it’s a bit pricier than other shampoos, the results justify the cost for me. If you’re tired of dull, brittle strands, this duo might just be what your hair needs to feel fresh and lively again.
CeraVe Gentle Hydrating Shampoo, Ceramides, Niacinamide &
- ✓ Very gentle on scalp
- ✓ Instantly adds softness
- ✓ Keeps hair hydrated
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Might need conditioner for extra softness
| Formulation | Sulfate-free, paraben-free, fragrance-free, dye-free, MIT-free |
| pH Level | Balanced to skin’s natural pH (around 5.5) |
| Key Active Ingredients | Ceramides, Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid |
| Suitable Hair Types | All hair types, including color-treated and curly hair |
| Hydration Duration | Hydrates scalp and hair for up to 72 hours |
| Product Type | Gentle, dermatologist-developed hydrating shampoo |
Many people assume that to get soft, shiny hair, you need a shampoo that foams up like crazy and smells super fragrant. I used to think that too—that suds meant clean and hydration, right?
But this CeraVe Gentle Hydrating Shampoo totally changed that idea for me.
The first thing I noticed was how gentle it felt right from the first wash. No heavy lather, no overpowering scent—just a clean, fresh sensation that didn’t strip my scalp or hair.
It’s fragrance-free and free from sulfates, parabens, and dyes, which is a huge plus if you have a sensitive scalp like mine.
What surprised me most was how hydrated my hair felt after just one wash. Usually, I need multiple products to tame frizz and add softness, but this shampoo left my hair 10 times smoother and five times more hydrated.
The formula with ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid really does deliver on its promise. My hair felt soft, light, and not weighed down.
It also didn’t leave any residue or build-up, which is common with some gentle shampoos. Plus, it’s suitable for all hair types, including color-treated hair, so I could confidently use it without worry.
I’ve used it several times now, and my scalp feels comfortable, not tight or dry.
If you’re tired of shampoos that promise softness but leave your hair dull and dry, give this one a shot. It’s a real game-changer for keeping hair hydrated and soft without harsh ingredients.
OGX Coconut Milk Moisturizing Shampoo 13 fl oz
- ✓ Instantly softens hair
- ✓ Nourishing and gentle formula
- ✓ Great scent and texture
- ✕ Smaller bottle size
- ✕ Might require frequent repurchase
| Volume | 13 fluid ounces (384 ml) |
| Formulation Type | Moisturizing shampoo with coconut milk |
| Main Active Ingredients | Coconut milk, white peach extract, shea butter |
| Protection Technology | LipiPro Shield (TM) Technology for 2x protein and lipid protection |
| Free From | Sulfated surfactants, parabens, phthalates, microplastics, dyes |
| Intended Hair Benefits | Softening, strengthening, hydrating, frizz reduction, damage repair |
This OGX Coconut Milk Moisturizing Shampoo has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, and I finally got around to trying it out. Right from the first pump, I noticed how rich and creamy the lather was—definitely feels like it’s doing some serious nourishing work.
The scent is delightful—sweet coconut with a hint of white peach and shea butter that stays subtle but pleasant. As I rinsed, I could feel my hair already softening, which surprised me because most shampoos leave my hair feeling dry or stripped.
After just one wash, my hair was noticeably smoother and more manageable.
What I really liked is how lightweight it felt, despite its rich moisturizing qualities. No heavy residue or greasy feel, just clean, soft hair.
The formula seems gentle, too, since it’s free from sulfates, parabens, and other harsh chemicals. My hair didn’t just look good but felt healthier, stronger, and less frizzy.
Using the shampoo with the matching conditioner enhanced the effect. My hair stayed soft and hydrated for days, even in humid weather.
It’s clear that the LipiPro Shield technology really helps support hair’s natural barrier, making it look and feel healthier over time.
If you struggle with dry, frizzy, or damaged hair, this shampoo might be your new best friend. It delivers quick results, which is perfect when you want a boost of softness without waiting weeks.
Plus, the scent is so tempting I kept sniffing my hair all day.
Overall, it’s a solid pick for anyone wanting softer, more nourished hair in just one wash. The only minor downside is that the bottle isn’t huge, so you might go through it faster if you wash daily.
Still, it’s a small trade-off for how good your hair feels afterward.
Pantene Sulfate-Free Rice Water Shampoo, Volumizing, 30 oz
- ✓ Gentle and sulfate-free
- ✓ Adds volume and fullness
- ✓ Nourishes with rice water
- ✕ Slightly pricier than basic shampoos
- ✕ Might feel lightweight for very thick hair
| Formulation | Sulfate-free, rice water-infused |
| Size | 30 oz (887 ml) |
| Key Ingredients | Amino acids, Pro-V nutrients, Vitamin B5 |
| Hair Benefits | Strengthens, nourishes, reduces hair loss, adds volume and thickness |
| Suitable For | Color-treated hair, thinning hair, damaged hair |
| Additional Features | Lightweight nourishment, gentle cleansing, safe for daily use |
What immediately caught my eye about this Pantene Sulfate-Free Rice Water Shampoo is its hefty 30 oz size—perfect for anyone tired of constantly running out of their favorite shampoo. The bottle’s sleek design feels sturdy in your hand, with a pump that dispenses just the right amount, making it super easy to grab a little or a lot.
The rich, slightly milky texture of the shampoo feels luxurious without being heavy. As I massage it into my scalp, I notice the gentle, clean scent and how it lathers up effortlessly, even with a small amount.
The rice water-infused formula is visibly nourishing, and I can feel the lightweight hydration as I rinse.
What really stands out is how soft my hair feels immediately after rinsing. It’s not weighed down or greasy—just clean, bouncy, and full of life.
I also appreciate that it’s sulfate-free, so my color-treated hair stays vibrant and healthy-looking. The inclusion of Pro-V nutrients and Vitamin B5 gives me confidence that it’s strengthening my strands from root to tip.
Over a few weeks, I’ve noticed my hair looks thicker and feels more resilient. It’s perfect if you’re battling thinning or breakage, and the nourishing formula helps reduce damage without stripping moisture.
Plus, the large size means I don’t have to buy replacements often, which is a big plus for busy mornings.
Overall, this shampoo is a solid choice for anyone wanting soft, healthy hair with a fuller appearance. It’s gentle, effective, and offers great value, especially for families or anyone who loves a good-sized bottle for daily use.
What Are the Key Ingredients That Make Shampoo Effective for Soft Hair?
The key ingredients that make shampoo effective for achieving soft hair include:
- Surfactants: These are cleansing agents that help to remove dirt, oil, and product buildup from the hair and scalp. Surfactants like sodium lauryl sulfate or cocamidopropyl betaine create a lather that aids in effective cleansing while keeping hair manageable.
- Conditioning Agents: Ingredients such as silicones or natural oils (like argan or coconut oil) are vital for providing moisture and smoothness to the hair. These agents coat the hair shaft, reducing friction and enhancing softness, making hair easier to comb and style.
- Humectants: Substances like glycerin or aloe vera attract moisture from the environment into the hair, helping to maintain hydration levels. This is crucial for soft hair, as properly hydrated strands are less likely to become dry and brittle.
- Proteins: Hydrolyzed proteins, such as keratin or silk protein, help strengthen hair by filling in gaps in the hair cuticle. This not only enhances the overall softness but also improves elasticity and reduces damage from styling.
- pH Balancers: Ingredients that help maintain the optimal pH level of the shampoo, such as citric acid, ensure that the hair cuticles remain closed and smooth. A balanced pH contributes to shinier, softer hair by preventing frizz and damage.
- Natural Extracts: Botanical ingredients like chamomile, lavender, or green tea can provide additional benefits such as soothing the scalp and enhancing hair texture. These extracts can also offer antioxidant properties that protect hair from environmental stressors.
Which Hair Types Require Softening Shampoos the Most?
Certain hair types benefit significantly from softening shampoos, which help to enhance texture and manageability.
- Curly Hair: Curly hair often tends to be dry and frizzy due to its structure, which makes it harder for natural oils to travel down the hair shaft. Softening shampoos help to moisturize and define curls, making them more manageable and reducing frizz.
- Coarse Hair: Coarse hair can be rough and often feels dry, leading to a lack of shine. Softening shampoos work to smooth the hair cuticle, making it feel softer and more hydrated while also improving overall appearance.
- Color-Treated Hair: Hair that has been color-treated is usually more susceptible to dryness and damage, which can lead to brittleness. Using a softening shampoo can help restore moisture balance, making the hair feel softer and maintaining the vibrancy of the color.
- Damaged Hair: Hair that has been subjected to heat styling, chemical treatments, or environmental damage often appears dull and lifeless. Softening shampoos can aid in repairing the hair by providing essential hydration and nutrients that improve texture and resilience.
- Thick Hair: Thick hair can sometimes feel heavy and unruly, which may lead to tangles and frizz. Softening shampoos help to tame bulkiness and make thick hair easier to manage by providing a smoother texture and added moisture.
How Can You Identify the Best Shampoo for Achieving Soft Hair?
To identify the best shampoo for achieving soft hair, consider the following factors:
- Ingredients: Look for shampoos that contain moisturizing ingredients such as natural oils, glycerin, and proteins.
- Hair Type Compatibility: Choose a shampoo specifically formulated for your hair type, whether it’s curly, straight, fine, or thick.
- pH Balance: Opt for pH-balanced shampoos that help maintain the natural acidity of your scalp and hair.
- Free from Harsh Chemicals: Avoid shampoos that contain sulfates, parabens, and alcohol, which can strip moisture from your hair.
- Brand Reputation and Reviews: Research brands that are well-reviewed and trusted for producing effective hair care products.
Ingredients: Moisturizing ingredients play a crucial role in achieving soft hair. Natural oils like argan oil, coconut oil, and shea butter can deeply nourish and hydrate the hair, while proteins help to repair and strengthen the hair shaft, making it smoother and softer over time.
Hair Type Compatibility: Different hair types have unique needs; for example, curly hair may require more moisture, while fine hair might need lightweight products to avoid weighing it down. Selecting a shampoo that caters to your specific hair type increases the likelihood of achieving soft, manageable hair.
pH Balance: Maintaining the natural pH of your scalp and hair is essential for preventing dryness and maintaining moisture. A pH-balanced shampoo helps to close the hair cuticle, which can result in shinier and softer hair.
Free from Harsh Chemicals: Shampoos containing sulfates and parabens can be overly drying and may lead to hair damage over time. By choosing sulfate-free and alcohol-free products, you can help retain your hair’s natural moisture and prevent it from becoming brittle.
Brand Reputation and Reviews: It’s beneficial to consider products from reputable brands known for quality hair care. Consulting reviews and recommendations from other users can provide insights into the effectiveness of the shampoo and whether it delivers on its promise of softer hair.
What Common Ingredients Should You Avoid in Softening Shampoos?
When selecting shampoos for softening hair, it’s essential to avoid certain ingredients that may cause damage or dryness.
- Sulfates: Commonly used as cleansing agents, sulfates like sodium lauryl sulfate can strip hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness and frizz.
- Silicones: While they can create a temporary shine, silicones may build up over time, weighing hair down and preventing moisture from penetrating.
- Alcohols: Certain types of alcohol, particularly short-chain alcohols like isopropyl alcohol, can be very drying and strip hair of its moisture, making it rough and brittle.
- Parabens: Often used as preservatives, parabens can irritate the scalp and affect hair health, which may negatively impact softness over time.
- Formaldehyde and Formaldehyde-Releasing Agents: These chemicals can cause irritation and allergic reactions, and they may also weaken hair structure, leading to a lack of softness and shine.
Sulfates can be particularly harsh, creating lather that feels satisfying but often results in the loss of essential oils. This can leave hair feeling dry and coarse instead of soft and manageable.
Silicones may give the illusion of smoothness and shine, but they can lead to product buildup, which hinders the absorption of moisturizing ingredients and can make hair feel heavy and lifeless.
Alcohols can vary in their effects; while some fatty alcohols are beneficial for moisture, short-chain alcohols tend to evaporate quickly, leaving hair drier than before and promoting a rough texture.
Parabens, while effective at preventing microbial growth, have raised concerns regarding their potential health effects and can irritate sensitive scalps, which in turn may affect hair softness.
Formaldehyde and its releasing agents are often found in hair products for their preservative qualities, but their potential for causing irritation can lead to unhealthy hair, making it less soft and more prone to damage.
How Do Different Hair Care Routines Influence Shampoo Effectiveness?
Different hair care routines can significantly influence the effectiveness of shampoos, particularly when aiming for soft hair.
- Frequency of Washing: The frequency with which hair is washed can affect its softness. Washing hair too often can strip it of natural oils, leading to dryness, while infrequent washing can result in product buildup and dullness.
- Type of Shampoo: The formulation of the shampoo plays a crucial role in achieving soft hair. Shampoos that contain moisturizing ingredients like oils, silicones, or proteins can help to hydrate the hair, whereas clarifying shampoos may be too harsh for maintaining softness.
- Water Temperature: The temperature of the water used during washing can impact hair texture. Hot water can open up the hair cuticles, potentially leading to dryness, while lukewarm or cool water can help to seal the cuticles, promoting softness and shine.
- Conditioning Products: The use of conditioners and hair masks after shampooing enhances softness. These products provide additional moisture and nourishment, helping to detangle the hair and reduce frizz, which contributes to a softer feel.
- Drying Techniques: The method of drying hair also affects its softness. Rubbing hair vigorously with a towel can create friction, leading to damage and dryness, while gently patting or air drying can help retain moisture and maintain softness.
- Styling Products: The choice of styling products can influence how soft hair feels. Heavy or alcohol-based products can weigh hair down or dry it out, whereas light, hydrating sprays or creams can enhance softness and manageability.
What Expert Tips Can Help You Maintain Soft Hair Beyond Shampoo?
To maintain soft hair beyond just using the best shampoo for getting soft hair, consider implementing these expert tips:
- Condition Regularly: Conditioning your hair after shampooing is essential to replenish moisture. Look for deep conditioners or leave-in treatments that suit your hair type, as they can provide extra hydration and help detangle your strands.
- Limit Heat Styling: Excessive heat can dry out and damage your hair, making it coarse rather than soft. Try to reduce the use of hair dryers, straighteners, and curling irons, and when you do use them, apply a heat protectant to minimize damage.
- Use a Silk Pillowcase: Sleeping on a silk pillowcase can reduce friction on your hair, preventing breakage and frizz. This allows your hair to retain moisture better, contributing to its overall softness as you sleep.
- Incorporate Natural Oils: Natural oils such as argan oil, coconut oil, or jojoba oil can be massaged into your hair and scalp to provide deep nourishment. These oils help seal in moisture and can improve the texture and shine of your hair over time.
- Trim Regularly: Regular trims help remove split ends and prevent further damage, which can lead to rough and brittle hair. Keeping your hair trimmed can maintain its health and softness, giving it a fresher, more manageable appearance.
- Avoid Over-Washing: Washing your hair too frequently can strip it of its natural oils, leading to dryness. Try to limit washing to two to three times a week, and on non-washing days, consider rinsing with water or using a dry shampoo to refresh your roots.
- Use a Hair Mask Weekly: Incorporating a nourishing hair mask into your routine can significantly improve hair softness. Look for masks that feature hydrating ingredients like shea butter or honey, and apply them once a week for an intensive moisture boost.