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Moisturizing ShampoosHelping You Find the Best
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Moisturizing ShampoosHelping You Find the Best
  • 10 Best Moisturizing Shampoos of 2024 (Dermatologist-Reviewed) 1
  • 10 Best Moisturizing Shampoos of 2024 (Dermatologist-Reviewed) 2
  • 10 Best Moisturizing Shampoos of 2024 (Dermatologist-Reviewed) 3
  • 10 Best Moisturizing Shampoos of 2024 (Dermatologist-Reviewed) 4
  • 10 Best Moisturizing Shampoos of 2024 (Dermatologist-Reviewed) 5

10 Best Moisturizing Shampoos of 2024 (Dermatologist-Reviewed)

Washing your hair too frequently can often lead to a dry and damaged mane. However, there are some shampoos that are gentler than others and work hard to retain your hair's moisture. These moisturizing shampoos contain key ingredients like amino acids, coconut, avocado, or argan oil that help keep your hair healthy and soft.

Although the majority of shampoos are formulated for specific concerns, a good moisturizing shampoo, regardless of its targeted type, should make your hair healthier and more manageable. To help you choose the right one for you, we've created a handy buying guide reviewed by a board-certified dermatologist that outlines what to look out for. We've also prepared a list of our 10 favorite products for you to get started with.
Last updated 11/11/2024

Quick List - Top Moisturizing Shampoos

1

TRESemmé

TresemmeRich Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner for Dry Hair
Rich Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner for Dry Hair

Designed To Deliver Intense Hydration for Dry, Parched Hair

2

Pura d'or

Original Gold Label Shampoo and Deep Moisturizing Conditioner Set
Original Gold Label Shampoo and Deep Moisturizing Conditioner Set

Clinically Proven Formula Aimed at Reducing Hair Thinning and Boosting Strength

3

Olaplex

Nº.4 Bond Maintenance® Shampoo
Nº.4 Bond Maintenance® Shampoo

A Concentrated Formula That Repairs, Strengthens, and Maintains Healthy Hair

4

Pantene Pro-V

PanteneDaily Moisture Renewal Shampoo + Conditioner Bundle
Daily Moisture Renewal Shampoo + Conditioner Bundle

Daily Hydration With Pro-V Nutrients for Moisturized Hair

5

Redken

All Soft Shampoo
All Soft Shampoo

A Moisturizing Shampoo Designed to Soften and Revitalize Dry, Brittle Hair

Dr. Lauren Levy
Expert
Board Certified Dermatologist
Dr. Lauren Levy

Dr. Levy is a board certified dermatologist practicing in NYC and Westport, Connecticut. She has expertise in treating inflammatory skin conditions like acne, rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis. She has an interest in skincare and takes a personalized approach to all of her patients.

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mybest US Editors

mybest US' editing team consists of experienced members who have backgrounds in writing, editing, translation, and more. We are dedicated to researching what makes a product or service the best to users in the US in order to create top-quality articles. From skincare, to kitchen appliances, and to DIY supplies, our mission is to find the best ones for you.

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The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.

Table of Contents

How to Choose a Moisturizing Shampoo – Buying Guide

Let’s choose the best moisturizing shampoo for you by comparing ingredients, what they do for your hair, and who they're best for.
1

Look for Effective and Nourishing Moisturizers

Many shampoos advertise themselves as moisturizing, but some have more hydrating ingredients than others. To truly tell if a shampoo is moisturizing, take a look at its ingredients list and see if any of the following items are there.

Fatty Alcohols Moisturize, Regular Alcohols Should Be Avoided

Fatty Alcohols Moisturize, Regular Alcohols Should Be Avoided

While it may seem concerning to see 'alcohol' listed in your shampoo's ingredients, not all alcohols are alike. In fact, there is a specific kind of alcohol, fatty alcohols, that provides emollient, or moisturizing, properties. Because they smooth the surface of your hair, they help make it feel more supple and moisturized.


Fatty alcohols include lauryl alcohol, cetyl alcohol, myristyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, cetearyl alcohol, and behenyl alcohol. If you see these ingredients in your shampoo, rest assured that they will add a shine and softness to your hair.


Other alcohols, however, should be avoided, as they will do the opposite of fatty alcohols. They have quick evaporating properties and will wick moisture away from your hair, causing the cuticle to roughen and the entire length of hair to dry out. These include ethanol, SD alcohol, SD alcohol 40, denatured alcohol, propanol, propyl alcohol, and isopropyl alcohol.

Oils Can Hydrate While Taming Frizz

Oils Can Hydrate While Taming Frizz
Oils are another key moisturizing ingredient to look out for in your shampoos. There are two main kinds of oil used in shampoos: plant-derived oils, such as argan oil, and mineral oil. As oils offer high moisture-retaining properties, they are excellent for controlling dry, easily frizzy hair. However, if you have fine hair, take note that oil can weigh your hair down if you apply it too often.

Plant-derived oils are great for dry or damaged hair, as they also contain vitamins to nourish your hair. Argan oil contains an abundance of vitamin E and oleic acid. Shea butter contains vitamins A and E, and also offers some UV protection. Jojoba and olive oils likewise help maintain moisture for both your hair and your scalp.


While mineral oil may sound odd to use, it also provides highly moisturizing qualities. Cosmetic grade mineral oil is purified and tested to be safe for topical use. If you are still concerned about using a shampoo with mineral oil in it, try swiping a bit of product on your arm. If there is no redness or swelling in 24 hours, you will likely not get an allergic reaction from using the shampoo.


Dr. Lauren Levy
Board Certified Dermatologist
Dr. Lauren Levy

Dry and frizzy hair requires oils to hydrate the hair sheath and keep moisture at bay. When the hair sheath and cuticle are hydrated, they're less likely to swell or become curly and frizzy when exposed to humidity. 


Argan oil, Moroccan oil, and coconut oil leave the hair silky smooth. If you have fine hair, you may want to use these products sparingly as they can weigh down the hair. These shampoos are also great for hair that gets a lot of heat damage as they can help restore hydration to the hair.

Moisture-Retaining Humectants Include Hyaluronic Acid, Aloe, and More

Moisture-Retaining Humectants Include Hyaluronic Acid, Aloe, and More
Humectants also help moisturize your hair, although in a different way than emollients do. While emollients smooth the surface of the hair, humectants are hygroscopic, and pull water into themselves, keeping your hair moisturized for longer. Some common humectants include aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, and panthenol.

One thing to note is that in highly humid climates, humectants can actually over-moisturize your hair. By causing each strand of hair to absorb too much water, humectants can let the cuticle become rough and make your hair frizzy. Those with highly porous hair are especially susceptible to this. If you live in humid conditions, it may be best to avoid humectant ingredients.

Dr. Lauren Levy
Board Certified Dermatologist
Dr. Lauren Levy

Hyaluronic acid helps trap moisture in the hair and keep it locked in even after the shampoo is washed out. It can be used by all hair types since it won't leave your hair greasy or weighed down. It's gentle enough to use on processed hair as well or hair that is prone to breakage. Collagen-infused shampoos are also helpful in repairing broken or damaged hair.

Silicones Like Dimethicone Coat and Protect the Hair

Silicones Like Dimethicone Coat and Protect the Hair

Silicones like dimethicone provide a unique emollient property, as they create a film on the surface of hair strands that keeps moisture in and leaves hair shiny and tangle-free.


The main drawback to silicones in shampoos is that their unique film can also be a detriment if not properly washed out. Without the use of clarifying shampoos, or shampoos specifically formulated to get rid of buildup on your scalp, repeated use of silicones on your hair can create a waxy buildup, preventing new moisture from getting in and ultimately causing your hair to become brittle and weak.


Those with already damaged hair or with fine, delicate hair might choose to stay away from shampoos with silicone in them as a preventative measure. However, if you like the shiny look dimethicone provides, be sure to properly wash off any silicone buildup with an appropriate clarifying product.

Dr. Lauren Levy
Board Certified Dermatologist
Dr. Lauren Levy

Silicone-based products seal the hair cuticle, so they are great at controlling frizz and keeping the hair in place. I like silicone-based products for special events where you don't want the hair to move.

2

See if It Has Effective but Gentle Cleansers

Surfactants are what actually clean your hair, by breaking down oils and grime so that water can rinse them away. However, if you are seeking out moisturizing shampoos because you have dry hair and a sensitive scalp, then using a shampoo with too harsh of a cleanser will only agitate it further.

Amino Acid Shampoos Are Nonabrasive

Amino Acid Shampoos Are Nonabrasive
Amino acid shampoos are the gentlest cleansers. They won’t bleach your locks or dry them out. Rather, there’s an amino acid derivative, called TEA-cocoyl glutamate, which will condition your hair. It can smooth down your cuticles, or the sheath that wraps around each strand, and leave your hair feeling like silk.

Before you pick a bottle off the shelf, check the ingredient list. Ingredients in shampoo are listed in order: main ingredients first and minor ones last. See if you can find one with amino acids listed near the top if you're looking for their benefits.

Dr. Lauren Levy
Board Certified Dermatologist
Dr. Lauren Levy

Amino acids are gentle yet effective at cleaning the hair. They can remove all the dirt and oil from the hair and scalp leave your hair feeling squeaky clean. They don't dry out the hair but instead provide natural hydration.

SLS and SLES Will Remove Oils and Dirt but Can Irritate Sensitive Skin

SLS and SLES Will Remove Oils and Dirt but Can Irritate Sensitive Skin
You lather shampoo straight onto your scalp, so think about how it will affect your skin. For example, check whether there are any surfactants, such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES). 

Surfactants have got a bad reputation recently, but you see them a lot in commercial shampoos. Both SLS and SLES lather well and truly clean your hair. However, SLS travels deep into the skin to clean, which can cause irritation. On the other hand, SLES cleans just as well as SLS but isn’t quite so aggressive.

Dr. Lauren Levy
Board Certified Dermatologist
Dr. Lauren Levy

Sulfates in shampoos can not only dry out your hair or scalp, but they can also cause skin rashes and reactions, like dermatitis and hives. Sulfate-free shampoos are a much gentler way to clean the hair and the scalp.

3

Check for Other Beneficial Ingredients

As scalp and hair issues don't just stop at dryness, looking for shampoos with ingredients that target other issues can make your moisturizing shampoo and multi-use product.

Taurine and Amide Sulfates Can Help With Itching and Irritation

Taurine and Amide Sulfates Can Help With Itching and Irritation
A dry scalp can cause dandruff and itching, so it’s best to deal with it sooner rather than later. If you’ve got an itchy head, shampoos containing taurine and amide sulfates can help.

Sodium methyl cocoyl taurate is an example of a taurine-based component, and sodium or MEA-PEG-3 cocamide sulfate is an amide sulfate-based component. These ingredients are hypoallergenic and won’t irritate your scalp.

Collagen May Strengthen Hair

Collagen May Strengthen Hair
Collagen is frequently used as a moisturizing ingredient in shampoo. Collagen has been described as having many benefits, such as it being able to provide essential amino acids for hair growth, strengthen hair, prevent hair thinning, and slow down hair graying.

However, most of the beneficial claims about collagen come from anecdotal experience, with many people sharing their personal success stories about collagen. There have not been many studies on the actual benefits of collagen, so your experience with collagen may not be the same as others.

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10 Best Moisturizing Shampoos

Now we’ll take a look at the 10 best moisturizing shampoos out there and how they stack up in relation to key points listed in the buying guide. Since your hair is part of how you present yourself, make sure you find a shampoo that makes it look its very best.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Key features
1

TRESemmé

TresemmeRich Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner for Dry Hair

TRESemmé Rich Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner for Dry Hair 1

Designed To Deliver Intense Hydration for Dry, Parched Hair

2

Pura d'or

Original Gold Label Shampoo and Deep Moisturizing Conditioner Set

Pura d'or Original Gold Label Shampoo and Deep Moisturizing Conditioner Set 1

Clinically Proven Formula Aimed at Reducing Hair Thinning and Boosting Strength

3

Olaplex

Nº.4 Bond Maintenance® Shampoo

Olaplex Nº.4 Bond Maintenance® Shampoo 1

A Concentrated Formula That Repairs, Strengthens, and Maintains Healthy Hair

4

Pantene Pro-V

PanteneDaily Moisture Renewal Shampoo + Conditioner Bundle

Pantene Pro-V Daily Moisture Renewal Shampoo + Conditioner Bundle 1

Daily Hydration With Pro-V Nutrients for Moisturized Hair

5

Redken

All Soft Shampoo

Redken All Soft Shampoo 1

A Moisturizing Shampoo Designed to Soften and Revitalize Dry, Brittle Hair

6

Pureology

Hydrate Shampoo

Pureology Hydrate Shampoo 1

A Creamy, Hydrating Shampoo for Dry, Color-Treated Hair

7

Native

NativeMoisturizing Shampoo and Conditioner SetCoconut & Vanilla

Native Moisturizing Shampoo and Conditioner Set 1

A Vegan, Sulfate-Free Shampoo and Conditioner That Hydrates and Nourishes Hair

8

Nexxus

NexxusUltimate Moisture Shampoo and ConditionerTherappe™ and Humectress™

Nexxus Ultimate Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner 1

Moisture and Strength for Dry Hair

9

L'Oréal Paris

Ever Pure Moisture Shampoo & Conditioner Kit

L'Oréal Paris Ever Pure Moisture Shampoo & Conditioner Kit 1

A Sulfate-Free Shampoo and Conditioner Duo Designed for Enhanced Moisture and Color Protection

10

PURE NATURE LUX SPA

Argan Oil Shampoo and Conditioner Set

PURE NATURE LUX SPA Argan Oil Shampoo and Conditioner Set 1

Hydration With Argan Oil for Soft, Shiny Hair

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

TRESemmé
TresemmeRich Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner for Dry Hair

Rich Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner for Dry Hair 1
Source:amazon.com
Rich Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner for Dry Hair 2
Source:amazon.com
Lowest price
$11.94
Low
Lowest price
$11.94
Low

Designed To Deliver Intense Hydration for Dry, Parched Hair

TRESemmé Rich Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner are specifically formulated for dry hair, offering hydration without weighing strands down. Infused with amino acids, ceramide, and vitamin E, these products nourish and smooth the hair, improving manageability and enhancing shine. Free from parabens, mineral oils, and DMDM Hydantoin, this system delivers 7x more moisture compared to non-conditioning shampoos, restoring softness and vibrancy to dry, damaged hair.

Both the shampoo and conditioner incorporate Hyaluronic Plex™ technology, which provides deep hydration while maintaining lightweight, touchable softness. The system is silicone-free, sulfate-free, and approved by PETA, making it a cruelty-free choice. Regular use results in hair that is 3x easier to style, smoother, and more manageable, with a healthy, salon-like shine. This product is suitable for all hair types, especially for those needing moisture and nourishment.

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No.2

Pura d'or
Original Gold Label Shampoo and Deep Moisturizing Conditioner Set

Lowest price
$39.99
High Mid

Clinically Proven Formula Aimed at Reducing Hair Thinning and Boosting Strength

Pura d'or Original Gold Label Shampoo and Deep Moisturizing Conditioner Set is designed to reduce hair thinning due to breakage, using a blend of 17 key active ingredients like biotin, nettle, and pumpkin seed oil. The shampoo targets thinning hair, promoting volume and strength, while the conditioner deeply hydrates and repairs distressed, frizzy hair. Together, they help nourish the scalp and strengthen strands, making hair appear thicker, healthier, and smoother. The formulations are free from harsh chemicals, hypoallergenic, and suitable for all hair types, including color-treated or chemically processed hair.

These products are sulfate-free, cruelty-free, and made with certified organic ingredients, including argan oil and aloe vera, which support a healthy scalp and enhance the hair’s overall appearance. Manufactured with eco-friendly practices in the USA, this set is gentle enough for daily use, promoting long-term hair health by reducing breakage and adding body and shine with regular application.

No.3

Olaplex
Nº.4 Bond Maintenance® Shampoo

Lowest price
$32.00
High Mid

A Concentrated Formula That Repairs, Strengthens, and Maintains Healthy Hair

Olaplex Nº.4 Bond Maintenance® Shampoo is a highly concentrated formula that gently cleanses while nourishing and repairing damage-prone hair. Free of sulfates, this shampoo uses coconut-derived surfactants to maintain hydration and improve hair strength, reducing breakage and leaving hair smoother and more manageable. Designed to be color-safe, it is suitable for all hair types and provides significant improvement in hair detangling and conditioning. Clinical results suggest a 49% reduction in breakage and a 90% increase in smoothness and manageability.

This shampoo works by repairing and maintaining healthy hair bonds, making it particularly effective for those with damaged or processed hair. A small amount is sufficient to create a rich lather, which makes it an efficient product for regular use. Paired with the Nº.5 Bond Maintenance® Conditioner, this shampoo promotes healthier, shinier hair with every wash, offering lasting benefits for improved texture and reduced damage.

No.4

Pantene Pro-V
PanteneDaily Moisture Renewal Shampoo + Conditioner Bundle

Lowest price
$19.99
Low Mid

Daily Hydration With Pro-V Nutrients for Moisturized Hair

Pantene’s Daily Moisture Renewal set is designed to hydrate dry hair with its Pro-V nutrient blend, which includes various vitamins and oils to nourish the hair. The shampoo cleanses while replenishing moisture, and the conditioner provides additional hydration and helps smooth the hair.

No.5

Redken
All Soft Shampoo

Lowest price
$27.00
Mid

A Moisturizing Shampoo Designed to Soften and Revitalize Dry, Brittle Hair

Redken All Soft Shampoo is formulated for dry and brittle hair, offering targeted hydration through its Moisture Complex and softening argan oil. This shampoo gently cleanses while providing moisture to every level of the hair strand, from root to tip. The inclusion of argan oil helps to replenish moisture and transform rough hair into softer, more manageable strands. It is suitable for all hair types and textures, especially those struggling with dryness and a lack of shine.

The product's sustainability credentials include a formula that is vegan and made using renewable energy, packaged in 100% recycled plastic. In addition to deeply moisturizing, it adds shine, enhances hair texture, and reduces brittleness, especially when used alongside the All Soft Conditioner and Argan-6 Hair Oil. Key ingredients such as soy protein and arginine contribute to the product's ability to nourish and soften hair while ensuring long-lasting hydration.

No.6

Pureology
Hydrate Shampoo

Lowest price
$37.00
High Mid

A Creamy, Hydrating Shampoo for Dry, Color-Treated Hair

Pureology Hydrate Shampoo is specifically designed for normal to thick, dry, and color-treated hair, offering deep hydration while protecting color. Its rich, sulfate-free formula helps to restore moisture and nourish the scalp. Ingredients like jojoba oil, green tea, and sage support healthy hair and scalp, while the signature aromatherapy blend of lavender, bergamot, and patchouli creates a calming experience.

The shampoo uses 100% vegan formulas and includes Pureology's patented Antifade Complex® to ensure long-lasting color protection. Its sustainable, naturally-derived ingredients also support scalp health and promote hair hydration without stripping color. This product is well-suited for those looking to address dryness and maintain hair vibrancy, especially for medium to thick hair types.

No.7

Native
NativeMoisturizing Shampoo and Conditioner SetCoconut & Vanilla

Lowest price
$19.94
Low Mid

A Vegan, Sulfate-Free Shampoo and Conditioner That Hydrates and Nourishes Hair

The Native Moisturizing Shampoo and Conditioner Set is designed to gently cleanse and replenish moisture for soft, hydrated hair. Free from sulfates, parabens, silicones, and dyes, the formula incorporates clean, vegan ingredients that promote a healthy shine without leaving residue behind. The shampoo is easy to apply, creates a rich lather, and rinses out effectively, leaving hair refreshed and nourished.

Complemented by the conditioner, this duo works to hydrate dry hair, restoring softness and manageability. Like the shampoo, the conditioner is made with the same careful attention to ingredient purity, ensuring a lightweight, non-greasy feel. With a pleasant scent evoking tropical notes of coconut, pineapple, citrus, and vanilla, this set offers a gentle and thoughtful approach to hair care, suitable for everyday use without the burden of harsh chemicals.
No.8

Nexxus
NexxusUltimate Moisture Shampoo and ConditionerTherappe™ and Humectress™

Lowest price
$37.31
High Mid

Moisture and Strength for Dry Hair

This duo is formulated with a focus on hydration and moisture retention. Its humectant-rich composition draws moisture into the hair, helping to maintain hydration and prevent dryness. The formula is free from silicones, making it an option for those who prefer silicone-free products.


The formula's proteins help strengthen and restore hair, leaving it smooth and shiny. It is ideal for dry or damaged hair needing hydration and targets moisture loss while promoting a healthy-looking shine.


No.9

L'Oréal Paris
Ever Pure Moisture Shampoo & Conditioner Kit

Lowest price
$13.97
Low Mid

A Sulfate-Free Shampoo and Conditioner Duo Designed for Enhanced Moisture and Color Protection

The L'Oreal Paris Ever Pure Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner Kit is formulated specifically for color-treated hair, focusing on providing two times more moisture while maintaining color integrity. This sulfate-free system gently cleanses without stripping hair of essential oils, ensuring that dryness is addressed without compromising the vibrancy of color-treated locks. Enriched with rosemary oil, the products aim to enhance softness and deliver a luminous shine.

The shampoo utilizes a blend of mild surfactants to create a rich lather that replenishes moisture without causing damage, while the conditioner provides additional hydration, allowing for easy detangling and improved manageability. Together, this duo is validated by professional hair colorists, ensuring it meets the needs of those with color-treated hair. The absence of harsh chemicals like sulfates contributes to a gentler cleansing process, making it suitable for frequent use without compromising hair health.
No.10

PURE NATURE LUX SPA
Argan Oil Shampoo and Conditioner Set

Lowest price
$26.99

Hydration With Argan Oil for Soft, Shiny Hair

The PURE NATURE LUX SPA Argan Oil Shampoo and Conditioner Set contains argan oil, known for its moisturizing properties, and other hydrating ingredients that nourish dry hair. The shampoo is sulfate-free, which helps prevent stripping natural oils, making it suitable for those with sensitive scalps or color-treated hair. The conditioner is designed to smooth and add shine to the hair without weighing it down.


Amazon's Best Selling Shampoos

If you're unsure of where to look for your new moisturizing shampoo or are in need of a little inspiration, check out Amazon's best selling list of hair shampoos; but note that not all of these are suited for all hair types.

Top 5 Moisturizing Shampoos

No. 1: TRESemméTresemmeRich Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner for Dry Hair

No. 2: Pura d'orOriginal Gold Label Shampoo and Deep Moisturizing Conditioner Set

No. 3: OlaplexNº.4 Bond Maintenance® Shampoo

No. 4: Pantene Pro-VPanteneDaily Moisture Renewal Shampoo + Conditioner Bundle

No. 5: RedkenAll Soft Shampoo

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The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.

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