Curly Hairs. Blessing or curse? If you ever feel like your curls have been hard on you, always remember some people would love to know how to curl hair! So, embrace your natural curls, and make them shine with these vegan shampoos specifically designed for them!
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The Right Vegan Shampoos for Curly Hair
Individuals with curly hair know it requires a unique product regimen compared to straight hair. Why? Primarily due to dryness. Curly hair is inherently more susceptible to dryness as natural oils struggle to travel down the hair shaft. This scarcity of natural oils leads to frizz. Furthermore, achieving shine can be challenging since light reflects better off flat surfaces. However, avoid excessive shiny oils, as they can burden your curls, leaving them looking heavy and greasy.
Selecting the appropriate shampoo is crucial for your styling routine. Ensure your choice encompasses the following characteristics:
- Hydrating, moisturizing, and gentle for daily use
- Sulfate & alcohol-free to prevent moisture loss
- Free from petroleum derivatives, mineral oils, dyes, chlorides, parabens, and heavy silicones
- Lightweight to avoid weighing down curls
- Vegan and cruelty-free: nurture your hair while caring for our planet
Finding the perfect balance of moisture and shine might seem daunting, but our research has identified the best vegan shampoos for every curl type, from wavy to kinky. These products are designed to cleanse gently while keeping your hair hydrated, reducing frizz, and enhancing shine. Treat your curls and the planet with the respect they deserve.
Curl Vegan Shampoo + Superseed Oil Complex
R+Co
- Gently cleanses while maintaining and defining the shape of your curl
- Made with flax seed extract, chia seed extract (superseed oil complex), aloe leaf extract, rice protein and hydrogenated castor oil
- Sulfate-free, paraben-free, petrolatum-free and mineral oil free
- Vegan, cruelty-free
- 33.8 fl oz / 1000 mL
💬 What Customers Say About This Shampoo
The sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with most users rating the product highly for its effectiveness on curly hair, moisturizing properties, and pleasant scent. There are, however, valid concerns regarding packaging and suitability for all hair types, particularly finer, thinner curls.
👍 Pros:
- Effective for Different Curl Types: Users report that the shampoo works well for various curl types, including 3C, thick, color-treated, and fine wavy/curly hair, making it versatile for different hair needs.
- Moisturizing without Heaviness: Many reviewers highlight the shampoo’s ability to moisturize and soften hair without leaving it greasy or heavy. It’s noted to be nourishing, even for daily use, and helps manage dryness and frizz.
- Cleansing Efficiency: Users appreciate the shampoo’s powerful cleansing capability, which leaves hair and scalp feeling clean and refreshed without causing dryness.
- Pleasant Scent: The shampoo is consistently praised for its nice smell, which is described as pleasant and not too strong or overpowering.
- Curl Definition and Management: Reviews mention improved manageability of curls, reduced tangling, and enhanced curl definition.
- Quality Packaging on Replacement: One user noted that while the initial packaging was poor, the replacement packaging was improved, suggesting some attention to packaging feedback.
👎 Cons:
- Packaging Issues: There are several complaints about packaging, particularly regarding bottles leaking or spilling during shipping. This seems to be a significant issue with the first shipment for some customers.
- Not Suitable for All Hair Types: While many find the shampoo effective, it’s noted to be too heavy for fine, thin curls, with one user reporting it left their hair greasy and dirty.
- May Require Additional Products for Desired Results: One reviewer mentioned needing to supplement the shampoo with other curl-enhancing products to achieve their desired look, indicating it might not be sufficient on its own for some users.
Curl Non-Lather Vegan Shampoo
True
- Cleanses, nourishes and helps de-frizz curly hair without stripping natural oils
- Sulfate-free, paraben-free and silicone-free
- Vegan, cruelty-free
- 12 fl oz / 355 mL
💬 What Customers Say About This Shampoo
The reviews are largely positive, with users appreciating the shampoo’s natural ingredients, effectiveness on curly hair, and pleasant scent. However, there are some concerns about the need for an adjustment period due to the lack of lather and the necessity of using additional conditioning products for certain hair types. A minority of reviews mention adverse reactions such as allergies or insufficient moisture for their specific hair type.
👍 Pros:
- Non-Toxic and Natural Ingredients: Many users appreciate that the shampoo is vegan, sulphate-free, and paraben-free, aligning with preferences for non-toxic beauty products.
- Improves Hair Texture and Health: Reviews frequently mention improved hair bounce, shine, softness, and overall health, indicating the shampoo is effective for curly hair care.
- Pleasant Scent: The shampoo is consistently praised for its amazing smell, adding a sensory pleasure to the hair care routine.
- Moisturizing: It is highlighted as highly moisturizing, even for thick, coarse, curly hair prone to dryness, without leaving hair dry or brittle.
- Clarifying: Users note the shampoo’s clarifying properties, stating it leaves the scalp feeling clean and hair refreshed.
👎 Cons:
- Adjustment Period for No Lather: Several reviews mention the challenge of adjusting to a non-lathering shampoo, which may feel different from traditional shampoos.
- Conditioner May Be Necessary: Some users feel the need to use conditioner after shampooing, especially if they have dry hair, suggesting the product might not be sufficiently hydrating on its own for some.
- Potential for Allergic Reactions: A user experienced worsening allergies, indicating that despite its natural ingredients, it might not be suitable for everyone.
- Not Effective for All Curly Hair Types: There are reports of the shampoo drying out hair, making it appear moisture-deprived, especially for users who expected a clarifying benefit without stripping moisture.
Curl & Shine Moisturizing Cruelty-free Shampoo
SheaMoisture
- Moisturizes and protects hair while replenishing lost oil
- With coconut oil & hibiscus
- Without sulfate, silicone, parabens, phthalates, propylene glycol, mineral oil or petrolatum
- Cruelty-free
- 13 fl oz / 384 mL
💬 What Customers Say About This Shampoo
The general sentiment towards SheaMoisture Shampoo Curl and Shine is overwhelmingly positive, with many users considering it a game-changer for curly hair care. The benefits of moisturizing properties, pleasant scent, and effectiveness in enhancing curl definition are frequently cited. The criticisms are minimal and mostly revolve around price and personal preference regarding the shampoo’s lathering qualities. Overall, the shampoo is highly recommended for those seeking to improve the health and appearance of their curly hair.
👍 Pros:
- Great for All Curl Types: Users across different curl patterns, including those with wavy and tightly coiled hair, have found this shampoo effective in enhancing their curls’ appearance.
- Non-Toxic Ingredients: Appreciation for the shampoo being paraben-free and made with natural ingredients like coconut and hibiscus, which contribute to the health and shine of the hair.
- Moisturizing and Hydrating: The shampoo is praised for its moisturizing properties, leaving hair feeling soft and hydrated without the need for immediate conditioning.
- Pleasant Scent: Many reviews highlight the enjoyable coconut and hibiscus scent, noting it’s refreshing and lingers pleasantly.
- Reduces Frizz and Breakage: Users have noticed a significant reduction in frizz and breakage, making hair easier to style and manage.
- Works Well with Other Products: Positive feedback on how well this shampoo pairs with additional styling or conditioning products, enhancing overall hair texture and moisture retention.
👎 Cons:
- Price Concerns: Some users feel the shampoo is expensive compared to other products that they believe could offer similar benefits.
- Adjustment to No Lather: A few reviews mention the adjustment period required for those used to lathering shampoos, which might be a minor inconvenience for new users.
- Scent Preference: While the majority enjoy the scent, there are varied reactions, with a rare review from another country mentioning a negative reaction to the smell.
Curls & Waves Vegan Shampoo
Sun Bum
- Gently cleanses your hair while infusing with intense moisture
- With kukui nut oil, monoi coconut oil and seaweed protein
- Sulfate and paraben-free
- Vegan, cruelty-free
- 10 fl oz / 300 mL
💬 What Customers Say About This Shampoo
The overall sentiment towards this curl-enhancing shampoo is highly positive, with many users pleasantly surprised by its effectiveness in defining and moisturizing their curls. The product is especially recommended for those living in or traveling to humid areas, as it seems to excel in maintaining curl integrity under such conditions. However, there are minor concerns regarding packaging and suitability for all hair types, particularly for those with fine, wavy hair. Despite these issues, many express satisfaction with their purchase and would recommend it to others looking for a curl-friendly shampoo.
👍 Pros:
- Enhances Natural Curls: Many users report significant improvements in their hair’s curl pattern, with curls becoming more defined, bouncy, and shiny.
- Pleasant Scent: The shampoo has a summer coconut scent that many find appealing and not too overwhelming.
- Non-Toxic Ingredients: Highlighted as paraben-free and made with natural ingredients, which is a plus for those conscious about product formulations.
- Moisturizing: Several reviews mention the shampoo’s moisturizing effects, making hair feel soft and clean even before using conditioner.
- Effective in Humid Conditions: Specifically praised for its performance in humid environments, helping to maintain curls without frizz.
- Lightweight: Users with wavy hair appreciate that the shampoo does not weigh down their hair, keeping it natural-looking and manageable.
👎 Cons:
- Packaging Issues: Reports of bottles breaking in transit, leading to wasted product and messy packages.
- Price: Some users find the product a bit expensive for the size and quantity.
- Not Suitable for All Hair Types: A few reviews indicate that the shampoo might not be ideal for fine, wavy hair as it can leave it greasy or weigh it down.
- Scent Not as Expected: While most like the scent, some were expecting a more traditional “beachy” coconut smell, and one review mentioned it smelling oddly like creamy cinnamon.
Goddess Strength Fortifying Sulfate Free Shampoo
Carol's Daughter
- Helps target weak strands, restoring intense moisture
- 94% less breakage, supports the strength of your hair as it gets longer
- Formulated with castor oil, black seed oil and ginger
- Paraben-free, no petrolatum, no mineral oils
- Vegan, cruelty-free
- 11 fl oz / 312 mL
💬 What Customers Say About This Shampoo
Overall, the sentiment towards the shampoo and related hair care products is overwhelmingly positive. Users are pleased with the noticeable improvements in hair health, growth, and manageability. The products are particularly lauded for their effectiveness on curly and coily hair types, offering hydration, definition, and protection against breakage. While there are some criticisms regarding scent preferences, packaging, and pricing, the majority of users express satisfaction and a willingness to repurchase, highlighting the shampoo’s beneficial impact on their hair care routine.
👍 Pros:
- Promotes Hair Growth and Strength: Several reviews mention significant hair growth and reduced breakage, attributing these benefits to the shampoo’s nourishing ingredients.
- Hydrating and Moisturizing: Users appreciate the moisturizing effects of the shampoo, reporting soft, shiny, and frizz-free hair.
- Pleasant Scent: Many reviewers love the smell of the shampoo, noting it as a highlight of their hair care routine.
- Improves Hair Texture: The shampoo is credited with enhancing the natural texture of curls, making them more defined and manageable.
- Effective Pre-Poo Option: The pre-poo product receives praise for its ability to detangle and protect hair before shampooing, especially beneficial for coily, 4c hair types.
- Quality Ingredients: Appreciation for non-toxic, quality ingredients that are gentle on hair and scalp while providing strength and moisture.
👎 Cons:
- Packaging Issues: Some users report receiving broken or leaking bottles, suggesting improvements could be made in packaging and shipping.
- Scent Preferences: While many enjoy the fragrance of the products, a few reviewers find the smell overpowering or not to their liking.
- May Cause Quick Oiliness: A minor complaint is that the shampoo can lead to hair becoming oily quicker than usual for some users.
- Price Concerns: There are comments about the shampoo being somewhat pricey, though many feel the benefits justify the cost.
Wave & Curl Color Wellness Vegan Shampoo
Acure
- Brings intense moisture to color treated and curly hair
- With blue tansy oil, argan oil and sunflower seed extract
- Without paraben, sulfate, mineral oil, petrolatum and formaldehyde
- Vegan, cruelty-free
- 8 fl oz / 236 mL
💬 What Customers Say About This Shampoo
The general sentiment toward the shampoo is positive, especially among users with curly hair who are seeking products that enhance curl definition and control frizz without drying out their hair. However, there are mixed reviews regarding the scent and the product’s effectiveness on different hair types, particularly wavy hair prone to oiliness. Additionally, there are concerns about quality consistency, suggesting that the product’s formulation or effectiveness may have changed over time for some users. Despite these concerns, many users have had positive experiences and would recommend the product for its intended benefits on curly hair.
👍 Pros:
- Effective for Curly Hair: Several users have praised the shampoo for its effectiveness on curly hair, noting improvements in softness, curl definition, and control over flyaways.
- Moisturizing: It’s highlighted as particularly beneficial for curly and colored hair, suggesting it provides good moisture without weighing hair down.
- Packaging Quality: Positive remarks about the product arriving with a plastic seal, ensuring it hasn’t been tampered with before use.
👎 Cons:
- Scent Preferences: A few users are not fans of the product’s scent, indicating it might not be appealing to everyone.
- Not Suitable for All Hair Types: Some feedback suggests it may not be ideal for wavy hair that easily falls straight, as it can make hair super oily and cause build-up.
- Quality Consistency Issues: There are concerns about the product’s consistency in quality, especially when purchased online, with a user experiencing negative changes in the product’s effectiveness over time.
50:50 Balanced Shampoo
GIOVANNI
- Formulated with rosemary, nettler, thyme, chamomile, clary and lavender oils infuse moisture while locking in color for a superior shine
- USDA organic
- No sulfates, parabens or dyes
- Vegan, cruelty-free
- 8.5 fl oz / 250 mL
💬 What Customers Say About This Shampoo
Overall, the sentiment toward the shampoo is highly positive. Users commend its effectiveness in managing and improving the health and appearance of their hair. The shampoo’s hydrating and clarifying properties are highlights, along with its quality ingredients and the fact that it’s suitable for a wide range of hair types. While there are minor criticisms regarding scent preferences and packaging design, these do not significantly detract from the product’s overall value and performance. Most users are satisfied with their purchase and would recommend the shampoo to others seeking a gentle, effective cleansing option.
👍 Pros:
- Effective for Various Hair Types: Many users report that the shampoo works well for different hair types, including curly, wavy, dry, thick, healthy Asian straight hair, and color-treated hair.
- Hydrating and Moisturizing: Reviews frequently mention the shampoo’s hydrating properties, leaving hair soft and manageable without weighing it down.
- Clarifying and Cleansing: Users appreciate its ability to cleanse well, remove build-up, and leave hair feeling refreshed and clean.
- Pleasant Scent: While opinions on the scent vary, several reviewers like the light, natural citrus smell, finding it refreshing.
- Long-lasting: The product is considered economical, as a little goes a long way, and the bottle lasts a long time even with regular use.
- Quality Ingredients: Appreciation for non-toxic, gentle ingredients that are effective without harmful chemicals.
👎 Cons:
- Scent Preferences: Some users are not fans of the scent, indicating it as a personal preference rather than a product flaw.
- Packaging Design: There are complaints about the bottle design being awkward, making it difficult to dispense the product efficiently.
- May Cause Oiliness for Some Hair Types: A few reviews mention that the product can make hair super oily quickly, especially for wavy hair that falls straight easily.
Pinapple Curls Defining Vegan Shampoo
Pacifica
- Cleanses hair without weighing it down while reducing frizz
- Infused with pineapple, argan oil and quinoa
- Without sulfates, parabens, phthalates, SLS or mineral oil
- Vegan, cruelty-free
- 12 fl oz / 354 mL
💬 What Customers Say About This Shampoo
Overall, the sentiment toward the product is highly positive, with many users impressed by its moisturizing capabilities and the pleasant, light fruity scent. It’s particularly praised for its ability to define and refresh curls without leaving hair heavy or sticky. While there is a learning curve to finding the right amount for application, and a few users mention potential breakouts or insufficient frizz control, the majority of feedback is overwhelmingly positive. The product is recommended for those seeking to enhance and nourish their curls with a formula that’s effective yet gentle.
👍 Pros:
- Moisturizing and Hydrating: Many users praise the product for its ability to moisturize and define waves and curls, leaving hair shiny, soft, and frizz-free.
- Pleasant Scent: The light fruity scent is a highlight for several reviewers, especially those sensitive to strong fragrances. The smell is described as pleasant and not overwhelming.
- Effective for Various Hair Types: The product is lauded for its effectiveness on dry, frizzy hair and color-treated hair, helping to tame and define curls.
- Not Sticky or Heavy: Users appreciate that the product is light, not sticky, and doesn’t weigh down hair, making it great for refreshing curls on day 2-3.
- Long-lasting: The product’s effects are durable, and a little goes a long way, making the bottle last a long time even with frequent use.
👎 Cons:
- Learning Curve: Some users mention a learning curve in figuring out the right amount to use, as too much can leave hair looking greasy.
- May Cause Breakouts for Some: A downside noted is that it can cause breakouts on the neck for some users.
- Mixed Results on Frizz Control: While many find it effective for frizz control, a few users still experience frizz after use.
- Scent Fades Quickly: A minor complaint is that the scent, although pleasant, fades almost immediately after application.
The Right Vegan Shampoo & Conditioner Sets for Curly Hair
This article would not be complete unless a few vegan shampoo and conditioner sets specially designed for curly hair are listed. After all, they go hand in hand! Here are the best vegan and cruelty-free hair products to treat your lovely curls throughout your hair cleansing routine <3
If you want to get more vegan curly hair products, check our comprehensive guide here.
Also make sure to take a look at our review of the best vegan shampoo and conditioner for dry and damaged hair!
Curl Shampoo and Conditioner Set
True
- Hydrating and non-lather shampoo helps to cleanse and nourish curls
- Creamy curl conditioner hydrates, detangles and de-frizzes
- Without silicones, parabens or sulfates
- Vegan, cruelty-free
- 2x12 fl oz / 2x355 mL
💬 What Customers Say About This Shampoo & Conditioner Set
The general sentiment towards the shampoo and conditioner is positive, with many users finding them effective for managing curly hair, enhancing softness, and reducing frizz. The pleasant mint fragrance and the products’ ability to brighten white hair are also highlighted positively. However, some negative reviews focus on packaging issues, leakage during shipping, and the shampoo not being suitable for all hair types, leading to buildup and scalp issues for some users. Despite these cons, the overall response is favorable, with many users considering these products their favorites for curly and wavy hair care.
👍 Pros:
- Effective for Curly Hair: Many reviewers report significant improvements in their curly hair’s condition, with increased softness, tangle-free, and frizz reduction after using the shampoo and conditioner.
- No Need for Additional Products: Some users highlight that they don’t need to use any other hair products after washing and conditioning, which is unusual and beneficial.
- Pleasant Mint Fragrance: The light mint fragrance of the shampoo is appreciated for being very nice and not overwhelming.
- Enhances Hair Color: The products are praised for enhancing the brightness of white hair, leaving it a bright white instead of yellowing.
- Easy to Use: Despite being a non-lather shampoo, users find it easy to use and effective in leaving hair squeaky clean.
- Good for Detangling: The conditioner is effective in detangling thick wavy hair, eliminating the need for a separate detangling spray.
👎 Cons:
- Packaging Issues: Some users report difficulty in dispensing the conditioner from the bottle, describing it as too hard to squeeze out.
- Leakage During Shipping: There are complaints about the product arriving half-full due to leakage during shipping.
- Not Suitable for All Hair Types: A few reviewers mention that the shampoo did not thoroughly clean their hair, leaving it feeling like it had buildup and causing itchy scalp and dandruff in some cases.
Argan Oil Repair Shampoo and Conditioner Set, for Curly and Frizzy Hair
Cab's
- Contains argan oil to nourish hair & scalp
- Shampoo removes follicle-clogging sebum and environmental dirt
- Conditioner penetrates hair shaft restoring shine and softness while strengthening tresses
- Without phtalates, parabens or sulfates
- Vegan, cruelty-free
- 2x16.9 fl oz / 2x500 mL
💬 What Customers Say About This Shampoo & Conditioner Set
Overall, the sentiment towards Cab’s Argan Oil Moisture Repair Shampoo and Conditioner set is overwhelmingly positive. Users are impressed by the immediate improvements in hair texture, hydration, and appearance. The pleasant scent and the luxurious feel of the products contribute significantly to the positive reviews. While there are minor complaints about the functionality of the shampoo pump and the strength of the scent, these do not detract from the overall effectiveness and appeal of the set. Many reviewers express intentions to repurchase and recommend the set to others, highlighting it as a worthy addition to their hair care routine.
👍 Pros:
- Improves Hair Texture and Health: Users report that after just one use, their hair felt softer, more hydrated, shinier, and healthier. The products are particularly effective on thick, color-treated hair that tends to be dry and damaged.
- Quality Lather and Creaminess: The shampoo lathers beautifully, and the conditioner is thick and creamy, allowing for easy application and a luxurious feel.
- Pleasant Scent: Many reviewers love the smell of the products, describing it as amazing, salon-like, and a major factor in their overall positive experience.
- Results on Various Hair Types: The shampoo and conditioner set is praised for its effectiveness on different hair types, including naturally curly hair and fine, thinning hair. Users noticed significant improvements such as added body, softness, less frizz, and more shine.
- Packaging Appeal: The packaging is described as adorable and adds to the appeal of the products.
- Efficiency: A little bit of product goes a long way, making it a cost-effective option for users.
👎 Cons:
- Pump Issue: Some users experienced difficulty with the shampoo pump not popping up, requiring them to unscrew it every time they use it.
- Strong Scent: While most users appreciate the scent, for some, it is strong and takes time to get used to.
Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo and Avocado Coconut Conditioner Set
Majestic Pure
- Removes buildups while nourishing and hydrating hair and scalp, restores shine
- Reduces itchy scalp, dandruff and frizz
- Without sulfates
- Cruelty-free
- 2x16 fl oz / 2x473 mL
💬 What Customers Say About This Shampoo & Conditioner Set
Overall, the sentiment towards the shampoo and conditioner is positive, with many users experiencing beneficial results in hair texture, scalp health, and overall appearance. The products are especially favored for their effectiveness on various hair types, including thick, color-treated, and oily hair. However, there are mixed feelings regarding the packaging changes and scent preferences, with some users longing for the original formula and presentation. Despite these concerns, the majority of reviews are positive, with users willing to recommend the products and continue using them for their beneficial effects.
👍 Pros:
- Effectiveness: Many users report significant improvements in their hair’s condition, with the shampoo and conditioner duo making hair feel clean, soft, shiny, and vibrant. It’s effective in removing buildup and keeping frizz at bay, even on color-treated hair.
- Scalp Health: Some reviewers note improvements in scalp health, with reductions in oiliness and the ability to go several days without washing.
- Detangling: The conditioner is particularly praised for its detangling properties, especially on long, thick hair.
- Natural Ingredients: Users appreciate the absence of harsh chemicals in the formula.
👎 Cons:
- Packaging Issues: There are reports of changes in packaging, with some users finding the newer models less appealing and questioning the change in product quality.
- Scent Preferences: While many enjoy the scent, describing it as apple-like and amazing, others find it strong or similar to nail polish remover.
- Mixed Results: Some users experience adverse effects, such as increased hair oiliness over time or dissatisfaction with the newer formula’s performance.
