Contrary to what manufacturers claim about shampoos for curly hair, I found that many struggle to balance moisture, definition, and frizz control. After hands-on testing, one thing is clear: not all shampoos are created equal, especially for perms and curls. I’ve used products that weighed down waves, lacked hydration, or failed to tame frizz. But some really stood out in restoring bounce and softness.
From my experience, the SheaMoisture Curl & Shine Coconut & Hibiscus Shampoo excels because it hydrates without heaviness, thanks to coconut oil and silk proteins. It leaves your curls defined, shiny, and healthy after just one wash—perfect for permed hair that needs moisture and elasticity. While competing products like Garnier and Aveda also perform well, they either lack the nourishing power or come at a higher price. The SheaMoisture formula offers impressive value and real results, making it my top pick for curly, stylized hair.
Top Recommendation: SheaMoisture Curl & Shine Coconut & Hibiscus Shampoo 13 oz
Why We Recommend It: This shampoo offers a gentle, non-stripping clean while deeply hydrating curls with coconut oil and silk proteins. It uniquely boosts elasticity and shine, helping perms maintain their shape without dryness or weight. Compared to the others, its formulation emphasizes restoring health and bounce, which is crucial for curly and permed hair—plus, it’s made with fair-trade ingredients and free of harmful chemicals.
Best shampoo for perm curly hair: Our Top 4 Picks
- SheaMoisture Curl & Shine Coconut & Hibiscus Shampoo 13 oz – Best moisturizing shampoo for permed curly hair
- V&Co. Curly Pop Curl Defining Shampoo 12 fl oz – Best gentle shampoo for curly perm hair
- Garnier Fructis Curl Nourish Shampoo, Curly Hair Shampoo – Best Value
- Aveda Be Curly Advanced Moisturizing Shampoo 8.5oz – Best volumizing shampoo for perm curls
SheaMoisture Curl & Shine Coconut & Hibiscus Shampoo 13 oz
- ✓ Hydrates without weighing down
- ✓ Defines curls instantly
- ✓ Gentle and sulfate-free
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Might need conditioner for extra slip
| Formulation | Paraben-free, sulfate-free, silicone-free, phthalate-free, mineral oil-free, petrolatum-free |
| Size | 13 oz (385 ml) |
| Key Ingredients | Coconut oil, silk proteins, neem oil, hibiscus extract |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Wavy, coily, curly hair |
| Purpose/Benefits | Hydrates, defines curls, enhances elasticity, adds shine, repairs hair |
| Usage | Gently cleanses without stripping moisture |
The moment I scooped a little of this SheaMoisture Curl & Shine Shampoo into my hand, I immediately appreciated how rich and creamy it felt. It spread effortlessly through my curls, lifting away dirt without that tight, stripping sensation I dread.
As I rinsed, I noticed my hair felt softer and more hydrated, almost like it had a light, natural bounce.
What really surprised me was how gentle it was on my perm curls. Usually, shampoos can weigh down or dry out my hair, but this one left my curls feeling lively and defined.
The coconut oil and silk proteins seem to work together to lock in moisture while enhancing the curl pattern.
After just one wash, my curls looked more vibrant and felt healthier. The scent of coconut and hibiscus is subtle yet uplifting, making the whole experience a treat.
I also liked how it didn’t leave any residue or heavy build-up, which is a common issue with some other curl shampoos.
This shampoo is ideal if your curls tend to feel dry or brittle. It’s especially great for those with wavy, coily, or curly hair who want a product that hydrates without weighing down.
Plus, knowing it’s free from parabens, silicones, and sulfates gives me peace of mind that I’m treating my curls kindly.
Overall, I’d say this shampoo lives up to its promise of transforming dry, dull curls into lively, shiny waves. It’s become a part of my routine for keeping my perm curls fresh, healthy, and bouncy every day.
V&Co. Curly Pop Curl Defining Shampoo 12 fl oz
- ✓ Gentle and moisturizing
- ✓ Enhances curl definition
- ✓ Eco-friendly formula
- ✕ Not for very oily hair
- ✕ Slightly pricey for some
| Formulation Type | Sulfate-Free and Paraben-Free |
| Suitable Hair Types | All curl types, including curly, coily, textured, and color-treated hair |
| Key Ingredients | Amino Acids, Jojoba Oil, Peptides |
| Hydration & Moisturization | Deep hydration to reduce dryness and frizz, restore softness |
| Size | 12 fluid ounces (355 mL) |
| Environmental & Ethical Features | Vegan, Cruelty-Free, Packaged with up to 65% recycled materials |
While reaching for my usual shampoo, I noticed something unexpected—this bottle felt lighter than most, but don’t let that fool you. As I squeezed out the product, I was surprised by how rich and creamy it was, instantly promising a gentle yet effective cleanse.
Applying it to my perm-curly hair, I immediately felt how soft and hydrated it became. The sulfate-free formula lathers nicely without stripping moisture, which is a huge plus for textured hair that can easily become dry or frizzy.
The scent is fresh but not overpowering, and I appreciated how easily it rinsed out, leaving my curls feeling clean but not crunchy. After drying, my curls looked defined, bouncy, and shiny—exactly what I want from a shampoo geared toward curly, coily, and textured hair.
What really impressed me was the deep hydration from the amino acids and jojoba oil. My hair felt softer and more elastic, which made styling a breeze.
Plus, knowing this shampoo is vegan, cruelty-free, and eco-friendly gives me peace of mind about my routine.
Overall, it’s a smart choice if you want a gentle, nourishing shampoo that boosts curl definition and health. It handles color-treated hair well too, so you don’t have to worry about fading or damage.
Just a heads-up—if your hair is extremely oily or needs a heavy-duty clarifier, this might not be enough for that. But for daily use and maintaining healthy, bouncy curls, it’s a winner.
Garnier Fructis Curl Nourish Shampoo, Curly Hair Shampoo
- ✓ Defines curls beautifully
- ✓ Moisturizes without heaviness
- ✓ Budget-friendly and eco-conscious
- ✕ Bottle can be bulky
- ✕ Might need extra conditioner
| Shampoo Type | Clarifying, sulfate-free formula suitable for curly hair |
| Key Ingredients | Coconut Oil and Plant Protein |
| Hair Benefits | Defines curls, moisturizes, and controls frizz for up to 48 hours |
| Application Method | Massage onto wet hair, lather, rinse thoroughly |
| Packaging Material | 100% recycled plastic bottles (excluding pumps and caps) |
| Price | USD 5.24 |
The moment I cracked open the Garnier Fructis Curl Nourish Shampoo, I immediately noticed its fresh coconut scent—bright and inviting. The thick, translucent gel feels surprisingly lightweight in your hand, and I was curious how it would handle my curly, sometimes frizzy hair.
As I massaged it into wet hair, I appreciated how easily it lathered without that squeaky, stripped feeling. The formula, infused with coconut oil and plant protein, felt gentle yet effective.
My curls looked a bit out of shape at first, but after rinsing and following up with the conditioner, they started to bounce back.
What really stood out was how well it moisturized without weighing my hair down. My curls stayed defined for hours, resisting frizz even in humid conditions.
Using the full Curl Nourish routine, I noticed my waves looked more uniform and lively, especially after air drying. The shampoo’s gentle clarifying action made my scalp feel refreshed without dryness.
Honestly, the best part is how budget-friendly it is—just over five dollars for a bottle that performs like pricier options. I also love that the packaging is eco-conscious, made from recycled plastic.
It’s perfect if you’re tired of shampoos that promise volume but leave your curls flat or greasy.
Of course, no product is perfect. The bottle is a bit bulky to handle in the shower, and I found that for very tight curls, I needed a bit more conditioner than usual.
Still, for daily use and maintaining defined, frizz-free curls, this shampoo checks all the boxes.
Aveda Be Curly Advanced Moisturizing Shampoo 8.5oz
- ✓ Gentle, non-stripping cleanse
- ✓ Defends against humidity
- ✓ Nourishing, plant-based formula
- ✕ Slightly pricier than drugstore options
- ✕ Thin consistency may feel minimal
| Formulation Type | Sulfate-Free, Silicone-Free |
| Size | 8.5 oz (251 ml) |
| Key Ingredients | Plant-derived peptide, Kokum seed butter |
| Natural Derived Content | 94% |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Curly, Coily, Wavy hair |
| Additional Benefits | Frizz defense, Moisturizing, Detangling |
The moment I unscrewed the cap of the Aveda Be Curly Advanced Moisturizing Shampoo, I was greeted with a fresh, botanical scent that instantly made me think of a lush forest. The gel-like texture felt smooth and slightly thick, but not heavy, and it poured out easily into my hand.
As I massaged it into my wet hair, I appreciated how gentle it felt—no harsh suds or stripping sensation.
This shampoo is sulfate-free and silicone-free, so it lathers lightly but still cleans thoroughly. It removed build-up without leaving my curls feeling dry or brittle, which is crucial for my perm-treated hair.
I noticed my waves became more defined, and the moisture level seemed to improve after just one wash. The inclusion of plant peptides and kokum seed butter gave my hair a soft, nourished feel, making detangling easier.
What really stood out was its defense against frizz, especially in humid weather. When used with the Be Curly Advanced Conditioner, my curls stayed more controlled, shiny, and bouncy all day.
I also liked that it’s 94% naturally derived, aligning with my preference for cleaner products. Plus, knowing it’s vegan, cruelty-free, and eco-conscious gave me extra peace of mind.
Overall, this shampoo feels like a gentle, effective treat for curly hair that needs hydration and frizz control. It doesn’t weigh down my curls but still keeps them soft, defined, and healthy-looking.
It’s a solid choice if you want a natural, protective cleanse that respects your curls’ unique needs.
What Should You Look for in a Shampoo for Perm Curly Hair?
When selecting the best shampoo for perm curly hair, consider the following essential factors:
- Moisturizing Ingredients: Look for shampoos that contain hydrating ingredients like glycerin, shea butter, or aloe vera.
- Sulfate-Free Formulation: Choose sulfate-free shampoos to avoid stripping natural oils and causing dryness in curly hair.
- pH-Balanced: A pH-balanced shampoo helps maintain the hair’s natural acidity, which is crucial for preserving curl patterns and preventing frizz.
- Protein Enrichment: Incorporating protein-rich shampoos can help strengthen the hair structure and enhance the definition of curls.
- Color Protection: If your perm includes color-treated hair, look for shampoos that offer color-safe formulas to prevent fading.
Moisturizing ingredients are essential because perm curly hair often requires extra hydration to maintain bounce and shine. Ingredients like glycerin attract moisture, while shea butter and aloe vera provide deep conditioning benefits, keeping curls soft and manageable.
Sulfate-free formulations are vital for perm curly hair as sulfates can strip essential oils, leading to dryness and frizz. Shampoos without sulfates gently cleanse the hair while preserving its natural moisture, which is crucial for maintaining healthy curls.
A pH-balanced shampoo is important because it helps to keep the hair cuticle smooth, which in turn aids in reducing frizz and enhancing curl definition. Maintaining the right pH level is especially crucial for chemically treated hair, as it helps to protect the integrity of the perm.
Protein enrichment in shampoos can be beneficial for perm curly hair, as it helps to fortify the hair shaft and prevent breakage. Proteins like keratin can also help restore strength and elasticity, allowing curls to spring back into shape.
If your perm is color-treated, opting for color protection in your shampoo is essential. Color-safe shampoos are formulated to be gentle on dyed hair, helping to maintain vibrancy and prevent fading while still providing the necessary care for curly textures.
Which Ingredients Nourish and Protect Permed Curls?
The best shampoo for perm curly hair should contain specific nourishing and protective ingredients that help maintain the integrity and beauty of curls.
- Coconut Oil: Coconut oil is well-known for its moisturizing properties. It penetrates the hair shaft effectively, reducing protein loss and providing hydration to keep curls soft and manageable.
- Aloe Vera: Aloe vera is a natural humectant, which means it attracts moisture to the hair. Additionally, it has soothing properties that can help reduce scalp irritation and promote a healthy environment for hair growth.
- Jojoba oil closely resembles the natural oils produced by the scalp, making it an excellent conditioner. It helps to balance oil production, adding shine and softness to permed curls without making them greasy.
- Shea Butter: Shea butter is rich in vitamins and fatty acids, which help nourish and protect hair from damage. It provides deep moisture, which is essential for maintaining the elasticity of permed curls and preventing dryness and frizz.
- Protein Complex: A protein complex, such as hydrolyzed silk or keratin, can help strengthen the hair structure. This is particularly important for permed hair, which can be more susceptible to breakage due to the chemical process involved in perming.
- Glycerin: Glycerin acts as a powerful humectant that draws moisture from the environment into the hair. This ingredient helps maintain hydration levels in permed curls, keeping them bouncy and defined without frizz.
- Chamomile Extract: Chamomile extract has soothing properties and can help enhance the natural shine of curls. It also provides a gentle cleansing action while being mild enough for sensitive scalps.
What Ingredients Should Be Avoided to Prevent Damage?
To maintain healthy perm curly hair, certain ingredients in shampoos should be avoided:
- Sulfates: These are harsh cleansing agents that can strip natural oils from the hair, leading to dryness and frizz, which is detrimental for permed curls that require moisture to maintain their shape.
- Alcohol: Many alcohols, particularly short-chain ones like ethanol or isopropyl alcohol, can dry out hair and make it brittle, which is especially problematic for permed hair that is already more susceptible to damage.
- Parabens: Often used as preservatives, parabens can disrupt the natural balance of the scalp and hair, potentially leading to irritation or weakening of the hair structure, which is not ideal for maintaining healthy, bouncy curls.
- Silicones: While silicones can provide temporary shine and smoothness, they can create buildup on the hair, making it heavy and dull over time; this can hinder the curls’ ability to bounce back after styling.
- Formaldehyde and its derivatives: These are known for their preservative properties, but they can also cause irritation and damage to the hair cuticle, which is particularly concerning for permed hair that is already chemically treated.
What Are the Top Recommended Shampoos for Perm Curly Hair?
The best shampoos for perm curly hair are specially formulated to maintain moisture, enhance curl definition, and minimize damage.
- Ouidad Curl Quencher Moisturizing Shampoo: This shampoo is designed for curly hair, providing hydration and nourishment to enhance curl definition. Its formula includes a blend of natural ingredients that help to detangle and soften curls, making them easier to manage.
- DevaCurl No-Poo Original: A non-lathering cleanser, this shampoo is perfect for preserving the natural oils in curly hair. It cleanses without stripping essential moisture, making it ideal for maintaining healthy, permed curls.
- SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo: Infused with coconut oil and hibiscus flower extract, this shampoo offers deep hydration and shine. It helps to reduce frizz while enhancing the natural curl pattern, making it a great choice for permed curls.
- Moroccanoil Curl Enhancing Shampoo: Enriched with argan oil, this shampoo not only moisturizes but also enhances and defines curls. Its gentle formula cleanses without causing dryness, leaving hair soft and bouncy.
- Kerastase Curl Manifesto Bain Satin 1 Shampoo: This shampoo is formulated specifically for curly and coily hair types, providing balanced moisture and softness. It helps to detangle and define curls while ensuring they remain hydrated and frizz-free.
Which Brands Are Most Effective for Maintaining Permed Texture?
When it comes to maintaining the texture of permed curly hair, certain brands stand out for their effectiveness.
- Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Shampoo: This shampoo is specially formulated to help control frizz while enhancing the natural curl pattern. It contains a unique blend of humectants and nourishing ingredients that help retain moisture, making it ideal for permed hair.
- DevaCurl No-Poo Original: A sulfate-free cleanser that gently removes impurities without stripping the hair of its natural oils. This product is well-known in the curly hair community for its ability to hydrate curls and maintain their definition, perfect for preserving permed texture.
- SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo: Infused with coconut oil and hibiscus, this shampoo provides essential moisture and nourishment to curly hair. The formula helps to define curls while reducing frizz, making it a favorite for those with permed hair.
- Moroccanoil Curl Cleansing Shampoo: This product is designed to enhance the natural shape of curls while cleansing gently. With its rich blend of argan oil, it helps to keep permed hair hydrated and soft, which is crucial for maintaining the health of curly textures.
- Kerastase Curl Manifesto Shampoo: A luxurious option that focuses on strengthening and defining curly hair. It contains a combination of manuka honey and ceramides, which work together to provide moisture and protection, making it a premium choice for maintaining permed curls.
How Often Should You Wash Your Perm Curly Hair with Shampoo?
- Frequency of Washing: It is generally recommended to wash perm curly hair once a week or every 5-7 days. This helps to preserve the natural oils and moisture that keep curls defined and bouncy.
- Type of Shampoo: Selecting a sulfate-free shampoo is crucial as sulfates can strip natural oils and dryness can lead to frizz and loss of curl definition. The best shampoo for perm curly hair should be hydrating and gentle to maintain the integrity of the curls.
- Co-Washing: Co-washing, or using conditioner to wash the hair, can be an effective alternative to traditional shampooing. This technique helps to cleanse the hair without stripping moisture, making it especially beneficial for those with curly and permed hair.
- Post-Wash Care: After washing, it’s important to use a leave-in conditioner or curl cream to help define curls and reduce frizz. Products designed for curly hair will help to lock in moisture and provide the necessary nutrients for healthy, vibrant curls.
- Listening to Your Hair: Pay attention to how your hair feels; if it becomes overly dry or greasy, you may need to adjust your washing routine. Individual hair needs can vary based on factors like climate and product use, so finding a balance is key.
What Additional Hair Care Practices Support Healthy Permed Curls?
Deep conditioning treatments should be incorporated into your routine at least once a week to replenish moisture lost during the perming process. These treatments can penetrate the hair shaft, providing nutrients and helping to maintain elasticity in the curls.
Avoiding heat styling tools like blow dryers and curling irons is essential, as excessive heat can lead to dryness and breakage. Instead, embrace air drying or use a diffuser on a low heat setting to maintain your curls’ health.
Regular trims every 6-8 weeks can help keep your curls looking their best by removing damaged ends and preventing further breakage. This practice not only maintains the shape of your curls but also promotes healthy growth.
The use of a wide-tooth comb is essential when detangling wet curls, as it helps to minimize damage and breakage compared to finer-toothed combs or brushes. This gentle approach allows curls to maintain their definition and bounce.
Protecting your hair while sleeping is another key practice; silk or satin pillowcases can reduce friction, helping to prevent frizz and preserve your curls’ shape overnight. Alternatively, wrapping your hair in a silk scarf can also provide protection.
Limiting washing frequency to once or twice a week helps preserve the natural oils that keep curls moisturized. Over-washing can lead to dryness, making it harder to maintain healthy, defined curls.
Applying a leave-in conditioner after washing can provide a layer of moisture and help define your curls throughout the day. Look for formulas designed for curly hair to ensure they enhance curl formation and prevent frizz.
How Can You Retain Moisture in Your Permed Hair?
To retain moisture in permed hair, it’s essential to choose the right products and adopt specific care techniques.
- Use Sulfate-Free Shampoo: Sulfate-free shampoos are gentler and help maintain the natural oils in your hair, which is crucial for keeping permed curls hydrated.
- Deep Conditioning Treatments: Regularly using deep conditioning treatments replenishes moisture and strengthens the hair, preventing dryness and frizz.
- Leave-In Conditioner: A leave-in conditioner provides ongoing hydration and helps to define curls while reducing tangles, making it an excellent addition to your hair care routine.
- Hydrating Hair Oils: Applying lightweight hair oils can seal moisture in the hair shaft, add shine, and enhance curl definition without weighing the hair down.
- Avoid Heat Styling: Reducing the use of heat styling tools can prevent additional moisture loss, helping to keep your curls healthy and well-hydrated.
Sulfate-free shampoos are formulated without harsh detergents that can strip hair of its natural oils. This is particularly important for permed hair, which can be more prone to dryness, as they help preserve moisture and maintain the integrity of the curls.
Deep conditioning treatments are essential for permed hair because they penetrate the hair shaft and provide intense hydration. These treatments often contain ingredients like proteins and oils that help rebuild the hair structure and restore elasticity, making curls more defined and manageable.
Leave-in conditioners are a fantastic way to ensure that moisture is locked in throughout the day. They are designed to be lightweight and can be applied to damp hair after washing, providing additional hydration and helping to tame frizz while enhancing curl formation.
Hydrating hair oils, such as argan or jojoba oil, are beneficial for sealing in moisture and adding a protective layer to the hair. These oils can nourish the scalp and hair, providing shine and improving curl definition without causing greasy buildup.
Avoiding heat styling is crucial for maintaining the health of permed hair, as excessive heat can lead to further dryness and damage. Embracing air-drying or using a diffuser on a low heat setting can help preserve moisture and keep curls looking their best.
What Styling Products Complement Your Shampoo for Best Results?
To achieve the best results for perm curly hair, it’s essential to use complementary styling products alongside a suitable shampoo.
- Conditioner: A moisturizing conditioner specifically designed for curly hair helps to maintain hydration and manageability.
- Leave-in Conditioner: This product provides added moisture and protection throughout the day, enhancing curl definition and reducing frizz.
- Curl Cream: Curl creams are formulated to define and shape curls while providing hold without the crunch, making them ideal for maintaining a natural look.
- Hair Oil: Using a lightweight hair oil can help seal in moisture, reduce frizz, and add shine to your curls, ensuring they look healthy and vibrant.
- Styling Gel: A good styling gel offers strong hold for curls, helping to keep them in place while maintaining their bounce and texture.
The conditioner should be rich, especially for perm curly hair, as it aids in detangling and adds essential moisture that enhances the curl pattern without weighing it down.
Leave-in conditioners are great for daily use, as they provide ongoing hydration and help to combat dryness, which is crucial for maintaining the integrity of permed curls.
Curl creams work by enhancing the shape of the curls, allowing for a more defined look, and they typically contain ingredients that nourish the hair while providing a flexible hold.
Hair oils are beneficial for sealing moisture and can be used on both damp and dry hair; they help to tame frizz and add a glossy finish to your curls, making them look more vibrant.
Styling gels vary in hold strength and can be selected based on the desired curl structure; they help lock in the curl shape while preventing frizz, making them a staple in any curly hair routine.
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