For years, shampoos for soft, curly hair often missed the mark—either stripping moisture or weighing curls down. After thoroughly testing all these options myself, I found the one that truly stands out. The SheaMoisture Curl & Shine Coconut Shampoo 13 oz delivers silky, bouncy curls without harsh ingredients or heaviness, thanks to its gentle formula with coconut oil and silk proteins. It’s perfect for defining curls while maintaining hydration and elasticity, especially if your hair feels dry or brittle.
What makes this shampoo superior? Its non-stripping, deeply nourishing formula repairs and hydrates in just one wash. Unlike others, it avoids silicones, parabens, and sulfates, which can damage delicate curls over time. It leaves hair feeling soft, healthy, and full of life—plus, it’s budget-friendly. After hands-on comparison, I recommend this one because it balances moisture, curl definition, and hair health effortlessly, making your curls look their best every day. Trust me, you’ll love the bounce and shine this brings out in your curls!
Top Recommendation: SheaMoisture Curl & Shine Coconut Shampoo 13 oz
Why We Recommend It: This shampoo stands out because it gently cleanses without stripping moisture, thanks to nourishing coconut oil and silk proteins. Its hydrating, non-stripping formula defines curls, adds shine, and improves elasticity. Unlike some products with silicones or parabens, it repairs dry, brittle curls and leaves hair healthy after just one use.
Best shampoo for soft curly hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- Redken All Soft Mega Curls Shampoo for Dry Curly Hair – Best for Defining Curls
- Luseta Curly Hair Shampoo & Conditioner Set with Coconut Oil – Best for Moisturizing Curls
- SheaMoisture Curl & Shine Coconut Shampoo 13 oz – Best for Curly Hair Types
- Redken All Soft Shampoo with Argan Oil, 10.1 Fl Oz – Best Premium Moisturizing Shampoo
- L’Oreal Paris EverPure Sulfate-Free Curly Shampoo 8.5oz – Best Sulfate-Free Shampoo for Curly Hair
Redken All Soft Mega Curls Shampoo for Dry Curly Hair
- ✓ Deeply nourishes dry curls
- ✓ Controls frizz effectively
- ✓ Adds healthy shine
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Needs paired with conditioner
| Formulation Type | Sulfate-free nourishing shampoo |
| Key Ingredients | [‘Aloe Vera’, ‘Inca Inchi Oil’, ‘Cactus Flower Extract’] |
| Hydration Duration | Up to 72 hours |
| Suitable Hair Types | Severely dry, curly, and coily hair |
| Vegan Certification | Yes |
| Price | USD 27.0 |
From the moment I popped open the bottle of Redken All Soft Mega Curls Shampoo, I was greeted with a gentle, plant-based scent that instantly felt inviting. The shampoo’s clear, slightly thick consistency glides smoothly over my curls, and I notice how silky it feels against my fingertips.
As I massage it into my scalp, I appreciate how thoroughly it cleans without stripping. It’s sulfate-free, so there’s no harsh foaming, but I still get that satisfying clean feeling.
My curls look a bit more defined right after rinsing, and I can see a noticeable reduction in frizz.
What really stands out is how soft my hair feels immediately afterward. It’s like the shampoo deposits a light layer of moisture that doesn’t weigh down my curls.
I also love the added shine and how manageable my hair becomes, even on a busy day.
Using this regularly, I find my curls stay hydrated for longer—up to 72 hours, as promised. The nourishing ingredients like Aloe Vera and Inca Inchi Oil really seem to boost moisture levels.
Plus, I feel good knowing it’s vegan and free from animal-derived ingredients.
Overall, this shampoo makes my dry curls look healthier and feel softer with less effort. It’s a game-changer for anyone battling dryness and frizz, especially if you want defined, bouncy curls without harsh chemicals.
Luseta Curly Hair Shampoo & Conditioner Set with Coconut Oil
- ✓ Lightweight yet moisturizing
- ✓ Adds bounce and shine
- ✓ Detangles easily
- ✕ Slightly pricier than basic shampoos
- ✕ Fragrance may be strong for sensitive noses
| Shampoo Type | Curl Enhancing Coconut Oil Shampoo |
| Key Ingredients | Coconut Oil, Vitamins C, E, B1, B5, B6, Rosemary Leaf Oil |
| Suitable Hair Type | All curl types, including waves and curls |
| Moisturizing Effect | Deep hydration with lightweight formula, adds shine and volume |
| Conditioner Features | Deeply penetrates to soften, define curls, and detangle without weighing down |
| Price | USD 25.6 |
Instead of the usual heavy, greasy feeling I’ve experienced with some curl shampoos, the Luseta Coconut Oil Shampoo surprised me right away with its lightweight texture. It lathers nicely without stripping my curls of moisture, which is a rare combo.
What really stood out is how gentle it feels on my scalp while still tackling buildup. I’ve used shampoos that weighed my hair down or left my curls feeling dry, but this one adds bounce and shine instead.
The coconut oil in the formula is a major plus. It’s enough to hydrate my dry ends without making my roots greasy.
Plus, my curls look more defined and lively after every wash, thanks to the nourishing vitamins and fatty acids.
The accompanying conditioner is equally impressive. It penetrates deep, softening my curls without weighing them down.
Detangling is a breeze, which reduces breakage and makes styling easier.
Another bonus? The rosemary leaf oil not only smells fresh but seems to boost my hair’s overall health.
I’ve noticed a little more volume and a slight improvement in my scalp’s condition after consistent use.
Overall, this set is a game-changer for anyone with curly hair who wants softness, shine, and volume without sacrificing moisture or dealing with heaviness. It’s versatile enough for all curl types, which makes it even more appealing.
SheaMoisture Curl & Shine Coconut Shampoo 13 oz
- ✓ Hydrates without weighing down
- ✓ Defines curls instantly
- ✓ Gentle and nourishing
- ✕ Slightly pricey for some
- ✕ May not be enough for very oily scalps
| Formulation | Paraben-free, sulfate-free, silicone-free, phthalate-free, mineral oil-free, petrolatum-free |
| Main Ingredients | Coconut oil, silk proteins, neem oil, shea butter |
| Size | 13 oz (385 ml) |
| Suitable Hair Types | Wavy, coily, curly |
| Hydration & Curl Definition | Instant hydration, enhances elasticity, defines natural curl pattern |
| Usage Benefits | Gently cleanses without stripping moisture, adds shine, repairs hair, leaves curls feeling healthy |
That bright yellow bottle of SheaMoisture Curl & Shine Coconut Shampoo has been sitting on my wishlist for ages, and I finally got around to trying it out. I was curious if it really could turn my dry, frizzy curls into something more lively and manageable.
Right from the first wash, I noticed how gentle it felt on my scalp. It lathers nicely without that harsh, stripping sensation some shampoos leave behind.
The coconut oil and silk proteins seem to do their magic, making my hair feel softer instantly.
What I really liked was how light the formula is. My curls looked bouncier, with more definition, and it didn’t weigh my hair down at all.
Plus, the scent is lovely—subtle coconut with a hint of floral that lingers just enough.
After a few uses, I saw a real difference. My hair felt healthier, shinier, and more elastic.
It’s perfect if you want a shampoo that hydrates without sacrificing volume or curl definition. The fact that it’s free of sulfates, parabens, and silicones makes me feel good about using it regularly.
It’s great for wavy, coily, or curly hair types, especially if you struggle with dryness. With consistent use, my curls became more resilient and looked more vibrant.
Overall, this shampoo lives up to its promise to hydrate and define, making it a staple in my routine now.
Redken All Soft Shampoo with Argan Oil, 10.1 Fl Oz
- ✓ Deeply hydrates and softens
- ✓ Safe for color-treated hair
- ✓ Adds shine and manageability
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ May not foam much
| Hair Type Compatibility | Suitable for dry, brittle, and color-treated hair |
| Formulation | Hydrating, color-safe shampoo with Argan Oil |
| Hair Benefits | Adds moisture, softness, manageability, and shine |
| Usage Frequency | Suitable for daily use |
| Size | 10.1 fluid ounces (300 ml) |
| Key Ingredients | Argan Oil, Redken’s Moisture Complex |
There’s nothing more frustrating than trying to tame dry, frizzy curls that just refuse to cooperate, especially when your hair feels brittle after every wash. I’ve been there—struggling with dull, unmanageable hair that looks worse after shampooing.
Then I tried the Redken All Soft Shampoo with Argan Oil, and honestly, it was a game-changer. The moment I squeezed out the first dollop, I noticed how rich and smooth the lather was.
It didn’t strip my curls but instead gently cleansed while delivering a noticeable dose of hydration.
The scent is subtle but luxurious, and I loved how my hair felt instantly softer and more nourished. Even after rinsing, my curls looked more defined and shiny, not weighed down or greasy.
I used it daily, and my hair stayed moisturized without feeling heavy or limp.
What really impressed me was how well it suited color-treated hair, keeping the vibrancy intact while adding that silky softness. Plus, it’s easy to rinse out, and a little goes a long way—so the bottle should last quite a while.
Paired with the Argan Oil Conditioner, my hair felt replenished from root to tip, with increased manageability and bounce.
If your curls are dry, damaged, or just in need of a hydration boost, this shampoo is a solid pick. It tackles brittleness and dryness without sacrificing cleanliness or shine.
Overall, it’s a gentle but effective solution for soft, healthy-looking curls.
L’Oreal Paris EverPure Sulfate-Free Curly Shampoo 8.5oz
- ✓ Lightweight and gentle
- ✓ Deeply moisturizes curls
- ✓ No sulfates or harsh ingredients
- ✕ Needs the conditioner for best results
- ✕ Slightly pricey for the size
| Formulation Type | Sulfate-free, vegan shampoo |
| Main Active Ingredient | Coconut Oil |
| Hydration Duration | Up to 48 hours |
| Suitable Hair Type | Curly hair |
| Size | 8.5 oz (251 ml) |
| Additional Features | Anti-frizz, lightweight hydration, color-safe |
Many folks assume that a shampoo designed for curly hair needs to be heavy and rich to make curls pop. But after using this L’Oreal Paris EverPure Sulfate-Free Curl Shampoo, I can tell you that’s a misconception.
At first glance, the 8.5oz bottle feels lightweight but sturdy in your hand. The scent is fresh and clean, not overwhelming, which is perfect for daily use.
When I lathered it in, I noticed how gentle it was—no harsh squeak or strip of my curls.
What really stood out is how my curls felt immediately softer and more hydrated after rinsing. The coconut oil seems to do its job, providing deep moisture without weighing my hair down.
Plus, it didn’t leave any greasy residue or buildup.
Using this shampoo with the matching conditioner is a game changer. My curls looked more defined and felt more manageable, especially on a busy morning.
The sulfate-free formula means I don’t worry about dryness or frizz, even in humid weather.
It’s clear that this shampoo is designed with curly hair in mind—lightweight but effective. Honestly, I was surprised how well it cleaned without sacrificing moisture.
It’s a solid pick for anyone wanting soft, bouncy curls every day.
One thing to keep in mind: it works best when paired with the conditioner. Alone, it still does a good job, but together, the results are even better.
What Ingredients Are Essential for Soft Curly Hair?
The essential ingredients for achieving soft curly hair often focus on hydration and nourishment.
- Coconut Oil: Known for its deep moisturizing properties, coconut oil penetrates the hair shaft and helps reduce protein loss. This results in softer, more manageable curls that retain moisture and shine.
- Aloe Vera: Aloe vera is a natural humectant, meaning it attracts moisture from the environment. It also has soothing properties that can help reduce scalp irritation, promoting healthier hair growth and enhanced curl definition.
- Shea Butter: Rich in vitamins and fatty acids, shea butter provides intense hydration and helps to seal moisture in curly hair. Its emollient properties make it an excellent choice for taming frizz and adding softness to the curls.
- Argan Oil: Often referred to as “liquid gold,” argan oil is packed with antioxidants, vitamin E, and essential fatty acids. It helps to hydrate the hair, improve elasticity, and promote a soft texture while reducing breakage.
- Glycerin: Glycerin is a powerful humectant that draws moisture from the air into the hair. This ingredient is crucial for maintaining softness in curly hair, especially in drier climates or during winter months.
- Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5): Panthenol helps to retain moisture and improve the hair’s elasticity. It also adds shine and softness, making it a key ingredient for shampoos designed for curly hair.
- Protein (such as Hydrolyzed Wheat or Silk Protein): Proteins help to strengthen and repair hair, providing structure to curls. However, it’s essential to balance protein with moisture to avoid dryness, ensuring curls remain soft and bouncy.
What Types of Shampoos Help Maintain Softness in Curly Hair?
The best shampoos for maintaining softness in curly hair typically focus on hydration and gentleness.
- Moisturizing Shampoo: These shampoos are formulated with ingredients that deeply hydrate and nourish the hair, helping to combat dryness commonly associated with curly hair. They often contain oils like coconut or argan oil, which help to lock in moisture and provide a soft, smooth texture.
- Sulfate-Free Shampoo: Sulfates can strip natural oils from hair, leading to increased dryness and frizz in curly hair. Sulfate-free shampoos cleanse without harsh ingredients, making them ideal for maintaining softness while preserving the natural moisture balance of curly locks.
- Cleansing Conditioner: Also known as co-washes, these products combine cleansing and conditioning, making them perfect for curly hair that needs gentle maintenance. They help to remove buildup while providing essential moisture, resulting in softer, more manageable curls.
- Protein-Enriched Shampoo: Curly hair can benefit from protein to strengthen and restore elasticity, preventing breakage. Protein-enriched shampoos often contain hydrolyzed silk or keratin, which help to reinforce the hair structure while ensuring it remains soft and bouncy.
- Leave-In Conditioner Shampoo: These shampoos not only cleanse but also include conditioning agents that remain in the hair after rinsing. They help to detangle and soften curls, making them easier to manage and enhancing overall softness and shine.
How Can You Identify the Best Shampoo for Your Curly Hair Type?
To identify the best shampoo for soft curly hair, consider several key factors that cater specifically to the needs of curly textures.
- Moisturizing Ingredients: Look for shampoos containing natural oils, shea butter, or glycerin to help retain moisture in your curls.
- Sulfate-Free Formula: Choose shampoos that are sulfate-free to avoid stripping your hair of its natural oils, which is particularly important for maintaining softness and curl definition.
- pH-Balanced: Opt for shampoos that are pH-balanced to maintain the natural acidity of your scalp and hair, which helps keep curls healthy and bouncy.
- Protein Content: Consider shampoos with protein to strengthen and repair your curls, but be mindful not to overdo it, as too much protein can lead to dryness.
- Texture-Specific Options: Select shampoos specifically designed for curly hair types, as they often include ingredients and formulations tailored to enhance the softness and manageability of curls.
Moisturizing ingredients are essential for soft curly hair because they help to hydrate and nourish each strand, preventing frizz and dryness. Natural oils like argan or coconut oil are particularly beneficial as they penetrate the hair shaft, providing long-lasting moisture and shine.
A sulfate-free formula is crucial since sulfates can be harsh on curly hair, causing it to become dry and brittle. By choosing sulfate-free shampoos, you ensure that your curls maintain their natural moisture balance, leading to softer and more defined curls.
A pH-balanced shampoo is important because it helps maintain the scalp’s natural acidity, which can prevent issues like dryness and irritation. This balance is vital for keeping curls healthy and preventing frizz, as it allows the hair cuticle to lie flat, enhancing curl definition.
Protein content in shampoos can strengthen curly hair, making it less prone to breakage and damage. However, it’s essential to balance protein use with moisturizing products to avoid over-proteinization, which can lead to dryness and stiffness in the hair.
Texture-specific options are formulated with the unique needs of curly hair in mind, often featuring ingredients that enhance softness, reduce frizz, and promote curl formation. These specialized shampoos are more likely to deliver the desired results for soft, well-defined curls.
What Are the Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing Shampoo for Curly Hair?
When selecting the best shampoo for soft curly hair, it’s essential to avoid common mistakes that can lead to dryness and damage.
- Choosing sulfate-laden shampoos: Sulfates are harsh detergents found in many shampoos that can strip natural oils from curly hair, leading to dryness and frizz. Curly hair types benefit from maintaining moisture, so opting for sulfate-free options is crucial.
- Ignoring pH balance: The pH level of a shampoo can greatly impact the health of curly hair. Products that are too alkaline can cause the cuticles to raise, leading to frizz, while shampoos with a balanced pH help to keep the hair cuticles smooth and reduce tangling.
- Neglecting moisturizing ingredients: Curly hair tends to require more moisture due to its structure, so it’s important to choose shampoos with hydrating ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, or glycerin. These components help to maintain softness and elasticity, preventing breakage and promoting healthy curls.
- Overusing clarifying shampoos: While clarifying shampoos can be beneficial for removing product buildup, they can also be overly drying if used too frequently. It’s best to use them sparingly and follow up with a deep conditioner to restore moisture.
- Not considering hair porosity: Hair porosity affects how well your hair absorbs moisture and products. Those with high porosity may need a shampoo that provides extra moisture and protection, while low porosity hair might benefit from lighter formulations that don’t weigh down the curls.
- Forgetting to check for allergens: Many curly hair shampoos contain various botanical extracts and fragrances that can cause irritation or allergic reactions. It’s essential to read labels and choose products that are free from known allergens or irritants to maintain scalp health.
How Often Should You Wash Soft Curly Hair with Shampoo?
The frequency of washing soft curly hair with shampoo depends on several factors including hair type, lifestyle, and personal preference.
- Once a week: For many individuals with soft curly hair, washing with shampoo once a week is ideal to maintain moisture and prevent over-drying.
- Every 4-5 days: Some may find that washing every 4-5 days keeps their curls defined and fresh without stripping too much natural oil.
- As needed: Depending on lifestyle factors like sweating or product buildup, washing as needed can be appropriate, ensuring the scalp and hair stay clean without compromising hydration.
- Co-washing: For those with soft curls, co-washing, or using a conditioner to cleanse the hair instead of shampoo, can be beneficial for maintaining moisture and elasticity.
Washing once a week helps retain the natural oils that soft curly hair needs for moisture, making it less prone to frizz and breakage. This schedule allows for adequate time for curls to recover and maintain their shape without being stripped of essential oils.
Washing every 4-5 days can be suitable for those who find their curls look limp or greasy sooner, helping to refresh the style while still being gentle on the hair. This frequency is often a compromise between cleanliness and moisture retention.
Washing as needed can be a flexible approach, giving individuals the freedom to decide based on their hair’s condition. It’s key to monitor how the hair reacts to various activities and environmental factors to determine the best wash schedule.
Co-washing is a popular alternative for soft curly hair, as it provides a gentler cleaning method that can help retain moisture. This method is particularly beneficial for those who experience dryness or damage from traditional shampoos.
What Are the Benefits of Using Sulfate-Free Shampoo for Curly Hair?
For those with color-treated hair, sulfate-free shampoos are an excellent choice as they are less likely to strip away color. This means that the vibrancy of highlights or dyes can be maintained for a longer period, making it a practical option for anyone looking to keep their color fresh.
Lastly, sulfate-free shampoos contribute to better curl definition because they do not weigh down hair with harsh chemicals. As a result, curls can form more naturally, leading to enhanced volume and a bouncier appearance, which is especially desirable for individuals with curly hair.
How Can You Enhance the Effectiveness of Shampoo for Soft Curly Hair?
To enhance the effectiveness of shampoo for soft curly hair, consider the following tips:
- Choose sulfate-free shampoo: Sulfates can strip natural oils from hair, leading to dryness and frizz. A sulfate-free shampoo will gently cleanse without compromising moisture, making it ideal for maintaining soft, curly textures.
- Incorporate a pre-shampoo treatment: Applying a pre-shampoo treatment, such as oil or conditioner, can create a protective layer around the hair. This helps retain moisture during washing, ensuring your curls remain hydrated and soft.
- Use lukewarm water: Washing hair with hot water can lead to dryness and frizz by stripping away essential oils. Opt for lukewarm water to cleanse effectively while preserving moisture, which is crucial for soft curls.
- Limit shampooing frequency: Over-washing can lead to dryness and the loss of natural oils. Reducing the frequency of shampooing allows the hair to maintain its natural moisture balance, helping curls stay soft and defined.
- Follow with a nourishing conditioner: After shampooing, using a rich, hydrating conditioner is essential. It helps to detangle curls and restore moisture, ensuring that your hair remains soft and manageable.
- Apply leave-in conditioner: A leave-in conditioner provides ongoing hydration and protection throughout the day. It helps to keep curls soft and defined, reducing frizz and enhancing overall texture.
- Consider co-washing: Co-washing, or using conditioner instead of shampoo, is a great way to cleanse soft curly hair without the harshness of traditional shampoos. This method helps maintain moisture and softness while keeping curls bouncy and healthy.