10 Best Shampoos for Damaged Hair in 2022 (Dermatologist-Reviewed)
We looked up how to find the best shampoos for hair repair and compiled our 10 favorites. Our top spot goes to Artnaturals Argan Oil and Aloe Shampoo because it boats a formula with powerful moisturizers and keratin. It is free of sulfates and parabens that can be harsh on damaged hair. We also created a buying guide with oversight from a dermatologist that goes into further detail on the ingredients you should look for in the perfect shampoo.
Quick List - Top Shampoos For Damaged Hair
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.
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.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
How to Choose a Shampoo for Damaged Hair – Buying Guide
Look for Ingredients That Address Your Hair Concerns
When it comes to selecting a shampoo to assist in hair growth and repair, one important aspect is choosing ingredients that work for your specific needs.
Keratin, Biotin, and Vitamins for Stronger Hair
Keratin is a protein that is naturally found in our hair. When introduced to the hair follicle via a shampoo, keratin helps to firm the hair and make it stronger. It should only be used occasionally, however, because using it too often can cause your hair to become dry.
Biotin, or vitamin B7, is found in our hair, skin, and nails. Biotin as an ingredient in shampoo can help produce keratin and leads to fuller hair. It can also help reduce hair thinning.
Shampoos with collagen and keratin can help build and maintain the hair shaft. This can lead to less breakage and damage and give the hair a healthier and glossier or shinier appearance. Make sure when using the shampoo that it is massaged into the scalp and the upper part of the hair. By targeting the scalp with the products, you can help increase the likelihood that the hair will grow in healthy.
Extra Moisture to Combat Dry, Brittle Hair
Oils are found naturally in hair, and certain types of topical oils are great for replenishing lost moisture to dry hair. Look for oils high in saturated and monounsaturated fats like coconut oil, palm oil, and argan oil. These types of oils are better suited for accessing the hair and delivering moisturizing effects.
Coconut oil is best suited to penetrate the hair strand, and it can help restore moisture to your hair and scalp; it is also rich in proteins to provide strength to your hair. Palm oil and argan oil are both rich in fatty acids and vitamin E. This means they are great for providing moisture to the hair and protecting it from environmental factors like UV light.
You should also keep an eye out for other ingredients that help deliver moisturizing effects to your scalp and hair. Aloe vera is great for moisturizing and reducing inflammation on your scalp. And shea butter is full of fats that replenish moisture to your hair and help reduce inflammation or irritation on your scalp.
Choose a Cleansing Agent That's Gentle
All shampoos contain cleansing agents to remove excess oil and dirt from hair. Common cleansing agents in shampoos like sulfates may be too harsh for damaged hair. They can remove even necessary oil from hair and cause the scalp to become dry and irritated.
Instead, look for a mild cleansing ingredient like sodium lauryl sulfoacetate, which is made from coconut and palm oils. It helps remove excess oil and dirt while keeping hair moisturized.
Amino acids in shampoos offer a number of benefits, including acting as a gentle cleanser. Amino acids like TEA-cocoyl glutamate are great for removing excess oil and dirt without drying out your hair. Instead, they provide hydration to the hair while leaving it stronger. Look for terms like cocoyl and lauroyl.
Avoid Potentially Irritating or Drying Ingredients
When you already have weak strands and compromised follicles, the last thing you want to do is further exacerbate the problem. Artificial fragrances, thickeners and preservatives are often added to shampoos and can actually be harmful, especially for those with sensitive scalps.
Formaldehyde can sometimes be used as a preservative in shampoos, but it can cause dryness and worsen existing issues with skin. Parabens are another common preservative that are known to cause the scalp to become dry and itchy. Artificial fragrances are often composed of many synthetic ingredients, like phthalates, that are known to create a dry scalp.
It may be easy to avoid these ingredients, as shampoos will often be labeled free of artificial fragrances or parabens. If you cannot find it on the label, check the ingredients list and look for common additives that can be harmful.
Shampoos with fragrances and sulfates can further dry out the hair shaft. Using products that are sulfate- and fragrance-free is helpful if you have dry or brittle hair. Additionally, if you have sensitive skin, eczema, or contact dermatitis, avoid these additives as they can make these conditions worse.
Pick a Shampoo Based on Your Hair Type
If you have wavy hair or tight curls, you'll want to supply moisturizing ingredients to your hair and control frizz. Look for shampoos with topical oils like coconut oil, argan oil, or jojoba oil. Glycerin is also a common ingredient that is gentle on hair while moisturizing and controlling frizz.
For those that dye their hair frequently, look for a shampoo that is color-safe. Most often that means it is free from harsh sulfates, alcohols, and parabens that can quickly strip the color from your hair. Hair that has been damaged by frequent dyeing will need powerful moisturizers like glycerin, aloe vera, and coconut oil.
For oily hair and scalps, I recommend using a clarifying shampoo. These shampoos absorb excess sebum and dirt without drying out the hair. You may need to shampoo daily if you have oily hair.
If you have very dry hair, limit shampoo use to several times a week rather than daily. Additionally, focus on using shampoo on the scalp and upper part of the hair to prevent your hair from becoming weighed down and dry.
How to Choose a Shampoo for Damaged Hair – Buying Guide
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Artnaturals | | Best for Dry and Brittle Hair | |
2 | pura d'or | | Best to Reduce Breakage for Thicker Hair | |
3 | Framesi | | Best for Color-Treated Hair | |
4 | OGX Biotin & Collagen Shampoo | | Extra Strength With Biotin and Collagen | |
5 | Dr. Hempster Hair Loss and Biotin Shampoo | | Best for Combating Hair Loss | |
6 | Love Beauty and Planet | | Currently unavailable | Best for Gentle Cleansing |
7 | Nexxus | | Best for Building Stronger Hair | |
8 | SheaMoisture | | Best for Thick and Curly Hair | |
9 | Honeydew | | Best Gentle Clarifying Shampoo for Oily Hair | |
10 | Marc Anthony Strengthening Grow Long Super Fast Strength | | Best Remedy for Hair Breakage |
Best for Dry and Brittle Hair
Pros:
- Powerful moisturizers replenish dry hair
- Proteins build stronger hair
- Gentle cleaners don't strip natural oils
Cons:
- Some reviews say the formula is watery and does not lather well
If your hair is feeling dry and brittle from excess heat or sun exposure, this shampoo is perfect because it offers a precise combination of moisturizers and proteins. Argan oil, glycerin, and aloe vera restore moisture to the hair and scalp. Keratin and rice protein help strengthen brittle hair.
A few reviewers report the shampoo is a bit watery and does not lather well. Nevertheless, buyers love the fact that this product is free from sulfates. They say it leaves their hair soft and full of luster.
Best to Reduce Breakage for Thicker Hair
Pros:
- Herbal blend blocks DHT
- Helps thicken hair by reducing breakage
- Provides moisture to hair and scalp
- Vegan
Cons:
- Some reviewers claim the scent is overbearing
- Does not contain ingredients to prevent hair loss, which some reviewers felt was misleading
This shampoo boasts an herbal formula that includes 17 ingredients, some of which help block DHT, a hormone that contributes to thinning hair and hair loss. It also contains ingredients like argan oil, aloe vera, and biotin that will help restore moisture and strengthen your hair.
A few reviews point out the scent is too noticeable and unpleasant. However, other reviewers are optimistic about the shampoo, saying it helped provide volume and left their hair soft.
Best for Color-Treated Hair
Pros:
- Quinoa helps retain color
- Moisturizers help repair hair damaged by repeated color or heat
- Helps protect against heat and UV light
Cons:
- Some reviewers question the authenticity of the Amazon product
You might be surprised to learn that quinoa is effective at helping your color last longer. With proteins and natural oils, quinoa in shampoo keeps your hair strong and moisturized to retain color. This shampoo combines quinoa with moisturizers and gentle cleansers to keep your color and restore hair damaged by heat.
A handful of buyers felt the scent or consistency wasn't the same as a bottle purchased in a salon. We've included other links for you just in case. However, most reviewers appreciate how it keeps their color in longer than other shampoos. They report it leaves their hair shiny and voluminous.
Extra Strength With Biotin and Collagen
This volumizing shampoo is formulated for normal hair types and contains vitamin B7 biotin and collagen, which are known for strengthening and promoting hair growth. The formula includes LipiPro Shield (TM) technology for added protection of hair’s protein and lipid barriers and is free from sulfated surfactants, parabens, phthalates, microplastics, and dyes. Its scent profile features bergamot, jasmine, and vanilla.
Best for Combating Hair Loss
- Moisturizes your hair and scalp
- Helps prevent hair loss
- Proteins strengthen hair and make it appear fuller
Cons:
- Some reviews state the shampoo left their hair feeling stiff
This shampoo avoids harsh additives in favor of gentle cleansers and organic ingredients. With powerful moisturizing ingredients like hemp oil and argan oil, this product helps nourish your hair and scalp to prevent hair fall. Biotin and wheat protein help strengthen damaged hair and make it appear fuller.
A few reviewers complain the shampoo didn't stop hair loss and made their hair straw-like. But, other buyers praise the shampoo for its great scent, and said they noticed thicker hair after a few uses.
Love Beauty and Planet
Best for Gentle Cleansing
Pros:
- Helps build stronger, fuller hair
- Gentle cleansers won't dry out the scalp or hair
- Ethically sourced ingredients
- Vegan
Cons:
- Some reviews mention a residue after shampooing, or greasy hair
This shampoo boasts gentle, plant-based cleaners. It is also free from sulfates, parabens, and dyes, so it offers deep cleansing without irritating or drying your scalp. It contains biotin to strengthen hair and make it fuller. And finally, coconut oil delivers moisture to your hair and scalp.
Some buyers say the shampoo left a bit of a residue on their hair; they had to rinse a second time. However, reviewers love the orange scent. They say this product leaves their hair feeling soft, shiny and clean.
Best for Building Stronger Hair
Pros:
- Protein and collagen amino acid formula for stronger hair
- Helps heal damage from heat or color
- Strengthens brittle hair
Cons:
- A few reviewers said it left their hair too greasy
Black rice, keratin, and collagen amino acids encourage hair to grow stronger and more resilient to breakage. This can be used on its own, or in conjunction with conditioner, a hair mask and gel treatment from the same line as a regimen to heal severely damaged hair quickly.
Some reviewers complain about the shampoo leaving their hair greasy. On the other hand, many more buyers appreciate how this product leaves their hair feeling stronger and softer. They say the shampoo helped reverse the damage done by color treatments or heat.
Best for Thick and Curly Hair
Pros:
- Moisturizes hair and scalp
- Controls frizz
- Gentle cleansers
Cons:
- Some reviewers report a greasy feeling after shampooing
This shampoo is perfect for those with thick and curly hair because it offers powerful moisturizers that will keep hair soft and control frizz. Shea butter, coconut oil, and neem oil help replenish moisture to the hair and scalp. And silk protein helps strengthen your curls.
A few buyers say the shampoo left their hair feeling greasy after use. On the other hand, reviewers love that this product keeps their curls moisturized and shiny. They also say it is great at controlling frizz.
Best Gentle Clarifying Shampoo for Oily Hair
Pros:
- Amino acid cleansers work without stripping natural oils
- Provides moisture to hair and scalp
- Proteins provide strength to hair
Cons:
- A few buyers assert the shampoo has an unpleasant smell
This clarifying shampoo works by removing the buildup of excess oil and dirt from your hair and scalp without stripping them of natural oils. This herbal formula is free from parabens and sulfates, and it is safe to use every day for those with extreme buildup.
The scent of this shampoo is too overbearing according to some reviews. However, other reviewers love this product for cleaning their hair of excess oil without leaving it dry. They say it leaves their scalp feeling clean and their hair looks lustrous.
Marc AnthonyStrengthening Grow Long Super Fast Strength
Best Remedy for Hair Breakage
- Helps stimulate growth of the hair shaft
- Biotin and vitamin E for stronger hair
- Moisturizes dry hair
Cons:
- A couple of reviews point out the shampoo left their hair feeling stripped
This shampoo is formulated to help your hair grow long and strong fast. It strengthens strands with biotin and vitamin E to prevent breakage and uses gentle cleansers. Caffeine helps block DHT and stimulates hair shafts to grow longer and stronger.
Some reviewers report the shampoo leaves their hair and scalp feeling stripped and dry. However, many buyers say the product makes their hair look healthy and shiny. It has helped many grow longer, stronger hair when they suffered from issues like breakage, or thin and dry hair.
Dr. Levy's Recommended Shampoo for Damaged Hair
My favorite shampoo for dry, brittle, or overprocessed hair is the Virtue Labs Recovery shampoo. This product has an alpha-keratin in it. Keratin is part of the hair composition, and this recovery shampoo can deposit extra into the hair making it smooth and healthy. This is the shampoo that I personally use and recommend to my patients. Additionally, it is vegan and cruelty-free.
Tips for Repairing Damaged Hair
One important way to repair damaged hair is to shampoo consistently. But don't shampoo your hair every day; rather, you should only shampoo a few times a week. This allows the shampoo to deliver moisturizing properties without stripping your hair of necessary natural oils. Make sure you massage the product into your scalp so that it can easily access the hair shaft.
Another way to repair damaged hair is to protect it from heat. Heat can come from your blow-dryer and curling iron, or naturally from the sun. Use heat less frequently on damaged hair. If you can't avoid it, use topical products that contain ingredients like silicone that protect the hair from heat. Also, use shampoos that contain ginseng to protect your hair from UV light from the sun, and vitamin E to strengthen and repair.
Finally, damaged hair can be repaired by ensuring proper nutrition and managing stress. Hair loss and thinner hair can be the result of malnutrition or excess stress. Specifically, a diet rich in selenium and vitamin A is key to maintaining healthy hair.
Frequently Asked Questions
Along with reviewing and commenting on our buying guide, Dr. Levy also took the time to answer a few commonly asked questions about hair repair and growth.
How can I repair hair breakage?
"If you have hair breakage, do not fret. Some work and TLC can certainly improve it," Dr. Levy explains. "Hair breakage is very common in recent years given the increased use of heated styling tools, hair dyes, and bleaching. It can be quite frustrating because the hair can appear frayed, split, and unhealthy. It also can prevent hair growth.
Limit heat on the hair as much as possible, including curling irons and high voltage blow driers. Use restorative shampoos that have keratin, collagen, and hydrating ingredients. This will nourish the hair and provide hydration. Also, taking hair supplements, like Untangled, Nutrafol, or Viviscal Pro can help give the hair the nutrients it needs to grow. Lastly, limited bleaching and hair dyes can help prevent further breakage."
How do I repair my hair after bleaching it?
Dr. Levy says, "The first step is to limit dyes and bleaches on the hair. Bleaching uses harsh chemicals to strip color. It can leave the hair dry and damaged which can lead to breakage. The best thing to do is stop bleaching the hair for several months. Use restorative shampoos and hair masks. Limit heat and hot styling tools. Shampoos and hair masks with keratin should be used with every hair wash.
Eventually, the damaged hair will grow out. An overnight hydrating mask left on overnight a few times a week can also provide hydration to the hair shaft and support healthy hair growth."
Other Ways to Take Care of Your Hair
We've looked into other products that you can use to better care for your hair. Check out the links below if you want to know more!
Top 5 Shampoos For Damaged Hair
No. 1: Artnaturals｜
No. 2: pura d'or｜
No. 3: Framesi｜
No. 4: OGX｜Biotin & Collagen Shampoo
No. 5: Dr. Hempster｜Hair Loss and Biotin Shampoo
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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