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Just like a good cleanser for the face, the hair care journey starts with choosing the right, effective cleanser for the hair. The best shampoo for thick hair not only helps to maintain hair health but offers a basket of benefits, from anti-frizz solutions to enhancing the efficacy of your hair treatments.
Expert Quote
Talking of efficacy of hair shampoos, our contributor Tiffany Young, Certified Trichologist, Founder - ThinHairThick, a hair product brand, states, “The skin and hair cuticle are highly absorbent and can be affected either positively or negatively by what we put on it. We have all experienced washing our hands with soap and have felt our hands become tight and dry if the soap is too astringent. In a similar manner, shampoo can affect hair health.”
While your shampoo removes oil and other residue from the hair, it goes a long way in maintaining scalp health and improving hair texture. For those struggling with dandruff and dry scalp, a shampoo meant to combat those issues will not only restore your scalp but also your confidence! Curly hair girls, for instance, also face a challenge when choosing a shampoo that can enhance their curls without weighing down the hair. Our list covers the best thick hair shampoos for various hair types and textures. So, don't wait up -- scroll away and find your match!
Our top picks
10 Best Shampoos for Thick Hair
Developed for fine, thinning hair, the Keranique Shampoo and Conditioner duo helps to add volume and promote hair growth. It gently cleanses the hair and stimulates the hair follicles for optimal growth base. Further, the duo helps to retain shine and remove build-up, improves the strength of the hair, and delivers anti-breakage protection by leaving a protective keratin layer to safeguard against external damage. The conditioner also makes the hair shiny and soft without weighing it down. It helps to lessen the effect of humidity to provide manageable hair free of frizz. Finally, the key ingredients work towards infusing essential hydration to maintain hair health and volume.
Key Ingredients
Keratin Amino Complex, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Hydrolyzed Ceratonia Siliqua Seed Extract, Arctium Majus Root Extract
Pros
- Dye-free
- Sulfate-free formula
- Alcohol-free
- Paraben-free
- Safe for color-treated hair
Cons
- Slightly difficult to take out the product
2
Best Affordable Find
AVEENO Refresh & Thicken Shampoo
The Aveeno Refresh & Thicken Shampoo is formulated to soothe the scalp and make it stronger for thicker hair growth. Blended with wholesome natural ingredients, it also works toward adding nourishment to the hair strands for beautiful hair from root to tip. Oats in the formula actively help to stimulate a healthy scalp environment. Rosemary, peppermint, and cucumber clarify the hair without making it dry and adds volume along with a cooling fresh experience. One of the best shampoo for frizzy thin hair, it is a clear gel, free from artificial dyes, that lathers slightly to remove build-up and leave hair squeaky clean!
Key Ingredients
Oats, Rosemary, Peppermint, Cucumber
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Phthalates-free
- Safe for color-treated hair
- Free from sulfated surfactants
Cons
- May not work well in all seasons
3
Best Cooling After Effect
BIOLAGE PROFESSIONAL Scalp Sync Cooling Shampoo (Mint)
Biolage Scalp Sync Cooling Shampoo is here to save your day if you struggle with a greasy oily scalp. Inspired by and infused with the anti-bacterial and calming properties of the mint leaf, this is a good shampoo for oily thick hair (1). It gently cleanses excess oil and build-up from the scalp, leaving behind a cool, refreshing sensation. Furthermore, with its mild and lightweight formula, you can use it every day. This shampoo is on our recommendation list because it moisturizes and smoothes over processed hair to prevent damage while keeping the locks silky and manageable.
Key Ingredients
Mint Leaf
Pros
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Suits all hair types
- Safe for color-treated hair
Cons
- Slightly strong fragrance
4
Best for Long-lasting Curls
MAUI MOISTURE Curl Quench + Coconut Oil Shampoo
Replenish and restore your coily, curly, wavy hair with the Maui Curl Quench + Coconut Oil Shampoo. Made with 100% aloe vera as the first ingredient, it hydrates, smooths, and defrizzes curls to make them shinier and bouncier. Other power packed ingredients such as coconut milk, plumeria extract, and papaya extract also help to lock in moisture and condition the hair from deep within to give you hair that not only looks but also feels healthier. This shampoo is safe for use on color-treated hair, and we personally love the scent of coconut water, white orange, and tonka bean that it leaves behind.
Key Ingredients
Aloe Vera, Coconut Milk, Plumeria Extract, Papaya Extract
Pros
- Vegan
- Silicone-free
- Paraben-free
- Sulfated surfactants free
Cons
- Inferior packaging
5
Best for Dry Hair
MAPLE HOLISTICS Keratin Shampoo
Made without synthetic colors, fragrances, and other toxins, the Maple Holistics Keratin Shampoo is a hydrating shampoo for dry, oily, straight, curly, and damaged hair types. Composed of a plant-based keratin complex, it helps to improve dull, lackluster hair, restoring shine and hydration. Further, this shampoo for coarse hair is enriched with beneficial oils, vitamins A, B, D, and E, and proteins that strengthen the hair. Based on our observations, this shampoo is ideal for color-treated hair and extremely frizzy hair as it makes every strand softer, smoother, and shinier.
Key Ingredients
Argan Kernel Oil, Avocado Oil, Peach Kernel Oil, Jojoba Seed Oil, Camellia Seed Oil, Almond Oil
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Safe for color-treated hair
Cons
- Slightly peculiar scent
6
Best High-End Shampoo
ORIBE Gold Lust Repair & Restore Shampoo
If luxe packaging, scent, and feel is your vibe, the Oribe Gold Lust Shampoo will align with your stars. This thick hair shampoo is literally liquid gold as it revitalizes and rejuvenates the hair to its glossiest, healthiest state. Composed of a special blend of oils and extracts along with a high-tech, bio-restorative complex, it smooths each cuticle and strand to undo the hair damage and protect from future ones. This complex includes plant-based collagen, biotin, niacinamide, and caffeine. Pick this shampoo to restore moisture and luster while reducing split ends and taming frizz.
Key Ingredients
Bio-Restorative Complex, Amino Acid Complex, Argan Oil
Pros
- Fast results
- Softens hair
- Pleasant scent
- Value for money
7
Best Color-Safe Formula
PUREOLOGY Hydrate Moisturizing Shampoo
The Pureology Hydrate Shampoo is designed for "hair that feels like a desert." This moisturizing shampoo is designed with an AntiFade Complex and is therefore optimal for color-treated hair. It helps to protect the vibrancy of the color to make it last longer. In addition to that, the Advanced Hydrating Micro-Emulsion Technology deeply hydrates the strands, supporting a healthy scalp and stimulating the hair follicles. We also love this shampoo for its signature aromatherapy blend of ylang ylang, bergamot, and patchouli. This blend not only leaves your hair smelling fresh but aids in relaxing and calming your nerves.
Key Ingredients
Jojoba Oil, Green Tea Extract, Rose Extract, Multi-weight Proteins
Pros
- Vegan
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Adds moisture
8
Best Moisture Restoration
INFUSIUM Moisturize + Replenish Shampoo
Quench dry, dull hair with the Infusium Shampoo, formed with the goodness of avocado and olive oils. These nourishing and hydrating oils instantly add vibrancy and bounce to lifeless hair. Further, the brand's transformative formula contains the i-23 Complex, a special concoction of pro-vitamins, proteins, amino acids, essential fatty acids, panthenol (vitamin B-5), moisturizers, and humectants. This blend is designed to treat even the most damaged hair and make them shiny, beautiful, and healthy. This coarse hair shampoo has a classic light and soothing scent that will enhance your shower experience!
Key Ingredients
Avocado Oil, Olive Oil
Pros
- Dye-free
- Paraben-free
- Petroleum-free
- Phthalates-free
- Aluminum-free
Cons
- Not the best for curly hair
9
Best Packaging
TWIST BY OUIDAD Hit Reset Light Clarifying Shampoo
If the quirky, attractive bottle design did not give it away at first glance, the Twist Hit Reset Light Clarifying Shampoo is created for the curly hair squad. This shampoo helps to combat dull, droopy curls to refresh and revive them every time you wash your hair. The aloe in the formula hydrates and soothes the scalp while promoting hair growth. Rice proteins add volume and texture, and panthenol protects the cuticles. This shampoo also aids to maintain the hair's pH levels and retain moisture. It gently eliminates build-up without stripping the natural oils and reboots the natural curl pattern for a fresh look.
Key Ingredients
Aloe Vera, Proteins, Panthenol
Pros
- Affordable
- Paraben-free
- Petroleum-free
- Phthalates-free
Cons
- Slightly overpowering scent
10
Best Vegan Formula
R+Co Bel Air Smoothing Shampoo
The R+Co Bel Air Shampoo is a mid-ranged cleanser designed especially for curly and frizz-prone hair that boasts a clean formulation. Users of this product love this shampoo for long thick hair for its immediate, high-performing results. It is enhanced with an anti-oxidant complex with powerful smoothing properties. Artichoke extract is the key antioxidant that shields the hair and scalp from damage caused by free radicals and UV rays. In addition, plum seed oil strengthens and nourishes the scalp without being greasy. Rich in vitamins C and B6, the broccoli seed oil softens the hair, making it frizz-free. Overall, you achieve smooth hair you can easily run your fingers through.
Key Ingredients
Artichoke Extract, Plum Seed Oil, Broccoli Seed Oil, Okra Seed Extract
Pros
- Vegan
- Color-safe
- Gluten-free
- Paraben-free
- Sulfates-free
- Heat and UV protective
Cons
- Strong scent
These were our top 10 picks of the best shampoos for thick hair. Keeping in mind your hair length, texture, type, and concern, you should select the one that matches your hair profile. To make the decision easier, here are some expert tips.
How to Choose the Best Shampoo for Thick Hair?
Many individuals are of the opinion that one should change their shampoo every few months.
Therefore, just like you listen to your skin, you should understand the change in your hair and hop on to a new product when it is the right time, not when you run out of the current bottle! Hair texture can witness changes owing to several factors, such as stress, pollution, treatments, heat damage, and so on.
The best shampoo for thick hair will be the one that combats the issue you are currently facing, whether it is hair fall, damage, split ends, frizz, or a combination of them. When choosing a cleaner for your strands, here are the considerations you should keep in mind!
While they may not fulfill your lather dreams, shampoos free from sulfates and parabens are highly advisable. Silicone, mineral oil, petroleum, etc., are also bad-listed ingredients unless contained in the shampoo especially recommended by your dermatologist. Panthenol, biotin, argan, coconut, and jojoba oils are some of the power-packed ingredients that enhance the goodness of your shampoos. Since they add protein and nourishment to the hair, they help to tame frizz, undo the damage, and overall improve the texture of hair. Finally, look for lightweight and gentle formulations.
We have covered a range of shampoos, the best from the drugstore to luxe ones. There is no hard and fast rule that the pricier the shampoo, the better it will be. As mentioned before, the effectiveness of the shampoo is determined by how close you match your concern with the product offerings. What may work for a celebrity, friend, or family member may not work for you. The ideal way, therefore, is to scan the ingredients. If you can afford premium products and think the ingredients are worth investing in, give it a shot! After all, investment in good hair means investment in a good mood!
Although shampoos are ideally formed to remove dirt, oil, dry skin, and other build-up to give you a clean and healthy scalp, different shampoos offer different benefits. For rough wavy and curly hair, a hydrating shampoo helps to add and retain moisture. If you have undergone keratin or color treatments, choose shampoos that enhance the life of those expensive treatments. Keep in mind that for the best hair results, you should follow up your shampoo with effective leave-in conditioners, hair masks, serums, etc.
The best shampoo for thick hair is the one that restores hair health without weight down the strands. Since thick hair is prone to collecting oils and feeling heavy, you don’t want to use products that are difficult to wash off and leave a residue. If you have long, thick hair, you want a shampoo that adds volume. If your hair is on the coarse side and prone to thinning, moisture-locking and scalp-strengthening formulas should be your saving grace.
How to Use the Best Shampoo for Thick Hair?
The hair care routine for thick hair is not simply shampooing and letting the hair air dry. From selecting the best shampoo for thick hair to styling your locks, there are many steps involved. The first of these is understanding your hair type.
Once you know if you have curly, coily, wavy, or straight hair, you can select the right shampoo. If you oil your hair before shampooing, choose a shampoo that can clean the scalp in one or two applications.
Further, make sure your hair is free from tangles. Use light circular motions to lather the product and clean the scalp. You can also use a massager, but it should be gentle on the scalp, or else it may cause hair breakage.
Understand that the shampoo is meant for the scalp and not the length of the hair in particular, so you do not need extra product for the strands. Simply glide your fingers gently without creating friction, as that may again make the hair more frizzy or cause split ends.
Once you rinse off the product, follow it up with your favorite hair mask or conditioner.
If you are using heat on your hair afterward, use effective serums and heat protectant sprays. A wide-tooth comb is recommended when combing thick, wet hair.
And you are done! You can now take preventive steps to keep your hair feeling fresh for the next few days or until your next hair wash.
Thick hair is a blessing in disguise. It's loved by many but can be managed only by some. Nonetheless, it is seen as a sign of healthy hair with minimal breakage. And if your texture is smooth, frizz-free, soft, good hair fetches you compliments right, left, and center! Using the best shampoo for thick hair, along with the right hair care techniques and routine, you can preserve your beautiful locks! Besides combating your hair concern, good shampoos help to add shine and luster while improving the elasticity and porosity of the hair. Therefore, choose your shampoo wisely and flaunt good hair every day!
Contributor: Tiffany Young, Certified Trichologist, Founder - ThinHairThick
FAQ's
How much shampoo is good for thick hair?
You can take a coin-sized amount if you have medium-length thick hair. For shorter or longer hair, adjust accordingly. Note that the amount of product also depends on the consistency and texture of the shampoo and whether it lathers more or less.
When should you shampoo thick hair?
If you have very oily hair or itchy scalp, you can wash your hair 2-3 times a week. If you have a normal scalp, 1-2 times a week is ideal. Do not wash your hair every day, as that may strip the natural protective oils of the hair.
How long can thick hair go without washing?
We will not recommend you go more than a week without washing your hair, even if you use a dry shampoo and it looks oil-free. It is because dirt, sweat, product, and other buildup can cause itchiness and irritation. It may also affect scalp health and the texture of the hair.
Why Trust Pinkvilla
Alvira, the author of this article, carefully curates structured content to help our readers gain all the knowledge they require. Her expertise lies in the field of haircare and styling, and she’s passionate about researching the best products available across online platforms. Here, she has curated a list of the best shampoos for thick hair to help you manage and maintain them better.
Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust Select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!
Article Sources +
1. Chemical Composition and Antimicrobial Properties of Mentha × piperita cv. ‘Kristinka’ Essential Oil
Author BIO
With a keen eye for detail and a passion for hairstyling, Alvira is a certified Hair Expert who brings the latest tre More
