Managing curly hair can be complex, with one of the most important decisions being the choice of shampoo. The goal isn’t only to clean the hair but also to preserve its natural oils, which are essential for preventing dryness and frizz.
Following our previous discussion on co-washing—a method that favors conditioning cleansers over traditional shampoos—we’re now expanding our exploration with further recommendations and a focus on the “no poo” approach. This method goes a step further by eliminating shampoo use altogether, relying on alternative cleaning methods that are gentler on curly hair. Join us as we delve into the benefits and techniques of the “no poo” method, providing you with insights to enhance your hair care regimen.
10 No Poo Shampoos For Curly Hair
All these no poo cleansers are sulfate-free and are compatible with the Curly Girl Method.
Please note that these lists could be outdated, so it’s recommended to verify the product information directly on the bottle for the most accurate and up-to-date details. Additionally, ensure to confirm the product size, as it might differ among various retailers.
1. NYC Curls The Curl Cleanser
This rich shampoo alternative is infused with essential oils like ginger, citrus, and tea to thoroughly cleanse your hair without stripping it of its natural oils.
It’s a great option for all curly hair types, including color treated hair. Plus, it’s 100% vegan and cruelty free, so you can feel good about using it on your precious curls.
2. Curls Curlicious Curls Cleansing Cream
This creamy, moisturizing cleanser is ideal for daily use and is suitable for all types of chemically altered and color treated hair.
With its nourishing formula that is packed with natural oils and extracts, it gently removes impurities from your hair without stripping away moisture or causing damage.
So whether you have tight ringlets, loose waves, or coils that need taming, this cleansing cream will leave your curls looking healthy and full of bounce.
3. Hair Rules No Suds Cleansing Cream
If you seek a mild, sulfate-free cleanser to rejuvenate and hydrate dry or normal hair, give this one a try. It’s suitable for both children and adults, this product offers a multifunctional solution, cleansing, conditioning, and detangling hair without causing irritation to sensitive eyes.
Enriched with hops extract, honey, lemongrass extract, and panthenol, this cleansing cream revitalizes tired hair, imparting moisture and enhancing fullness and body. Plus, it’s cruelty-free.
4. Bouclème Curl Cleanser
This UK based Bouclème Curl Cleanser is a cream-based co-wash that cleanses hair without stripping away moisture, leaving curls with maximum hydration. It is gentle enough for daily use, perfect for medium to thick curls or very dry hair. I love everything about their line!
It’s a rich, argan oil-infused formula that uses the power of natural ingredients like coconut oil, aloe vera, and pomegranate extract to gently cleanse and hydrate your hair.
Whether you have tight ringlets or loose waves, this cleanser will leave your curls looking soft, shiny, and healthy. This makes it the perfect product for daily use.
5. New Wash Original Hair Cleanser & Conditioner
This unique hair care formula is made with all-natural essential oils and saturated cleansers that are completely biodegradable and free of synthetic fragrances. It’s perfect for those with naturally curly or colored hair, and it helps to eliminate frizz and keep your color looking vibrant and beautiful.
6. All About Curls Lo-Lather & No-Lather Cleanser
This foamless cleanser is packed with hydrating ingredients that add moisture to your curls and help keep them looking soft, smooth, and healthy.
This product is infused with natural oils and extracts like shea butter, coconut oil, soybean oil, marula oil, and almond extract to deeply moisturize and condition your curls. Whether you have 2a wavy hair or 4c coily curls, this cleanser is the perfect choice for all curl patterns.
7. L’Oreal Paris EverPure Cleansing Balm
This 6-in-1 formula is formulated with natural botanicals to cleanse, condition, treat, detangle, soften, and add shine to your hair with each use.
Whether you have color-treated or natural hair, this product offers all the essential benefits of a full hair care regimen in just one simple step. And best of all, it’s 100% vegan and free from sulfates, dyes, and animal testing.
8. Jessicurl Hair Cleansing Cream
Make sure to add this cleanser to your wash day! It gently cleanses your hair without creating tons of lather, leaving it soft, supple, and smooth. This shampoo is suitable for thick an fine hair as well as drier hair types in need of extra moisture. Additionally, it is safe for color-treated hair.
9. Veracious Curls All Natural Cleanser
This creamy cleanser is specially formulated to moisturize, cleanse, and melt away knots and tangles from even the curliest of hair. It contains organic fruit extracts to help revitalize your dry scalp while leaving your hair soft and manageable.
It’s also oil-free, which means it won’t clog your hair follicles or leave your hair feeling weighed down. Whether you have thick, curly locks or fine, wavy tresses, this all-natural cleanser is the perfect choice for maintaining healthy and strong hair.
10. Noughty 1 Hit Wonder Cleansing Conditioner and Co-Wash
This acclaimed product boasts an award-winning formula designed to gently cleanse and revitalize hair, leaving it soft and smooth.
Suitable for all hair types, this natural, vegan-friendly cleansing conditioner is free from harsh surfactants and harmful chemicals, ensuring it’s safe for daily use.
Utilizing an innovative 2-in-1 formula, it effectively attracts and absorbs excess oils while nourishing strands with a potent blend of sweet almond and castor oil for pampered, revitalized hair.
What is No Poo?
The ‘No poo’ method gained popularity in the curly hair community as a gentler alternative to traditional shampooing.
‘No poo’ stands for ‘no shampoo’ and is based on the belief that sulfate shampoos and chemicals can strip the scalp and hair of natural oils and moisture when used frequently. This can lead to a cycle of washing and repeating, potentially damaging the hair over time.
While this method has proven effective for many individuals with curly hair, feel free to experiment and adjust as needed to find what works best for your curl type.
What’s the Difference Between Shampoo, Low-Poo, and No-Poo?
Shampoo: Produces a lot of lather. May contain sulfates ranging from mild to harsh. The concentration of surfactants in a shampoo is generally around 10% to 20%.
Low Poo Shampoo: Means “low lather.” It is formulated to reduce the use of “harsh” cleansing agents to keep your curls moisturized and healthy looking.
No Poo Shampoo: Means “no shampoo.” It does not produce any suds or lather. It is also known as ‘co-wash’ or conditioning wash.
Sulfates and Sulfate-Free
“Chemicals” can often have a negative connotation, but it’s important to remember that not all chemicals are bad. Shampoo, for example, contains detergent (which cleans your hair) and other chemicals that make it lather up in suds.
The problem with a regular shampoo is that they contain sulfates that they may cause sensitivity when used in high concentration, such as irritation, dryness, and other scalp issues.
That’s why those with sensitive skin or scalp conditions like eczema or dandruff often find a sulfate-free shampoo or co wash to be more gentle, and just as effective.
Although there are many sulfate-free shampoos on the market, it’s worth noting that a number of them still include chemical compounds that are comparable to sulfates, such as sodium c-14-16 olefin sulfonate.
Anionic sulfate-free surfactants can be drying to hair, however most anionic formulations include additional ingredients to compensate for the drying effects of anionics.
Why Go No Poo?
There are several compelling reasons to consider adopting a no poo hair care routine.
A traditional shampoo can strip away hair of its natural oils and moisture, leaving it dry and brittle. Additionally, they may contain harsh chemicals that could irritate your scalp. For those struggling with dry curls, the no poo method can be a good alternative, as it helps retain your hair’s natural oils and moisture, keeping your curls hydrated and healthy.
For those with sensitive skin or conditions like eczema or psoriasis, switching to a no poo shampoo can offer a gentler alternative.
Furthermore, if you’re seeking to avoid products with harmful chemicals altogether, transitioning to a no poo approach can be an excellent choice. However, it’s important to incorporate a clarifying shampoo into your regimen occasionally, as excessive use of conditioning agents can lead to product buildup over time.
What to Look for in a No Poo Shampoo
When you’re shopping for no poo hair products, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind. First, look for a shampoo that’s sulfate-free. Check the ingredient list to ensure it aligns with your preferences and needs.
You’ll also want to consider your hair type. If you have dry or frizzy hair, look for a shampoo that’s rich in moisturizing ingredients like aloe vera or coconut oil.
For oily hair, look for a shampoo with ingredients like apple cider vinegar, which may help to balance your scalp’s natural oils and promote a healthy scalp.
Finally, make sure to read the reviews before you buy. There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to no poo shampoo, so it’s important to find one that works well for your individual hair type and needs. Keep in mind that while a no poo shampoo may be ideal for some hair types, it may not be the best shampoo for those with oily hair.
Conclusion
If you’re searching for the perfect no poo shampoo for curly hair, consider trying one of these recommended options tailored to your hair type and preferences. Regardless of your budget, you’ll likely discover a product from this list that will effectively enhance and nourish your curls. And always remember to let your hair be your guide!
