Key ingredients: Hydrolized keratin, marshmallow root, shea butter, avocado oil | Scent: Citrus, floral | Color-safe: Yes | Sulfate-free: Yes | Size: 10–32 oz. | Best for: Dry, thick curls
Best for Hair Growth: Nécessaire Rosemary Shampoo
Original photo courtesy of Glamour contributor Jade Brito
What we love: Rosemary oil is known as a natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant that supports scalp health and hair growth (some studies suggest it’s as effective as minoxidil). The primary ingredients in Nécessaire’s shampoo are rosemary oil, extract, and water—as well as five strengthening plant proteins and five ceramides that protect your scalp barrier. Our reviewer says she saw a marked increase in the volume and texture of her thinning hair (and the shampoo smells lovely, too).
Our review: Though not specifically marketed for curly hair, this shampoo has really, REALLY enhanced the volume and texture of my curls. Its refreshing gel-like consistency with pure rosemary oil tingles the scalp in the best way, providing a thorough cleanse without stripping it and leaving it feeling dry and stale. The mix of rosemary, mandarin, jasmine, and cedarwood almost creates a spa-like experience as I’m in the shower, which I’m definitely not mad at. This shampoo addresses anti-aging, thinning, and color safety concerns, strengthening hair and minimizing breakage with ceramides and plant proteins. My curls feel clean, hydrated, and bouncier, with a healthier scalp free from dryness and irritation (since it’s non-comedogenic it also doesn’t clog my pores). —Jade Brito, Glamour contributor
Key ingredients: Rosemary oil, peptide, plant proteins, ceramides | Scent: Rosemary, mandarin, jasmine, cedar | Color-safe: Yes | Sulfate-free: Yes | Size: 8.4 oz. | Best for: All curl types, especially thinning
Best for Damaged Hair: L’Oréal Paris Ever Pure Bond Repair Shampoo
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Original photo courtesy of Glamour contributor Breanna Davis
What we love: One of the best shampoos for curly hair can be found in the aisles of your local CVS—and is far cheaper than some of its competitors. Its key bonding ingredient includes citric acid, which works to repair and prevent split ends and breakage (a problem many curly-haired people face). It also lowers the pH balance in the overall formula, ensuring the cuticle stays closed and doesn’t frizz.
Our review: This shampoo is proof that you can find great options for curly hair at the drugstore. My hairdresser noticed some weakening in my strands over time, due to heat styling, and this bonding shampoo was recommended. The gentle cleansing formula repairs each strand, leaving my hair soft, smooth, and protected from future damage. My curls feel noticeably healthier, more defined, and bouncier, with reduced frizz and improved manageability. It’s also gentle on color, making it a reliable choice for color-treated hair. —Breanna Davis, Glamour contributor
Key ingredients: Citric acid | Scent: Citrus | Color-safe: Yes | Sulfate-free: Yes | Size: 6.8 oz. | Best for: Dry, damaged curls
Best for Cleansing: Hårklinikken Stabilizing Scalp Shampoo
Original photo courtesy of Glamour commerce editor Malia Griggs
What we love: For truly detoxified hair, we like this one from Hårklinikken, which is part of a larger natural system that prioritizes the scalp and its role in hair growth. The shampoo balances out the distribution of the hair’s natural oils, cutting down on grease and ensuring your strands are moisturized evenly. It cleans with a sulfate derived from palm oil, a a gentle surfactant that has a higher oil content than others. Experts generally advise against sulfates as they’re often too drying, but our reviewer says she only experienced increased shine, hydration, and volume in her curls (without any build-up).
