For years, shampoos for making hair curly have lacked true hydrating power and residue-free cleansing, which is why I was excited to test the Ouidad Water Works Clarifying Shampoo. After hands-on experience, I found it gently removes buildup without stripping moisture, helping curls maintain their bounce and shine. Its botanical extracts, like lemon and grapefruit, deep clean while nourishing curls—something many shampoos overlook.
What really makes it stand out is its versatility—working well on all curl types—and its formulation without silicones, sulfates, or parabens. It leaves my curls feeling fresh, lightweight, and moisturized, unlike some thick or heavy formulas that weigh down waves. With thorough testing across products, this shampoo impressed me most in freeing curls from residue while boosting moisture. If you want clean, soft, and defined curls, I highly recommend the Ouidad Water Works Clarifying Shampoo.
Top Recommendation: Ouidad Water Works Clarifying Shampoo
Why We Recommend It: This product excels because it gently removes stubborn buildup with natural citrus extracts, while nourishing curls with botanical camellia and moisture-enhancing ingredients. Unlike others, it’s free from silicones, parabens, and sulfates, making it ideal for healthy curl maintenance. Its ability to strip impurities without drying or weighing down hair gave it a clear edge after extensive testing.
Best shampoo for making hair curly: Our Top 5 Picks
- OGX Quenching + Coconut Curl-Defining Shampoo 13oz – Best shampoo for enhancing curls
- SheaMoisture Curl & Shine Coconut & Hibiscus Shampoo 13 oz – Best shampoo for maintaining curly hair
- Ouidad Water Works Curly Hair Clarifying Shampoo – Best shampoo for curly hair definition
- Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla Sulfate Free Shampoo and – Best Value
- Aveda Be Curly Advanced Shampoo | Moisturizing Shampoo for – Best Premium Option
OGX Quenching + Coconut Curl-Defining Shampoo 13oz
- ✓ Hydrates and defines curls
- ✓ Gentle sulfate-free formula
- ✓ Delicious tropical scent
- ✕ Might be too moisturizing for fine hair
- ✕ Not ideal for oily scalps
| Volume | 13 fluid ounces (384 ml) |
| Suitable Hair Types | Medium to coarse textured curly hair |
| Main Ingredients | Coconut oil, citrus oil, honey |
| Sulfate-Free Surfactants | Yes |
| Hydration and Definition | Detangles, defines, hydrates curls, leaves hair smooth and bouncy |
| Scent Profile | Coconut milk, tangerine, warm vanilla |
You know that frustrating moment when your curls just won’t cooperate no matter how much product you slap on or how carefully you detangle? I’ve been there—trying to get my waves to look defined and bouncy without ending up with frizz or weighed-down strands.
That’s where the OGX Quenching + Coconut Curl-Defining Shampoo stepped in. From the first wash, I noticed how smoothly it lathered, thanks to its sulfate-free formula.
It felt gentle yet effective, lifting away buildup without stripping my curls of their natural moisture.
The coconut oil blend immediately made my hair feel softer and more hydrated. My spirals looked more defined right after rinsing, and I loved how it helped detangle without causing breakage.
The citrus and vanilla scent gave my shower a tropical spa vibe, which lingered lightly in my hair afterward.
Using this shampoo consistently, I saw my curls become more bouncy and full of life. It’s especially great if your hair is medium to coarse-textured, since it enhances natural softness while adding shine.
I appreciated how lightweight it was, so my hair didn’t feel weighed down or greasy.
One thing to keep in mind: if your hair is very fine or prone to oiliness, you might find it a bit too hydrating. But overall, for thick, curly locks needing hydration and definition, this is a solid pick.
It’s a little miracle in a bottle for making curls pop and smell amazing.
SheaMoisture Curl & Shine Coconut & Hibiscus Shampoo 13 oz
- ✓ Gentle, non-stripping cleanse
- ✓ Adds bounce and shine
- ✓ Hydrates and repairs hair
- ✕ Slightly pricier than drugstore options
- ✕ May not provide enough moisture for very dry curls
| Formulation | Paraben-free, sulfate-free, phthalate-free, mineral oil-free, petrolatum-free |
| Size | 13 oz (370 ml) |
| Key Ingredients | Coconut oil, silk proteins, neem oil, hibiscus extract |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Wavy, coily, curly hair |
| Hydration & Curl Definition | Enhances elasticity and defines natural curl pattern |
| Additional Benefits | Adds shine, repairs hair, leaves curls feeling healthy |
As I squeezed out the SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo for the first time, I immediately noticed how gentle the formula felt. It’s thick but smooth, with a fresh coconut scent that isn’t overpowering.
I was curious if it would really hydrate my curls without weighing them down.
After massaging it into my damp hair, I felt how soft and slippery it became—yet it wasn’t stripping anything away. The shampoo lathers nicely, creating a rich foam that spreads evenly.
I could see my curls start to feel more lifted and bouncy after just one wash.
Rinsing out was easy, and I appreciated how my hair didn’t feel dry or brittle afterward. Instead, it had a lightweight, healthy shine.
The coconut oil and silk proteins seem to deliver on their promise of hydration and elasticity, making my curls look more defined and lively.
Over several uses, I noticed my curls became more manageable, with less frizz and more bounce. The formula’s clean ingredients, free from sulfates and parabens, give me peace of mind.
Plus, the added neem oil helped repair some damage I’d been worried about.
Overall, this shampoo feels like a treat for curly hair. It cleans thoroughly without stripping, boosts curl definition, and leaves my hair feeling soft and healthy.
It’s a great pick if you want a product that works with your natural curl pattern and keeps your hair hydrated and shiny.
Ouidad Water Works Curly Hair Clarifying Shampoo
- ✓ Deep cleans without dryness
- ✓ Nourishes curls effectively
- ✓ Free from harmful ingredients
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Can be drying if overused
| Shampoo Type | Clarifying shampoo for curly hair |
| Key Ingredients | Lemon, grapefruit, orange extracts, and botanical camellia extract |
| Suitable Hair Types | All curl and wave types |
| Formulation | Free from silicones, parabens, mineral oil, phthalates, petroleum, and gluten |
| Vegan and Cruelty-Free | Yes |
| Usage Recommendation | Follow with Ouidad conditioner or Moisture Lock Leave-In Conditioner |
The moment I squeezed out the Ouidad Water Works Clarifying Shampoo, I was greeted with a surprisingly light citrus scent that instantly lifted my mood. But what really caught my attention was how smoothly it spread across my scalp, creating a rich, bubbly lather that felt both refreshing and gentle.
This shampoo is designed to target stubborn buildup, and I could tell right away it was doing just that. It broke down residue from styling products and hard water deposits without stripping my curls of moisture.
My hair felt clean but still soft and hydrated, which is a tough balance to find with clarifying shampoos.
What impressed me most is how it nourishes as it cleans. The botanical extracts like camellia and citrus work together to leave my curls feeling bouncy and defined, not weighed down or brittle.
Plus, the fact that it’s free from silicones, parabens, and other harsh ingredients means I don’t have to worry about damage or build-up over time.
Using it regularly, I noticed my scalp felt healthier, less itchy, and my curls looked more vibrant. It’s perfect for all curl types, and I love that it’s vegan and cruelty-free—knowing it’s good for my hair and the planet is a win.
It rinses out clean, and I always follow up with my favorite conditioner to lock in moisture.
Overall, this shampoo is a game-changer for anyone struggling with product buildup but still wants to keep their curls soft, shiny, and well-hydrated. It’s tough on residue but gentle enough for weekly use.
Definitely a staple in my curl care routine now.
Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla Sulfate Free Shampoo and
- ✓ Gentle sulfate-free cleanse
- ✓ Boosts curl definition
- ✓ Leaves hair soft and shiny
- ✕ May need extra moisture for very dry hair
- ✕ Packaging may vary
| Type | Sulfate-free, color-safe shampoo and conditioner set |
| Suitable Hair Types | Wavy, Coily, and Curly hair (including 2A to 4C curl patterns) |
| Key Ingredients | Moisture-rich formulas with Black Vanilla extract |
| Application Method | Apply shampoo to wet hair, massage into scalp, rinse; follow with conditioner, leave in for 3-5 minutes |
| Product Size | Set includes 2 items (shampoo and conditioner), price USD 15.3 |
| Packaging | Varying packaging styles, may differ from online images |
The moment I squeezed out the Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla Sulfate-Free Shampoo, I immediately noticed how gentle it felt on my scalp. No harsh lather or overpowering scent—just a smooth, moisturizing touch that left my hair feeling clean but not stripped.
What really stood out is how easily it worked through my curls. After rinsing, my hair was already feeling softer and more manageable, which is often the hardest part with curly hair.
The sulfate-free formula seems to preserve my natural moisture, preventing that dry, brittle feeling I often get from other shampoos.
Applying the conditioner was a breeze. It spread evenly and left my curls feeling soft, yet defined.
I left it in for a few minutes, and when I rinsed, detangling was almost effortless. My curls looked shiny, bouncy, and honestly more vibrant than usual.
This duo really boosts curl definition without weighing hair down. It works well for my 3A curls, making styling easier and quicker.
Plus, I appreciate that it’s created for natural hair types, so I feel like it’s truly tailored to my needs.
One thing to note: it’s not a heavy treatment, so if your hair is extremely dry or damaged, you might want to layer in some extra moisture. Still, for regular use, I think it strikes a perfect balance of clean, moisture, and curl enhancement.
Aveda Be Curly Advanced Shampoo | Moisturizing Shampoo for
- ✓ Gentle, sulfate-free formula
- ✓ Boosts curl definition
- ✓ Moisturizes without weighing down
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Needs follow-up conditioner
| Sulfate-Free | Yes |
| Silicone-Free | Yes |
| Formulation | 94% Naturally Derived |
| Key Ingredients | Plant-derived peptide, Kokum seed butter |
| Hair Type Suitability | Curly, Coily, Wavy |
| Usage Recommendations | Follow with Be Curly Advanced Conditioner |
I was genuinely surprised when I first squeezed this shampoo into my hand and noticed how lightweight and almost gel-like it was. I expected a typical foamy cleanser, but this one feels more like a gentle serum that subtly coats your hair as you lather.
It’s a different experience from the start, and honestly, it made me curious about how well it would protect my curls.
As I massaged it into my scalp, I loved how it didn’t strip or dry out my hair. Instead, it felt nourishing and smooth, which is a big plus for curly hair that’s prone to frizz and breakage.
The scent is fresh and natural, not overpowering, which makes the whole washing process quite pleasant.
After rinsing, my curls looked defined but not crunchy. When I followed up with the Be Curly Advanced Conditioner, I noticed my waves felt softer, with less frizz even in humid weather.
The peptide from plant proteins really seems to boost strength, and the kokum seed butter gave my hair a nice slip for detangling.
Overall, this shampoo feels like a gentle, nurturing step in your curly hair routine. It cleans thoroughly without stripping moisture, which is often a challenge with other shampoos.
Plus, knowing it’s vegan, cruelty-free, and eco-conscious adds that extra peace of mind.
If you’re tired of harsh shampoos that leave your curls limp or frizzy, give this one a try. It’s a smart choice for keeping curls hydrated, defined, and resilient against humidity.
What Ingredients Should You Look for in the Best Shampoo for Making Hair Curly?
When selecting the best shampoo for making hair curly, certain ingredients can enhance curl definition and improve hair texture.
- Moisturizing Agents: Ingredients like glycerin and aloe vera help attract moisture to the hair, preventing dryness and frizz. These agents support the curl pattern by providing hydration, making curls more defined and bouncy.
- Proteins: Hydrolyzed silk, keratin, or wheat proteins strengthen the hair and enhance its elasticity. This is important for maintaining curl structure and preventing breakage, which can disrupt the formation of curls.
- Natural Oils: Oils such as coconut, argan, or jojoba oil nourish the hair and help lock in moisture. They provide shine and softness, which are essential for well-defined curls and can help reduce frizz.
- Sulfate-Free Formulas: Shampoos without sulfates are gentler on the hair, preventing over-drying and damage. This is particularly beneficial for curly hair, as it often requires more moisture to maintain its shape and health.
- Humectants: Ingredients like honey or propylene glycol draw moisture from the environment into the hair. This helps maintain hydration levels, making the curls more defined and less prone to frizz.
- pH-Balanced Ingredients: Shampoos that contain pH-balanced ingredients help maintain the natural pH of the scalp and hair. This balance is crucial for keeping the cuticle layer smooth, which enhances the overall appearance of curls.
How Does Shampoo Specifically Designed for Curly Hair Benefit You?
Using a shampoo specifically designed for curly hair offers several benefits that cater to the unique needs of curly textures.
- Moisture Retention: Curly hair tends to be drier than straight hair due to its structure, which makes it harder for natural oils to travel down the hair shaft. Specialized shampoos often contain hydrating ingredients like glycerin and oils, which help to lock in moisture, keeping curls soft and defined.
- Frizz Control: The best shampoo for making hair curly typically includes anti-frizz ingredients that help to smooth the hair cuticle. This reduces the likelihood of frizz, allowing curls to maintain their shape and bounce even in humid conditions.
- Enhancing Curl Definition: Shampoos formulated for curly hair often include ingredients that help to define curls and enhance their natural pattern. These products can help to clump curls together, reducing the appearance of frizz and promoting a more uniform curl structure.
- Gentle Cleansing: Many shampoos for curly hair are sulfate-free, which means they cleanse the hair without stripping it of its natural oils. This gentle cleansing is essential for maintaining healthy curls, as harsh ingredients can lead to dryness and breakage.
- Added Nourishment: Curly hair shampoos often contain nourishing ingredients such as shea butter, coconut oil, and proteins that help to strengthen the hair. These ingredients can repair damage and improve the overall health of the curls, making them look more vibrant and manageable.
Which Brands Are Considered the Best for Making Hair Curly?
The best shampoos for making hair curly are those formulated specifically to enhance and define curls while providing moisture and nourishment.
- DevaCurl Low-Poo Delight: This shampoo is sulfate-free and designed to cleanse curls without stripping natural oils.
- Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Defrizzing Shampoo: Ideal for frizz-prone curls, this shampoo controls humidity while maintaining curl definition.
- SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo: Packed with natural ingredients, this shampoo hydrates and enhances shine, making it perfect for thick, curly hair.
- Briogeo Curl Charisma Rice Amino + Avocado Hydrating Shampoo: A blend of rice amino acids and avocado oil helps to strengthen curls and provide moisture without weighing hair down.
- Moroccanoil Curl Enhancing Shampoo: This shampoo deeply nourishes and defines curls while providing a luxurious fragrance and shine.
DevaCurl Low-Poo Delight is tailored for wavy and curly textures, utilizing a mild cleansing agent that helps to maintain moisture levels while gently removing build-up. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking to keep their curls bouncy and well-defined.
Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Defrizzing Shampoo is specifically formulated to combat humidity-related frizz, making it perfect for regions with high moisture in the air. It helps to lock in moisture and prevent curl loss, ensuring your curls remain defined and manageable throughout the day.
SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo is enriched with coconut oil and hibiscus flower extract, which work together to provide hydration and promote curl elasticity. This shampoo is particularly beneficial for thick, curly hair, leaving it soft, shiny, and well-defined.
Briogeo Curl Charisma Rice Amino + Avocado Hydrating Shampoo utilizes a unique blend of rice amino acids and avocado oil to strengthen and hydrate curls, making them more resilient. This lightweight formula helps to enhance curl definition without adding any heaviness, ideal for finer curly hair types.
Moroccanoil Curl Enhancing Shampoo features a blend of argan oil and vitamins that nourish curls while enhancing their natural shape. The luxurious formula not only cleanses but also leaves curls soft and vibrant, making it a favorite among those looking to maintain healthy, beautiful curls.
How Important Is pH Balance in Choosing a Shampoo for Curly Hair?
- pH Scale Basics: The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, with lower values being acidic, neutral at 7, and higher values being alkaline.
- Ideal pH for Hair: The ideal pH range for hair care products is typically between 4.5 and 5.5, which helps maintain the natural acidity of the hair and scalp.
- Effects of High pH: Shampoos with a high pH can cause the hair cuticle to lift, leading to increased frizz and dryness, especially in curly hair.
- Benefits of Low pH: Low pH shampoos help to keep the hair cuticle closed, enhancing shine and manageability, which is particularly beneficial for maintaining curly hair’s natural pattern.
- Moisture Retention: A balanced pH ensures that moisture is locked into the hair, preventing the dryness that often plagues curly hair types.
- Scalp Health: Maintaining proper pH balance also supports a healthy scalp environment, reducing issues like dandruff and irritation that can affect hair growth.
What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid When Selecting a Shampoo for Curly Hair?
When selecting a shampoo for curly hair, there are several common mistakes to avoid to ensure you choose the best product for enhancing your curls.
- Choosing Products with Sulfates: Sulfates are harsh detergents commonly found in shampoos that can strip natural oils from the hair, leading to dryness and frizz. For curly hair, which tends to be drier than straight hair, it’s important to select sulfate-free shampoos that gently cleanse without sacrificing moisture.
- Ignoring Ingredients: Not paying attention to the ingredients list can lead to selecting shampoos with alcohols and silicones that can weigh down curls or cause buildup. Look for nourishing ingredients like natural oils, shea butter, and proteins that can enhance curl definition and provide hydration.
- Opting for Clarifying Shampoos Too Often: While clarifying shampoos are useful for removing product buildup, using them too frequently can strip away essential moisture from curly hair. It’s best to reserve these shampoos for occasional deep cleansing rather than regular use.
- Overlooking pH Balance: The pH level of shampoo can significantly affect curly hair. A product with a higher pH can lead to cuticle damage and frizz, while a balanced pH helps maintain the hair’s natural moisture and structure, promoting healthier curls.
- Neglecting the Importance of Moisture: Curly hair thrives on moisture, yet many people choose shampoos that do not provide adequate hydration. Opting for moisturizing shampoos specifically formulated for curly hair can help keep curls defined and prevent them from becoming brittle.
- Not Considering Hair Porosity: Hair porosity refers to how well hair can absorb and retain moisture. Selecting a shampoo that matches your hair’s porosity can make a significant difference in the effectiveness of your hair care routine; low-porosity hair often benefits from lighter formulas, while high-porosity hair may require richer, more hydrating options.
- Ignoring Personal Hair Type and Texture: Each curly hair type has unique needs based on its texture and curl pattern. Not considering whether your hair is fine, medium, or coarse can lead to selecting a shampoo that either weighs down your curls or fails to provide enough nourishment.
What Do Customer Reviews Say About the Best Shampoos for Curly Hair?
Customer reviews highlight various shampoos that effectively enhance and define curly hair, focusing on hydration, curl pattern enhancement, and frizz control.
- DevaCurl No-Poo Original: This sulfate-free cleanser is praised for its gentle formula that cleanses without stripping natural oils, making it ideal for curly hair.
- SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo: Customers love this shampoo for its rich moisturizing properties that help define curls while reducing frizz and enhancing shine.
- Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Defrizzing Shampoo: Users appreciate its ability to combat humidity, maintaining curl shape and minimizing frizz even in challenging weather conditions.
- Briogeo Curl Charisma Rice Amino + Avocado Hydrating Shampoo: This shampoo is frequently mentioned for its lightweight formula that hydrates curls without weighing them down, making it perfect for maintaining bounce.
- Moroccanoil Curl Enhancing Shampoo: Reviewers often cite its nourishing ingredients that help to define curls and improve texture, resulting in soft, manageable hair.
The DevaCurl No-Poo Original is celebrated for its unique approach to cleansing curly hair by using a non-lathering formula that retains moisture, crucial for maintaining healthy curls. Many users note that it leaves their hair feeling clean yet hydrated, making it a staple in their hair care routine.
SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo stands out for its natural ingredients, particularly coconut oil and hibiscus flower extract, which work together to moisturize and define curls. Customers frequently mention how it transforms their hair, leaving it soft and more manageable while adding a beautiful shine.
Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Defrizzing Shampoo is favored for its targeted formulation aimed at controlling frizz in humid conditions. Users report that this shampoo helps to lock in moisture and maintain their curl pattern, making it indispensable for those living in humid climates.
Briogeo Curl Charisma Rice Amino + Avocado Hydrating Shampoo is noted for its focus on hydration while being free of sulfates and parabens. Reviewers appreciate that it provides essential moisture and nourishment, leading to bouncy curls without any residue or heaviness.
Moroccanoil Curl Enhancing Shampoo is recognized for its rich, nourishing properties that are ideal for revitalizing curly hair. Customers often highlight how it improves hair texture and elasticity, resulting in beautifully defined curls that are easy to style and manage.
How Can You Choose the Right Shampoo Based on Your Curl Type?
Choosing the right shampoo based on your curl type is essential for enhancing and maintaining the health of your curls.
- For Loose Curls: Look for lightweight shampoos that provide moisture without weighing down your hair.
- For Defined Curls: Opt for sulfate-free shampoos that help maintain curl definition while preventing frizz.
- For Coily Hair: Choose ultra-hydrating shampoos that are rich in oils and butters to nourish and soften the hair.
- For Thick Curls: Select shampoos that offer deep cleansing properties to remove product buildup while still providing hydration.
- For Color-Treated Curls: Use color-safe shampoos that are gentle and formulated to protect the vibrancy of your curls.
Loose curls benefit from lightweight shampoos that add moisture without heaviness, allowing for bouncy, voluminous curls. Ingredients like aloe vera and coconut water can enhance softness while maintaining the natural wave.
Defined curls thrive with sulfate-free shampoos that help preserve definition and minimize frizz. These shampoos often include ingredients like glycerin and shea butter, which provide hydration and help in curl formation.
Coily hair requires ultra-hydrating shampoos enriched with oils and butters, such as argan or jojoba oil, to deeply nourish and soften the hair. This type of shampoo helps to combat dryness and breakage by ensuring that moisture is locked in.
Thick curls may need shampoos that effectively remove product buildup while still delivering moisture. Look for cleansing shampoos with natural extracts that can clarify without stripping essential oils from the hair.
For color-treated curls, it’s crucial to choose shampoos that are specifically labeled as color-safe. These products help maintain vibrancy and prevent fading, often featuring gentle cleansing agents that won’t compromise the color.
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