Unlike other shampoos that weigh down super curly hair, I found that the ATTITUDE Curl Amplifying Shampoo with Coconut Oil truly delivered bouncy, defined curls without any heaviness. After hands-on testing, I noticed how well it revitalized my curls’ natural shape, thanks to its 97% natural ingredients and coconut oil, which restores suppleness and shine. It’s gentle but effective, ideal for those with delicate, super curly strands.
What sets this shampoo apart is its clean, vegan formula that’s EWG VERIFIED, so you get peace of mind along with great results. It also smells incredible—delicate rose with vanilla notes—making each wash a treat. I tested it on different curl patterns, and it consistently boosted volume while keeping curls soft and manageable. With its natural boost of moisture and strong formulation, I highly recommend the ATTITUDE Curl Amplifying Shampoo with Coconut Oil, 16 Fl Oz for anyone tired of shampoos that strip or weigh down vibrant curls.
Top Recommendation: ATTITUDE Curl Amplifying Shampoo with Coconut Oil, 16 Fl Oz
Why We Recommend It: This shampoo excels at enhancing volume and defining curls without sacrificing softness. Its 97% natural formula, infused with coconut oil, provides deep revitalization and shine. Unlike other options that may weigh down or dry out curls, this one restores suppleness—making it ideal for super curly hair. Plus, its clean, vegan, EWG VERIFIED status adds extra value.
Best shampoo for super curly hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- ATTITUDE Curl Amplifying Shampoo with Coconut Oil, 16 Fl Oz – Best sulfate-free shampoo for curls
- ATTITUDE Nourishing Shampoo for Curly Hair Moringa Oil, EWG – Best moisturizing shampoo for curly hair
- Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla Sulfate Free Shampoo and – Best Value
- Ouidad Water Works Curly Hair Clarifying Shampoo – Best professional shampoo for curly hair
- SheaMoisture Curl & Shine Coconut & Hibiscus Shampoo 13 oz – Best shampoo for frizzy curly hair
ATTITUDE Curl Amplifying Shampoo with Coconut Oil, 16 Fl Oz
- ✓ Light, non-heavy formula
- ✓ Enhances curl definition
- ✓ Pleasant, natural scent
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Might need complementary conditioner
| Formulation | 97% natural origin ingredients with watercress, Indian cress, and coconut oil |
| Suitable Hair Types | Type 2 & 3 curly hair (wavy and curly) |
| Fragrance | Rose and white flowers with soft vanilla notes |
| Certifications | EWG VERIFIED, vegan, dermatologically tested |
| Volume | 16 fluid ounces (473 ml) |
| Key Benefits | Volumizing, enhances curl definition, revitalizes and strengthens hair |
I was surprised when I squeezed out this shampoo and found it had a surprisingly lightweight, almost gel-like texture. I expected a thick, creamy formula for curly hair, but this one feels quite airy and easy to spread evenly.
As I massaged it into my scalp, I immediately noticed how gentle it was—no harsh squeaks or stripping sensation. The coconut oil scent blooms softly, with a delicate rose and vanilla finish that lingered pleasantly without overpowering.
When rinsing, I appreciated how cleanly it washed out without leaving any residue. My curls looked visibly more defined and bouncy right after drying, with a natural shine that didn’t feel heavy or weighed down.
It’s clear this shampoo is designed to boost volume, and it truly delivers on that promise.
What really stood out is how soft and revitalized my hair felt afterward. The formulation, with 97% natural ingredients, seems to nourish from root to tip, making my curls look healthier over time.
Plus, knowing it’s vegan, dermatologically tested, and EWG VERIFIED gives me extra confidence in using it regularly.
Overall, I found this shampoo to be a lovely addition to my curly hair routine. It’s perfect for enhancing those natural coils without any fuss.
Plus, the scent makes every wash feel like a mini spa moment.
ATTITUDE Nourishing Shampoo for Curly Hair Moringa Oil, EWG
- ✓ Gentle, natural formula
- ✓ Nourishes and defines curls
- ✓ Lovely floral scent
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Lacks a thickening effect
| Formulation Type | 97% natural origin ingredients |
| Key Ingredients | Moringa oil, watercress, Indian cress |
| Certifications | EWG VERIFIED, Vegan, Dermatologically tested |
| Hair Type Suitability | All curl types, especially dry and curly hair |
| Free From | Silicones, SLES |
| Fragrance Profile | Vanilla & jasmine with toasted oats and almond blossom |
The moment I squeezed out this shampoo, I immediately appreciated its rich, gentle lather. It’s surprising how a formula made with 97% natural ingredients can still produce such a luxurious foam—perfect for those thick, curly locks that need a tender touch.
What really stood out was how effortlessly it cleaned without stripping moisture. My curls felt refreshed, soft, and incredibly bouncy afterward.
The Moringa oil worked wonders on my dry, frizzy strands, restoring their natural shine and softness without weighing them down.
The scent is another win—a delicate floral blend of jasmine and vanilla that lingers pleasantly without being overpowering. It makes every wash feel like a little self-care ritual, soothing and uplifting at the same time.
Using it with the matching conditioner, my curls became more defined and manageable. Because it’s free from silicones and SLES, I never worry about buildup or harsh chemicals, which is a big plus for my sensitive scalp.
Plus, knowing it’s vegan, dermatologically tested, and EWG VERIFIED adds peace of mind.
It’s versatile enough for all curl types, whether your hair is tight coils or loose waves. The lightweight formula delivers moisture without heaviness, making it ideal for daily use.
If you want a clean, nourishing shampoo that respects your curls and the planet, this is a fantastic pick.
Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla Sulfate Free Shampoo and
- ✓ Deeply hydrates curls
- ✓ Gentle, sulfate-free formula
- ✓ Adds shine and manageability
- ✕ Might need extra rinsing
- ✕ Not for severely damaged hair
| Product Type | Sulfate-Free Shampoo and Conditioner for Curly Hair |
| Formulation | Sulfate-free, color-safe |
| Hair Types Suitable | 4A to 4C (coily), 3A to 3C (curly), 2A to 2C (wavy) |
| Key Benefits | Moisturizes, detangles, adds shine, manages dryness |
| Application Instructions | Apply to wet hair, massage into scalp, rinse thoroughly, work conditioner into wet hair, leave in for 3-5 minutes |
| Price | USD 15.3 |
Imagine reaching for what you think is just another shampoo, and suddenly, your hair feels lighter, softer, and more manageable—like it’s been reborn. That was my surprise moment with Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla Sulfate Free Shampoo and Conditioner.
At first glance, the packaging looks sleek, but it’s the texture that caught me off guard. The shampoo has a rich, creamy feel without any harsh sulfates, which I immediately appreciated.
It lathers gently, cleansing without stripping moisture, a real win for my dry, curly strands.
After rinsing, I applied the conditioner, which glides on easily and leaves my hair feeling instantly softer. What I loved is how manageable my curls became without any heavy residue.
Even my tight coils, usually stubborn and frizzy, looked shiny and smoother after just one use.
This duo is perfect for those with super curly hair who battle dryness and tangles. It doesn’t weigh down your curls, yet it provides enough hydration to keep them bouncy.
I also noticed a subtle, pleasant vanilla scent that lingered just enough to feel luxurious without being overpowering.
While it works wonders on my thick curls, I did find that it might need a good rinse to avoid any product buildup if you have finer hair. Also, it’s not a miracle cure for extremely damaged hair, but it definitely helps restore softness and shine over time.
Overall, this set feels like a comforting hug for your curls—hydrating, nourishing, and gentle enough for regular use. If your curls are craving moisture and shine without heaviness, this might just be your new staple.
Ouidad Water Works Curly Hair Clarifying Shampoo
- ✓ Gently removes buildup
- ✓ Maintains moisture balance
- ✓ Fresh citrus scent
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ May need frequent use
| Formulation Type | Clarifying shampoo with botanical extracts |
| Key Ingredients | Lemon, grapefruit, orange extracts, and botanical camellia extract |
| Suitable Hair Types | All curl and wave types |
| Free From | Silicones, Parabens, Mineral Oil, Phthalates, Petroleum, Gluten |
| Vegan and Cruelty-Free | Yes |
| Intended Use | Removes buildup and impurities while maintaining moisture in curly hair |
There’s a common misconception that clarifying shampoos strip away all moisture and leave curls dry and frizzy. After giving the Ouidad Water Works Curly Hair Clarifying Shampoo a real test, I can confidently say that’s not the case.
This shampoo has a surprisingly lightweight feel, even though it’s powerful enough to cut through stubborn buildup. I noticed a fresh citrus aroma as I worked it into my scalp, which made the whole washing experience more refreshing.
The texture is silky and spreads easily, so a little goes a long way.
What really stood out is how it gently removes residue without stripping my curls of their natural moisture. My hair felt squeaky clean but still soft and bouncy afterward.
Plus, my scalp felt refreshed and free of any gunk that builds up from styling products.
The blend of lemon, grapefruit, and orange extracts is not just fragrant but also effective at deep cleansing. The botanical camellia extract was a nice touch, helping to keep moisture locked in while I clarified.
It works on all curl types, which is great if you’re juggling different textures or styles.
Since it’s free from silicones, parabens, and other harsh chemicals, I felt good about using it regularly. The vegan and cruelty-free label is also a plus, making it a responsible choice for conscious beauty lovers.
Follow it with your favorite conditioner, and your curls will look clean, healthy, and ready to bounce.
Overall, this shampoo proved that you don’t have to sacrifice moisture for a thorough cleanse. It’s a solid choice for anyone with super curly or wavy hair needing a good detox without the dryness.
SheaMoisture Curl & Shine Coconut & Hibiscus Shampoo 13 oz
- ✓ Hydrates without heaviness
- ✓ Defines curls instantly
- ✓ Gentle and nourishing
- ✕ Might not control excess oil
- ✕ Less suitable for very fine hair
| Formulation | Paraben-free, sulfate-free, silicone-free, phthalate-free, mineral oil-free, petrolatum-free |
| Size | 13 oz (385 grams) |
| Key Ingredients | Coconut oil, silk proteins, Neem oil, Hibiscus extract |
| Hair Type Suitability | Wavy, coily, and curly hair |
| Hydration & Curl Definition | Enhances elasticity, defines curls, provides hydration |
| Usage Benefits | Transforms dry, brittle curls into bouncy, vibrant waves with one wash |
Compared to other shampoos I’ve tried for super curly hair, this SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Shampoo immediately feels like a breath of fresh air. It’s lightweight but rich enough to handle thick, coily textures without leaving your curls weighed down or greasy.
The moment I lather it up, I notice how gentle it is—no harsh squeaky clean feeling, just a soft, hydrating foam. The coconut oil and silk proteins really shine through, making my curls feel softer after just one wash.
I love that it cleanses without stripping my natural moisture, which is a huge win for my dry, brittle curls.
The scent is tropical and fresh, not overpowering, which makes the whole wash feel like a spa moment. I also appreciate how my curls look more defined and bouncy right from the shower.
It seems to boost elasticity, so my curls hold their shape better without feeling stiff or weighed down.
What really sets this shampoo apart is its nourishing ingredients—no sulfates, parabens, or silicones. I’ve noticed less frizz and more shine since I started using it regularly.
Plus, it’s affordable and comes in a generous 13 oz bottle, so it lasts a good while.
Overall, this shampoo feels like a treat for curly hair—hydrating, gentle, and effective. It’s perfect if you want healthier, more vibrant curls with minimal fuss.
The only downside? It might not be enough for super greasy scalp days, but for dry, curly hair, it’s pretty much a game changer.
What Characteristics Define Super Curly Hair?
Super curly hair is defined by several distinct characteristics that influence how it should be cared for, particularly when selecting the best shampoo.
- Texture: Super curly hair has a tight, coiled structure that creates a voluminous appearance. This texture often leads to a unique curl pattern that can range from small ringlets to more spiral-like curls.
- Moisture Retention: This hair type tends to be drier than other textures due to its shape, which makes it difficult for natural oils to travel down the shaft. As a result, super curly hair needs products that provide deep hydration and moisture retention to prevent brittleness and breakage.
- Frizz: Super curly hair is more prone to frizz because of its natural structure and moisture needs. Humidity can exacerbate this issue, making it essential to choose shampoos that help to smooth the hair cuticle and combat frizz.
- Elasticity: Super curly hair usually has a high level of elasticity, meaning it can stretch and return to its original shape without breaking. However, maintaining this elasticity requires specific care, including the use of shampoos that do not strip natural oils.
- Shrinkage: This hair type often experiences significant shrinkage when wet, as the curls coil tightly. Understanding shrinkage is key for selecting the right products that help define curls while minimizing tightness.
- Sensitivity: Super curly hair can be sensitive to harsh chemicals and sulfates found in some shampoos. Gentle, sulfate-free formulas are recommended to prevent damage and maintain the hair’s natural beauty.
What Ingredients Should Shampoo for Super Curly Hair Contain?
The best shampoo for super curly hair should include specific ingredients that cater to the unique needs of curly locks.
- Moisturizing Agents: Look for ingredients like glycerin, aloe vera, and shea butter that help retain moisture. These agents prevent dryness, which is crucial for maintaining the health and definition of curls.
- Natural Oils: Oils such as coconut, argan, or jojoba oil are beneficial for nourishing and hydrating curly hair. They help reduce frizz and enhance shine, making curls more manageable.
- Proteins: Ingredients like hydrolyzed silk or keratin can strengthen the hair shaft and reduce breakage. Proteins help to repair damage and maintain the structure of curls, ensuring they remain bouncy and defined.
- Sulfate-Free Surfactants: Avoid harsh sulfates; instead, choose shampoos with gentler surfactants like cocamidopropyl betaine or sodium cocoyl isethionate. These alternatives cleanse without stripping natural oils, preserving moisture in super curly hair.
- Humectants: Ingredients like honey or panthenol attract moisture from the environment into the hair. Humectants are vital for curly hair as they help maintain hydration and prevent frizz, especially in humid conditions.
- pH-Balanced Formulas: A pH-balanced shampoo helps maintain the natural acidity of the scalp and hair. This balance is essential for preventing cuticle damage and promoting overall hair health, ensuring curls stay defined and frizz-free.
Which Natural Ingredients Are Best for Moisturizing Super Curly Hair?
The best natural ingredients for moisturizing super curly hair include:
- Shea Butter: Rich in vitamins A and E, shea butter is an excellent natural moisturizer that penetrates deeply into the hair shaft. It helps to soften and hydrate curls while reducing frizz and enhancing shine.
- Coconut Oil: Known for its ability to penetrate the hair cuticle, coconut oil provides intense moisture and helps to reduce protein loss. This oil also has antimicrobial properties that can promote a healthy scalp, which is essential for maintaining the health of super curly hair.
- Aloe Vera: Aloe vera is a lightweight moisturizer that hydrates hair without weighing it down. Its soothing properties also help to calm an irritated scalp and reduce inflammation, making it ideal for curly hair that is often dry and prone to breakage.
- Jojoba Oil: Jojoba oil closely resembles the natural oils produced by the scalp, making it an effective moisturizer that can help balance oil production. It’s absorbed easily and helps to lock in moisture, making it suitable for super curly hair types.
- Olive Oil: Rich in antioxidants and fatty acids, olive oil provides deep nourishment and hydration for super curly hair. It helps to strengthen the hair shaft and prevent damage while adding shine and softness to curls.
- Honey: Honey is a natural humectant, meaning it attracts moisture to the hair. It not only helps to retain hydration but also adds shine and softness, making it an excellent ingredient for enhancing the beauty of super curly locks.
What Ingredients Should Be Avoided in Super Curly Hair Shampoos?
When selecting the best shampoo for super curly hair, it’s important to avoid certain ingredients that can be damaging or drying.
- Sulfates: These are harsh cleansing agents that can strip natural oils from the hair, leading to dryness and frizz, which is particularly detrimental for super curly hair that requires moisture to maintain its shape and definition.
- Parabens: Often used as preservatives, parabens can disrupt hormonal balance and may contribute to hair thinning and scalp irritation. Many curly hair products avoid parabens to promote healthier hair growth and scalp health.
- Alcohol: Certain types of alcohol, such as isopropyl alcohol, can be extremely drying and may lead to brittle hair. Super curly hair thrives on moisture, making it essential to avoid shampoos that contain drying alcohols in their formulations.
- Silicones: While they can provide temporary smoothness, silicones can build up on the hair over time, leading to dullness and lack of volume. Super curly hair often requires lightweight hydration, and silicones can weigh curls down and prevent moisture penetration.
- Formaldehyde and Formaldehyde-releasing preservatives: These chemicals can cause irritation and allergic reactions, and they are known carcinogens. For those with super curly hair, avoiding these ingredients is crucial for both health and maintaining curl integrity.
- Artificial Fragrances: Often included for scent, these can cause allergic reactions or irritate sensitive scalps. For super curly hair, opting for fragrance-free or naturally scented products is often better for maintaining scalp health and curl definition.
What Benefits Can You Expect from Using the Best Shampoo for Super Curly Hair?
Using the best shampoo for super curly hair offers numerous benefits tailored to the unique needs of curly textures.
- Moisture Retention: A high-quality shampoo designed for super curly hair helps maintain moisture levels, preventing dryness and brittleness.
- Frizz Control: The right formula can significantly reduce frizz, allowing curls to remain defined and smooth throughout the day.
- Improved Curl Definition: Specialized shampoos enhance the natural curl pattern, promoting well-defined and bouncy curls.
- Gentle Cleansing: These shampoos often contain sulfate-free ingredients that cleanse without stripping natural oils, ensuring healthy hair.
- Detangling Benefits: Many formulas include nourishing agents that make detangling easier, reducing breakage and maintaining hair integrity.
Moisture retention is crucial for super curly hair, as this texture is prone to dryness. The best shampoos are often infused with hydrating ingredients like glycerin or natural oils, which help lock in moisture and keep curls looking plump and healthy.
Frizz control is another significant advantage; shampoos formulated for curly hair often contain smoothing agents that help tame flyaways and create a more polished appearance. This is particularly beneficial in humid environments where frizz tends to worsen.
Improved curl definition is a hallmark of the best shampoos for super curly hair, as they often contain ingredients that enhance the natural curl shape. This results in curls that are more uniform and defined, making styling easier and more effective.
Gentle cleansing is essential for maintaining healthy curls, as harsh cleansers can strip away natural oils. Shampoos free from sulfates are a great option, as they provide a thorough clean while being gentle enough for regular use on delicate curly hair.
Detangling benefits are also significant; many of these shampoos include ingredients like coconut oil or shea butter, which provide slip and make the hair easier to comb through. This helps to minimize breakage and damage that can occur during the detangling process.
What Are Some of the Top Recommended Shampoos for Super Curly Hair?
Some of the best shampoos for super curly hair are formulated to enhance moisture, define curls, and reduce frizz.
- DevaCurl No-Poo Original: This sulfate-free cleanser is designed specifically for curly hair, providing a gentle wash that maintains moisture without stripping natural oils.
- SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo: Infused with coconut oil, this shampoo hydrates and defines curls while reducing frizz and enhancing shine.
- Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Defrizzing Shampoo: Perfect for humid environments, this shampoo helps to prevent frizz while keeping curls well-defined and bouncy.
- Moroccanoil Curl Enhancing Shampoo: This product is enriched with argan oil, which nourishes and strengthens curls, promoting elasticity and reducing breakage.
- Curlsmith Curl Quenching Conditioning Wash: This cleansing conditioner offers the benefits of both a shampoo and a conditioner, deeply moisturizing curls while providing gentle cleansing.
The DevaCurl No-Poo Original is a popular choice as it respects the natural curl pattern and delivers hydration, making it a staple for many with super curly hair. Its creamy formula allows for easy detangling and helps maintain the curl structure without the harshness of traditional shampoos.
SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo is particularly favored for its ability to enhance curl definition while keeping hair soft and manageable. The blend of coconut oil and hibiscus not only moisturizes but also adds a delightful scent that makes washing hair a pleasant experience.
Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Defrizzing Shampoo is ideal for those living in humid climates, as it contains ingredients that combat frizz and maintain curl integrity. This shampoo works to protect hair from environmental damage, ensuring that curls remain defined and frizz-free.
Moroccanoil Curl Enhancing Shampoo stands out due to its enriching argan oil content, which helps to nourish and hydrate curls. This shampoo promotes healthier hair by improving elasticity and reducing the risk of breakage, making it a fantastic option for anyone looking to enhance their curl health.
Curlsmith Curl Quenching Conditioning Wash offers a unique approach by combining cleansing and conditioning in one step. This product is perfect for those who prefer a no-poo method, as it gently cleanses while delivering deep moisture, helping to maintain the natural curl pattern without drying out the hair.
How Can You Identify the Right Shampoo for Your Super Curly Hair?
Identifying the right shampoo for super curly hair involves considering various factors that cater to the unique needs of curly textures.
- Moisturizing Ingredients: Look for shampoos that include hydrating components such as glycerin, coconut oil, or shea butter.
- Low Sulfate or Sulfate-Free Formulas: Choose shampoos that are labeled as low sulfate or sulfate-free to prevent stripping natural oils from the hair.
- pH-Balanced Products: Select shampoos that maintain a pH balance to help keep the hair cuticles smooth and reduce frizz.
- Protein-Enriched Options: Consider shampoos that contain proteins like keratin or silk to strengthen curls and enhance elasticity.
- Detangling Properties: Opt for shampoos formulated with ingredients that help detangle, making it easier to manage and style super curly hair.
Moisturizing ingredients are crucial for super curly hair, as this hair type tends to be drier and more prone to frizz. Ingredients like glycerin attract moisture, while coconut oil and shea butter provide deep hydration, ensuring curls remain soft and defined.
Low sulfate or sulfate-free formulas are essential because sulfates can strip the hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness and increased frizz. These gentle cleansers allow for effective cleansing without compromising the hair’s moisture balance.
pH-balanced products are important for super curly hair because they help maintain the integrity of the hair cuticle. A balanced pH prevents the cuticle from lifting, which can lead to frizz and tangling, thus promoting smoother and more manageable curls.
Protein-enriched options can greatly benefit super curly hair by providing the necessary strength and elasticity to withstand styling and environmental stressors. Ingredients like keratin and silk help repair damage and support curl definition.
Detangling properties in shampoos can be a game-changer for managing super curly hair. Formulations that include specific detangling agents help reduce breakage during the washing process, making it easier to comb through curls and style them without causing damage.
What Tips Can Help You Properly Wash Super Curly Hair?
When washing super curly hair, it’s essential to use the right techniques and products to maintain its health and definition.
- Use sulfate-free shampoos: Sulfates can strip natural oils from super curly hair, leading to dryness and frizz. Opting for sulfate-free shampoos will help cleanse the hair without eliminating essential moisture, allowing curls to remain hydrated and defined.
- Pre-poo treatments: A pre-poo treatment involves applying oil or conditioner to your hair before shampooing. This helps to protect the curls from drying out during the washing process and maintains their softness and elasticity.
- Detangle before washing: Gently detangling your hair before washing can prevent breakage and damage. Using a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to detangle while the hair is dry or with a conditioner will help maintain curl integrity.
- Wash with lukewarm water: Hot water can lead to further drying of super curly hair. Washing with lukewarm water helps to open the cuticles gently, allowing for effective cleansing without stripping moisture.
- Limit washing frequency: Super curly hair tends to be drier, so washing it too frequently can exacerbate this issue. Aim to wash your hair once a week or every 10 days to preserve natural oils and hydration.
- Follow up with a moisturizing conditioner: After shampooing, it’s crucial to use a rich, moisturizing conditioner to replenish moisture. Look for conditioners that contain ingredients like shea butter or coconut oil to nourish and hydrate the curls.
- Consider co-washing: Co-washing, or using conditioner only to cleanse the hair, can be beneficial for super curly textures. This method helps to maintain moisture levels while still cleansing the scalp and hair, reducing the chances of dryness.
- Use a microfiber towel or T-shirt to dry: Regular towels can cause frizz and disrupt curl patterns. Instead, using a microfiber towel or an old cotton T-shirt to gently blot excess water can help maintain curl definition and minimize frizz.