Not all hair types are created equal, and finding a shampoo for your curly hair [1] can often prove especially challenging. After all, they need to be thick enough to moisturise, yet still light enough to not weigh or flatten your curls down, and strong enough to cleanse through to the root but gentle enough not to damage the shaft. And when you factor in the frizz component when picking out your curly hair products? Forget about it.
The good news is more and more brands are catering to naturally curly-haired consumers [2], and more of those consumers are being vocal about what truly works.
From hydrating to "life-changing," read on for the 12 top-rated shampoos that your curls have been waiting for (for as low as £7), and discover more (expert-approved) products for curly hair here.
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— Additional reporting by Tori Crowther
OUAI Curl Shampoo
This vegan shampoo from hairstylist Jen Atkin's line OUAI [4] (£20) is formulated with a Smart Technology Complex designed to target damaged spots, restoring and protecting the hair cuticle. Fans also love the subtle clean scent it leaves behind.
Aveda Be Curly Shampoo
Achieve a gentle cleanse with this highly-rated shampoo from Aveda [5] (£20.50), which contains wheat protein and organic aloe for helping to define and expand curls. The brand's "pure-fume" — a blend of bergamot, citrus, and plant essence — also leaves strands smelling amazing.
L'Oréal Professionnel Serie Expert Curl Contour Shampoo
L'Oréal Professionnel Serie Expert Curl Contour Shampoo [6] (£10) leaves curls feeling superhydrated and lightweight to really enhance the contours of the curls.
Bumble and Bumble Bb. Curl Shampoo
The exotic blend of Brazilian oils in this shampoo from Bumble and Bumble [7] (£24.50) works to moisturise, while a special curve-defining polymer targets frizz for smooth, bouncy curls. According to fans (it has five stars on Ulta.com), a little goes a long way, so you should be able to get your money's worth.
Noughty Wave Hello Curl Defining Shampoo
Noughty Wave Hello Curl Defining Shampoo [8] (£7) is great for all types of curls, whether that's coils or slight waves. The entire line is also sulphate and silicone free.
Briogeo Curl Charisma Rice Amino + Avocado Hydrating Shampoo
Hydrate hair (without weighing it down) with this shampoo from Briogeo [9] (£21.50), which contains shea butter and avocado oil for added softness (and no heavy silicones). Also safe for coloured, relaxed, and chemically or keratin-treated hair, among reviewers' praises is that they can't stop touching their strands after use.
Moroccanoil Curl Cleansing Conditioner
Moroccanoil Curl Cleansing Conditioner [10] (£27) will not only clean roots but also condition at the same time, giving the hair curl definition and zero frizz. It is also sulphate and paraben-free.
OGX Quenching + Coconut Curls Shampoo
Quench as you cleanse with this sulphate-free shampoo from OGX [11] (£5, originally £7), infused with coconut, honey, and citrus oil for added hydration and softness. Reviewers have also cited less frizz and breakage after use.
SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo
Recommended for thick, curly hair, this sulphate-free shampoo from SheaMoisture [12] (£7) contains coconut oil, silk protein, hibiscus flower extracts, and neem oil for not only hydrating hair, but boosting shine. The price is as affordable as the scent is intoxicating.
Amika Nice Cream Cleansing Conditioner
Another shampoo that conditions as it cleanses, Amika Nice Cream Cleansing Conditioner [13] (£15) is great for all textures and curl types, fighting frizz while it hydrates.
Maui Moisture Curl Quench + Coconut Oil Shampoo
If you're got super thick curly hair, Maui Moisture Curl Quench + Coconut Oil Shampoo [14] (£6, originally £9) is the one for you. Not only will not only give curls a boost of hydration but also detangle for defined curls and not a frizz in sight.
DevaCurl No-Poo
Peppermint and grapeseed oil stimulate the scalp and hair (without stripping it of its moisture) in this non-lathering, bestselling formula from DevaCurl [15] (£35) for clean and healthy-looking coils. Commenters on Sephora's site say the "life-changing" product also serves as a great detangler.