Best shampoo for curly hair: Avoid dry and frizzy curls
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Best shampoo for curly hair: Avoid dry and frizzy curls

by Lotte Lindgren on Sep 02, 2024

Excellent Based on 3367 reviews
Dorthe Kristensen

Read through by Dorthe Kristensen

Hairdresser and former co-owner of the award-winning hairdressing chain Zoom by Zoom
With many years of experience in the hairdressing industry, Dorthe has advised many customers about hair and hair care. Dorthe has read through this blog entry to ensure high quality and professionalism. This blog post is professionally updated on September 23, 2024.

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Curly hair is a beautiful and unique hair type, but it also comes with special challenges. Unlike straight hair, curls tend to become drier and frizzier due to their naturally uneven texture. This texture makes it difficult for the natural oils to move from the scalp to the hair ends, often resulting in dryness and lack of definition. Without proper care, curly hair can quickly appear dry and unruly, making it hard to achieve the well-defined, healthy curls that many dream of. Therefore, targeted care is essential to maintain the beauty of your curls.

To achieve healthy, well-defined curls, investing in proper hair care is crucial. Curly hair needs more moisture than other hair types because its structure makes it harder for moisture to stay in the hair. Without adequate moisture, curls can lose their shape, become frizzy, and look dull. Additionally, it’s important to protect hair from harmful elements such as heat and UV rays, which can exacerbate dryness and further damage the hair. A dedicated routine that includes products specifically formulated for curly hair is therefore key to maintaining the health and beauty of your curls.

What makes a shampoo the best for curly hair?

Moisture is crucial when it comes to caring for curly hair. Due to its structure, curly hair tends to dry out faster than straight hair, making it more susceptible to frizz. The best shampoo for curly hair should therefore be rich in moisturizing ingredients like aloe vera, glycerin, and natural oils such as argan and abyssinian oil. These ingredients help to provide and retain moisture in the hair, ensuring that curls remain soft, elastic, and well-defined.

Many shampoos contain sulfates and parabens, which can dry out the hair and worsen frizz. Sulfates, often used as foaming agents, can be too harsh and strip the hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry and brittle. Parabens, used as preservatives, are also problematic as they can irritate the scalp and contribute to hair drying out. To avoid these problems, choose shampoos that are free from sulfates and parabens. Opting for sulfateand paraben-free shampoos containing gentle, natural cleansers ensures that the hair is cleansed without losing its vital moisture.

This combination of moisturizing ingredients and the absence of harmful substances is what makes a shampoo for curly hair truly effective. It’s about maintaining the hair’s natural moisture and health while protecting it from unnecessary damage.

Woman gets her curly hair washed with shampoo

How to choose the best shampoo for curly hair

Choosing the best shampoo for curly hair requires an understanding of the curls’ unique needs, which differ significantly from other hair types. Curly hair is often more prone to dryness, frizz, and lack of definition, making the choice of the best shampoo crucial for maintaining the hair’s health and beauty.

The first step in the process is identifying what your hair needs the most. If your curls often feel dry and lack shine, it’s important to find a shampoo that provides extra moisture. Ingredients such as aloe vera, glycerin, and natural oils like argan and jojoba oil can be particularly beneficial as they help to retain moisture and give the hair a healthy shine.

For those desiring more defined curls, a shampoo that contains proteins or other strengthening ingredients could be the best solution. These help improve the curls' structure and give them a beautiful, bouncy shape.

If frizz is your main issue, consider a shampoo that specifically reduces frizz and makes the hair easier to manage. Sulfate-free formulations are often a good choice as sulfates can dry out the hair and worsen frizz. A shampoo with moisturizing ingredients that also protects against humidity can help keep your curls smooth and well-defined all day.

Once you know what your hair needs, you can choose the best shampoo for curly hair that specifically addresses these needs, which will help you achieve the most beautiful and healthiest curls.

The best shampoo for curly hair from Yuaia Haircare

Our Repair and Care shampoo is an excellent choice for those looking to give their curls optimal care. This shampoo, ideal for curly hair, is carefully formulated to repair and protect curly hair while providing the necessary moisture that curly hair often lacks. With its sulfate and silicone-free formula, the shampoo is gentle on both hair and scalp, making it ideal for curly hair that tends to be more sensitive to harsh chemicals.

One of the greatest benefits of our shampoo is its content of nourishing ingredients that strengthen the hair’s structure and improve elasticity. This is important for maintaining the natural shape and bounce of the curls, ensuring that they remain defined and vibrant. The shampoo’s moisturizing properties, thanks to ingredients like glycerin and macadamia oil, help lock in moisture in the hair, combating frizz and leaving curls soft and well-groomed.

With regular use of this shampoo for curly hair, the hair becomes stronger, more resistant to damage, and achieves a healthier, more lustrous appearance. Therefore, the shampoo is the ideal choice for those seeking a versatile and effective solution to care for their curls while avoiding harmful chemicals.

How to use a shampoo for curly hair correctly

To get the best out of your shampoo for curly hair, it is crucial to use it correctly so that your curls receive the care they need.

Curly hair requires more moisture and protection than other hair types, so it should not be washed too often. Frequent washing can strip away the natural oils necessary to keep curls healthy and well-defined. Generally, it is recommended to wash curly hair every 2-3 days or even just once a week, depending on your hair type, how much product you use, and your lifestyle.

When using shampoo for curly hair, it is important to dose it correctly. An amount roughly equivalent to a two-euro coin is often sufficient, but this can vary depending on the length and thickness of your hair.

Gently massage the shampoo into the scalp with your fingertips to stimulate blood circulation and thoroughly cleanse the scalp. It is important to avoid rubbing or pulling the hair too much as curly hair tends to tangle easily. Instead, let the shampoo work its way down to the lengths by itself to avoid unnecessary wear on the hair.

After washing, it is important to follow up with a conditioner ideal for curly hair. Conditioner helps to close the hair cuticle, preserving moisture and making the hair easier to detangle.

To give your curls the best care, you can use a deep-conditioning hair mask once a week to provide extra moisture and nourishment to the curls, keeping them healthy and well-defined.

Woman washes her hair

Other good hair products for curly hair

When it comes to hair care, it is not only important to find the best shampoo for curly hair. Other hair products like hair treatments, curl creams, and hair oils can also play a significant role in achieving beautiful, well-groomed curls. Here are some products that can help you get the best out of your curls:

Hair treatment for curly hair

An effective hair treatment is important for maintaining healthy and well-groomed curly hair. Curls often need extra moisture and nourishment as they naturally tend to dry out and frizz. treatments rich in proteins and moisturizing ingredients like argan oil or coconut oil can strengthen the hair’s structure and help retain its elasticity. These ingredients work deeply in the hair to repair damage and provide the necessary moisture that curly hair often lacks. For the best results, use a deep-conditioning hair treatment once a week. This will help keep your curls soft, elastic, and frizz-free, so they appear healthy and well-defined.

Curl cream

Curl creams are perfect for highlighting and defining your curls while effectively combating frizz. Curl creams hydrates the hair and provides a natural hold without weighing it down. Curl cream also protects the hair from harmful factors such as heat and UV rays, which is important for maintaining the health and shine of your curls. By using a good curl cream in your hair care routine, you can ensure that your curls remain well-defined, soft, and frizz-free all day.

Hair oil

Hair oil is a fantastic way to add shine and softness to curly hair, which often needs extra moisture. Oils like argan oil and jojoba oil are particularly effective as they can penetrate deeply into the hair and help seal in moisture. This is important to prevent dryness and reduce frizz, which curly hair often suffers from.

You can use hair oil on the ends to prevent split ends or distribute it throughout the hair to achieve a more lustrous and healthy appearance. By regularly including hair oil in your hair care routine, you can keep your curls soft, well-groomed, and full of life, giving them a beautiful and healthy shine.

Good tips for caring for and maintaining your curls

Caring for curly hair requires a special approach as it is often more prone to dryness, frizz, and damage than other hair types. Here are some important tips to keep your curls healthy and well-groomed:


  • Moisture is key: Curly hair needs lots of moisture to stay soft and defined. A weekly deep-conditioning hair treatment is a good idea to provide intense moisture and prevent frizz. Also, be sure to use a moisturizing conditioner after every wash.
  • Gentle washing: Wash your curly hair with a sulfate-free shampoo that will not dry out your hair. Frequent washing can strip away the hair’s natural oils, which are important for keeping curls healthy. Consider washing your hair every 2-3 days or even once a week.
  • Protection against heat: If you use heat styling tools like blow dryers or curling irons, always use a heat protectant spray or cream. This helps minimize damage and maintain the hair’s health.
  • Use of curl cream: To define and control your curls, you can benefit from using a curl cream. It provides hold without making the hair stiff and helps to combat frizz.
  • Natural oils: Using hair oil, like argan or jojoba oil, can seal in moisture and add extra shine to your curls. Apply the oil to the ends or throughout the hair as needed to keep the curls soft and well-groomed.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your curls remain healthy, defined, and full of life.

Frequently asked questions about caring for curly hair

What is best for curly hair?

The best for curly hair are products that focus on moisturizing and nourishing ingredients such as aloe vera, glycerin, and natural oils like argan or jojoba oil. These help keep the hair hydrated, which is crucial for maintaining the health and flexibility of the curls. Moisturizing ingredients also prevent frizz by sealing in moisture in the hair, making the curls more defined and less prone to becoming dry and frizzy. By choosing products with these properties, you can ensure that your curls remain soft, shiny, and easy to style.

What should not be in a shampoo for curly hair?

Avoid shampoos with sulfates, parabens, and silicone when caring for curly hair. Sulfates can dry out the hair by stripping the natural oils that curly hair needs to stay healthy and hydrated. Parabens can irritate the scalp and are unnecessary preservatives. Silicone can build up in the hair and make it heavy and lifeless, preventing the curls from maintaining their natural bounce and definition. For the best results, choose shampoos with natural and moisturizing ingredients.

How often should I wash curly hair?

Curly hair should not be washed too often, as it can strip away the natural oils that keep the curls healthy. Washing every 2-3 days or once a week is usually sufficient.

How do I avoid frizz in curly hair?

To avoid frizz in curly hair, it is important to use moisturizing products such as leave-in conditioner and curl cream. These products help retain moisture in the hair and prevent frizz by creating a protective barrier. When drying your hair, use a microfiber towel or an old t-shirt instead of a regular towel. This reduces friction, which is often the cause of frizz. Additionally, it’s a good idea to avoid touching your hair too much while it’s drying, as this can also cause frizz.

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