Owners Curly and dry hair can be a challenge to manage, but with the right shampoo and conditioner, it’s totally doable!

In this blog post, we will discuss the best clarifying shampoos for curly and dry hair in 2023.

We know that finding the right products can be overwhelming, so we want to make it easy for you by providing our top 9 picks.

Not only are these shampoos great for removing build-up, but they also help to hydrate and nourish your hair.

So, if you’re looking for a shampoo that will take care of your curls, look no further!

Keep reading to learn more about the best clarifying shampoos for curly hair!

How We Choose the Best Clarifying Shampoo for Curly Hair

Curly hair can be a challenge to manage, especially when it comes to keeping it clean and free of product build-up.

Over time, curly hair can become weighed down by products, oils, and sweat, which can lead to a dull appearance and scalp odor.

The best clarifying shampoos for curly hair are designed to remove all the built-up gunk, while still being gentle enough not to strip away your natural color or oil.

We’ve read thousands of reviews on Amazon to find the best options for you.

Best Shampoo to Remove Buildup

MopTop Detox Shampoo

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Why We Love It

The MopTop Detox Shampoo is a game-changer when it comes to hair care. This product is specially formulated to remove any unhealthy build-up from your scalp and hair strands.

With ingredients that target the accumulation of product residue caused by minerals, silicone, wax, chlorine, and shea butter, you can rest assured that your hair will feel fresh and revitalized.

This Detox Shampoo is perfect for all hair types, whether you have thin, thick, straight, wavy, curly, or coily hair. It effectively removes impurities from the scalp and primes any hair texture for styling and/or color treatment.

If you're looking for a shampoo that can reset and clarify your hair, this product is definitely worth trying out.

What You Should Know

When it comes to haircare, it's important to not only find products that work but products that are also good for your hair.

MopTop's Detox Shampoo is a great example of a product that ticks both of those boxes. The shampoo is free of harmful ingredients like parabens, sulfates, and phthalates and instead uses a coconut cleanser to naturally restore balance to your hair. Plus, the product is super concentrated, meaning a little goes a long way.

Just massage it into wet hair until you achieve a rich lather, then rinse completely. For best results, detoxify your hair every 4-6 weeks. With MopTop's Detox Shampoo, your hair will not only look great, but it will also be happy and healthy.

Best For for a deep clean

Carol's Daughter Wash Day Delight Clarifying Shampoo and Conditioner

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Why We Love It

Carol's daughter wash day delight micellar water-to-foam shampoo with Aloe is a game changer for those with dry, brittle hair.

This clarifying shampoo not only lathers quickly, but it also leaves your hair feeling soft and refreshed without causing harsh friction. This is due to the fact that the formula contains micellar water, which works to attract and trap dirt and impurities.

In addition, the formula also includes aloe vera, which helps to soothe and moisturize the scalp.

As a result, this shampoo is an excellent choice for those with dry, sensitive scalp.

It is also a sulfate free clarifying shampoo, making it ideal for those who are looking to avoid harsh chemicals.

What You Should Know

This exclusive jelly-to-cream formula is blended with Glycerin, a naturally-derived ingredient known to lock in moisture, and Aloe, leaving scalp and hair feeling moisturized and hair looking touchably soft.

Plus, the collection is designed to work best when used together.

This shampoo is 98 percent naturally derived ingredients, blended with aloe for all hair types.

This sulfate free, silicone free, paraben free, no artificial colors formula is vegan and gentle on fine hair, leaving it looking and feeling healthy.

So, why not give it a try today? You'll be glad you did!

Best Balanced Hydrating Clarifying Shampoo

GIOVANNI Eco Chic 50:50 Clarifying Shampoo

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Why We Love It

Your hair is your crowning glory, so it's important to take good care of it. If you're looking for a shampoo that leaves hair pH balanced and will leave your hair looking and feeling its best, try Giovanni Eco Chic 50:50 Clarifying Shampoo.

This unique formula infuses each strand of hair with a proprietary blend of vitamins, nutrients, and proteins to increase strength and vitality. The result is healthy, shiny hair that is soft to the touch.

In addition, the clarifying properties of this shampoo help to remove build-up from styling products, leaving your hair clean and refreshed.

Whether you have color-treated or chemically-treated hair, Giovanni Eco Chic 50:50 Clarifying Shampoo is a great way to keep your locks looking their best.

If you want to know an honest review about this product, check out the video below:

What You Should Know

Giovanni Eco Chic 50:50 Clarifying Shampoo is vegan-friendly and cruelty-free.

The shampoo is also sulfate free, which helps to prevent the stripping of natural oils from the hair.

In addition, the shampoo contains aloe vera and rosemary extract, which help to soothe the scalp and promote healthy hair growth.

The Giovanni Eco Chic 50:50 Clarifying Shampoo is a great choice for those who are looking for a gentle, yet effective cleansing option.

Best Light Clarifying Shampoo

TWIST Hit Reset Clarifying Shampoo

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Why We Love It

As you know, curly hair care regimen can be a bit of a balancing act. You need to keep them hydrated, but you also don't want them to get weighed down by products or excess oils. That's where our Hit Reset Clarifying Shampoo comes in.

It gently removes build-up without stripping away the essential oils your curls need to stay strong and healthy.

So if your curls are looking a little lackluster, give them a reset with this gentle clarifying shampoo. Your curls will thank you for it!

What You Should Know

Wash day just got a whole lot better with this clarifying shampoo.

Aloe vera hydrates and soothes the scalp while promoting your natural hair growth. Rice protein encourages volume and texture, so your curls don't fall flat. Panthenol protects hair's cuticle to add volume, shine, and texture.

Balance your curls' pH levels and lock in moisture by fortifying your hair's natural lipid barrier.

Use it frequently to improve consistency and elasticity for beautifully bouncy curls.

Best For Boosting Shine & Moisture

ACURE Curiously Clarifying Shampoo

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Why We Love It

This refreshing lemongrass-scented shampoo is designed to remove product buildup and boost shine. It's also packed with moisture replenishing ingredients to keep your hair healthy and hydrated.

Whether you have dry, brittle hair or oily, greasy hair, ACURE Curiously Clarifying Shampoo is a great option for clarifying and revitalizing your curls.

Plus, it's vegan and cruelty-free, so you can feel good about using it knowing that no animals were harmed in the making of this product.

What You Should Know

A good clarifying shampoo can work wonders for your hair, and ACURE's Curiously Clarifying Shampoo is one of the best on the market.

This vegan shampoo is formulated with lemongrass oil and other beneficial oils, making it gentle enough for everyday use. It's also free of harsh chemicals like parabens, sulfates, and formaldehyde, and it's certified cruelty-free. In other words, it's good for your hair AND the planet.

Whether you're trying to get rid of build-up or simply want to give your hair a fresh start, ACURE's Curiously Clarifying Shampoo is worth a try.

Best Detox Shampoo for Buildup Removal and Light Nourishment

OGX Purifying + Charcoal Detox Shampoo

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Why We Love It

Looking for a way to detox your hair? OGX Purifying + Charcoal Detox Shampoo is here to help.

This purifying shampoo is infused with coconut charcoal and kaolin clay, which work together to bust through buildup and leave your hair looking and feeling its best. The result is balanced, nourished hair with a healthy glow.

So why wait? Give your hair the detox it deserves with OGX Purifying + Charcoal Detox Shampoo.

What You Should Know

OGX hair care products are inspired by nature and designed to bring out your best.

Their line of products includes something for every hair type, whether you need quenching moisture for curly hair, protection for color treated hair, blowout cream or matte pomade.

In addition to working well, their products also smell great, making your hair not only look good but also smell irresistible.

So if you're looking for a natural way to improve your hair, try OGX. You won't be disappointed.

Best Organic Clarifying Shampoo.

Avalon Organics Clarifying Shampoo

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Why We Love It

If you're looking for a shampoo that will leave your hair feeling clean, refreshed, and free of build-up, then Avalon Organics Clarifying Shampoo is just what you need.

This gentle formula cleanses and revitalizes hair while removing excess oils and dulling build-up.

Plus, it's made with organic ingredients, so you can feel good about using it.

The next time your hair is looking oily or lifeless, reach for Avalon Organics Clarifying Shampoo and let it work its magic!

What You Should Know

Avalon Organics Natural Clarifying Lemon Shampoo is a carefully balanced blend of lemon essential oil, quinoa protein, aloe and vitamin E.

This shampoo gently conditions and seals the hair cuticle, leaving it looking smooth and bright.

The lemon essential oil provides a refreshing scent, while the quinoa protein helps to strengthen and repair damaged hair. Aloe vera has soothing properties that help to calm the scalp, and vitamin E helps to protect the hair from environmental damage.

This shampoo is ideal for those who are looking for a natural way to improve the condition of their hair.

Best for Fighting Dandruff and Itchy Scalp

Luseta Tea Tree Clarifying Shampoo with Argan Oil

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Why We Love It

Luseta Tea Tree Clarifying Shampoo uses the cleanser properties of Tea Tree oil to improve hair texture.

Argan oil is known for its ability to help hair restore, enhance and grow. This shampoo also creates the best natural nourishing shampoo for dry itchy scalp and thin hair.

Luseta Tea Tree Clarifying Shampoo is free from harsh chemicals and sulfates that can damage your hair.

It is safe for all hair types, including color-treated hair. This shampoo will leave your hair feeling clean, refreshed and healthy.

What You Should Know

One of the best ways to take care of your hair is to use shampoo that is specifically designed to cleanse and clarify. This shampoo not only does an excellent job of cleansing your hair and scalp, but it also helps to eliminate impurities.

In addition, the natural moisturizer will help repair any damage that has been done to your hair from blow drying, flat ironing, or sun exposure.

As a result, this shampoo is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to take care of their hair and keep it looking its best.

Best for Strengthens Hair Cuticle

Redken Hair Cleansing Cream Clarifying Shampoo

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Why We Love It

If you're looking for a clarifying shampoo that will remove product build up, excess oil, and pollution residue, then you need Redken Detox Hair Cleansing Cream.

This shampoo is ideal for all hair types and textures, and it will leave your hair feeling refreshed and looking shiny and healthy.

So, if you're looking for a clarifying shampoo that will give you salon-quality results, then look no further than Redken Detox Hair Cleansing Cream.

What You Should Know

Throughout the day, there are several ways to get dirt, grease, grime, and product in your hair. Tap water can also cause build up in your hair!

The Redken Hair Cleansing Cream is a clarifying shampoo that helps to deeply cleanse your curls for a fresh beginning. This professional solution cleanses your hair without removing any of the moisture or luster.

A one-time use clarifying shampoo that removes product buildup, excess oil, and pollution residue from all types of hair while leaving it healthy and shiny!

Best Clarifying Shampoo for Curly Hair - Buying Guide

Curly hair is gorgeous, but it can be prone to build-up that leads to dullness and lifelessness. Clarifying shampoos are a great solution to this problem.

However, not all clarifying shampoos are created equal. In this buying guide, we’ll explore the factors you should consider when choosing the best clarifying shampoo for curly hair.

Type of Clarifying Shampoo

Clarifying shampoos come in two types: sulfate-based and sulfate-free. Sulfate-based shampoos are effective at removing buildup, but they can strip your hair of essential oils and cause damage. If you have curly hair, which is already prone to dryness, sulfate-based shampoos may not be the best option for you.

On the other hand, sulfate-free clarifying shampoos may be gentler on your hair, but they may not be as effective at removing buildup. It’s important to determine which type of clarifying shampoo is best for your hair type and needs.

Ingredients

When shopping for clarifying shampoos for curly hair, it’s important to look for specific ingredients that can help nourish and protect your curls. Some key ingredients to look for include:

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is a great ingredient for curly hair because it can help soothe an irritated scalp and hydrate your curls. Look for a clarifying shampoo that contains a high concentration of aloe vera.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce scalp irritation. Additionally, tea tree oil can help control dandruff and promote hair growth.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar has a pH level that is similar to your scalp’s natural pH level. This means that it can help balance your scalp’s pH and reduce itchiness and flakiness.

Hair Type

Curly hair comes in many different types, from loose waves to tight coils. When choosing a clarifying shampoo, it’s important to consider your specific hair type and needs.

Fine Hair

If you have fine curly hair, you should look for a clarifying shampoo that is lightweight and won’t weigh your curls down. Additionally, you may want to look for a shampoo that contains ingredients like keratin or biotin, which can help strengthen your hair.

Thick Hair

If you have thick curly hair, you may want to look for a clarifying shampoo that contains ingredients like argan oil or shea butter. These ingredients can help moisturize and nourish your hair, leaving it soft and shiny.

Frequency of Use

While clarifying shampoos are great for removing buildup from your curls, they can also be harsh on your hair if used too frequently. It’s important to determine how often you should use a clarifying shampoo based on your hair type and needs.

If you have oily hair or use a lot of styling products, you may need to use a clarifying shampoo once a week. However, if you have rough hair or color-treated hair, you may want to limit your use of clarifying shampoos to once a month.

Best Clarifying Shampoo for Curly Hair - FAQs

Curly hair can be a challenge to manage, especially when it comes to shampooing.

It's important to use the right kind of shampoo when you have curly hair, but it can be hard to figure out which one that is.

We've put together this list of the most frequently asked questions about best clarifying shampoo for curly hair to help you make the best decision for your curls.

Does my curly hair need clarifying?

Yes, curly hair definitely needs clarifying! Curly hair is prone to buildup from products, sebum, and even hard water. This can lead to weighed-down curls, frizz, and a generally unhealthy appearance.

Clarifying helps to remove all of this buildup and restore your curls to their natural state.

You’ll know it’s time for a clarify when your hair feels lifeless, limp, or extra greasy.

What causes waxy buildup on hair?

There are a few different things that can cause waxy buildup on hair. One of the most common causes is using shampoos and conditioners that are not meant for your hair type. If you have oily hair, for example, using products that are too heavy or designed for dry hair can leave behind a waxy coating.

In some cases, hard water can also cause buildup, as minerals in the water can bind to the hair shaft and create a film.

Finally, excessive heat styling (think: blow drying, flat ironing) can also lead to wax buildup, as it essentially melts the natural oils in your hair and leaves them behind on the strands.

Can clarifying shampoo bring back curls?

Yes, clarifying shampoo is designed to remove any product build-up on the scalp and hair that may be causing your curls to lose their shape. By removing the build-up, your curls will be able to retain their natural curl pattern.

How often should I clarify my curly hair?

It’s important to do this every 4-6 weeks or as needed.

How do you know if you need clarifying shampoo?

There are a few ways to know if you need clarifying shampoo. The first is if your hair feels heavy and greasy, even after you've washed it. This is usually a sign that your hair is covered in product build-up. Clarifying shampoo can help remove this build-up and leave your hair feeling light and clean again.

Another way to tell if you need clarifying shampoo is if your scalp feels oily or itchy. This can be a sign of product build-up on the scalp, as well. Clarifying shampoo can help get rid of this build-up and relieve the itching and oiliness.

What happens if you don't clarify your hair?

If you don't clarify your hair, it will become weighed down by products, excess oils, and dirt. This will cause it to look greasy and feel heavy. Clarifying shampoo is designed to strip away all of this build-up, leaving your hair clean and refreshed.

What does buildup on hair look like?

Buildup on hair can look like a number of things, but the most common type of buildup is oily sebum. Sebum is the oil that your scalp produces to keep your hair healthy and lubricated. However, when too much sebum is produced, it can build up on the scalp and hair shaft, making your hair look greasy, heavy, and dirty.

Another type of buildup that can occur on hair is product residue. If you use a lot of styling products or shampoos with high levels of sulfates (surfactants), there's a good chance that some of that residue will end up coating your hair shaft.

What is the difference between purifying and clarifying shampoo?

Purifying shampoos are meant to remove build-up from the hair, such as excess oils, styling products, and environmental pollutants. Clarifying shampoos are similar in that they also remove buildup, but they go a step further by also stripping away natural oils that keep the scalp and hair healthy.

Because of this, clarifying shampoos should only be used once or twice a month at most, whereas purifying shampoos can be used more frequently.

How do you naturally clarify curly hair?

There are a few things you can do at home to help clarify your curls and bring back their shine. One is to make a simple vinegar rinse. Add one cup of white vinegar to two cups of water, and pour the mixture over your head after shampooing. Let it sit for a minute or two, then rinse thoroughly. The vinegar will help to remove any remaining product build-up or minerals that may be dulling your curls' shine.

You can also try using a baking soda rinse. Mix 1/4 cup of baking soda with 1 cup of water. Pour the mixture over your hair after shampooing, and massage it into your scalp. Rinse thoroughly, and then condition your hair as usual. Baking soda is a great natural clarifier, and it will help remove any built-up product or dirt from your hair.

Is apple cider vinegar good for curly hair?

Apple cider vinegar can be very beneficial for curly girl method. It helps to restore the pH balance of the scalp, which can help to reduce scalp itching and dandruff. It also helps to lock in moisture, which can help to prevent frizziness.

Best Clarifying Shampoo for Curly Hair for You

We hope that our in-depth exploration of the best clarifying shampoos for curly hair has helped you find the perfect product for your individual needs.

With so many great options on the market, we’re sure that you’ll be able to find a shampoo that leaves your curls clean, healthy, and looking their best.

Thanks for following along with us on this journey.

Happy shopping!

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Manal Z.
Author Manal Z.

Immersed in the world of fashion, beauty, and wellness. Her writing reflects her passion exploring trends, endorsing sustainable products, and healthy lifestyle.

Immersed in the world of fashion, beauty, and wellness. Her writing reflects her passion exploring trends, endorsing sustainable products, and healthy lifestyle.