Choosing the right shampoo and conditioner formula for your hair type is one of the most important things to consider in your haircare routine. Some formulas are more cleansing, while others have more hydrating components, so using the correct formula can help you better achieve your hair goals — whether that be to clarify oily roots or provide nourishment to dry, depleted strands.
Hairstylists Say
“Using (the correct formula) is crucial because improper use can either weigh down your hair or make it even drier. It’s all about finding the right balance for your unique hair needs.”—Michelle Schindler, Los Angeles-based hairstylist
If your hair happens to need more hydration, you’ll want a formula that can soften strands and make them more manageable while also transforming dull and lackluster locks with some shine. This can not only help reverse the common woes of dry hair but also promote overall healthier strands since hair, like skin, needs adequate hydration to be at a healthier state.
With this in mind, our PEOPLE Tested team put 42 formulas to the test to determine which cleansing duos are the best for revitalizing parched strands. After six weeks and 504 total hours of testing, the results are finally in.
PHOTO: amika
Our Ratings
Cleansing Ability
5/5
Hydration
5/5
Consistency
5/5
Effectiveness
5/5
Star Qualities
Increased hydration with just one wash
Thicker consistency helps evenly coat strands
We saw fewer flyaways, more shine, and less product buildup
These Amika formulas are enriched with coconut acid, sea buckthorn, and shea butter to provide strands with deep, thirst-quenching nourishment — earning themselves the top spot on our list. After just one wash, we noticed a significant difference in our hair’s overall hydration levels.
We were most impressed by how well this duo revitalized our dry strands with long-lasting moisture, resulting in a lot more shine and fewer flyaways when styling. The shampoo also works really well to cleanse the scalp (no repeat necessary!), and as a result, we saw much less product buildup throughout our strands. The formula’s thicker consistency makes it easier to coat the hair without over-using the shampoo, leaving hair feeling clean and smelling divine.
Pair with the Amika Normcore Hydrating Conditioner for best results.
Size: 9.2 ounces, 33.8 ounces | Key Ingredients: Coconut acid, sea buckthorn (shampoo); Shea butter, sea buckthorn (conditioner) | Best For: Improving hair’s overall moisture levels for restorative hydration
PHOTO: Amazon
Our Ratings
Effectiveness
4.8/5
Hydration
4.7/5
Consistency
4.3/5
Cleansing Ability
3.9/5
Star Qualities
Hair was noticeably less frizzy
Shampoo and conditioner duo are both super gentle
Waves were more pronounced after six weeks
For a more budget-friendly option, we also love the Monday Haircare Moisture Shampoo + Conditioner Set. This shampoo and conditioner duo is enriched with a blend of shea butter, rice protein, coconut oil, and vitamin E to give strands a burst of hydration in every wash. And, while we didn’t notice an immediate difference, our hair looked much less frizzy and our waves were way more pronounced at the end of the six-week testing period.
The Monday Haircare shampoo and conditioner set is an excellent option for those looking for something a little more gentle on the strands and scalp. The shampoo doesn’t lather as much as we’d like it to, but its gentle cleanse makes it possible to lift away dirt, excess oil, and product buildup without completely stripping the scalp.
Size: 12 ounces | Key Ingredients: Shea butter, rice protein, coconut oil, vitamin E | Best For: Providing a gentle cleanse and condition with noticeably less frizz
People / Michelle Leland
PHOTO: Ulta
Our Ratings
Cleansing Ability
5/5
Hydration
4.5/5
Consistency
4.5/5
Effectiveness
5/5
Star Qualities
Color-safe formula
Includes jojoba oil for nourishment, green tea for scalp support, and sage for hair growth
Deep, salon-worthy cleanse
If you’re concerned about your shampoo interfering with your hair color, we recommend giving the Pureology Hydrate Shampoo a try. This one is enriched with jojoba oil for lightweight nourishment, green tea for scalp health, and sage for its hair growth benefits. Additionally, the Pureology shampoo and conditioner also feature menthol and mint, which provide a cooling effect and stimulate blood circulation in the scalp.
During testing, we were impressed by how well the shampoo worked at cleansing the scalp and strands; it provides a deep, salon-worthy cleanse without a stripping effect. While it worked its hydrating and cleansing magic, it never interfered with our hair color, making it one of the best color-protecting shampoos for dry hair.
Pair with the Pureology Hydrate Conditioner for best results.
Size: 1.7 ounces, 9 ounces, 33.8 ounces | Key Ingredients: Jojoba oil, green tea, sage, menthol, mint | Best For: Adding in a dose of hydration while also stimulating the scalp
PHOTO: People / Michal Hanover
PHOTO: People / Michal Hanover
PHOTO: Aveda
Our Ratings
Cleansing Ability
5/5
Hydration
5/5
Consistency
5/5
Effectiveness
5/5
Star Qualities
Smoother and shinier hair after the first wash
Cleanses the scalp without stripping natural oils
Waves appeared more pronounced with less frizz
Of all the formulas we tried, the Aveda Nutriplenish shampoo and conditioner is one of the most impressive for smoothing strands. This shampoo and conditioner duo is formulated with a deep conditioning blend of pomegranate oil, coconut oil, mango butter, and oat extract to revitalize depleted hair while helping to lock in moisture, soften, and smooth out the strands.
After the first wash, we saw a significant improvement in our hair’s texture, and once styled and dried, our locks looked a lot smoother, too. The shampoo also works well at effectively cleansing the scalp and hair without stripping them of their natural oils — so you get a good cleanse without wreaking havoc on already parched strands. Plus, the Aveda Nutriplenish Conditioner Light Moisture is an excellent follow-up to help add that extra dose of nutrients and further promote a smoothing and de-frizzing effect.
Size: 1.7 ounces, 8.5 ounces, 33.8 ounces | Key Ingredients: Pomegranate oil, coconut oil, mango butter, oat extract | Best For: Smoothing out strands and promoting shine
People / Lisa Pezzuto
PHOTO: Davines
Our Ratings
Cleansing Ability
4.7/5
Hydration
4.5/5
Consistency
4.5/5
Effectiveness
4.7/5
Star Qualities
Made hair hydrated, bouncy, and voluminous
Cartucciaru melon extract delivers nutrients
Cleans the scalp and strands without stripping natural oils
Some hydrating formulas can feel too heavy on the strands and, as a result, cause hair to look more weighed down — but not the Davines Momo Moisturizing Shampoo. The formula is enriched with cartucciaru melon extract to deliver plenty of nutrients (such as vitamins A and C, potassium, phosphorus, and zinc) to strands and revitalize depleted hair without interfering with volume.
During testing, we were impressed by how well it cleansed our scalp and strands. After just one wash, we saw a difference in our hair texture, and our curls appeared a lot bouncier. With regular use, we also found that our hair had a lot more body and shape to it, with plenty of volume, too.
For best results, pair with Davines Momo Moisturizing Conditioner.
Size: 2.5 ounces, 8.4 ounces | Key Ingredients: Cartucciaru melon extract | Best For: Lightweight moisture
People / Jenny Hughes
PHOTO: LolaVie
Our Ratings
Cleansing Ability
4.7/5
Hydration
5/5
Consistency
4.5/5
Effectiveness
4.7/5
Star Qualities
Hair looked and felt smoother, with fewer flyaways and frizz
Weightless feel on the strands
Lightweight scent doesn’t linger, so won’t bother sensitive noses
We’ve been obsessed with Jennifer Aniston’s hair since the ‘90s, so we aren’t surprised that her haircare brand makes one of the best shampoos and conditioners for dry hair. The LolaVie Restorative Shampoo is enriched with tons of incredible ingredients for supporting hair health and reversing damage, including a vegan keratin complexion, vegan ceramides, niacinamide, biotin, and chia seeds.
When testing this formula, we didn’t see immediate results — but over time, we noticed a significant improvement in our overall hair health and an impressive reduction of frizz. Despite their defrizzing abilities, the shampoo and conditioner are ultra-lightweight and have almost an invisible feel on the strands, making them great for fine or thin hair types. It’s also nourishing enough to soften hair and make it more manageable, so it’s a great solution for hair prone to tangles, too.
Pair with the LolaVie Restorative Conditioner for best results.
Hairstylists Recommended
The LolaVie Restorative Shampoo is one of Michelle Schindler’s favorite shampoos for dry hair. This shampoo and conditioner duo is formulated with a blend of ceramides, biotin, niacinamide, and botanical extracts to revitalize and repair strands while keeping frizz at bay.
Size: 2 ounces, 8.5 ounces, 24 ounces | Key Ingredients: Vegetable ceramides, botanical extracts, niacinamide, biotin | Best For: Keeping frizziness at bay while also repairing damaged strands
PHOTO: Moroccanoil
Our Ratings
Cleansing Ability
4.3/5
Hydration
4.3/5
Consistency
4.6/5
Effectiveness
5/5
Star Qualities
Manages frizz and dandruff and protects against damage
Our hair texture improved after just one wash
Curls had a lot more definition and shine after regular use
Want more curl definition? Reach for the Hydrating Shampoo and Conditioner duo from Morocanoil. Like the brand’s famed Treatment Serum, this shampoo is enriched with argan oil for its ultra-nourishing properties that help combat frizz, keep dandruff at bay, and protect against damage. In addition to argan oil, the formula also features red algae (which is ultra-moisturizing) and vitamins A and E for their strengthening and repairing properties.
While testing, we were immediately impressed by how well it improved hair texture. After just one wash, our curls not only looked more defined but also appeared smoother and softer with much less frizz. And at the end of the testing period, our overall shine and vibrancy was restored. While the Moroccanoil shampoo might be a little too heavy for thin and fine hair types, we found that it works wonders on thicker, curlier hair that is in serious need of a moisturizing refresh.
Pair with the Moroccanoil Hydrating Conditioner for best results.
Size: 2.4 ounces, 8.5 ounces, 33.8 ounces | Key Ingredients: Argan oil, red algae, and vitamins A and E | Best For: Balancing moisture and repairing damage
People / Cecily McAndrews
PHOTO: Amazon
Our Ratings
Cleansing Ability
5/5
Hydration
5/5
Consistency
5/5
Effectiveness
5/5
Star Qualities
Hair looked healthier after the first wash
Formulas come in four different sizes with budget-friendly prices
Hair was easier to style, shinier, and less frizzy after regular use
The Nexxus Therappe Ultimate Moisture Shampoo and Nexxus Humectress Ultimate Moisture Conditioner is one of our favorite hydrating duos — and they boast excellent value, too. The shampoo and conditioner formulas come in four different sizes with budget-friendly prices and actually live up to their promises, which certainly isn’t always true for drugstore formulas.
Enriched with green caviar and elastin protein for a replenishing dose of hydration, the shampoo and conditioner work together to revitalize dry and lackluster strands in just one wash. With regular use, we saw an overall improvement in our hair health, and our strands were much easier to style, a lot less frizzy, and even had some healthy shine, too.
Size: 3 ounces, 13.5 ounces, 16.5 ounces, 33.8 ounces | Key Ingredients: Green caviar, elastin protein | Best For: Locking in moisture and restoring flexibility
PHOTO: Ulta
Our Ratings
Cleansing Ability
5/5
Hydration
5/5
Consistency
4.7/5
Effectiveness
4.5/5
Star Qualities
Deep cleanse without stripping strands
Made flyaways much less noticeable
Nourishes without leaving hair heavy
If you have a lot of damage and are looking for a maintenance shampoo that can help repair your strands, reach for the Olaplex No. 4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo. It’s formulated with the brand’s coveted Olaplex Bond Building Technology, which works on a molecular level to repair broken bonds caused by heat and styling damage, color and chemical treatment, brushing, and even the environment.
After six weeks of testing these formulas, we saw an overall improvement in our hair health and noticed that some of the broken flyaway strands around our hairline were much less noticeable. Additionally, we found that the shampoo provides an effective, almost clarifying-like cleanse without stripping strands of natural oil. And, while the conditioner is a little tricky to apply due to its thick consistency, it provides adequate nourishment without leaving hair heavy or greasy.
Pair with the Olaplex No. 5 Bond Maintenance Conditioner for best results.
Size: 8.5 ounces | Key Ingredients: Olaplex Bond Building Technology | Best For: Repairing damaged strands
PHOTO: Amazon
Our Ratings
Cleansing Ability
4.7/5
Hydration
5/5
Consistency
5/5
Effectiveness
4.5/5
Star Qualities
We saw a difference in our hair’s appearance after just one wash
Argan oil nourishes and repairs
Hair felt a lot softer and looked bouncier
For fine hair types that need some rich hydration, consider the Redken All Soft Shampoo. The formula features argan oil for its ultra-nourishing and repairing properties, which can support shinier strands with a softer texture.
Overall, we found that these are highly effective at cleansing and restoring hair and even saw a difference after just one wash. The shampoo easily works into the scalp and roots and effectively lifts away dirt, debris, and excess oil without stripping strands of natural oils. While the conditioner is a little difficult to rinse out — you’ll definitely want to be mindful during this step — it provides the ends with a burst of moisture that softens and smooths out strands.
Pair with the Redken All Soft Conditioner for best results.
Size: 1.7 ounces, 10.1 ounces, 16.9 ounces, 33.8 ounces | Key Ingredients: Argan oil, moisture complex | Best For: Providing lightweight hydration that doesn’t weigh down locks and leaves behind a glossy shine
PHOTO: Amazon
Our Ratings
Cleansing Ability
5/5
Hydration
4.8/5
Consistency
5/5
Effectiveness
4.9/5
Star Qualities
Ultra-thick consistency provides a gentle cleanse
Lathers really well, leaving a very clean feeling
Doesn’t irritate dry or sensitive scalps and
Sensitive scalps can still get an effective cleanse and condition thanks to the gentle nature of the Virtue Labs Recovery Shampoo. This shampoo is enriched with Alpha Keratin 60ku, which is ethically sourced from human hair and designed to fill in the cracks of damaged strands, making it one of the most restorative haircare ingredients.
When testing out this formula, we were impressed overall by its thick and creamy consistency, which made it much easier to spread all over and provide hair with even coverage. On top of that, the shampoo lathers incredibly well, so we felt like we got an effective cleanse without having to repeat the cleansing step. The shampoo works well with the Virtue Labs Recovery Conditioner to provide strands with a healthier-looking finish, plus softer and more manageable strands.
Size: 2 ounces, 8 ounces, 17 ounces | Key Ingredients: Alpha Keratin 60ku | Best For: Providing a gentle cleanse and condition that also repairs damage
Others We Tried
JVN Nurture Hydrating Shampoo: The JVN Nurture Hydrating Shampoo and its corresponding conditioner quench strands with moisture while also supporting a softer texture, stronger strands, and a smoother finish. But, as much as we liked these formulas, we found that they weren’t as effective at providing a deep cleanse. As a result, we found ourselves washing our strands more than usual while trying these out.
People / Roselynn Lemm
Kérastase Nutritive Bain Satin Riche Shampoo: When using this shampoo and conditioner duo, we found that our hair felt much softer at the end of the testing period, making it more manageable when brushing and styling. Our hair also appeared thicker and more voluminous like we’d used one of our favorite shampoos for thinning hair. It’s also one of the most expensive options we tested, so we’d only recommend this one to those looking to splurge on quality haircare.
People / Donna LaChance
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Once you’ve picked a new go-to shampoo for dry hair, turn to these PEOPLE-Tested haircare must-haves. These products are the top options in their respective categories based on our team’s extensive testing.
What to Know About Shampoos and Conditioners for Dry Hair
Absorption
When testing out formulas, absorption is one of the most important factors to consider. “Moisture comes from filling the hair cuticle with water, and the ingredients from the products seal it all in,” says Schindler. She notes that hair is similar to a sponge and needs to be able to absorb the formula in order to retain its elasticity and bouncy texture.
Our top pick for the best shampoos and conditioners for dry hair — the Amika Normcore Hydrating Shampoo and accompanying conditioner — is one of the most hydrating formulas on our list due to its impressive absorption power. Our tester’s hair drank up this formula and, as a result, appeared much more hydrated and well-nourished once dried.
Ingredients
As with most hair and skincare formulas, ingredients are also one of the most important things to consider. Shampoo and conditioner ingredients vary, depending on the type and purpose. For the most part, you want to look for nourishing ingredients such as argan oil, jojoba oil, shea butter, and coconut oil, as well as supportive superstars like biotin, niacinamide, and keratin.
Consistency
Consistency isn’t a make-or-break consideration, but it’s worth keeping in mind. Thicker shampoo formulas might be a little too tricky to work into the scalp, while creamier conditioners cover ends with ease. Throughout our testing period, we carefully considered consistency and how it impacted our experiences, from ease of use to efficacy.
Behind the Scenes
To find the best shampoos and conditioners for dry hair, we researched dozens of formulas before selecting 39 shampoos and conditioners for real-world testing. From there, we began a six-week testing period where we incorporated the formula duos into our regular haircare routine to gain first-hand knowledge of their performance.
Effectiveness: Throughout this timeline, we took extensive notes on the overall efficacy of each formula selected for our six-week test. This included our first experience with the products, how well they held up over time, and the long-term results. During this time, we also took notes on how well the formulas worked on their own and together. Hydration: These formulas needed to provide plenty of hydration. With this in mind, we considered the ingredients in the formulas, how well our hair soaked in the nutrients, and what the overall texture felt like while wet and dry. Consistency: Consistency isn’t a make-or-break but it can play an important role in the overall ease of use and how well the formulas provide an even coverage. Throughout the testing period, we made note of the shampoos and conditioners’ consistency, including what it was like to slather them onto our ends, whether or not they needed to be worked into the scalp and strands for even coverage, and how well they rinsed out. Cleansing Ability: Shampoos for dry hair need to be hydrating, of course, but they should also cleanse the hair — after all, that is their main purpose. While testing the shampoo formulas, we considered each formula’s lathering capabilities, plus how well they removed dirt, debris, and excess oil. We also considered how many times we needed to rinse and repeat in order to get a more effective cleanse, and how long our hair felt cleansed for, compared to our previous shampoos.
Once the six-week testing period was over, we compiled all of our research and notes together to compare our data and narrow down our top selections. After much deliberation, we landed on 13 of the best shampoos and conditioners for dry hair, plus one extra duo worth sharing with our readers for its gentle and nourishing formula.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the best shampoo and conditioner for dry hair?
What is the best shampoo for dry, damaged hair?
Aside from the Amika Normcore Hydrating Shampoo, we also loved the Olaplex No. 4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo — especially for more reparative needs. This formula is enriched with the brand’s Olaplex Bond Building Technology, which works on a molecular level to repair broken bonds. It’s a fantastic choice for those who need a maintenance formula that addresses damaged strands caused by heat styling, color and chemical treatments, brushing, or the effects of the sun’s UV rays. If you have a dry scalp, though, you’ll want to choose a dry scalp shampoo.
Why Trust PEOPLE?
Jessie Quinn is a contributing shopping writer for PEOPLE and has written for publications such as Byrdie, InStyle, The Spruce, NYLON, and more. When covering the best shampoos and conditioners for dry hair, Jessie began by thoroughly researching the formulas tested and reviewing all of the PEOPLE Tested team’s insights to better understand each formula’s performance (both on their own and together). As someone with ultra-dry hair herself, she also leaned on her personal experiences of learning what to look for and what actually works when you have parched strands.
From there, she connected with hair and scalp experts to learn more about the benefits of hydrating shampoos and conditioners, why it’s necessary to choose a cleansing duo based on your hair type and needs, and their insights on what to look for when shopping for these types of shampoos and conditioners.
Meet Our Experts
Dr. Michael I. Jacobs is a board-certified dermatologist and associate professor of dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College.
Michelle Schindler is a Los Angeles-based hairstylist with over 10 years of experience in the industry.
What Is PEOPLE Tested?
We created the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval to help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.
But we don’t stop there: We also regularly re-review the categories in which we’ve awarded the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval — because the best product of today might not be the best of tomorrow. And by the way, companies can never buy our recommendation: Their products must earn it, fair and square.
In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase.
