Clarifying Shampoo for Curly Hair: 14 Best Products for 2023

Are you looking for the best clarifying shampoo for curly hair? In this post, we’ll share the top 14 products for 2023.

Curly hair can be a blessing and a curse. It’s beautiful and unique, but it can also be challenging to maintain. One of the biggest issues that people with curly hair face is frizz. Frizz occurs when hair is dry, damaged, or has too much product buildup. Clarifying shampoos can help remove buildup and leave hair feeling clean and refreshed. However, not all clarifying shampoos are created equal, and some can be too harsh for curly hair.

When searching for the best clarifying shampoo for curly hair, it’s essential to look for a product that is gentle yet effective. Clarifying shampoos can strip hair of its natural oils, so it’s crucial to find one that won’t leave hair feeling dry or damaged. Additionally, it’s essential to look for a product that is free of sulfates and other harsh chemicals that can further damage curly hair.

After researching and testing various products, we have identified the best clarifying shampoo for curly hair. Our top pick is the DevaCurl Buildup Buster Micellar Water Cleansing Serum. This product is specifically formulated for curly hair and uses micellar technology to remove buildup without stripping hair of its natural oils. It’s also sulfate-free and contains nourishing ingredients like abyssinian seed oil and jojoba to help keep curls soft and hydrated.

If you have curly hair and are looking for a clarifying shampoo that will leave your locks feeling clean and refreshed without causing damage, the DevaCurl Buildup Buster Micellar Water Cleansing Serum is the way to go.

What are the Best Clarifying Shampoos for Curly Hair?

We know that finding the right shampoo for curly hair can be a challenge. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best clarifying shampoos specifically designed for curly hair. These shampoos will help remove buildup and impurities from your curls without stripping them of their natural oils. Whether you have tight coils or loose waves, we’ve got you covered with our top picks for the best clarifying shampoos for curly hair.

1. OUAI Detox Shampoo

If you want to get rid of product and hard water buildup, dirt, and oil from your hair, then you should definitely try the OUAI Detox Shampoo. It’s a concentrated shampoo that has apple cider vinegar in it, which helps to cleanse your hair and make it soft and refreshed.

Pros

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• It cleanses your hair thoroughly and removes all buildup and impurities.
• It has apple cider vinegar that helps to nourish your hair and make it soft.
• It’s easy to use and doesn’t require any special skills or tools.

Cons

• It’s a bit pricey compared to other clarifying shampoos.
• It may not be suitable for daily use, as it’s quite strong.
• It may not be suitable for people with sensitive scalps.

We’ve been using this shampoo for a while now, and we’re quite impressed with its performance. It’s a great product for people who use a lot of styling products or live in areas with hard water. The shampoo lathers up nicely and has a pleasant scent that’s not overpowering.

The apple cider vinegar in the shampoo helps to remove buildup and impurities from your hair, leaving it soft and refreshed. We also like that it doesn’t contain any sulfates, parabens, or phthalates, which can be harmful to your hair and scalp.

Overall, we would highly recommend the OUAI Detox Shampoo to anyone looking for a high-quality clarifying shampoo for curly hair. It’s a bit pricey, but it’s definitely worth the investment if you want to keep your hair healthy and clean.

2. Carol’s Daughter Wash Day Delight Sulfate Free Clarifying Shampoo and Deep Conditioner Gift Set with Aloe and Micellar

If you’re looking for a sulfate-free clarifying shampoo and conditioner that’s gentle on your hair, then you should definitely give Carol’s Daughter Wash Day Delight Sulfate Free Clarifying Shampoo and Deep Conditioner Gift Set with Aloe and Micellar a try.

Pros

• The sulfate-free shampoo is made with Aloe and technology that transforms from a water to a gentle foam lather for a deep clean of hair and scalp without stripping, which can help cut down time on wash day. It’s best for curly, wavy, and coily hair.
• The conditioner has a unique jelly-to-cream formula that moisturizes hair from root to ends and detangles curls. It’s blended with glycerin and Aloe, which are naturally-derived ingredients known to lock in moisture.
• The set is perfect for coily, curly, and wavy hair types, and it’s 98% naturally-derived ingredients. It’s sulfate-free, silicone-free, paraben-free, has no artificial colors, and is a vegan formula.

Cons

• Some people might not like the Aloe Vera scent.
• The shampoo doesn’t lather as much as other shampoos, which might take some getting used to.
• The conditioner might be too heavy for people with fine hair.

We recently tried Carol’s Daughter Wash Day Delight Sulfate Free Clarifying Shampoo and Deep Conditioner Gift Set with Aloe and Micellar, and we were impressed with how soft and moisturized our hair felt after just one wash.

The shampoo is easy to apply with its pointed tip that targets the scalp, and it gently massages while working lather through the ends that will lift away buildup and cleanse without stripping. Afterward, the moisturizing conditioner is applied into natural hair and rinsed afterward.

We loved how the conditioner transformed from a thick jelly to a nourishing cream that instantly moisturizes hair from roots to ends with no added residue or weight, in just one step. The tangle-melting technology easily spreads through hair, providing a perfect slip so curls glide past each other, minimizing tangles, and untying hair’s knots, so your fingers can do the detangling in less time.

Overall, we highly recommend Carol’s Daughter Wash Day Delight Sulfate Free Clarifying Shampoo and Deep Conditioner Gift Set with Aloe and Micellar for anyone looking for a gentle clarifying shampoo and conditioner that’s perfect for curly hair.

3. OUIDAD Water Works Clarifying Shampoo, 8.5 Fl Oz

If you have curly hair and are looking for a clarifying shampoo, OUIDAD Water Works Clarifying Shampoo is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Removes hard water build-up and product buildup
• Leaves hair feeling clean and refreshed
• Suitable for all curly hair types

Cons

• May not be suitable for daily use
• Expensive compared to other clarifying shampoos
• Citrus scent may not be appealing to everyone

We tried OUIDAD Water Works Clarifying Shampoo and were impressed with the results. It effectively removed hard water buildup and product buildup, leaving our hair feeling clean and refreshed. The shampoo is suitable for all curly hair types, making it a versatile choice.

However, we found that it may not be suitable for daily use as it can be quite drying. Additionally, it is more expensive compared to other clarifying shampoos on the market. Lastly, some people may not enjoy the citrus scent.

Overall, if you’re looking for a clarifying shampoo that effectively removes buildup and leaves your hair feeling clean, OUIDAD Water Works Clarifying Shampoo is a great option to consider.

4. Olaplex No. 4C Bond Maintenance Clarifying Shampoo

If you want to maintain the health of your curly hair, then Olaplex No. 4C Bond Maintenance Clarifying Shampoo is a great product to consider.

Pros

• Leaves hair feeling clean and refreshed
• Suitable for all hair types
• Helps to reduce hair damage

Cons

• Expensive compared to other clarifying shampoos
• May not lather as much as other shampoos
• Unscented, so may not appeal to those who prefer fragranced products

We tried Olaplex No. 4C Bond Maintenance Clarifying Shampoo and were impressed with its ability to leave our hair feeling clean and refreshed. The shampoo is suitable for all hair types and helps to reduce hair damage.

One of the standout features of this shampoo is that it is suitable for all hair types. Whether you have afro curls, straight, or wavy hair, this shampoo can help to keep your locks looking healthy and shiny. Additionally, it helps to reduce hair damage by repairing broken bonds in the hair.

While this shampoo is effective, it is also quite expensive compared to other clarifying shampoos on the market. Additionally, it may not lather as much as other shampoos, which may be a drawback for some users. Finally, the shampoo is unscented, so it may not appeal to those who prefer fragranced products.

Overall, we believe that Olaplex No. 4C Bond Maintenance Clarifying Shampoo is a great product to consider if you want to maintain the health of your curly hair. While it may be more expensive than other options, it is effective and suitable for all hair types. Read Olaplex Shampoo and Conditioner Reviews for more insight.

5. Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two, Clarifying, Removes Buildup, For All Hair Types, Especially Oily Hair 16.9 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a clarifying shampoo that can remove product buildup, then Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two is definitely worth a try.

Pros

• Leaves hair feeling clean and refreshed
• Removes buildup and excess oil from the scalp
• Suitable for all hair types

Cons

• May be too harsh for daily use
• Can cause dryness if not followed by conditioner
• Some users may not like the lemon scent

We tried this shampoo and found that it did an excellent job of removing buildup and excess oil from our hair. It left our hair feeling clean and refreshed, without any residue or buildup.

One thing to keep in mind is that this shampoo can be quite harsh, so it may not be suitable for daily use. However, if you’re looking for a clarifying shampoo that can deep-clean your hair and scalp, then this is definitely worth a try.

Overall, we would recommend Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two to anyone looking for a clarifying shampoo that can remove buildup and excess oil from their hair. Just be sure to follow it up with a good conditioner to avoid any dryness or damage.

6. Nothing But Clarifying Shampoo

We highly recommend the Nothing But Clarifying Shampoo for anyone looking for a sulfate-free, honest, and non-irritating clarifying shampoo that gently deep cleans hair and scalp, removing deep-seated contaminants, excess oils, build-up, and residue from hair and hair follicles.

Pros

• Leaves hair feeling clean and rejuvenated
• Safe for all hair types, including color-treated hair
• Honest ingredients with no harmful chemicals

Cons

• The bottle can be difficult to squeeze
• The scent might not be appealing to everyone
• Some users did not see a significant difference in their hair after using the shampoo

After using this shampoo, we were impressed with how it left our hair feeling clean and rejuvenated without stripping it of its natural oils. We also appreciated the fact that it is safe for all hair types, including color-treated hair, and does not contain any harmful chemicals. The honest ingredients in this product make it a great choice for anyone looking to take care of their natural hair.

We did find that the bottle can be difficult to squeeze, which can make it challenging to get the shampoo out. Additionally, the scent might not be appealing to everyone, although it is fragrance-free. Some users also did not see a significant difference in their hair after using the shampoo, but this could be due to individual differences in hair type and texture.

Overall, we think the Nothing But Clarifying Shampoo is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a gentle, effective, and honest clarifying shampoo for their curly hair.

7. Kenra Clarifying Shampoo

If you’re looking for a clarifying shampoo that will restore your hair’s natural radiance, Kenra Clarifying Shampoo is a great choice.

Pros

• Removes dulling deposits and build-up
• Ideal for hard water and well water
• Cleanses deeply without drying hair

Cons

• May not work for all hair types
• Some users find the scent too strong
• Can be expensive compared to other clarifying shampoos

We recently tried Kenra Clarifying Shampoo and were impressed by how well it cleansed our hair without leaving it feeling dry or stripped. The formula is gentle and color-safe, making it a great option for those with colored or highlighted hair.

One of the standout features of this shampoo is its ability to remove up to 99% of dulling deposits, making it a great choice for swimmers and those in hard water areas. The addition of mica also helps to enhance shine and promote restoration.

While we loved the results we got from using Kenra Clarifying Shampoo, it may not work for all hair types. Some users have reported that it left their hair feeling too dry or stripped. Additionally, the scent can be a bit strong for some.

Overall, we would recommend Kenra Clarifying Shampoo to anyone looking for a high-quality clarifying shampoo that will leave their hair feeling clean and refreshed. While it may be a bit more expensive than other options on the market, we think it’s worth the investment for the results it delivers.

8. GIOVANNI 50:50 Balanced Hydrating Clarifying Shampoo

We highly recommend the GIOVANNI 50:50 Balanced Hydrating Clarifying Shampoo for anyone with normal to dry hair types looking for a daily use shampoo that infuses each strand of hair with a proprietary blend of vitamins, nutrients, and proteins in order to increase strength and vitality.

Pros

• Perfect for daily use, our hydrating shampoo infuses each strand of hair with a proprietary blend of vitamins, nutrients, and proteins to increase strength and vitality.
• Designed to protect over-worked, over-processed and color-treated hair while locking in color and shine. Your hair will be hydrated, moisturized and perfectly pH balanced.
• Containing Aloe Vera, Rosemary, and other Botanical Extracts, this shampoo adds moisture and manageability while remaining gentle enough for everyday use.

Cons

• Some users may not like the scent of peach.
• May not be suitable for oily hair types.
• Some users may find it too expensive.

We found that the GIOVANNI 50:50 Balanced Hydrating Clarifying Shampoo worked well to cleanse our hair without stripping it of its natural oils. Our hair felt soft and moisturized after use. However, the scent of peach may not be for everyone. The shampoo is also on the pricier side compared to other clarifying shampoos. Overall, we would recommend giving this shampoo a try if you’re looking for a hydrating and clarifying shampoo for normal to dry hair types.

9. Moroccanoil Clarifying Shampoo

We highly recommend Moroccanoil Clarifying Shampoo for curly hair.

Pros

• Leaves hair feeling light and clean
• Breaks up any buildup on the scalp
• Doesn’t leave hair feeling dry

Cons

• Can make hair extremely dry if it gets onto the rest of your hair whilst washing it off
• Bottle cap may come slightly loose
• May not be value for money

Moroccanoil Clarifying Shampoo is perfect for those with curly hair who need to clarify their scalp. It cleans the scalp really well and leaves hair feeling light and clean. It also breaks up any buildup on the scalp. The shampoo doesn’t leave hair feeling dry, but if it gets onto the rest of your hair whilst washing it off, it can make hair extremely dry.

The only downside is that the bottle cap may come slightly loose, which can be messy. Also, the shampoo may not be value for money. However, if you’re looking for a shampoo that cleans your scalp and leaves your hair feeling light and clean, Moroccanoil Clarifying Shampoo is the perfect choice for you.

10. Bounce Curl Enzyme Gentle Clarifying Shampoo

We highly recommend the Bounce Curl Enzyme Gentle Clarifying Shampoo for anyone looking to clarify their curly hair without drying it out.

Pros

• Gently removes build-up from oils or stylers without drying out your hair or stripping out natural oils.
• Botanical extracts add volume and texture to thin hair.
• Lightly moisturizes hair without weighing down curls.

Cons

• Some users may not like the citrus and rosemary scent.
• May not work as well for those with very thick or coarse hair.
• A bit pricey compared to other clarifying shampoos.

After using this shampoo, our hair felt incredibly clean and refreshed without feeling stripped or dry. We love that it contains organic black seed oil, enzymes, pro-vitamin B5, biotin, rosemary, nobilis flower, and many more plant extracts that strengthen and boost hair bounce. The revitalizing citrus aroma also creates a sense of well-being that permeates spirit, mind, and body.

Overall, we highly recommend the Bounce Curl Enzyme Gentle Clarifying Shampoo for anyone looking for a gentle yet effective clarifying shampoo that won’t dry out their curly hair. It’s packed with natural ingredients that nourish and strengthen your hair while removing build-up from oils or stylers. However, if you have very thick or coarse hair, you may need to use more product to get the desired results.

11. Malibu C Un-Do-Goo Shampoo

We highly recommend the Malibu C Un-Do-Goo Shampoo for anyone looking for the best clarifying shampoo for curly hair. This product effectively removes product buildup and resins from hair, restoring shine and moisture.

Pros

• Leaves hair feeling clean and refreshed
• Restores shine and moisture to hair
• Effective at removing product buildup and resins

Cons

• May be drying for some hair types
• Scent may not be appealing to everyone
• Bottle may be too large for travel

After using this shampoo, our hair felt noticeably cleaner and looked shinier. We appreciated that it effectively removed product buildup without stripping our hair of its natural oils. However, we did notice that it may be drying for some hair types, so it’s important to follow up with a deep conditioning treatment. Additionally, the scent may not be appealing to everyone, but we found it to be pleasant. The bottle is quite large, which may be inconvenient for travel, but it’s a great value for the price.

Overall, we highly recommend the Malibu C Un-Do-Goo Shampoo for anyone looking for a clarifying shampoo that effectively removes buildup and restores shine and moisture to curly hair.

12. Redken Detox Hair Cleansing Cream Clarifying Shampoo

If you’re looking for a clarifying shampoo that can remove buildup and strengthen your hair cuticles, then Redken Detox Hair Cleansing Cream Clarifying Shampoo is a great option.

Pros

• It removes buildup effectively.
• It strengthens hair cuticles.
• It’s suitable for all hair types.

Cons

• It may leave hair feeling a bit dry.
• The bottle size is small.
• It may clean hair a bit too well.

We tried Redken Detox Hair Cleansing Cream Clarifying Shampoo and were impressed with how well it removed buildup from our hair. It left our hair feeling clean and refreshed, without any residue or buildup.

One of the best things about this shampoo is that it’s suitable for all hair types. Whether you have curly, straight, or wavy hair, this shampoo can help remove buildup and strengthen your hair cuticles.

However, we did notice that it may leave hair feeling a bit dry. To combat this, we recommend using a moisturizer after washing your hair. Additionally, the bottle size is small, so if you have long hair, you may need to purchase multiple bottles.

Overall, we think that Redken Detox Hair Cleansing Cream Clarifying Shampoo is a great option for anyone looking to remove buildup and strengthen their hair cuticles. If you’re looking for a clarifying shampoo that gets the job done, then this is definitely worth a try.

13 Aveeno Apple Cider Vinegar Sulfate-Free Shampoo

If you’re looking for a clarifying shampoo that will leave your curly hair feeling refreshed and looking shiny, then Aveeno’s Apple Cider Vinegar Sulfate-Free Shampoo is worth considering.

Pros

• Oat is the first ingredient in this shampoo, which helps soothe the scalp and promote a healthy hair environment.
• Infused with apple cider vinegar, this shampoo clarifies the scalp and adds high shine and volume to dull hair.
• Free of sulfates, dyes, and parabens, this product is safe for all hair types and color-treated hair.

Cons

• The scent may be too strong for some users.
• It may not lather as much as other shampoos.
• Some users may find that it leaves their hair feeling dry.

We’ve been using Aveeno’s Apple Cider Vinegar Sulfate-Free Shampoo for a few weeks now, and we’ve noticed a significant difference in our hair. The shampoo has a fresh, fruity scent that’s invigorating without being overpowering. We appreciate that it’s free of sulfates, dyes, and parabens, which can be harsh on curly hair. After using the shampoo, our hair feels clean, soft, and voluminous. We also appreciate that the shampoo is safe for color-treated hair, which is great for those of us who like to switch up our hair color from time to time.

One thing to note is that the shampoo may not lather as much as other shampoos, but that’s because it’s sulfate-free. We find that it still cleanses our hair effectively, but it may take some getting used to if you’re used to shampoos that lather more. Additionally, some users may find that the shampoo leaves their hair feeling dry, so it may be helpful to follow up with a moisturizing conditioner.

Overall, we recommend Aveeno’s Apple Cider Vinegar Sulfate-Free Shampoo for those looking for a clarifying shampoo that’s gentle on curly hair and leaves it looking shiny and voluminous.

14 CURLSMITH – Wash & Scrub Detox Shampoo

We highly recommend this product for a healthy, balanced scalp and super clean hair.

Pros

• Gently but effectively cleanses the scalp from dirt and product buildup
• Super-charged with pro-biotics and apple cider vinegar
• Zero spoons of Sulphates, Silicones, Mineral Oils and Phtalates

Cons

• Can strip hair of its natural oils if used too often
• May not be suitable for extremely dry hair
• A bit pricey compared to other clarifying shampoos

The Curlsmith Wash & Scrub Detox Shampoo is a clarifying exfoliating shampoo suitable for all hair types. The incredibly fine scrub particles ensure it can penetrate through to the roots and exfoliate gently, washing off without residues. It is super-charged with pro-biotics, skin-friendly micro-organisms that strengthen the scalp’s protective barrier, and apple cider vinegar, which melts buildup away. All Curlsmith products are Curly Girl Friendly, 100% Vegan and Cruelty Free.

Regular use of this product is key to maintain a healthy, balanced scalp, as it allows follicles to breathe and encourages growth. The packaging may vary. This product is wonderful for those who go 4-6 days between hair washes and need to get their scalp really clean when they do wash. At the same time, the formula is gentle and non-stripping for delicate hair. The scrub really helps the scalp breathe and leaves hair feeling super clean.

Overall, the Curlsmith Wash & Scrub Detox Shampoo is a great product to try out if you’re looking for a clarifying shampoo that is gentle on your hair and scalp. It’s perfect for those who want to maintain a healthy scalp and super clean hair.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best clarifying shampoo for curly hair, there are a few factors to consider. Here are some important features to look for:

Ingredients

The first thing to consider is the ingredients. Look for products that are sulfate-free and contain natural ingredients like tea tree oil, peppermint oil, or aloe vera. These ingredients are gentle on curly hair and help to remove buildup without stripping the hair of its natural oils.

pH Level

The pH level of the shampoo is also important. Curly hair tends to be more acidic than straight hair, so it’s important to choose a product with a pH level between 4.5 and 5.5. This will help to maintain the hair’s natural pH balance and prevent damage and breakage.

Moisturizing Properties

Curly hair is prone to dryness, so it’s important to choose a clarifying shampoo that has moisturizing properties. Look for products that contain ingredients like shea butter or coconut oil, which help to hydrate the hair and keep it soft and manageable.

Frequency of Use

Clarifying shampoos are designed to remove buildup from the hair, but they can also be drying if used too frequently. It’s important to choose a product that is gentle enough to use once or twice a month, depending on your hair type and the amount of product you use.

Price

Clarifying shampoos can vary in price, so it’s important to choose a product that fits your budget. Keep in mind that a higher price doesn’t always mean a better product, so it’s important to read reviews and do your research before making a purchase.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best clarifying shampoo for your curly hair. Remember to always read the label and choose a product that is gentle and moisturizing to keep your curls looking their best.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best shampoo for the curly girl method reset?

For the curly girl method reset, we recommend using a clarifying shampoo that is sulfate-free and silicone-free. This will help remove buildup and residue from your hair without stripping it of its natural oils. Some popular options include the DevaCurl Buildup Buster Micellar Water Cleansing Serum and the As I Am Curl Clarity Shampoo.

Which clarifying shampoo is best for curly hair?

The best clarifying shampoo for curly hair is one that is gentle and won’t dry out your curls. Look for a shampoo that is sulfate-free and silicone-free, as these ingredients can be harsh on curly hair. Some great options include the Kinky-Curly Come Clean Shampoo and the Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal + Coconut Oil Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo.

Are clarifying shampoos good for curly hair?

Yes, clarifying shampoos can be good for curly hair when used properly. They help remove buildup and residue from hair products, which can weigh down curls and make them look dull. However, it’s important to use a clarifying shampoo only once a month or as needed, as overuse can strip hair of its natural oils.

What are the ingredients in clarifying shampoo for curly hair?

Clarifying shampoos for curly hair typically contain ingredients like apple cider vinegar, tea tree oil, and charcoal, which help remove buildup and residue. They are also often sulfate-free and silicone-free, as these ingredients can be harsh on curly hair. Check my List of 15 Bad Shampoo Ingredients That Are Ruining Your Hair.

Can clarifying shampoo be used on colored hair?

Yes, clarifying shampoo can be used on colored hair, but it’s important to choose a shampoo that is gentle and won’t strip hair of its color. Look for a clarifying shampoo that is sulfate-free and silicone-free, and avoid using it too frequently as overuse can cause color to fade.

Where can I find the best clarifying shampoo for curly hair at Amazon?

You can find a wide selection of clarifying shampoos for curly hair on Amazon. Some popular options include the DevaCurl Buildup Buster Micellar Water Cleansing Serum, the Kinky-Curly Come Clean Shampoo, and the As I Am Curl Clarity Shampoo. Be sure to read reviews and check ingredient lists before making a purchase to ensure you’re getting the best product for your hair.

References:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3002407/
2. https://www.webmd.com/beauty/what-to-know-about-shampoo-ingredients
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4458934/