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Best Shampoo for Relaxed Hair: 7 Top Picks for Healthy, Silky Locks [2024]

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best shampoo for relaxed hairFinding the best shampoo for relaxed hair can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack! You need a shampoo that’s gentle yet effective, moisturizing yet lightweight.

Look for shampoos containing keratin, argan oil, or vitamins—they’re your hair’s new best friends. Sulfate-free options are ideal; they’re gentler on already-processed hair.

Remember, less is more—don’t wash daily! Over-washing strips your hair of its natural oils. Finding the right shampoo is key to keeping your relaxed hair healthy and shiny. Want to learn even more secrets to gorgeous, healthy relaxed hair? Read on!

Table Of Contents

Key Takeaways

  • Look for shampoos with natural oils like jojoba, avocado, and argan to keep your relaxed hair moisturized without adding weight.
  • Choose sulfate-free formulas to avoid stripping away natural oils, reducing dryness and breakage for healthier hair.
  • Wash your hair two to three times a week to maintain its natural moisture balance and prevent over-drying.
  • Apply shampoo from root to tip for even distribution and optimal cleansing, ensuring every strand gets the care it needs.

Choosing The Best Shampoo for Relaxed Hair

Choosing The Best Shampoo for Relaxed Hair
You’ll need a specialized shampoo that’s gentle on your chemically treated strands while providing essential moisture and repair.

With ingredients like jojoba oil, argan oil, and keratin, you can keep your relaxed hair strong and silky without worrying about dryness or breakage.

Ingredients to Look For

When choosing a shampoo for relaxed hair, look for ingredients that nourish and protect your chemically treated strands.

Natural oils like jojoba, avocado, and argan are your best friends, providing deep hydration without weighing hair down.

Seek out formulas enriched with keratin and amino acids for strength, while honey and coconut offer natural moisturizing benefits.

For extra repair power, ingredients like protein complexes and botanical extracts work wonders.

Key Features of Shampoos for Relaxed Hair

Now that you know what ingredients to seek out, let’s explore what makes a shampoo perfect for relaxed hair.

You’ll want to look for products that offer gentle cleansing action without stripping your strands.

The best shampoos combine moisture-rich formulas with protein-packed nutrients, creating a balanced approach to cleansing.

They’re typically sulfate-free and feature a creamy, nourishing texture that won’t leave your hair feeling stripped.

Benefits of Using Shampoos for Relaxed Hair

Imagine having the power to transform your hair health with just a simple switch.

Choosing the best shampoo for relaxed hair brings a moisture boost, helps with breakage control, and enhances shine.

Plus, it keeps your scalp care in check.

A good moisturizing shampoo, particularly a sulfate-free one, is your hair’s best friend, making relaxed hair silky and manageable.

What is Relaxed Hair and Its Needs

What is Relaxed Hair and Its Needs
Relaxed hair, chemically altered to reduce curliness, requires special care to maintain its smooth texture and shine.

You’ll find it easier to style, but it does need extra hydration and protection to keep it looking healthy and vibrant.

Understanding Hair Relaxing Techniques

You’ve chosen the best shampoo for relaxed hair, so let’s chat about transforming those tight curls.

Relaxed hair results from chemical hair treatments that leave your locks smoother and manageable.

Here’s a quick tour of relaxing techniques:

  1. Relaxers: Lye and no-lye varieties.
  2. Rebonding: For sleek styles.
  3. Keratin treatments: Tame frizz.
  4. Safe relaxers: Gentle options.

Hair Relaxing Methods and Their Effects

Hair relaxing methods, from using lye and no-lye relaxers to rebonding, transform textured tresses into silky strands by breaking down your hair’s protein structures.

While convenient, they can lead to hair damage if not managed carefully.

To maintain healthy and silky locks, it’s important to find the right products, such as those found with a simple search for best products for relaxed hair.

It’s vital to balance these treatments with proper scalp health practices to maintain long-term effects and avoid compromising your relaxed hair’s integrity.

How Relaxed Hair Differs From Natural Hair

Relaxed hair offers smoother manageability compared to natural hair strands. It’s chemically straightened, which:

  1. Alters hair texture, making styling easier.
  2. To minimize potential damage, it’s important to follow a proper pre-relaxer routine, check out the steps before relaxing hair, to guarantee the best results.
  3. Reduces curl complexity, but increases breakage risk.
  4. Demands hydration, more than its natural counterpart.

So, when choosing products like shampoos, focus on hydration and care to keep those locks healthy and shiny.

Tips for Using Shampoos for Relaxed Hair

Tips for Using Shampoos for Relaxed Hair
Keeping your relaxed hair vibrant and healthy doesn’t have to be a chore if you use the right shampoo properly.

Going sulfate-free and washing less often can work wonders with a little moisture magic!

Go Sulfate-Free for Gentle Cleansing

Now that you understand relaxed hair, let’s talk about gentle cleansing.

Sulfates, those harsh chemicals in many shampoos, can strip your hair’s natural oils, leading to dryness and breakage.

Switching to sulfate-free shampoos is a game-changer for relaxed hair care.

These gentle cleansers are much kinder to your strands, leaving them feeling soft and healthy.

Look for sulfate-free shampoo options; your hair will thank you!

Many sulfate-free shampoos are available, so finding the best shampoo for relaxed hair is easier than you think.

Don’t Wash Every Day to Preserve Moisture

Imagine this: your hair isn’t a drought-stricken desert.

Regarding your hair care routine, washing relaxed hair every day can strip away precious oils, disrupting your moisture balance and scalp health, especially if you have oily hair, which can be exacerbated by frequent washing. washing relaxed hair every day can strip away precious oils, disrupting your moisture balance and scalp health.

Opt for a schedule that suits your lifestyle, using a moisturizing, sulfate-free shampoo to maintain hydration.

After all, mindful wash frequency keeps your hair vibrant and resilient.

Work From Root to Tip for Even Distribution

When you’re nursing your relaxed hair, shampoo distribution is your secret weapon.

Start at the roots and gently massage the shampoo for relaxed hair down to the tips.

This root-to-tip method guarantees even application and product coverage, delivering consistent results.

It’s like spreading butter on toast – you want every strand to get a taste of that buttery goodness for happy, healthy locks!

Don’t Skip The Moisture for Healthy Locks

As you work shampoo from root to tip, remember not to skip the moisture—a key player in keeping your relaxed hair vibrant.

Consider shopping for products at a site that specializes in moisturizing shampoo for relaxed hair.

Using a shampoo that contains humectants like glycerin can help retain moisture after washing, especially in dry environments. Incorporate a moisturizing shampoo into your routine and indulge in hydrating hair masks or deep conditioning treatments regularly.

By incorporating a regular moisturizing routine and learning how to seal moisture in hair, you can prevent moisture loss and improve hair texture. These hydration tips will prevent dryness, making your locks smoother and more manageable.

Think of it as salvation for your hair’s thirst!

Top 7 Shampoos for Relaxed Hair

Finding the perfect shampoo for your relaxed hair can feel like a wild treasure hunt, but it’s easier when you know what to look for.

Let’s explore seven standout shampoos that promise to keep your locks healthy, shiny, and full of life!

1. OGX Keratin Oil Anti Breakage Shampoo

OGX Organix Anti-Breakage Keratin OilView On Amazon
Looking for a shampoo that fights breakage on relaxed hair? OGX Keratin Oil Anti Breakage Shampoo is a game-changer.

Packed with keratin proteins and argan oil, it fortifies your strands, helping to prevent split ends while reducing frizz.

Its tropical scent—a delightful mix of orange, pineapple, and amber—adds a touch of paradise to your shower routine.

Plus, it’s sulfate and paraben-free, keeping your hair hydrated without harsh chemicals.

For best results, pair it with the matching conditioner to boost your hair’s strength and elasticity.

Best For: This shampoo is ideal for those with damaged hair, which often appears dry, brittle, and lacks natural shine, exhibiting general signs of damaged hair. This shampoo is best for people with dry and damaged hair who want to fight breakage and reduce frizz.

Pros
  • Fortifies and strengthens hair.
  • Helps prevent breakage and split ends.
  • Contains keratin proteins and argan oil.
Cons
  • Some customers reported receiving a different product than what was pictured.
  • Some customers prefer using the conditioner with a different shampoo.
  • May not be suitable for all hair types.

2. Redken Bonding Shampoo Damaged Hair Repair

Redken Bonding Shampoo for DamagedView On Amazon
Built for strength and bond reinforcement, Redken Bonding Shampoo is like a shield for your relaxed hair.

This formula goes beyond basic cleaning, repairing and protecting your locks against breakage with its citric acid and bonding care complex.

It’s ideal for color-treated or damaged hair, offering a rich lather that gets the job done with less product.

While it’s on the pricier side, the shampoo’s benefits—such as improving shine and managing frizz—make it a favorite, especially in hard water areas.

Best For: This shampoo is best for those with damaged, color-treated, or chemically processed hair, especially those living in areas with hard water.

Pros
  • Repairs and strengthens hair, reducing breakage and split ends.
  • Improves shine and manageability.
  • Offers a rich lather that effectively cleanses hair.
Cons
  • Can be expensive compared to other shampoos.
  • May not be as effective for fine hair.
  • Some customers prefer the Olaplex No. 4 shampoo.

3. Moroccanoil Clarifying Shampoo 85 oz

Moroccanoil Clarifying ShampooView On Amazon
Because you’ve already tamed your mane with a relaxer, you deserve a shampoo that’s just as kind.

Moroccanoil Clarifying Shampoo, in its generous 85 oz size, is a monthly must-have.

It’s sulfate, phosphate, and paraben-free, gently removing product buildup and hard water minerals.

This keeps your relaxed hair looking its best, even after coloring.

Remember, overuse can dry it out, so use it sparingly—think of it as a special treat for your tresses!

The pleasant scent is an added bonus.

While some experience shedding, most find this clarifying shampoo a valuable addition to their relaxed hair routine.

Best For: This clarifying shampoo is best for those with relaxed hair who want to remove product buildup and hard water minerals.

Pros
  • Gentle enough for relaxed hair
  • Removes product buildup and hard water minerals
  • Pleasant scent
Cons
  • Can cause shedding or dryness if used too frequently
  • May strip color from hair
  • Some users reported that it was not suitable for those with sensitive skin

4. Mizani Moisture Fusion Shampoo

Mizani Moisture Fusion Moisture RichView On Amazon
You might just find Mizani Moisture Fusion Shampoo to be a game-changer for your relaxed hair routine.

This hydrating shampoo is packed with Cupuacu Butter, Argan Oil, and Honey to quench your hair’s thirst.

Imagine stepping out with soft, bouncy locks that detangle effortlessly, and you’ll understand why it’s a salon favorite.

It’s ideal for all natural hair types and curl patterns, though your wallet might feel a pinch.

But for soft, manageable hair, it might just be worth the investment.

Best For: This shampoo is best for those with dry, natural hair who want to add moisture and improve manageability.

Pros
  • Hydrates and conditions dry hair.
  • Leaves hair soft, bouncy, and easy to detangle.
  • Trusted by salons and professionals.
Cons
  • Can be expensive.
  • Some users prefer fragrance-free shampoos.
  • May not be suitable for all hair types.

5. Redken Bonding Shampoo Conditioner Set

REDKEN Bonding Shampoo & ConditionerView On Amazon
The Redken Bonding Shampoo Conditioner Set is your hair’s new best friend, especially if you’re dealing with damaged locks.

Its vegan, sulfate-free formula strengthens hair, reinforcing weak bonds and reducing breakage.

A little goes a long way with this thick, luscious blend, leaving your hair shiny and soft.

Think of it as the ultimate spa treatment for your tresses, rejuvenating your hair with salon-quality results.

Sure, it might be a bit pricey, but those smooth, silky locks might just be worth it!

Best For: This set is ideal for anyone with damaged hair, especially those who color-treat their hair or use heat styling tools frequently.

Pros
  • Using a hair oil rich in argan oil or coconut oil, like those outlined in hair oil for damaged hair, can help in strengthening hair. Strengthens and repairs damaged hair
  • Leaves hair shiny and soft
  • A little goes a long way
Cons
  • Expensive
  • Amazon prices are higher than in-store
  • May not be worth the price for some

6. Moroccanoil Clarifying Shampoo Large Size

Moroccanoil Clarifying ShampooView On Amazon
When battling product buildup, Moroccanoil’s Clarifying Shampoo in its generous large size is a savvy choice for anyone with relaxed hair.

It’s like a deep cleanse for your locks, removing residue and restoring that vibrant shine.

Think of it as a spa day for your hair!

While it’s powerful, limit its use to once a month to avoid dryness.

Follow up with a great conditioner to keep strands healthy and soft.

Embrace your hair’s detox journey with this clarifying hero.

Best For: Those battling product buildup and seeking a deep cleanse for their hair.

Pros
  • Removes product buildup and restores shine
  • Deeply cleanses the scalp
  • Leaves hair feeling soft and manageable
Cons
  • Can be drying if used too frequently
  • Some users reported shedding
  • May strip hair color

7. Phytojoba Coconut Moisturizing Shampoo

PHYTO PhytojobaView On Amazon
Get hydrated with PHYTO’s Phytojoba Coconut Moisturizing Shampoo, perfect for dry relaxed hair needing a moisture boost.

This delightfully creamy formula gently cleanses without stripping, leaving your locks soft, elastic, and shining like a polished diamond.

Coconut scent whisks you away to a tropical oasis while natural ingredients repair damage and soothe your scalp’s hydrolipid layer.

Users rave about its luxurious feel, though some find it a tad heavy for thick hair.

Despite the price, many agree it’s worth every penny.

You can find this product on the Phytojoba Coconut Shampoo website here to buy.

Best For: Dry, relaxed hair that needs hydration and shine.

Pros
  • Gently cleanses without stripping moisture.
  • Leaves hair soft, elastic, and shiny.
  • Features a luxurious, creamy texture and a pleasant coconut scent.
Cons
  • May be too heavy for thick hair.
  • Can be expensive.
  • Some users find the new formula thicker than the old formula.

Taking Care of Relaxed Hair

Taking Care of Relaxed Hair
Taking care of relaxed hair is like nurturing a delicate flower—give it the right balance of hydration and gentle cleansing, and it’ll thrive beautifully.

Relaxed hair requires special attention, so understanding how often to shampoo, when to color, and how relaxation affects your hair is crucial.

By following these tips, you can keep your locks healthy and vibrant without missing a beat.

How Long Do The Effects of Relaxing Last?

Even with the thrill of achieving silky-smooth strands, relaxed hair’s sleek effects typically last between six to eight weeks.

That’s when a new relaxer might be needed as hair rebonding can alter your hair texture over time.

Hair growth plays its part by revealing natural roots, so consistent hair care and maintenance keep everything looking fab.

How Often Should You Shampoo Relaxed Hair?

After relaxing your hair, how often should you shampoo?

Generally, you shouldn’t wash your relaxed hair every day.

This is because daily washing strips away essential oils, disrupting your moisture balance.

Aim for a hair care routine like this:

  1. Wash every 2-3 days to maintain hair health.
  2. Consider co-washing (conditioner-only washing) some days for added moisture.
  3. Use a sulfate-free shampoo for relaxed hair to avoid dryness and breakage.

A good hair care regimen is key!

Should You Dye Relaxed Hair?

Considering coloring relaxed hair? It’s like juggling flaming swords—possible, but risky without the right tools.

To minimize damage, consider using a hair restoration system like Olaplex alongside your coloring treatment.

Hair relaxing weakens your strands; a dye job can add stress.

Opt for semi-permanent dyes for less damage and maintain moisture with the best shampoo for relaxed hair.

Remember, consistent hair care and smart dyeing options are key to keeping your locks vibrant and healthy.

How Long After Relaxing Should You Wash Your Hair?

So you’ve dyed your relaxed hair and you’re wondering when the next wash day can start. Relaxing your hair calls for patience. Give your scalp two to three days to rest before reaching for your favorite shampoo.

This pause helps avoid potential irritation and encourages:

  • Better absorption of subsequent treatments
  • Reduced scalp sensitivity
  • Prolonged relaxing effects
  • Healthier hair post-treatment

How to Select The Best Shampoo for Relaxed Hair

How to Select The Best Shampoo for Relaxed Hair
Finding the right shampoo for relaxed hair can feel like searching for the perfect pair of jeans, but once you know what to avoid, you’re halfway there.

Look for shampoos that skip harsh sulfates and embrace nourishing oils, ensuring your locks stay healthy and smooth.

Ingredients to Avoid in Shampoos for Relaxed Hair

As you care for relaxed hair, sidestep these troublemakers in shampoos: sulfates, parabens, silicones, and alcohol.

They might sound like a lab experiment gone wrong, but trust me, they’re not your hair’s best friend.

When choosing a shampoo, be aware of the harsh effects of harmful hair ingredients, which can include stripping natural oils and causing scalp irritation.

Here’s a quick list:

Beware Of Why They Suck
Sulfates Strip moisture
Parabens May irritate
Silicones Cause buildup
Alcohol Dries strands

Key Factors to Consider When Selecting a Shampoo

Picking the right shampoo for your relaxed hair is like finding the perfect dance partner.

Look for sulfate-free formulas that won’t strip moisture, and prioritize ingredients like jojoba or argan oil for added hydration.

Consider your hair type and scalp health—does it need calming, or does it crave nourishment?

Choose scents that suit your personal flair, ensuring healthier, bouncier locks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best shampoo for relaxed hair?

Just like Cinderella needed a fitting shoe, your relaxed hair thrives with the right shampoo.

MIZANI Moisture Fusion Shampoo hydrates and nourishes, keeping your hair manageable and healthy without harsh chemicals.

Find your perfect match!

What is the best oil for men’s hair?

Argan oil is your go-to for men’s hair.

It’s like a magic potion that tames frizz, adds shine, and boosts strength.

Say goodbye to dry strands and hello to hair that feels soft and looks healthy.

What is the best shampoo for African American relaxed hair?

You might wonder if softer ingredients matter—

For relaxed African American hair, using a sulfate-free shampoo is crucial to maintain moisture and prevent dryness. Davines Nounou, with its mild tomato extract, or Mizani Moisture Fusion, rich in argan oil, offer gentle nourishment for relaxed African American hair.

They ensure hydration and repair without harsh chemicals.

What should I look for in a shampoo for relaxed hair?

Look for sulfate-free shampoos with moisturizing ingredients like jojoba, avocado, or argan oil.

Avoid harsh chemicals to prevent damage.

Natural soothers like honey and coconut help maintain moisture.

Seek products specifically for chemically treated hair.

What is the best damage repair shampoo for relaxed hair?

Did you know 74% of relaxed hair needs extra moisture?

For damage repair, try Better Natured Damage Repair Shampoo, enriched with coconut milk and orchid milk.

It’s perfect for bringing your locks back to life without weighing them down.

What is the best shampoo for hair growth?

Want thicker, longer hair? Choose a shampoo boosting hair follicle health. Look for ingredients like biotin, caffeine, and saw palmetto. These stimulate growth, giving you that enviable mane.

What is the best shampoo to use after a relaxer?

After a relaxer, isn’t it ironic how hair craves moisture more than ever?

Opt for sulfate-free shampoos enriched with soothing oils like jojoba or argan, which hydrate and nurture your newly relaxed locks without stripping them.

How do I keep my relaxed hair healthy?

Keep your relaxed hair healthy by using sulfate-free shampoos, deep conditioning regularly, and moisturizing with nourishing oils like argan and coconut.

Deep conditioning and moisturizing are key to keeping relaxed hair healthy.

Limit heat styling, protect hair at night with a silk scarf, and trim regularly.

What should I avoid with relaxed hair?

Imagine your hair as a delicate silk scarf.

Avoid harsh chemicals and tight hairstyles that strain it.

Skip heat styling tools that fry those fragile strands.

Moisturize consistently, and gentle handling will help you maintain its smooth texture.

Which treatment is best for relaxed hair?

Opt for moisturizing treatments like deep conditioning masks with hydrating ingredients such as argan oil and keratin.

These help replenish lost moisture, strengthen strands, and prevent breakage.

Keeping your relaxed hair soft and shiny without the hassle.

How often should I shampoo relaxed hair?

Shampoo your relaxed hair once or twice a week to keep it clean without stripping its natural oils.

This routine helps maintain moisture, reducing the risk of dryness and breakage.

While keeping your locks healthy and vibrant.

Can I use dry shampoo on relaxed hair?

Dry shampoo can be your secret weapon for keeping relaxed hair fresh between washes without stripping moisture.

Just use sparingly to avoid buildup and maintain your sleek style with ease.

It’s a quick fix for busy days!

Is clarifying shampoo safe for relaxed hair?

Clarifying shampoos can strip relaxed hair of its moisture, leading to dryness and breakage.

Deep conditioner

Think of it as a hair detox – a little goes a long way!

What ingredients should I avoid in shampoo?

Avoid shampoos with sulfates, parabens, and silicones that can dry out and damage your hair.

Watch out for added alcohols and synthetic fragrances, as these can strip your hair of essential moisture and cause irritation.

How does shampoo affect hair coloring treatments?

Think of shampoo as your hair’s guardian.

It can either protect your vibrant color or slowly wash it away.

Choose a sulfate-free shampoo to keep your hue bright and prevent fading, ensuring longevity for your treatment.

Conclusion

Imagine your best shampoo as a lighthouse guiding your relaxed hair through stormy seas.

Choosing the best shampoo for relaxed hair is important for keeping your locks healthy and silky.

With the right blend of ingredients, you’ll enjoy less breakage and more shine.

Embrace sulfate-free options for gentle cleansing and remember, moisture is key.

Your journey to finding the perfect shampoo may seem challenging, but with these tips, smoother, healthier hair is within reach.

Shine on!

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Mutasim Sweileh

Mutasim is a published author and software engineer and beard care expert from the US. To date, he has helped thousands of men make their beards look better and get fatter. His work has been mentioned in countless notable publications on men's care and style and has been cited in Seeker, Wikihow, GQ, TED, and Buzzfeed.