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, textured 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. Pair it with a complementing conditioner, and you're good to go. We conducted hours of research on the best drugstore shampoos and conditioners out there, evaluating them on formula, benefits, and lather. We also noted whether or not a formula contains sulfates. If you’re wondering what sulfates are, they're detergents that are responsible for creating a creamy lather in shampoo. Sulfates can be problematic for those with sensitive skin, and some people are concerned about the impact of long-term use, though sulfates are currently considered safe by the FDA). After consulting with two haircare experts and considering dozens of options, we landed on these stellar drugstore shampoos. Our Top Picks Best Volumizing: Best for Textured Hair: Best for Fine Hair: Best for Curly Hair: SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Shampoo at Amazon ($11) Best for Natural Hair: TPH by Taraji Honey Fresh Clarifying Shampoo at Target ($11) Best for Wavy Hair: Best for Dandruff: Head & Shoulders Classic Clean Dandruff Shampoo at Amazon ($17) Best for Shedding: In This Article Our Picks What To Look For FAQ Why Trust Byrdie What We Like Luxurious lather Gently cleanses Hydrates and replenishes What We Don't Like Contains sulfates 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 removing buildup on your strands and scalp. Just a heads up, this shampoo contains sulfates. Not everyone is a fan, but it's where the rich lather comes from. 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 hydrate and replenish your hair while promising to protect it from damage, making it a great choice for locks that need a moisture boost. Hair Type: All | Key Ingredients: Cocomide, vitamin B5 | Size: 12 ounces | Scent: Jasmine | Cruelty-Free: No What We Like Gentle formula Fortifies and hydrates Leaves hair silky What We Don't Like Reviewers say it’s not ideal for greasy roots Contains sulfates Drugstore shampoos are typically great budget picks, but if you want one of the most wallet-friendly we’ve found, go with Garnier Fructis Pure Clean. Gentle enough for daily use, this simple yet effective shampoo vows to fortify and hydrate your hair and leave it silky-soft. One thing to note: This formula does include sulfates, so if you’re actively avoiding the ingredient, then skip this shampoo. 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. Hair Type: All | Key Ingredients: Aloe, vitamin E, vitamin B3, vitamin B6 | Size: 12.5 ounces | Scent: Fresh | Cruelty-Free: Yes What We Like Nourishing Promotes thickness and body Won't weigh down hair What We Don't Like Contains sulfates 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. Just a heads up, we noticed this formula gets its rich lather from sulfates. We love how much of a volume boost this shampoo gives us. Getting the major volume that a dry shampoo provides may require multiple washes, but for the best results, double-cleanse. Slathering the roots and hair follicles with topical ingredients like biotin and collagen may help strengthen your hair over time, creating the fullness and bounce you crave. Hair Type: Fine, flat | Key Ingredients: Biotin, collagen | Size: 24 ounces | Scent: Clean | Cruelty-Free: Yes What We Like Sulfate-free Moisturizing Lathers well What We Don't Like Weighs down fine hair 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. Carol's Daughter is a Black-owned hair care brand that specializes in creating formulas with textured and curly hair in mind. This formula contains natural moisturizing ingredients like Shea Butter to gently hydrate and soften curl types 2A, 2B, 2C, 3A, 3B, 3C, 4A. Hair Type: Dry, damaged, curly, coily | Key Ingredients: Aloe, sweet clover extract | Size: 12 ounces | Scent: Vanilla | Cruelty-Free: Yes What We Like Strengthening Volumizing Expert-recommended What We Don't Like Some reviewers complain about the product’s strong scent 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 Serge Normant at John Frieda in New York. It's formulated to transform fine locks into a thicker, fuller-looking mane. If you’ve got fine, fragile strands, this product aims to help. Vitamin B7, biotin (a vitamin that is known to strengthen hair) and collagen (a protein that can help stimulate hair growth) work to strengthen the hair over time, while wheat protein (a moisturizing ingredient with strengthening capabilities) provides a more voluminous appearance from day one. Hair Type: Fine, flat, damaged | Key Ingredients: Biotin, collagen | Size: 13 ounces | Scent: Bergamot/vanilla/jasmine | Cruelty-Free: Yes What We Like Free from sulfates, silicones, parabens, and phthalates Rich lather Improves elasticity What We Don't Like May weigh down fine hair 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 dry and prone to 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. 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. Hair Type: Curly, natural | Key Ingredients: Shea butter, aloe, hydrolyzed silk | Size: 13 ounces | Scent: Coconut/hibiscus | Cruelty-Free: Yes What We Like Sulfate-free Moisturizing Refreshes scalp What We Don't Like Some reviewers weren’t fans of the product’s strong scent 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 come from honey. 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. Hair Type: Natural, textured, dry | Key Ingredients: Aloe, honey, willow bark extract | Size: 12 ounces | Scent: Herbal honey | Cruelty-Free: Yes What We Like Sulfate-free Non-drying Promotes healthy growth What We Don't Like May sting eyes Pacifica Salty Waves promises to enhance wavy hair, transforming flat strands into beachy mermaid locks. This sulfate-free, 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 (full of amino acids to prevent breakage) promote healthy growth. After washing, reach for Pacifica Salty Waves Texturizing Conditioner, a cruelty-free formula fortified with the same active ingredients as the shampoo. If your hair has a natural wave, this product will enhance its body and texture. With Pacifica Salty Waves Texturizing Shampoo there’s no need for additional salt spray. After washing, scrunch and twirl sections of your hair then let it air-dry for a beachy look. Hair Type: Wavy, curly, fine, thick | Key Ingredients: Salt, soy protein, marine extracts | Size: 12 ounces | Scent: Coconut/banana | Cruelty-Free: Yes What We Like Effective formula Prevents flakes Reduces itchiness What We Don't Like Contains methylisothiazolinone 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 pyrithione zinc, which tackles both flakes and an itchy scalp. Classic Clean Dandruff Shampoo does contain methylisothiazolinone, an antibacterial preservative, whichsensitive skin folks might find it irritating. Consider using Head & Shoulders Daily Scalp Care Dandruff Conditioner to soothe your scalp and double down on flake prevention. 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. Hair Type: Dandruff-prone | Key Ingredients: Pyrithione zinc | Size: 13–32 ounces | Scent: Clean | Cruelty-Free: No What We Like Fortifying Very hydrating Detangles knots What We Don't Like Strong scent 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 camomile help soothe the scalp and strengthen the roots. Pair it with Mielle Organics Sea Moss Anti-Shedding Conditioner for best results. If your hair is more fragile and prone to shedding than you’d like, Mielle Organics Sea Moss Anti-Shedding Shampoo can help fortify and nourish it. Remember to use a hair brush designed to prevent snagging and further breakage, like Tangle Teaser Original. Hair Type: All | Key Ingredients: Sea moss | Size: 8 ounces | Scent: Clean | Cruelty-Free: Yes What We Like Deeply cleanses Imparts shine Invigorating for scalp What We Don't Like Not suitable for fine hair types Not ideal for dry hair 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 all bouncy and refreshed. Pair it with the Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Special Conditioner, which employs tea tree, peppermint and lavender for an invigorating, scalp-tinging finish. 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. Hair Type: Oily, fine, dandruff-prone | Key Ingredients: Tea tree, peppermint, lavender | Size: 10–34 ounces | Scent: Peppermint | Cruelty-Free: Yes Read Full Review: Reviewed: Paul Mitchell's Tea Tree Shampoo Is the Ultimate Deep Clean What We Like Contains nourishing ingredients Leaves hair shiny Hydrating formula to soften hair What We Don't Like Contains PEGs Some users report oiliness and irritation to the scalp 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. Follow with Tresemmé Rich Moisture Conditioner to lock in the moisture. 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. Hair Type: Dry, damaged | Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, biotin, amino acids, vitamin B5 | Size: 28 ounces | Scent: Almond | Cruelty-Free: Yes What We Like Nostalgic floral scent Gently cleanses Doesn’t contain parabens What We Don't Like Contains sulfates and PEGs 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. Follow with Herbal Essences Rose Hips Smooth Conditioner, which smells just as good as its sudsy counterpart. 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. Hair Type: All | Key Ingredients: Vitamin E, jojoba oil | Size: 13.5–29 ounces | Scent: Rose | Cruelty-Free: Yes What We Like Sulfate-free Moisturizing Strengthening formula Enhances shine What We Don't Like Contains PEGs 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 (a side effect of sulfates, which are an extremely common ingredient in drugstore shampoo brands), while quinoa protein strengthens and prevents fading. The blackberry scent is pretty great too. 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. Hair Type: All | Key Ingredients: Colloidal oatmeal extract, quinoa protein | Size: 12 ounces | Scent: Blackberry | Cruelty-Free: No What We Like Cancels yellow, brassy tones Preserves color Adds shine What We Don't Like Contains PEGs and methylchloroisothiazolinone Not ideal for daily use 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. Pair this shampoo with L'Oreal EverPure Purple Conditioner. Blondes who want to keep their color cool without another trip to the salon should reach for this. Hair Type: All | Key Ingredients: Purple dye, hibiscus extract | Size: 6.8 ounces | Scent: Violet, fig, coconut, thyme | Cruelty-Free: No What We Like Sulfate-free Low-foam formula Hydrating and nourishing What We Don't Like Contains methylisothiazolinone If you prefer low-sud shampoo formulas or co-washing with a creamy conditioning hair cleanser (either between normal shampoo days or in place of), this luxe pick from Pantene feels less like a drugstore find and more like a salon-quality product. Enriched with argan oil and vitamin B5, it has all the right ingredients to nourish and soften without stripping your hair of its natural oils. If you have curly or textured hair and find that frequent shampooing leaves it dried out and full of static, this creamy co-wash will help. Applying between shampoo washes will bolster your natural oils, resulting in stronger, more hydrated hair. Hair Type: Curly, coily, frizzy, dry | Key Ingredients: Vitamin B5, argan oil | Size: 15 ounces | Scent: Clean/floral | Cruelty-Free: No What We Like Repairs damage Prevents breakage Doesn’t contain parabens What We Don't Like Strong scent 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. After lathering and rinsing, follow with Climaplex Strength & Volume Conditioner for an additional boost of strengthening and hydrating ingredients. 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. Hair Type: Dry, damaged | Key Ingredients: Wheat and vegetable protein, vitamin B5, amino acids | Size: 13.5 ounces | Scent: Floral | Cruelty-Free: Yes What We Like Moisturizing Replenishes thick, dry hair Nourishes scalp What We Don't Like Strong, tropical scent This French favorite is packed with mango seed butter, a moisturizer rich in fatty acids, and thus can protect and replenish dry hair and scalps. The shampoo and matching conditioner are rich and nourishing and do an excellent job of taming thicker hair. The tropical mango scent can be a pro or a con depending on how sensitive to fragrance you are. Those with thick hair will find it easier to style and manage with the help of this hydrating,detangling formula. Hair Type: Medium to thick | Key Ingredients: Mango seed butter | Size: 13.5 ounces | Scent: Mango | Cruelty-Free: Yes FAQ How often should you use drugstore shampoos and conditioners? “It’s really up to you, your hair type, your lifestyle, and what you have time for,” explains Lindsay.“That being said, there is such a thing as over-cleansing and under-cleansing. Pay attention to your scalp; you want it to look and feel clean and clear. If your scalp is dry, itchy, or tight, you may be over-cleansing. If your scalp feels like it has oily build-up or dandruff you may be under-cleansing. That’s followed by understanding your hair type. Generally speaking, the curlier/coarser your hair, the less often you need to wash it.Straight, fine hair tends to get oily faster since it’s easier for sebum to travel down your strands. People with straight hair could try shampooing every other day; wavy to loose curls a few times a week; curls to coils, no more than once a week to retain moisture.As if that’s not enough to consider, here are some additional considerations… is your hair color-treated? Braided? Do you swim? Do you sweat a lot? Do you have hard water? Depending on how you answer those questions, you may be in a place to wash more or less frequently,” she adds. Do drugstore shampoos and conditioners expire? As with all beauty products, drugstore shampoo and conditioners certainly do expire. 12 to 18 months is a pretty standard time frame from the date opened, but be sure to check your product packaging. And a great general rule is to bin anything that has changed significantly color, texture, or scent (or started growing mold). 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. For this story, we got guidance from Lindsay Holden, a haircare expert and founder of the clean beauty brand Odele, and hairstylist Sky Kim of Serge Normant at John Frieda in New York.Best Overall
Pantene Pro-V Moisture Renewal Shampoo
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Best for Textured Hair
Carol's Daughter Black Vanilla Shampoo
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Best for Fine Hair
OGX Thick & Full + Biotin & Collagen Shampoo
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Best for Curly Hair
SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Shampoo
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Best for Natural Hair
TPH by Taraji Honey Fresh Clarifying Shampoo
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Best for Dandruff
Head & Shoulders Classic Clean Dandruff Shampoo
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Best for Shedding
Mielle Organics Anti-Shedding Shampoo
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Best for Oily Roots
John Paul Mitchell Systems Tea Tree Special Shampoo
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Best Scent
Herbal Essences Rose Hips Smooth Shampoo
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Best Color-Safe
Aveeno Blackberry Quinoa Protein Blend
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Best for Thick Hair
Klorane Nourishing Shampoo with Mango Butter
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What to Look For When Buying Drugstore Shampoo
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Edited byAlly Hirschlag
Article Sources
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