10 Best Shampoo For Transitioning Hair (2025 Update)

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If you are transitioning from relaxed to natural hair, finding the right shampoo can be a daunting task. You need something that will cleanse your hair without stripping it of its natural oils, while also promoting healthy growth and preventing breakage. With so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one.

Here are five key points to consider when looking for a shampoo for transitioning hair:

1. Moisturizing: Look for a shampoo that is moisturizing and nourishing. Your hair is likely to be dry and brittle during the transitioning phase, so you need a shampoo that will help to rehydrate it.

2. Sulfate-free: Sulfates are harsh detergents that can strip your hair of its natural oils and cause it to become dry and brittle. Look for a sulfate-free shampoo that will be gentle on your hair.

3. pH-balanced: Your hair has a natural pH level, and using a shampoo that is too alkaline or too acidic can disrupt this balance and cause damage. Look for a pH-balanced shampoo that will help to maintain the natural pH level of your hair.

4. Strengthening: During the transitioning phase, your hair is prone to breakage. Look for a shampoo that contains strengthening ingredients such as keratin, biotin, or protein.

5. Natural ingredients: Natural ingredients such as aloe vera, coconut oil, and shea butter can help to nourish and moisturize your hair. Look for a shampoo that contains natural ingredients that will help to promote healthy hair growth.

In summary, when looking for a shampoo for transitioning hair, you should look for one that is moisturizing, sulfate-free, pH-balanced, strengthening, and contains natural ingredients. With these key points in mind, you can find a shampoo that will help you to achieve healthy, beautiful hair as you transition to your natural texture.

10 Best Shampoo For Transitioning Hair

1. Sheamoisture Moisture Retention Shampoo With Raw Shea Butter, 13 Oz (2-Pack) For Dry, Damaged, Or Transitioning Hair.

SheaMoisture Moisture Retention Shampoo for Dry, Damaged or Transitioning Hair Raw Shea Butter Shampoo to Hydrate Hair 13 oz 2 Count is a highly sought-after hair care product that has been designed to fortify and restore dry, damaged, or transitioning hair. This shampoo is blended with fair trade shea butter, argan oil, and sea kelp, which work together to deeply hydrate and nourish the hair.

The SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Moisture Retention Shampoo is a must-have for anyone who desires a shampoo that can replenish and seal in moisture to damaged hair. This hydrating shampoo is perfect for people with 3A to 4C hair types, as well as those with dry hair, damaged hair, transitioning hair, and natural hair.

To use this shampoo, apply it to wet hair, gently massage, and work it into a rich lather. Rinse thoroughly and follow up with the Raw Shea Butter Restorative Conditioner for optimal results. The SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Moisture Retention Shampoo is a great way to achieve healthy, hydrated hair that looks and feels amazing.

One of the key ingredients in this shampoo is fair trade shea butter. Shea butter is an excellent moisturizer that can help to soothe and hydrate dry, damaged hair. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals that are essential for healthy hair growth. Argan oil is another key ingredient that is known for its hydrating and restorative properties. This oil is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that help to nourish and protect the hair from environmental stressors.

Sea kelp is yet another ingredient that contributes to the effectiveness of this shampoo. Sea kelp is a type of seaweed that is rich in vitamins and minerals that are essential for healthy hair growth. It also contains iodine, which helps to strengthen the hair and prevent breakage.

All SheaMoisture hair products are sustainably produced and cruelty-free. This means that the company is committed to using natural and organic ingredients in their products and to ensuring that no animals are harmed in the process. SheaMoisture is a brand that you can trust to provide high-quality hair care products that are both effective and ethical.

In conclusion, SheaMoisture Moisture Retention Shampoo for Dry, Damaged or Transitioning Hair Raw Shea Butter Shampoo to Hydrate Hair 13 oz 2 Count is a highly effective shampoo that can help to restore and hydrate dry, damaged, or transitioning hair. It contains natural and organic ingredients that are good for both the hair and the environment. If you want healthy, hydrated hair that looks and feels amazing, this is a shampoo that you should definitely consider.

2. Extra Moisture Retention Shampoo With Raw Shea Butter For Dry Or Damaged Hair – 2 Pack (379ml Each)

The Extra Moisture Retention Shampoo with Raw Shea Butter is a specially formulated product that is designed to repair dry, damaged, or transitioning hair. This 2 pack of shampoos contains 379ml each, providing you with a long-lasting solution to your hair care needs.

One of the key ingredients in this shampoo is organic shea butter. This deeply moisturizing ingredient fortifies and restores dry, damaged, frizzy, over-processed, or transitioning hair. The sulfate-free and color-safe shampoo is gentle on your hair, making it suitable for daily use. The ingredients in this shampoo provide essential nutrients to your scalp and help promote new hair growth.

In addition to shea butter, this shampoo contains argan oil, which restores shine and smoothness while helping to promote hair elasticity. Argan oil is full of fatty acids, oleic acid, linoleic acid, vitamins A, C, and E, which nourish your hair, prevent hair loss, and help in hair growth.

The shampoo also contains sea kelp, which is an extremely nutrient-dense plant known to help with hair loss. All the minerals from sea kelp are present in the shampoo, making your hair grow thicker and healthier. Sea kelp is also great for dandruff and thinning hair, helping your hair to develop keratin.

One of the most significant benefits of this shampoo is that it is sulfate-free. Sulfates are harsh chemicals that strip the hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry and damaged. This sulfate-free shampoo gently cleanses dry hair, delivering 3x moisture to maintain the natural oils on the scalp and hair. Using a sulfate-free shampoo is an excellent way to retain natural moisture in your hair, as well as prolong the life of your hair color.

Using this Extra Moisture Retention Shampoo with Raw Shea Butter is easy. Simply apply the shampoo to wet hair, gently massage, leave it 2 to 3 minutes, and work into a rich lather. Rinse thoroughly with tap water. Repeat if necessary. You will see results after just one-time use, with smoothness and shine in your hair.

In summary, the Extra Moisture Retention Shampoo with Raw Shea Butter is an excellent solution for those with dry, damaged, or transitioning hair. It is made with organic shea butter, argan oil, and sea kelp to provide essential nutrients to your hair and scalp. The sulfate-free formula is gentle on your hair, making it suitable for daily use. Try this shampoo today and see the difference it can make in the health and appearance of your hair.

3. Sheamoisture Raw Shea Butter Shampoo – 13oz – For Dry, Damaged Or Transitioning Hair – Sulfate-Free.

SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Deep Moisturizing Shampoo is a popular hair care product designed to help individuals with dry, damaged, or transitioning hair. This hydrating shampoo is enriched with fair trade shea butter, argan oil, and sea kelp to provide deep nourishment and moisture to the hair.

The product is ideal for individuals with 3A to 4C hair types, as well as those with natural, damaged, or transitioning hair. This sulfate-free shampoo is formulated without silicones, parabens, phthalates, mineral oil, or petrolatum, making it a great choice for individuals who are conscious about the ingredients in their hair care products.

To use the SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Deep Moisturizing Shampoo, individuals should apply the product to wet hair and gently massage it into a rich lather. The shampoo should be rinsed thoroughly and followed up with the Raw Shea Butter Restorative Conditioner for best results.

The combination of fair trade shea butter, argan oil, and sea kelp in this shampoo helps to fortify and restore dry hair that has been damaged or over-processed. The deep moisturizing properties of the product help to replenish and seal in moisture, leaving the hair feeling soft, smooth, and nourished.

In addition to its hydrating and nourishing properties, the SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Deep Moisturizing Shampoo is also sustainably produced and cruelty-free. This means that individuals can use this product with the knowledge that it has been ethically produced and not tested on animals.

Overall, the SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Deep Moisturizing Shampoo is an excellent choice for individuals who are looking for a sulfate-free, hydrating shampoo to restore and fortify their dry, damaged, or transitioning hair. With its nourishing ingredients, this product helps to replenish and seal in moisture, leaving the hair feeling soft, smooth, and healthy.

4. Maui Moisture Bamboo Fibers Strengthening Shampoo For Natural Hair, 13 Fl Oz, Vegan & Paraben-Free.

Maui Moisture Thicken & Restore + Bamboo Fibers Strengthening Shampoo is a haircare product designed to help those with brittle curls to restore their hair's natural bounce and vitality. The 13-fluid ounce bottle contains a strengthening formula that helps densify and revive hair strands, making them thicker and stronger.

This shampoo is ideal for those with wavy to tight curls and is suitable for color-treated, transitioning and natural hair types. The product helps to soften and renew hair, leaving it looking healthy and rejuvenated.

The unique blend of this restorative vegan shampoo contains 100% aloe vera as its primary ingredient, along with coconut water, bamboo fibers, castor oil, and neem oil. These ingredients work together to fortify and nourish hair, providing it with the moisture and nutrients it needs to thrive.

Unlike many shampoos on the market, Maui Moisture Thicken & Restore + Bamboo Fibers Strengthening Shampoo is free from sulfates, silicones, parabens, mineral oil, and synthetic dyes. This gentle and nourishing formula is designed to be vegan-friendly and suitable for those who are looking for a more natural and eco-friendly haircare option.

Overall, Maui Moisture Thicken & Restore + Bamboo Fibers Strengthening Shampoo is an excellent choice for those who are looking to improve the health and appearance of their hair. With its unique blend of natural ingredients and nourishing formula, this product is sure to leave you with soft, thick, and healthy-looking hair.

5. Curlsmith Transition Kit – Vegan Haircare For Dry, Wavy, Curly Or Coily Hair (4-Piece Set)

Curlsmith has introduced an all-in-one Transition Kit that caters to those with dry, wavy, curly, or coily hair. The kit consists of four essential products – Cowash, Deep Conditioner, Leave-in Cream, and Styling Gel – to help cleanse, define, and hydrate curls, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to embark on a journey towards natural curl hair.

The Transition Kit is formulated with natural ingredients that work in harmony with hair to nourish and strengthen it. For instance, avocado is used in the Conditioning Wash to smoothen and condition hair, while the Deep Quencher contains Rose of Jericho, a rare plant that locks moisture into hair, making it unique to Curlsmith. By incorporating these ingredients, Curlsmith has created a range of hair products that are not only effective but also contain healthy ingredients that promote hair health.

Curlsmith prides itself on being different from other haircare brands in the market. The brand draws inspiration from generations of homemade hair remedies and blends fresh curl-loving foods with kitchen cupboard staples and rare natural ingredients to create premium products that deliver professional results with no compromise. The brand's ethos is centered around using healthy ingredients to achieve healthy hair.

The Transition Kit is free from harmful ingredients, including Sulphates, Silicones, Mineral Oils, and Phtalates. The products are also Curly Girl Friendly, 100% Vegan, and Cruelty-Free, making them an ideal choice for anyone looking to switch to natural haircare products that are gentle on both hair and the environment.

Curlsmith's Transition Kit has garnered rave reviews from customers who have used the products and seen real results. Customers have praised the products for their effectiveness, with many stating that they noticed a significant improvement in the look and feel of their hair from day one of using the products.

In conclusion, Curlsmith's Transition Kit is an all-in-one solution for anyone looking to switch to natural haircare products that cater to dry, wavy, curly, or coily hair. With its unique blend of natural ingredients, the kit offers a healthy and effective solution that delivers professional results while being gentle on both hair and the environment.

6. Black Vanilla Curly Hair Shampoo & Conditioner Set For Dry, Damaged Hair – Moisturizing & Hydrating With Shea Butter, Aloe, & Rosemary.

The Carol's Daughter Black Vanilla Curly Hair Sulfate Free Shampoo and Conditioner Set is a top-quality hair care bundle that provides a hydrating and moisturizing solution for dry and damaged natural hair. The set contains a shampoo and conditioner that are specifically designed to cater to the needs of coily, curly, and wavy hair types, including 4C, 4B, 4A, 3C, 3B, 3A, 2C, 2B, and 2A curl patterns.

The hydrating shampoo is formulated with a blend of Shea Butter, Aloe, and Rosemary to provide moisture and softness to thin or thick natural hair. It gives the hair a healthy shine and makes it more manageable. The shampoo is sulfate-free, which means it cleanses the hair and restores moisture without adding weight to textured hair. It detangles and smooths wet hair to reduce breakage, making it an excellent choice for daily use and as a co-wash.

The set also comes with a hydrating conditioner that contains a blend of Shea Butter and Rosemary. This deep conditioner for curly hair can put an end to dry hair and balance moisture. It detangles and makes thick or thin hair easier to style while restoring moisture to dry and damaged hair. The conditioner is perfect for use after the shampoo, and users are advised to massage it gently into their scalp and hair, especially the ends. It should be left in the hair for 3-5 minutes before rinsing out.

The Carol's Daughter Black Vanilla Curly Hair Sulfate Free Shampoo and Conditioner Set is specially designed for people with dry and damaged hair. The set provides a balanced solution that restores moisture to the hair without adding weight. The products are light enough for daily use and work great as a co-wash. The set is part of the Carol's Daughter Collection, which includes other products such as a leave-in conditioner, hair smoothie, hair oil, and edge control.

In conclusion, the Carol's Daughter Black Vanilla Curly Hair Sulfate Free Shampoo and Conditioner Set is an excellent choice for people with coily, curly, or wavy hair types. The set provides a hydrating and moisturizing solution for dry and damaged hair, making it more manageable and giving it a healthy shine. The set is easy to use and can be incorporated into a daily hair care routine.

7. Shea Moisture Raw Shea Butter Shampoo And Conditioner Set, 16 Fl. Oz. Ea. Deeply Moisturizes Curly Hair With Sea Kelp & Argan Oil. Sulfate & Silicone Free. Family Size.

The Shea Moisture Raw Shea Butter Shampoo and Conditioner Set is a deep moisturizing solution that helps to restore dull, lifeless hair to its healthy, shinier version. This set is free of sulfates and silicones, making it ideal for those with color-treated, curly, chemically treated, and natural hair.

The sulfate-free shampoo is designed to moisturize dry, damaged or over-processed hair. It is color safe, making it an excellent choice for those who want to protect their hair color. The shampoo is made with organic shea butter, which naturally conditions the hair and scalp. The shea butter is rich in Vitamin E, which nourishes and conditions the hair.

The conditioner in this set can be used as a rinse-out or leave-in treatment. It helps in easy detangling and restores the hair's natural shine and elasticity. The conditioner is enriched with Argan Oil and Sea Kelp, which restore the hair's natural shine, support its elasticity, and smoothness.

The Shea Moisture Raw Shea Butter Shampoo and Conditioner Set is also an excellent choice for those who are transitioning to natural hair. This set will fortify and hydrate the hair, especially during the hair growth period from chemically treated to natural.

The Shea Moisture Raw Shea Butter Shampoo and Conditioner Set also comes in a family-size of 16 fluid ounces each, making it an economical choice for the entire family. It is an excellent choice for those who are looking for a deep moisturizing solution for their hair without using harsh chemicals.

Overall, the Shea Moisture Raw Shea Butter Shampoo and Conditioner Set is an excellent choice for those who want to restore their hair's natural shine, elasticity, and smoothness. It is made with organic shea butter, Argan Oil, and Sea Kelp, which work together to hydrate and nourish the hair. It is an excellent choice for those who are looking for a sulfate-free, silicone-free solution for their hair care needs.

8. Biolage Color Last Shampoo – Protects & Maintains Color For Color-Treated Hair – Paraben & Silicone-Free – Valentine's Day Gift Set – Vegan

The BIOLAGE Color Last Shampoo is a paraben and silicone-free shampoo that helps protect hair and maintain vibrant color for color-treated hair. This Valentine's Day gift set is part of a professional-inspired hair routine that is designed to help balance moisture and even out the hair's surface for saturated, shiny, and vibrant color that stays radiant for weeks.

The low pH shampoo and conditioner duo is gentle and nourishing, preventing color from stripping while prolonging color vibrancy. Inspired by nature's orchid, the Color Last collection helps maintain the color, depth, tone, and shine of vivid color-treated hair. When using the system, hair can maintain its salon-vibrant color for up to 9 weeks.

To get the best results, the suggested use for this product is to apply the shampoo to wet hair and lather with a massaging motion. Rinse and repeat if necessary. Then, apply the conditioner and leave it in for 1-3 minutes before rinsing it out. The Color Last collection of shampoo and conditioner nourishes and protects to help maintain the shine of color-treated hair, with the low pH shampoo prolonging color vibrancy.

This product is suitable for color-treated or natural hair, and it is vegan-friendly. It is a great Valentine's Day gift set for anyone who wants to maintain their hair's vibrancy and protect it from damage. The BIOLAGE Color Last Shampoo is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to keep their hair looking salon-fresh for longer. With this product, users can enjoy radiant color that looks as good as the day they got it.

9. Lus Brands 3-Step System For Curly Hair – Shampoo, Conditioner, And All-In-One Styler – Clean, Nonsticky, And No Crunch – 8.5oz Each.

LUS Brands Love Ur Curls for Curly Hair is a 3-Step System designed to simplify curly hair care for those with soft, defined curls (3A, 3B, 3C). This system includes a Gentle & Moisturizing Shampoo, an Ultra-Hydrating & Detangling Conditioner, and an All-in-One Styler that work together to bring out the natural beauty of curly hair.

Infused with Shea Butter and Moringa Oil, LUS hair care products are loaded with hair-nourishing nutrients that repair, strengthen, moisturize, and reduce breakage. The result is soft, defined curls with a healthy shine.

LUS hair care products are designed to provide touchable, defined curls without the crunch, cast, or stickiness often associated with other curly hair products. By choosing the customized hair care system that’s made especially for you, you can bring out the best in your unique curls each day.

LUS Brands is committed to creating clean, vegan, cruelty-free, and dermatologist-tested products that are suitable for even the most sensitive skin. Their curly hair products are never tested on animals and are gluten-free. So, you can rest assured that they are hypoallergenic and non-irritating.

As a team of real curlies, LUS Brands knows that learning how to care for your curls is a journey. That’s why they created these products to help bring out the best of your own unique curls. They are so confident in their products that they offer a 30-day money-back policy, so you can try them risk-free.

In summary, LUS Brands Love Ur Curls for Curly Hair is a 3-Step System designed to simplify curly hair care for those with soft, defined curls. Infused with Shea Butter and Moringa Oil, their products provide touchable, defined curls without the crunch, cast, or stickiness often associated with other curly hair products. Their clean, vegan, cruelty-free, and dermatologist-tested products are suitable for even the most sensitive skin, and they offer a 30-day money-back policy.

Best Shampoo For Transitioning Hair FAQs

Are there any shampoos that can help prevent breakage and damage during the transition process?

Yes, there are shampoos that can help prevent breakage and damage during the transition process. Look for shampoos that are specifically formulated for damaged or chemically treated hair. These shampoos often contain ingredients like keratin, biotin, and argan oil, which can help strengthen hair and prevent breakage. It's also important to avoid shampoos that contain sulfates, which can strip hair of its natural oils and cause further damage. Instead, look for shampoos that are sulfate-free and gentle on hair. Additionally, consider using a deep conditioning treatment once a week to help nourish and hydrate hair during the transition process. With the right hair care routine, it is possible to minimize damage and breakage during the transition from chemically treated hair to natural hair.

Can a shampoo help with the transition to natural hair?

Yes, a shampoo can definitely help with the transition to natural hair. When transitioning from chemically-treated hair to natural hair, it can be challenging to find the right products that will help to nourish and strengthen your hair. This is where a good shampoo comes into play.

A quality shampoo that is specifically formulated for natural hair can help to cleanse your hair and scalp without stripping away its natural oils. It can also help to moisturize and hydrate your hair, which is essential during the transition process.

Look for shampoos that are free from harsh chemicals like sulfates, parabens, and silicones. These ingredients can cause dryness, breakage, and other damage to your hair. Instead, opt for shampoos that contain natural ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, and aloe vera.

In addition to using a good shampoo, it's also important to practice healthy hair care habits during the transition process. This includes minimizing heat styling, using a wide-tooth comb instead of a brush, and deep conditioning your hair regularly.

Overall, a good shampoo can definitely help with the transition to natural hair, but it's important to use it in conjunction with other healthy hair care practices for the best results.

How often should you shampoo transitioning hair?

As a transitioning hair care professional, the frequency of shampooing transitioning hair depends on the unique needs of each individual. However, it is generally recommended to shampoo transitioning hair once a week to prevent excessive drying and breakage. The frequency of shampooing can also be adjusted based on the hair's porosity, texture, and scalp condition. If the hair is prone to dryness, a co-wash or a gentle sulfate-free shampoo can be used in between wash days to maintain moisture levels. It is also essential to use a deep conditioning treatment once a week to restore moisture and prevent damage. Additionally, protective styling such as braids or twists can be used to reduce manipulation and breakage during the transition period. Overall, maintaining a consistent hair care routine and listening to the hair's needs is crucial for healthy transitioning hair.

What are the best shampoos for transitioning hair?

As you transition from chemically treated hair to natural hair, it is essential to use the right shampoo to maintain healthy hair. Look for shampoos that are sulfate-free and gentle on your hair. Avoid shampoos that contain harsh chemicals that can strip your hair of its natural oils and cause breakage.

Some of the best shampoos for transitioning hair include:

1. Shea Moisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore Shampoo – This shampoo contains natural ingredients that help to nourish and strengthen hair.

2. Mielle Organics Babassu Oil Conditioning Sulfate-Free Shampoo – This shampoo is gentle on your hair and helps to restore moisture.

3. Carol's Daughter Black Vanilla Moisture & Shine Shampoo – This shampoo is infused with natural ingredients that help to nourish and restore your hair.

4. Kinky-Curly Come Clean Shampoo – This shampoo is sulfate-free and gentle on hair, and it helps to remove product buildup.

5. As I Am Coconut CoWash Cleansing Conditioner – This cleansing conditioner is gentle on hair, and it helps to detangle and moisturize transitioning hair.

What ingredients should you look for in a shampoo for transitioning hair?

When transitioning from chemically treated hair to natural hair, it is essential to use a shampoo that promotes healthy hair growth and nourishment. Look for shampoos that are sulfate-free, as sulfates can strip the hair of its natural oils and cause dryness and breakage. Additionally, choose a shampoo that contains natural ingredients such as aloe vera, coconut oil, argan oil, and shea butter, as these ingredients can help moisturize and strengthen the hair. Avoid shampoos that contain harsh chemicals such as parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances, as these can cause damage to the hair and scalp. A good transitioning shampoo should also be pH-balanced, as this can help maintain the natural pH of the hair and prevent further damage. Overall, look for shampoos that are gentle, nourishing, and free of harsh chemicals to promote healthy and strong transitioning hair.

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