Have your curls started looking dull and lifeless? It could be because of buildup. Your everyday shampoo may do the job, but for hard-to-remove buildup, a clarifying shampoo might be necessary. Let’s learn why giving your curls the occasional deep cleanse is so important, plus which clarifying shampoos for curly hair get amazing reviews.
Why Clarifying Shampoo for Curly Hair is Important
With the constant use of styling products, buildup becomes an issue on the hair. Additionally, everyday pollution, dirt, and oil can contribute to your curls not looking their best. That’s where clarifying shampoos come into play. They work hard to remove every trace of residue buildup.
While the occasional clarifying cleanse is necessary, the downside is that some clarifying shampoos can leave the hair feeling dry. It’s important not to use these products too often. Generally, one to two times per month will do the trick — and make sure you follow your clarifying wash with a moisturizing conditioner. Many clarifying shampoos use harsh surfactants that remove buildup well, but can strip the hair of its natural moisture — not ideal for curly hair!
Luckily, there are plenty of clarifying shampoos that are gentle, color-safe, and curl-friendly. Below, you will find options that address everything from hard water to preventing dandruff.
Best Clarifying Shampoos for Curly Hair
Kinky-Curly Come Clean Shampoo
This popular pick is a sulfate-free shampoo that uses a natural chelating agent to remove hard water minerals. Shampoos with chelating agents have ingredients (in this case, phytic acid) that attach to impurities and buildup to then rinse them away. Additionally, sea kelp balances the moisture and fragrant mandarin orange extract gently removes buildup.
Carol's Daughter Wash Day Delight Water-to-Foam Shampoo
What makes this clarifier so special is its unique water-to-foam formula. This micellar water shampoo is made with soothing aloe, and its pointed nozzle targets the scalp to help achieve a deep clean. An unexpected bonus is that it leaves the hair feeling soft and detangles like a dream.
Ouidad Water Works Clarifying Shampoo
Curly swimmers can rejoice at this clarifying shampoo. Its chelating formula contains extracts of lemon, grapefruit, and orange flower. Chlorine, hard water, and other impurities are no match for its effectiveness. Although this option is not sulfate-free, it’s still gentle and color-safe. Tip: Just avoid using it right after you’ve colored your hair.
EDEN BodyWorks Peppermint Tea Tree Shampoo
The tingling sensation on this cult-favorite clarifying shampoo is the main attraction. That’s because its essential oil blend of peppermint and tea tree seriously wakes up the scalp. Most importantly, it deeply cleanses, prevents dandruff, and relieves itchiness.
Acure Curiously Clarifying Shampoo
Within Acure’s 100% vegan line of beauty products is their Curiously Clarifying Shampoo. This gentle, sulfate-free shampoo smells like aromatic lemongrass and gives major spa day vibes. It is also boosted with key ingredients argan oil and CoQ10 to add shine and keep the hair from feeling dry and stripped.
Using Clarifying Shampoo on Curly Clip-In Hair Extensions
