Curly hair is lovely, but to keep its natural shape, to avoid frizz, extra care is needed. One of the main products used for curly hair care is a clarifying shampoo. The clarifying shampoos are meant to get rid of grit from styling products, hard water minerals, and excessive oil. After washing them, you get your hair clean and fresh, ready for styling.
Nevertheless, all the clarifying shampoos are not manufactured equally. Curly hair is dry to begin with, and if harsh shampoos are used, they will strip the hair of its natural oil content leading to even more dryness and breakage.
In this article, I’ll be taking a closer look at the top clarifying shampoos for curly hair which are currently available.
Top 3 Best Clarifying Shampoos for Curly Hair
- Maui Moisture Scalp Care Clarifying Shampoo
- Carol’s Daughter Sulfate Free Clarifying Shampoo and Deep Conditioner Gift Set
- Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two, Clarifying
As a person that is trying to find the best clarifying shampoo suitable for my curly hair, I’ve tried and researched many alternatives. These shampoos are specially crafted to get rid of the build-up from products, hard water, and pollution, resulting in clean and revitalized hair. Here are my top preferences for the best cleansing shampoos for curly hair.
1. Maui Moisture Scalp Care Clarifying Shampoo
If you’re searching for a sulfate-free shampoo that will clarify your curly hair, Maui Moisture Scalp Care Clarifying Shampoo is definitely worth checking out.
Pros
- Gently removes product buildup without stripping moisture from curls
- Infused with apple cider vinegar and aloe vera to prevent up to 90% less curl breakage
- Contains a unique blend of aloe vera and coconut water that results in moisturized curls and a healthy-looking glow with every use
Cons
- May be drying for some hair types
- The scent may not be appealing to everyone
- Some users may need to use it in combination with a conditioner for best results
Maui Moisture Scalp Care Clarifying Shampoo has a scent of tea tree, spearmint, and eucalyptus which is quite refreshing to me as well. Nevertheless, I realize that others may not like the scent as it is quite powerful.
To begin with, I love the fact that this shampoo is composed of 100% aloe vera, an ingredient that makes it a vegan option and one without mineral oil, silicones, parabens, gluten, SLS, sulfated surfactants, synthetic dyes, and ALES. This shampoo will suit all curl types and is easy to use. I do this by applying it generously to wet hair, massaging it into a lather from root to end, and then rinsing my hair thoroughly.
Despite this, it may not be advised to use this shampoo on a daily basis as it can dehydrate some hair types. In addition, I have discovered the need for its use with a conditioner for me to get the best results.
2. Carol’s Daughter Sulfate Free Clarifying Shampoo and Deep Conditioner Gift Set
If you are seeking a cleansing shampoo and conditioner set that can deeply clean your hair and scalp without removing the natural oils, Carol’s Daughter Wash Day Delight Sulfate Free Clarifying Shampoo and Deep Conditioner Gift Set with Aloe and Micellar is a reputable choice.
Pros
- The shampoo’s liquid micellar technology provides easy scalp access and transforms into a gentle foam lather without harsh friction, making it perfect for curly, wavy, and coily hair types.
- The jelly-to-cream conditioner formula moisturizes hair from roots to ends and detangles curls, making it easier to manage and style.
- The shampoo and conditioner set is sulfate-free, silicone-free, paraben-free, and vegan, making it safe and gentle for all hair types.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the conditioner leaves a greasy film after use, which may not be suitable for those with oily hair.
- The shampoo’s pointed tip may make it difficult to apply evenly throughout the hair, which may result in uneven cleansing.
- The shampoo and conditioner set may be more expensive compared to other clarifying shampoo and conditioner sets in the market.
The liquid micellar shampoo offered a gentle way for me to get to my scalp and clean it effectively without any rough rubbing. It also changed into a gentle foam lather which twisted out the tangles and rinsed off easily leaving the hair clean, soft, and moisturized.
Being a jelly-to-cream type of formula, the cream conditioner was joyful to use as it changed from a thick jelly to a moisturizing cream which made the hair nourished from root to tip. It also featured a tangle-mellowing technology that was easy to use and slid across my hair, optimizing for the perfect separation of my curly hair strands. Following the use of the shampoo and conditioner set, my scalp and hair were hydrated, and my hair was touchably soft.
3. Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two, Clarifying
Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two is a clarifying shampoo that can be used to eliminate the buildup from your curls and is an excellent choice if you are looking for one.
Pros
- Leaves hair feeling clean and refreshed
- Removes product buildup and excess oil
- Suitable for all hair types, especially oily hair
Cons
- Strong lemon scent may not be appealing to everyone
- Can be drying if used too frequently
- Some users have reported residue left behind after washing
Following the application of Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two, my hair was clean and fresh and the excess oil was off. Additionally, I found that it is satisfactory for all hair types, particularly those who have oily hair.
However, the lemon smell is quite strong, which some people might dislike. Additionally, too much of it can make hair dry. Some users have also claimed that a bit of residue is left after washing, so it is recommended to wash thoroughly.
Just make sure that you don’t overdo it and make sure to rinse thoroughly in order to avoid any residue.
4. OUAI Detox Shampoo
The OUAI Detox Shampoo is one of your best options when thinking of a clarifying shampoo that will leave your curly hair clean and refreshed.
Pros
- The apple cider vinegar in this shampoo helps to gently exfoliate the scalp, removing flakes and buildup to restore volume and shine.
- The keratin in this shampoo helps to strengthen hair and reduce breakage, making it a great choice for those with curly hair that is prone to damage.
- This sulfate-free shampoo is gentle enough for regular use and won’t strip your hair of its natural oils.
Cons
- Some users have reported that this shampoo can be a bit drying, so it may not be the best choice for those with very dry or damaged hair.
- This shampoo is a bit pricey compared to some other clarifying shampoos on the market.
- While the apple cider vinegar scent is pleasant, some users may find it a bit strong.
OUAI Detox Shampoo is a good option for anyone with curls who is seeking a mild clarifying shampoo. Using it is a breeze, and my hair is left fresh and clean and doesn’t lose its natural oil content. If you are ready to pay a bit more for a high-quality clarifying shampoo, you should definitely try this one out.
Buying Guide
Choosing the best clarifying shampoo for curly hair, there are several important things that you need to take into account. Here are some features to look for when choosing a clarifying shampoo:
Ingredients
Ingredients of a clarifying shampoo are very significant to review, particularly for people with curly hair. Choose shampoos that are sulfate-free and contain naturally derived ingredients like tea tree oil, aloe vera, and chamomile. These components are specially meant to cleanse the scalp, without removing the hair oil.
pH Balance
The pH balance of clarifying shampoos should also be considered. Consider the pH of the shampoo which should be between 4.5 and 5.5 as this is the same pH as healthy hair. This will assist in maintaining hair and scalp healthy as well as balanced.
Frequency of Use
This type of shampoo is meant to be used once a week or every other week, not every day. Excessive use of clarifying shampoo can lead to loss of oils from hair that might cause damage.
Additional Features
Some clarifying shampoos might have additional features such as conditioners or moisturizers. Take into account your hair type and requirements in order to pick a clarifying shampoo that has extra functionalities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of using sulfate-free clarifying shampoos for curly hair?
Sulfate-free clarifying shampoos are very mild on curly hair and they help to clean without stripping the natural oils. They also aid in the maintenance of the desired moisture balance of the hair, which is an important aspect of having healthy and well-defined curls.
How often should clarifying shampoo be used on curly hair?
It was advised to use clarifying shampoo once a month for curly hair. Yet, the regularity can be affected by factors such as hair thickness, the products used, and environmental conditions.
Can clarifying shampoos help with oily scalp issues for those with curly hair?
Of course, clarifying shampoos help remove the excess oil and buildup from the scalp, thus leaving a healthier scalp and hair. Nevertheless, you should pick a gentle clarifying shampoo with zero sulfates to avoid drying out your hair.
What are the top-rated clarifying shampoos for fine curly hair available at drugstores?
Among some of the most popular clarifying shampoos for fine curly hair that can be found in drugstores are Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo, Herbal Essence Clarifying Shampoo, and Suave Essentials Daily Clarifying Shampoo.
Which clarifying shampoos are recommended for maintaining natural curly hair?
Some of the recommended clarifying shampoos that aid in natural curly hair maintenance include the DevaCurl Buildup Buster Micellar Water Cleansing Serum, Ouidad Water Works Clarifying Shampoo, and the Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal + Coconut Oil Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo.
Are there any clarifying shampoos specifically designed for kinky or tightly coiled curly hair?
Certainly, there are clarifying shampoos on the market engineered for afro or tightly coiled curly hair. Some of the widely used products are As I Am Curl Clarity Shampoo, Kinky-Curly Come Clean Shampoo and Camille Rose Naturals Sweet Ginger Cleansing Rinse.
