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Byrdie / Marcus Millan
A great shampoo and conditioner are crucial components of any hair-care routine. If you find yourself replenishing your supply frequently, it helps if your formula of choice is available at your local drugstore. That said, the right formula for you isn't necessarily what the next person should use. When choosing a shampoo, haircare expert Lindsay Holden says to "look for one that's specifically formulated for your hair type." Someone with thick, curly hair will want a formula that moisturizes and softens. On the other hand, those with oily roots or fine hair need a shampoo that clarifies without adding weight.
We conducted hours of research on the best drugstore shampoos out there, evaluating them on formula, benefits, and lather. After consulting with haircare experts and considering dozens of options, we landed on these stellar drugstore shampoos.
What to Look For When Buying Drugstore Shampoo
- Hair type: The first thing to consider when buying drugstore shampoo and conditioner is your hair type. According to Holden, the best formulas for curly, coily, and textured hair are moisturizing and often non-lathering (which likely means they don't contain sulfates).
- Cleansing ingredients: Shampoos often contain sulfates—usually sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) or sodium laureth sulfate (SLES)—which clean the hair and create a lathering effect. But since they can be harsh on dyed, chemically straightened, and curly hair, you'll find many sulfate-free formulas call on other cleansing agents.
- Fortifying ingredients: Holden recommends drugstore shampoos and conditioners "high in protein to promote strength and shine, as well as amino acids, which help keep hair strong and even encourage hair growth." Biotin and vitamin B5 are excellent hair fortifiers too.
Best Overall
Pantene Pro-V Moisture Renewal Shampoo
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Amazon
Luxurious lather
Gently cleanses
Hydrates and replenishes
Not as effective for those with a lot of product buildup
Hair Type: All | Key Ingredients: Cocomide, vitamin B5 | Size: 12 ounces | Scent: Jasmine | Cruelty-Free: No
Pantene is a tried-and-true drugstore brand with some really stellar offerings. While new and noteworthy haircare products are constantly coming out, we often fall back on this Daily Moisture Renewal Shampoo. When massaged, this silky-smooth formula builds into a luxurious lather, gently cleansing and hydrating your strands and scalp.
Who It’s For
This is a great all-rounder shampoo, winning points for its effective formula, easy pump dispenser, and fresh scent. True to its name, Pantene Pro-V leans on panthenol (pro-vitamin B5) to replenish your hair while promising to protect it from damage, making it a great choice for locks that need a moisture boost.
Best Budget
Garnier Fructis Pure Clean Shampoo
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Amazon
Gentle formula
Fortifies and hydrates
Leaves hair silky
Not ideal for greasy roots
Hair Type: All | Key Ingredients: Aloe, vitamin E, vitamin B3, vitamin B6 | Size: 12.5 ounces | Scent: Fresh | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Drugstore shampoos are typically great budget picks, but if you want one of the most wallet-friendly we’ve found, go with this pick from Garnier Fructis. Gentle enough for daily use, this simple yet effective shampoo vows to fortify and hydrate your hair and leave it silky-soft.
Who It’s For
We love this shampoo because it contains vitamin B3, which aids suppleness and moisture retention, and is best for people whose hair could benefit from more intensive hydration and a shine boost. If your roots are prone to oiliness or product buildup, this may not be the right cleanser for you.
Best Volumizing
Dove Volume & Fullness Shampoo
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CVS
Nourishing
Promotes thickness and body
Won't weigh down hair
Not as effective at removing buildup
Hair Type: Fine, flat | Key Ingredients: Biotin, collagen | Size: 24 ounces | Scent: Clean | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Hoping to add additional volume to your hair? Dove's Volume & Fullness Shampoo is your best bet. The nourishing formula hydrates without weighing down your hair and then calls on biotin (a vitamin that is known to strengthen hair) and collagen (a protein that can help stimulate hair growth) to promote thickness and body.
Who It’s For
We love how much of a volume boost this shampoo gives us. Slathering the roots and hair follicles with topical, nourishing ingredients may make the hair look healthier and stronger, creating the fullness and bounce you crave.
Best for Textured Hair
Carol's Daughter Black Vanilla Shampoo
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Amazon
Sulfate-free
Moisturizing
Lathers well
Can weigh down fine hair types
Hair Type: Dry, damaged, curly, coily | Key Ingredients: Aloe, sweet clover extract | Size: 12 ounces | Scent: Vanilla | Cruelty-Free: Yes
This nourishing pick claims to moisturize and soften curly and textured hair types. Despite being sulfate-free, the formula foams particularly well and has a yummy vanilla scent that'll turn your shower into a spa. When used with the conditioner, it does a stellar job restoring shine, hydrating curls and coils, and reducing static.
Who It’s For
This formula contains natural moisturizing ingredients to gently hydrate and soften curl types 2A, 2B, 2C, 3A, 3B, 3C, 4A.
Best for Fine Hair
OGX Thick & Full + Biotin & Collagen Shampoo
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Walgreens
Strengthening
Volumizing
Expert-recommended
Scent may be too strong for some
Hair Type: Fine, flat, damaged | Key Ingredients: Biotin, collagen | Size: 13 ounces | Scent: Bergamot/vanilla/jasmine | Cruelty-Free: Yes
It can be tricky for fine-haired folks to find a drugstore shampoo that cleanses without weighing down their fragile strands. This formula, enriched with vitamins and proteins, does just that. "For drugstore-brand shampoo for fine hair, I definitely love OGX Biotin & Collagen Shampoo," says hairstylist Sky Kim of Jenna Perry Hair Studio in New York. It's formulated to transform fine locks into a thicker, fuller-looking mane.
Who It’s For
If you’ve got fine, fragile strands, this product aims to help. Biotin and collagen work to strengthen the hair over time, while wheat protein provides a more voluminous appearance from day one.
Best for Curly Hair
SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Shampoo
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Ulta
Free from sulfates, silicones, parabens, and phthalates
Rich lather
Improves elasticity
May weigh down fine hair
Hair Type: Curly, natural | Key Ingredients: Shea butter, aloe, hydrolyzed silk | Size: 13 ounces | Scent: Coconut/hibiscus | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Curly hair requires a different approach to washing than straight hair. Asymmetrical follicles and coiled strands make it harder for natural oils to travel down the hair shaft, making curly hair more prone to dryness and damage from heat styling and coloring. The TLDR: Curly hair needs lots of moisture, and a hydrating shampoo is essential. This shampoo gently cleanses, moisturizes, and protects to improve elasticity and keep static at bay. And even though it's sulfate-free, it boasts a notably rich lather.
Who It’s For
We recommend SheaMoisture for our curly-haired friends. Slathering curly and wavy locks in this rich formula made with coconut oil helps add moisture and shine to static-prone hair.
Best for Natural Hair
TPH by Taraji Honey Fresh Clarifying Shampoo
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Walmart
Sulfate-free
Moisturizing
Refreshes scalp
Scent may be too strong for some
Hair Type: Natural, textured, dry | Key Ingredients: Aloe, honey, willow bark extract | Size: 12 ounces | Scent: Herbal honey | Cruelty-Free: Yes
TPH makes the best option for hair that needs moisture. The brand's Honey Fresh Shampoo flaunts a non-drying, sulfate-free gel formula with a honey-like consistency. A blend of—yes—honey, aloe, and willow bark delivers much-needed moisture while refreshing your scalp. One thing to note: Although the formula claims to be vegan-friendly, its moisturizing properties do come from honey.
Who It’s For
TPH is our top pick for dry and damaged hair. The formula works to remove hard water and product build-up without stripping the hair of natural oils.
Best for Wavy Hair
Pacifica Salty Waves Shampoo
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Amazon
Sulfate-free
Non-drying
Promotes healthy growth
May sting eyes
Hair Type: Wavy, curly, fine, thick | Key Ingredients: Salt, soy protein, marine extracts | Size: 12 ounces | Scent: Coconut/banana | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Pacifica Salty Waves promises to enhance wavy hair, transforming flat strands into beachy mermaid locks. This non-drying shampoo contains salt to bring out your natural texture, while sea algae (which is rich in antioxidants and minerals for a strengthening effect) and soy protein promote healthy growth. After washing, reach for the brand's matching conditioner, a cruelty-free formula fortified with the same active ingredients as the shampoo.
Who It’s For
If your hair has a natural wave, this product will enhance its body and texture. After washing, scrunch and twirl sections of your hair, then let it air-dry for a beachy look.
Best for Dandruff
Head & Shoulders Classic Clean Dandruff Shampoo
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Amazon
Effective formula
Prevents flakes
Reduces itchiness
May irritate sensitive scalps
Hair Type: Dandruff-prone | Key Ingredients: Zinc pyrithione | Size: 12.5 ounces | Scent: Clean | Cruelty-Free: No
If you're dealing with dandruff, Head & Shoulders is our trusty standby. We realize this might not be the sexiest shampoo on the drugstore shelf, but it works. The key ingredient is zinc pyrithione, which tackles both flakes and an itchy scalp. Classic Clean Dandruff Shampoo does contain methylisothiazolinone, an antibacterial preservative, which sensitive skin folks might find it irritating.
Who It’s For
If you regularly deal with a dry, flaky scalp, this product is a solid drugstore option. Use it twice a week to tackle oil and dandruff, while adding a hydration boost to keep hair soft.
Best for Shedding
Mielle Organics Anti-Shedding Shampoo
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Target
Fortifying
Very hydrating
Detangles knots
Strong scent
Hair Type: All | Key Ingredients: Sea moss | Size: 8 ounces | Scent: Clean | Cruelty-Free: Yes
We know how frustrating it can be to experience hair shedding, which can be caused by anything from genetics to pregnancy or a vitamin deficiency. While eating a balanced diet, getting proper sleep, and avoiding tight hairstyles are some of the best ways to cut back on hair shedding, this shampoo from Mielle Organics is designed to help. With an ingredient list boasting several types of hydrating and nourishing oils, including avocado, coconut, and sweet almond oils, it aims to prevent breakage and tangles. Anti-inflammatory ingredients including burdock root, aloe, and chamomile help soothe the scalp and strengthen the roots.
Who It’s For
If your hair is more fragile and prone to shedding than you’d like, this shampoo can help fortify and nourish it. Remember to use a hair brush designed to prevent snagging and further breakage.
Best for Oily Roots
John Paul Mitchell Systems Tea Tree Special Shampoo
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Amazon
Deeply cleanses
Imparts shine
Invigorating for scalp
Not suitable for fine hair types
Hair Type: Oily, fine, dandruff-prone | Key Ingredients: Tea tree, peppermint, lavender | Size: 10–34 ounces | Scent: Peppermint | Cruelty-Free: Yes
If you're prone to an oily or flaky scalp, this formula includes tea tree oil, which works as an antimicrobial and antifungal agent, reducing grease and restoring balance. The zingy mint fragrance is invigorating and leaves the hair bouncy and refreshed.
Who It’s For
If you find yourself washing your hair constantly in a bid to manage oily roots, this tea tree-focused formula is one to try. Enjoy the tingly sensation as you lather up and a squeaky-clean result. Those with fine hair may find this product may weigh it down some, though.
Best Moisturizing
TRESemmé Rich Moisture Shampoo
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Target
Contains nourishing ingredients
Leaves hair shiny
Hydrating formula to soften hair
Can irritate sensitive scalps
Hair Type: Dry, damaged | Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, biotin, amino acids, vitamin B5 | Size: 28 ounces | Scent: Almond | Cruelty-Free: Yes
If your hair feels dry or brittle, this moisturizing shampoo from Tresemmé might be just the thing. It promises to not only hydrate but also nourish, soften, and restore healthy-looking shine using popular moisturizing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, biotin, amino acids, and vitamin B5 to improve the everyday look and feel of your hair.
Who It’s For
If you’re forever managing dry, split ends, this shampoo was made for you. Don’t forget to use a heat protection spray before you reach for the blow dryer.
Best Scent
Herbal Essences Rose Hips Smooth Shampoo
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Amazon
Nostalgic floral scent
Gently cleanses
Formula tested by dermatologists
Could be more hydrating
Hair Type: All | Key Ingredients: Vitamin E, jojoba oil | Size: 13.5–29 ounces | Scent: Rose | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Shampoo should work for your hair type, but we'd be lying if we said the fragrance wasn't nearly as important. To enhance your showering experience, look no further than Herbal Essences. Rose Hips is one of the brand's classic scents. Whether it makes you feel nostalgic for the 90s or is a brand-new sensation, you won't be disappointed.
Who It’s For
If you love to take your time in the shower and turn it into a spa-like experience, add this to your shopping cart. The rose fragrance is aromatic without being overpowering. Expect anyone in close proximity to you that day to remark on how great you smell.
Best Color-Safe
Aveeno Blackberry Quinoa Protein Blend
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Amazon
Moisturizing
Strengthening formula
Enhances shine
Can leave a residue
Hair Type: All | Key Ingredients: Colloidal oatmeal extract, quinoa protein | Size: 12 ounces | Scent: Blackberry | Cruelty-Free: No
For colored hair, we recommend a sulfate-free formula like Aveeno's Blackberry Quinoa Shampoo. It gently cleanses without stripping your strands or drying them out, while quinoa protein strengthens and prevents fading. The blackberry scent is pretty great too.
Who It’s For
Color-treated hair – especially hair that’s been bleached or lightened – is generally more delicate and dry than virgin hair. In other words, it needs a little extra love. Using a gentle, moisturizing formula like this one can help restore softness and hydration while also keeping your color shiny and vibrant for longer.
Best Purple
L'Oreal Paris EverPure Purple Shampoo
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Amazon
Cancels yellow, brassy tones
Preserves color
Adds shine
Not ideal for daily use
Hair Type: All | Key Ingredients: Purple dye, hibiscus extract | Size: 6.8 ounces | Scent: Violet, fig, coconut, thyme | Cruelty-Free: No
If you bleach your hair, lathering up with a purple shampoo a few times a week can help preserve the color. This one from L'Oreal contains violet pigments that counteract any yellowish, brassy tones.12 Just a heads up, daily use isn't recommended, as the toner in the formula can dry out your hair.
Who It’s For
Blondes who want to keep their color cool without another trip to the salon should reach for this.
Best Strengthening
Climaplex Strength & Volume Shampoo
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Target
Repairs damage
Prevents breakage
Adds volume
Scent may be too strong for some
Hair Type: Dry, damaged | Key Ingredients: Wheat and vegetable protein, vitamin B5, amino acids | Size: 13.5 ounces | Scent: Floral | Cruelty-Free: Yes
For brittle strands, we recommend a strengthening shampoo that helps fortify the hair from the root. This formula from Climaplex blends proteins, amino acids, and vitamin B5 to repair damage and protect from future breakage.
Who It’s For
If your hair tends to be fine and brittle, this product can help restore volume and strength. Ingredients like grape skin extract – a powerful antioxidant – help protect the hair from UV rays and pollution, preventing further damage.
What to Look For When Buying Drugstore Shampoo
- Hair type: The first thing to consider when buying drugstore shampoo and conditioner is your hair type. According to Holden, the best formulas for curly, coily, and textured hair are moisturizing and often non-lathering (which likely means they don't contain sulfates).
- Cleansing ingredients: Shampoos often contain sulfates—usually sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) or sodium laureth sulfate (SLES)—which clean the hair and create a lathering effect. But since they can be harsh on dyed, chemically straightened, and curly hair, you'll find many sulfate-free formulas call on other cleansing agents.
- Fortifying ingredients: Holden recommends drugstore shampoos and conditioners "high in protein to promote strength and shine, as well as amino acids, which help keep hair strong and even encourage hair growth." Biotin and vitamin B5 are excellent hair fortifiers too.
Why Trust Byrdie
Theresa Holland is a commerce writer specializing in beauty and lifestyle. For this roundup, she compiled expert buying tips and researched today's best drugstore shampoos and conditioners for every hair type and concern. She has been covering haircare, skincare, and makeup at Byrdie since 2020.
Esme Benjamin (a life-long user of drugstore shampoos) helped update this article, ensuring all the products selected truly deserved a place on Byrdie’s list.
Team Byrdie consulted two hair experts for this article, including:
- Lindsay Holden, a haircare expert and founder of the clean beauty brand Odele.
- Sky Kim , a hairstylist at Jenna Perry Hair Studio in New York.
