15 Best Shampoo for Curly Hair in U.S. [August, 2024]

Finding the right shampoo is crucial for maintaining healthy, defined curls. The wrong shampoo can dry out curly hair, causing frizz and damage. That’s why it’s important to choose a formula made specifically for curls.

In this blog, we review the top 15 shampoo and conditioner sets for curly hair. We look at key ingredients, hair types each product works best for, real user reviews, and provide our expert opinions. We also include sections on how to choose a shampoo for your curls, the different types available, and tips for caring for curly hair.

Whether your curls are loose waves or tight coils, this guide will help you find the perfect shampoo and conditioner match. Read on for reviews of the top curl-defining shampoos to get hydrated, frizz-free locks!

1. Not Your Mother’s Curl Talk Shampoo and Conditioner – 12 fl oz (2 Pack) – Shampoo and Conditioner for Curly Hair

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Not Your Mother’s Curl Talk Shampoo and Conditioner set is specially formulated for curly hair. It is infused with coconut oil, quinoa and flaxseed to cleanse, condition and define curls. The shampoo gently cleanses without stripping natural oils while the conditioner helps hydrate, detangle and reduce frizz.

Key Features:

• Sulfate-free and paraben-free formula
• Contains coconut oil, quinoa and flaxseed
• Gently cleanses and conditions
• Helps reduce frizz and enhance curl definition
• Leaves hair soft and manageable

Our Expert Opinion:

This shampoo and conditioner duo is one of the best for curly hair. The formula is nourishing yet lightweight, perfect for enhancing natural curl pattern and controlling frizz. The coconut oil helps add shine while the quinoa protein strengthens and protects hair. For best results, apply conditioner generously and allow it to soak in for a few minutes before rinsing out.

2. Shea Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner Set, Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine, Curly Hair Products with Coconut Oil, Vitamin E & Neem Oil, Frizz Control, Family Size, 16 Fl Oz Ea

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The Shea Moisture Coconut & Hibiscus shampoo and conditioner targets dry, frizzy curly hair. It hydrates and nourishes hair while promoting curl definition. The key ingredients include coconut oil, hibiscus flower and silk protein.

Key Features:

• Contains coconut oil, hibiscus and silk protein
• Deeply hydrates and nourishes hair
• Reduces frizz and defines curls
• Ideal for thick, dry, frizzy hair
• Family size bottles

Our Expert Opinion:

This moisturizing duo from Shea Moisture is one of the best for very dry, coarse curly hair that tends to be frizzy. The coconut oil and hibiscus flower extract provide intense hydration and curl definition. The silk protein helps strengthen and repair damaged areas. Use the shampoo first then apply the conditioner liberally on damp hair. Let it soak for 5 minutes before rinsing.

3. Luseta Curl Enhancing Coconut Oil Shampoo & Conditioner Set,Unlimited Bounce and Definition, Reduce Frizz and Repair Dry Hair, for All Curl Types Sulfate Free

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The Luseta Curl Enhancing set uses coconut oil to boost hydration and curl definition for all curl types. The shampoo and conditioner are packed with nourishing ingredients like quinoa, coconut and monoi oil.

Key Features:

• Formulated with coconut, monoi and quinoa oil
• Deeply conditions and hydrates
• Reduces frizz and repairs dryness
• Enhances bounce, shine and curl definition
• Sulfate-free

Our Expert Opinion:

If you’re looking for a shampoo/conditioner duo that boosts hydration and curl definition, this set from Luseta is a winner. It is great for all curl types and perfect for color treated hair too. For optimal results, apply the conditioner generously on wet hair after shampooing and let it penetrate for 5-7 minutes before rinsing. Your curls will be soft, defined and frizz-free.

4. SheaMoisture Shampoo Curl and Shine for Curly Hair Coconut and Hibiscus Paraben Free Shampoo 13 oz

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This SheaMoisture shampoo is specially formulated for curly hair. It hydrates and smooths hair while enhancing natural curl pattern. The formula contains coconut oil, hibiscus flower and Neem seed oil.

Key Features:

• Made for curly hair
• Contains coconut oil, hibiscus and Neem seed oil
• Hydrates and smoothes hair
• Enhances natural curl pattern
• Paraben-free
• 13 oz bottle

Our Expert Opinion:

This SheaMoisture shampoo is one of the best for curly hair as it provides hydration and frizz control. The coconut oil nourishes, the hibiscus flower boosts shine, and the Neem oil strengthens hair. For best results, massage shampoo into damp hair and allow it to penetrate for a few minutes before rinsing thoroughly. Follow with the SheaMoisture conditioner.

5. Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Strengthening Shampoo Infused with Biotin, Cleanses and Helps Strengthen Weak and Brittle Hair, 12 Ounces

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The Mielle Rosemary Mint shampoo is designed to cleanse and strengthen weak, brittle hair. It contains rosemary and peppermint oils to stimulate follicles and improve circulation. Biotin strengthens strands and prevents breakage.

Key Features:

• Formulated with rosemary, peppermint and biotin
• Gently cleanses while strengthening
• Stimulates follicles to reduce shedding
• Improves hair elasticity and minimizes breakage
• 12 oz bottle

Our Expert Opinion:

This is an excellent shampoo for curly hair that is weak or prone to breakage. The rosemary, peppermint and biotin formula cleanses gently while making strands stronger and more resilient. Allow shampoo to penetrate for 2-3 minutes before rinsing thoroughly. For best results, follow with the Mielle conditioner and hair masque.

6. Not Your Mother’s Naturals Curl Defining Shampoo and Conditioner Sets – 2 Pack – 98% Naturally Derived Ingredients, Sulfate-Free Shampoo & Conditioner for All Hair Types (Gardenia & Mango Butter)

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This shampoo and conditioner set from Not Your Mother’s is infused with gardenia and mango butter to hydrate and define curls. The mild, sulfate-free formula cleanses gently without drying out hair.

Key Features:

• Contains gardenia and mango butter
• 98% naturally derived ingredients
• Sulfate-free, paraben-free
• Hydrates and defines curls
• For all hair types

Our Expert Opinion:

This shampoo/conditioner duo nourishes hair beautifully without weighing it down. The gardenia extract is soothing and hydrating while the mango butter seals in moisture. Allow conditioner to penetrate for a few minutes before rinsing out. This set is great for all curl types and perfect for color treated hair too.

7. Moroccanoil Curl Enhancing Shampoo

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Moroccanoil’s Curl Enhancing Shampoo is specially formulated for curly and wavy hair. It gently cleanses while boosting hydration and curl definition. Key ingredients include antioxidant-rich argan oil, keratin and wheat protein.

Key Features:

• Made specifically for curly hair
• Infused with argan oil and keratin
• Gently cleanses and boosts hydration
• Strengthens and enhances curl pattern
• Wheat protein helps repair damage

Our Expert Opinion:

This is an excellent curl-enhancing shampoo that provides lightweight moisture while gently removing buildup. The argan oil nourishes strands and boosts shine. Massage into damp hair and allow the shampoo to penetrate for a few minutes before rinsing thoroughly. For optimal results, follow with the Moroccanoil conditioner.

8. Botanic Hearth Curly Hair Shampoo and Conditioner Set For Curly Hair | Detangle, Define & Enhance Curls | With Jojoba oil & Vitamin E | Sulphate Free | 16 fl oz x 2

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The Botanic Hearth shampoo and conditioner set is designed specifically for curly hair. It contains nourishing ingredients like jojoba oil, vitamin E, shea butter and aloe vera. The formulas are free of sulfates and parabens.

Key Features:

• Made for curly hair
• Infused with jojoba oil, vitamin E and shea butter
• Sulfate-free and paraben-free
• Gently cleanses, conditions and detangles
• Enhances curl definition and minimizes frizz
• 16 oz bottles

Our Expert Opinion:

This shampoo and conditioner set manages to cleanse, condition, and define curls without weighing hair down. The jojoba oil adds moisture, while the vitamin E strengthens strands and enhances shine. For best results, massage shampoo into damp hair and allow it to penetrate before rinsing. Apply conditioner liberally and comb through with wide-tooth comb.

9. LUS Brands Love Ur Curls for Curly Hair, 3-Step System – Shampoo and Conditioner Set with All-in-One Styler – LUS Curls Hair Products – No Crunch, Nonsticky, Clean – 8.5oz each

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The LUS Brands 3-step system provides a shampoo, conditioner and all-in-one styler for curly hair. The sulfate-free formulas are lightweight and provide frizz control and definition without crunch or buildup.

Key Features:

• 3-step system: shampoo, conditioner and styler
• Lightweight and non-sticky
• Defines curls and reduces frizz
• Adds moisture without buildup
• Paraben-free and sulfate-free
• 8.5 oz bottles

Our Expert Opinion:

This 3-step system from LUS Brands is one of the best for curly hair. The shampoo and conditioner cleanse and hydrate without stripping, while the styler boosts definition and controls frizz. For optimal results, use all 3 products and scrunch styler into wet hair before air drying. Your curls will look healthy, defined and frizz-free.

10. Love Ur Curls LUS Brands Shampoo for Curly, Wavy, Kinky-Coily Hair, 8.5 oz – Sulfate-Free Gentle, Moisturizing Shampoo – Hair Care Products for Soft, Smooth Curl Definition

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This LUS Brands Shampoo is a sulfate-free, gentle cleanser formulated for curly, coily and wavy hair types. It hydrates hair while preserving natural oils for frizz-free, defined curls.

Key Features:

• Made for curly, coily and wavy hair
• Light, sulfate-free formula
• Gently cleanses and hydrates
• Preserves natural oils for frizz control
• Boosts softness and curl definition
• 8.5 oz bottle

Our Expert Opinion:

This moisturizing shampoo from LUS Brands is ideal for curly hair. The sulfate-free formula provides a gentle cleanse that won’t strip natural oils or dry hair out. For best results, massage into damp curls, let it penetrate for a few minutes before rinsing. Follow with the LUS conditioner for extra hydration and definition.

11. L’Oreal Paris EverCurl Sulfate Free Shampoo and Conditioner Kit for Curly Hair, Lightweight, Anti-Frizz Hydration, Gentle on Curls, with Coconut Oil, 8.5 Ounce, Set of 2 (Packaging May Vary)

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This shampoo and conditioner set from L’Oreal is formulated specifically for curly hair. The lightweight formulas are infused with coconut oil to boost hydration and control frizz.

Key Features:

• Made for curly hair
• Contains hydrating coconut oil
• Sulfate-free, gentle formulas
• Cleanse and condition without weighting hair down
• Enhance curl definition and reduce frizz
• 8.5 oz bottles

Our Expert Opinion:

This EverCurl set from L’Oreal is great for curly hair as it provides long-lasting hydration and frizz control. The coconut oil nourishes strands while the sulfate-free formulas gently cleanse without stripping oils. For optimal results, shampoo first then apply conditioner generously and comb through with a wide-tooth comb.

12. Aussie Miracle Curls Collection: Shampoo, Conditioner, Deep Conditioner, Spray Gel, Detangling Milk, and Oil Hair Treatment (6 Piece Set)

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This Aussie Miracle Curls collection provides a complete curl care set – shampoo, conditioner, deep conditioner, detangler, gel and oil treatment. The formulas contain Australian jojoba oil and are designed for curly hair.

Key Features:

• 6-piece curl care set
• Contains nourishing Australian jojoba oil
• Shampoo, conditioner, deep conditioner, detangler, gel & oil treatment
• Sulfate-free, paraben-free
• For curly and wavy hair types

Our Expert Opinion:

This Aussie Miracle Curls collection has everything you need for defined, frizz-free curls. The shampoo and conditioner cleanse and hydrate, while the deep conditioner and oil treatment provide intense moisture. Use the gel and detangling milk for styling. Follow directions on each product. Your curls will look healthy and beautiful!

13. Shea Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner Set, Coconut and Hibiscus Curl & Shine 13-oz ea Bundled with Curl Enhancing Smoothie 12-oz. Curly Hair Products with Coconut Oil, Vitamin E & Neem Oil

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This set from Shea Moisture bundles their Coconut & Hibiscus shampoo and conditioner with their Curl Enhancing Smoothie – an intensely hydrating styler for curly hair. The shampoo and conditioner nourish and define curls while smoothing frizz.

Key Features:

• Contains shampoo, conditioner and curl enhancing smoothie
• Formulated with coconut oil, hibiscus and silk protein
• Nourishes hair and defines curls
• Smooths frizz and enhances shine
• Paraben-free

Our Expert Opinion:

This Shea Moisture trio provides a complete curly hair care regimen. The shampoo and conditioner provide hydration, definition and frizz control while the smoothie locks in moisture and boosts shine. For best results, shampoo and condition first then apply the smoothie on wet hair and air dry. Your curls will look healthy, defined and frizz-free.

14. Kristin Ess Hair Curl Shea Butter Shampoo and Conditioner Set for Curly Hair Bounce + Shine – Anti Frizz Moisture Shampoo + Deep Conditioner – Clean + Vegan Curly Hair Product for All Curls 2A-4C

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This shampoo and conditioner set from Kristin Ess is formulated with rich shea butter to hydrate and define curls. The paraben-free, vegan formulas are gentle enough for all curl types.

Key Features:

• Contains hydrating shea butter
• Gentle, vegan and paraben-free
• Boosts moisture and curl definition
• Minimizes frizz and enhances shine
• For all curl types 2A to 4C

Our Expert Opinion:

This shampoo and conditioner duo nourishes curls beautifully while enhancing bounce and shine. The shea butter provides intense moisture to minimize frizz, while the mild formulas cleanse gently. For best results, shampoo first then apply conditioner liberally. Let it soak for 3-5 minutes before rinsing. Your curls will look healthy and defined.

15. Marc Anthony Strictly Curls 3x Moisture Deep Shampoo & Conditioner for Curl Defining & Anti Frizz – Shea Butter, Marula Oil, Aloe & Coconut Oil – Sulfate Free Color Safe for Dry Damaged Curly Hair

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This shampoo and conditioner set from Marc Anthony is formulated with shea butter, marula oil and coconut oil to provide intense hydration for curly hair and protect against frizz. The color-safe formulas deeply moisturize dry, damaged curls.

Key Features:

• Contains shea butter, marula oil and coconut oil
• Deeply hydrates and nourishes hair
• Enhances curl definition and minimizes frizz
• Color-safe and sulfate-free
• For dry, damaged curly hair

Our Expert Opinion:

This Marc Anthony set is ideal for very dry, damaged curls in need of hydration and frizz protection. The rich oils and butters provide intense moisture while enhancing curl pattern. For best results, shampoo first then apply conditioner liberally. Comb through hair with a wide-tooth comb and let sit for 5-10 minutes before rinsing.

Comparison for Best Shampoo for Curly Hair

Best Shampoo and Conditioner for Curly Hair

When looking for the best shampoo and conditioner for curly hair, you want to choose products specifically formulated for curls. The shampoo should gently cleanse without stripping natural oils while the conditioner should provide plenty of moisture and slip. Some top options include:

• SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Shampoo + Conditioner – hydrating and frizz-fighting
• Not Your Mother’s Curl Talk Shampoo + Conditioner – defines curls and reduces frizz
• Ouidad Curl Quencher Shampoo + Conditioner – helps enhance and maintain curl pattern
• DevaCurl Low-Poo Original + One Condition Original – gentle cleansing and conditioning for curls
• Carol’s Daughter Coco Creme Shampoo + Conditioner – replenishes moisture and adds shine
• Cantu Shea Butter Shampoo + Conditioner – nourishing for very dry, coarse hair
• Kristin Ess Hydrating Shampoo + Conditioner – provides weightless moisture
• Mielle Organics Pomegranate & Honey Shampoo + Conditioner – gently cleanses while reducing frizz

Be sure to choose a shampoo and conditioner formulated for your specific curl type and hair needs. Let the conditioner soak in before rinsing for optimal hydration and frizz control.

Best Clarifying Shampoo for Curly Hair

Clarifying shampoos are useful for removing product buildup from curly hair. Some top choices include:

• Carol’s Daughter Wash Day Delight Clarifying Shampoo – removes residue without drying hair
• Kinky-Curly Come Clean Shampoo – deep cleansing for all curl types
• DevaCurl Buildup Buster – gentle clarifying with nourishing botanicals
• Ouidad Water Works Clarifying Shampoo – chelating and deep cleaning for curls
• SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore Shampoo – clarifies while stimulating growth
• Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo – budget-friendly option to eliminate product buildup
• Rizos Curls Reset Clarifying Shampoo – removes buildup without stripping natural oils

Use a clarifying shampoo about once a week or as needed. Massage it into damp hair and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing thoroughly. Be sure to follow with a good hydrating conditioner after clarifying. This will help prevent hair from becoming overly dry.

How to Choose the Best Shampoo for Curly Hair

When choosing a shampoo and conditioner for curly hair, here are some helpful tips:

• Look for lightweight, hydrating formulas – Choose products that provide moisture without weighing hair down. Ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, aloe vera and argan oil are great.
• Avoid harsh sulfates – Sulfate-free shampoos are gentler on curls and won’t strip natural oils.
• Use a conditioner – A good conditioner is vital for hydrating and detangling curly hair. Let it soak in for a few minutes before rinsing.
• Consider your hair type – Very dry, frizzy hair may need richer formulas with oils/butters. Fine, dense curls do better with lighter products.
• Read reviews – Check feedback from people with similar hair types to find products that work.
• Give it time – It may take some trial and error to find your perfect match. Be patient!

Different Types of Shampoos for Curly Hair

There are a few main types of shampoos formulated specifically for curly hair:

Moisturizing shampoos – Contain oils and butters to hydrate hair and reduce frizz. Great for dry, coarse hair.

Cleansing shampoos – Gently remove buildup without stripping natural oils. Ideal for most curl types.

Anti-frizz shampoos – Usually contain oils/silicones to smooth the cuticle and control frizz. Help define curls.

Volumizing shampoos – Help add body and bounce while cleansing. Best for fine, limp curls.

Color protection shampoos – Help retain color vibrancy and moisture in color treated curls.

Growth stimulating shampoos – Contain ingredients to improve circulation and strengthen hair follicles to encourage growth.

How to Care for Curly Hair

Here are some tips for maintaining healthy, defined curls:

• Shampoo less frequently – 1-2 times per week is often enough for curly hair. Over-washing can dry it out.
• Always use conditioner after shampooing and let it soak in for a few minutes before rinsing.
• Detangle gently with a wide-tooth comb while conditioner is on hair. Avoid brushing when dry.
• Dry hair with a cotton T-shirt or microfiber towel instead of terrycloth to avoid frizz.
• Use a leave-in conditioner or curl cream after washing to enhance definition.
• Try protective styles like braids or twists at night to reduce breakage and tangles.
• Get regular trims to remove split ends and keep curls healthy.
• Deep condition weekly to boost hydration and repair damage.

FAQs about Best Shampoo for Curly Hair

Q. What is the best shampoo and conditioner for curly hair?

There are many excellent shampoo and conditioner options for curly hair. Some top choices include SheaMoisture, Not Your Mother’s, Ouidad, DevaCurl, Carol’s Daughter, Eden BodyWorks, Mielle Organics, Cantu, As I Am, TGIN, Curls, and Kinky Curly. Look for hydrating, sulfate-free formulas designed specifically for curls. The best shampoo and conditioner can vary based on your curl type, hair porosity, and specific needs. Reading reviews from people with similar hair is helpful in choosing products. It often takes some experimentation to find your perfect match.

Q. What is the best shampoo for curly hair?

Some of the best curl-specific shampoos include Not Your Mother’s Curl Talk Shampoo, SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo, Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Defrizzing Shampoo, DevaCurl Low-Poo Delight, and Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Strengthening Shampoo. Look for lightweight, sulfate-free shampoos that gently cleanse while providing moisture to hydrate strands. Ingredients like shea butter, aloe vera, and argan oil are great. Avoid harsh shampoos that will dry out curly hair. Always follow up with a good conditioner.

Q. What shampoo is best for curly hair?

Some top-rated shampoos for curly hair include SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo, Not Your Mother’s Curl Talk Shampoo, Carol’s Daughter Coco Creme Cleansing Curl Shampoo, DevaCurl Low-Poo Original, Ouidad Climate Control Defrizzing Shampoo, Kristin Ess Curl Shampoo, Curls Pure Curl Cleansing Shampoo, and Cantu Shea Butter Hydrating Cream Shampoo. Look for moisturizing, sulfate-free shampoos specifically formulated for curls. Let the shampoo penetrate hair for a few minutes before rinsing thoroughly. Follow with a good curly hair conditioner.

Q. Which shampoo is best for curly hair?

The best shampoo for your curly hair depends on your hair type and needs. Those with very dry hair may benefit from extra moisturizing formulas like Shea Moisture, Carol’s Daughter or Mielle Organics shampoos. People with fine strands need lightweight shampoos like Not Your Mother’s or Ouidad. Limp curls can use volumizing shampoos from Kristin Ess, DevaCurl or Rizos. If you have color-treated curls, try color-safe formulas like Shea Moisture, DevaCurl or Briogeo. Reading reviews for shampoos specifically for your curl pattern is helpful when choosing products.

Q. What are the best shampoo and conditioner for curly hair?

Some of the top-rated shampoo and conditioner sets for curly hair include:

• SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Shampoo + Conditioner
• Not Your Mother’s Curl Talk Shampoo + Conditioner
• Carol’s Daughter Mimosa Hair Honey Shampoo + Conditioner
• DevaCurl Low-Poo Original + One Condition Original
• Ouidad Curl Quencher Moisturizing Shampoo + Conditioner
• Kristin Ess Hydrating Shampoo + Conditioner
• Cantu Shea Butter Hydrating Cream Shampoo + Conditioner
• Curls Blueberry Bliss Reparative Shampoo + Conditioner
• Mielle Organics Pomegranate & Honey Shampoo + Conditioner

Look for hydrating formulas free of sulfates and silicones. Let the conditioner soak in for a few minutes before rinsing out. Make sure to choose products designed specifically for curly hair types. Reading reviews is helpful for finding your perfect match.

Q. How often should you shampoo curly hair?

A. For most curly hair types, shampooing 1-2 times per week is sufficient. Washing too often can dry hair out and cause frizz. Conditioner can be used more frequently.

Q. Should you brush curly hair when dry?

A. Avoid brushing curly hair when it is dry as this can cause frizz and breakage. Use a wide-tooth comb or fingers to gently detangle when hair is wet and conditioned.

Q. Is sulfate-free shampoo better for curly hair?

A. Yes, sulfate-free shampoos are typically gentler on curly hair and do a better job preserving moisture. Harsh sulfates can dry hair out.

Q. How can you add volume to fine curly hair?

A. Use a volumizing shampoo and conditioner formulated for fine curls. When styling, apply products to roots and add lifts at the crown. Avoid heavy oils/creams that will weigh hair down.

Q. What is the best way to dry curly hair?

A. Air drying or diffusing are best – avoid rubbing with towels. Use a cotton shirt or microfiber towel to gently squeeze out excess water before air drying. This minimizes frizz.

Q. Should you use shampoo and conditioner from the same line?

A. Yes, it is generally best to use products designed to work together, like a coordinated shampoo and conditioner pair from a curl-focused brand. The formulas will be tailored to complement each other.