Best shampoos and conditioners in Australia

We read hundreds of customer reviews to find the 21 best shampoos and conditioners in Australia right now.

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Ericka Pingol

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The best shampoos and conditioners in Australia

How did we pick this list?

For this list, we selected shampoos and conditioners based on actual customer reviews and ratings on Amazon. For every category, we carefully chose parameters based on our research and determined products with the highest review score within those parameters.

Read more detail on our methodology below.

Olaplex Bond Maintenance Shampoo No.4

Best overall shampoo

Olaplex Bond Maintenance Shampoo No.4
Image: Supplied/Finder

Pros

  • pH balanced
  • Suitable for all hair types

Cons

  • Not cheap
  • Too drying for some

Why we chose it

For the best overall shampoo, we picked the Olaplex Bond Maintenance Shampoo No. 4. It has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from over 20,000 Amazon reviews.

The No. 4 shampoo from Olaplex helps protect hair from daily stresses. It helps repair damaged hair, split ends and frizz by relinking broken bonds. Apart from being colour-safe, this shampoo leaves hair easier to manage, shinier and healthier. It has a balanced pH of 6 to 6.5.

Apart from being suitable for all hair types, this shampoo helps clarify the scalp and control oil. Customers added that it helps strengthen their locks and tame flyaways and frizz. It also produces a rich lather than cleanses the scalp thoroughly. Some reviews mentioned that it leaves their hair soft to the touch and shinier. It also has a pleasant scent. This shampoo is more expensive than other shampoos in the market, but customers said that you only need a pea-sized amount for each use – a bottle can last you up to six months. But several others said they found the product too drying.

Matrix Biolage VolumeBloom Shampoo

Best shampoo for fine hair

Matrix Biolage VolumeBloom Shampoo
Image: Supplied/Finder

Pros

  • Effectively volumises the hair
  • Gently cleanses the scalp

Cons

  • Leaves a tingly sensation for some
  • Doesn't control frizz, according to some

Why we chose it

For fine hair, we recommend the Matrix Biolage VolumeBloom Shampoo as the best shampoo available online. On Amazon, it has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from over 3,000 reviews.

Matrix Biolage VolumeBloom Shampoo is inspired by the properties of cotton flowers. It helps make hair look plumped and expanded for a long-lasting bouncy volume. The shampoo also gently cleanses the hair with little to no stripping. Apart from being paraben-free, it is suitable for colour-treated and natural hair.

In addition to adding volume to the hair, customers loved that it clarifies their scalp with minimal stripping. It also leaves their locks shiny and soft. The volume it provides is quite long-lasting, according to some reviews. The shampoo foams up nicely and smells fantastic. There were complaints that the product doesn't control frizz. Others also experienced a tingly sensation when using the shampoo, but this seems to be an isolated case.

OGX Biotin Collagen Shampoo

Best shampoo for thick hair

OGX Biotin Collagen Shampoo
Image: Supplied/Finder

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Sulphate-free

Cons

  • Too drying for some
  • Some customers said it leaves a waxy film

Why we chose it

For the best shampoo for thick hair, we selected the OGX Biotin Collagen Shampoo. It has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from more than 2,000 Amazon reviews.

The OGX Biotin Collagen Shampoo helps make the hair thicker and fuller while clarifying the scalp. According to the company, it features an exclusive blend with vitamin B7 biotin, collagen and hydrolysed wheat protein, which helps infuse nutrients to the hair strands. Apart from leaving tresses looking shiny, this product is free of sulphate surfactants.

Customers said that this shampoo is good value for money, adding that it works just as well as pricier shampoos they've tried. It helps manage thick hair while making it volumised and manageable. It also lathers nicely and has a pleasant smell. It also leaves the scalp thoroughly cleansed, and frizz managed. However, this can be too drying for those with an already dry scalp. A few customers also said it leaves a waxy film on their hair.

Marc Anthony Strictly Curls Curl Defining Shampoo

Best shampoo for curly hair

Marc Anthony Strictly Curls Curl Defining Shampoo
Image: Supplied/Finder

Pros

  • Nourishes curly hair
  • Controls frizz and repels humidity

Cons

  • Has an overpowering scent, according to some
  • Doesn't lather easily for some reviewers

Why we chose it

Marc Anthony's Strictly Curls Curl Defining Shampoo is our recommendation for the best shampoo for curly hair. On Amazon, it has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from over 1,000 customer reviews.

This shampoo helps nourish curly hair while holding its shape. It also helps revive dry, frizzy hair and leaves locks shiny and manageable while repelling humidity. According to the company, it is formulated with hydrolysed silk and without parabens, sulphates, SLS and phthalate.

Many customers praised the product for thoroughly cleaning their scalp without being too stripping. It also helps keep their hair wavy and frizz under control. Others loved that it makes their locks shiny, soft and bouncy. It is reasonably priced as well. However, it doesn't lather easily – you may need more than a pea-sized amount to cover your entire hair. Customers said that its lemony scent is quite overpowering as well.

Giovanni 2Chic Frizz Be Gone Shampoo

Best shampoo for frizzy hair

Giovanni 2Chic Frizz Be Gone Shampoo
Image: Supplied/Finder

Pros

  • Lauryl and laureth sulphate-free
  • Safe for coloured hair

Cons

  • Too drying for some
  • Some said it doesn't lather quickly

Why we chose it

For the best anti-frizz shampoo, we selected Giovanni's 2Chic Frizz Be Gone Shampoo, which is also one of our picks for the best anti-frizz products available online. On Amazon, it has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from more than 3,000 reviews.

This anti-frizz shampoo features an exotic oil blend that cleanses and hydrates the hair. It also helps minimise frizz while taming unmanageable hair and flyaways. According to the company, it is free from lauryl and laureth sulphate. The shampoo is vegan-friendly and safe to use on coloured hair as well.

Many customers loved that it leaves their hair feeling clean but not dry. It also helps soften their tresses while managing flyaways. Apart from having a yummy scent, people praised the product for keeping their coloured hair looking vibrant. However, because it has some clarifying ability customers found it too drying. A few reviews also mentioned that it doesn't produce a thick lather.

Fanola No Yellow Shampoo

Best purple shampoo for blonde hair

Fanola No Yellow Shampoo
Image: Supplied/Finder

Pros

  • Keeps hair vibrant
  • Nourishes and cleanses thoroughly

Cons

  • Can stain hands
  • Some found the shampoo too runny

Why we chose it

Our pick for the best purple shampoo for blonde hair is Fanola's No Yellow Shampoo. It has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from more than 35,000 Amazon reviews.

The Fanola No Yellow Shampoo leaves blonde, grey or highlighted hair vibrant with a consistent colour. It is formulated with a special violet pigment with intensive action, which neutralises yellow reflects to give your looks a cool and even reflection.

Apart from leaving blonde locks looking vibrant, customers loved that it nourishes their hair. The colour vibrancy also lasts for a long time, according to others. Some reviews mentioned that it makes their hair bouncy and thoroughly cleansed without drying. It also leaves the hair looking shiny and softer. However, you need to wear gloves when using this product because it tends to leave a purple stain. Others also said it's quite runny, but the consistency isn't really a dealbreaker.

Shea Moisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen and Restore Shampoo

Best shampoo for natural hair

Shea Moisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen and Restore Shampoo
Image: Supplied/Finder

Pros

  • Effectively softens the hair
  • Controls frizz

Cons

  • Some customers experienced itchiness when using the product
  • Difficult to rinse, according to some

Why we chose it

If you have natural hair, we recommend the Shea Moisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Shampoo as the best shampoo available online. It has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 8,000 reviews on Amazon.

According to the company, this shampoo is formulated with the right balance of cleansing and hydrating ingredients. It is suitable for people who regularly colour, perm, heat-style or straighten their hair. Apart from being sulphate-free, it removes build-up while nourishing the hair.

People with natural hair loved that this shampoo leaves their locks looking full and bouncy. It also tames frizz and manages static effects. It also helps promote stronger, longer strands while being nourishing. Other reviews also said it's quite clarifying as well. Those with colour-treated hair mentioned that it keeps their hair vibrant, while people with curly hair said it helps define their curls. Some criticised the shampoo for being difficult to rinse, adding that it tends to leave a residue when not rinsed thoroughly. A few customers also experienced mild itchiness when using the product, but this seems to be an isolated case.

Maple Holistics Moisture Control Shampoo

Best shampoo for oily hair

Maple Holistics Moisture Control Shampoo
Image: Supplied/Finder

Pros

  • Removes build-up
  • Calms and soothes the scalp

Cons

  • Doesn't control frizz, according to some
  • Not cheap

Why we chose it

We chose the Maple Holistics Moisture Control Shampoo as the best shampoo for oily hair. On Amazon, it has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from over 8,000 reviews.

According to the company, this shampoo helps degrease oily hair and remove build-up on the scalp. It is formulated with essential oils to cleanse the scalp while leaving it moisturised and shiny. Apart from being colour-safe, this shampoo is vegan and cruelty-free. It can also be used by people with damaged hair.

Many reviews praised the product for being easy to use – it produces a nice, thick lather that easily coats the hair. It leaves the scalp clean and soothed while degreasing hair strands. Customers also loved the lemony scent. Some mentioned that it makes their locks shinier and healthy-looking. However, several reviews said it doesn't control frizz. It is also more expensive than other oil-control shampoos, but customers said the performance justifies the price tag.

Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

Best anti-dandruff shampoo

Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
Image: Supplied/Finder

Pros

  • Effectively removes dandruff
  • Deep conditioning

Cons

  • Overpowering scent
  • Needs doctor consultation before use if pregnant or breastfeeding

Why we chose it

For the best anti-dandruff shampoo, we recommend the Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo. It has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from more than 37,000 Amazon reviews. This product is also one of our choices for the best anti-dandruff shampoos you can get in Australia right now.

The Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo contains 1% ketoconazole, an effective ingredient against dandruff. It helps kill dandruff and manage flaking and itching by binding the hair's natural protein. Apart from being clinically proven effective, this shampoo can be used twice a week. It is suitable for all hair types as well.

Customers loved that this works for all hair types, including grey hair. It has a rich, thick lather that leaves the scalp flake-free. Others liked the great price point, adding that it works just as well, if not better, than more expensive anti-dandruff shampoos in the market. Apart from being effective, it leaves the hair shiny too. However, it does have an overpowering smell. You also need to consult a doctor if you're pregnant or breastfeeding before using this product.

Toni & Guy Damage Repair Shampoo

Best shampoo for damaged hair

Toni & Guy Damage Repair Shampoo
Image: Supplied/Finder

Pros

  • Effectively repairs damaged hair
  • Good value for money

Cons

  • Doesn't provide volume, according to some
  • Smells too artificial for some

Why we chose it

If you have damaged hair, we recommend Toni & Guy Damage Repair Shampoo as the best shampoo you can get in Australia right now. It has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 600 Amazon customer reviews.

This shampoo repairs hair fibres, leaving your locks stronger and more manageable. It also gently cleanses the hair without drying it out. According to the company, this shampoo is formulated with keratin active technology to help nourish dry, damaged hair.

Customers praised this product for effectively repairing their damaged locks, adding that it also leaves their hair shiny and soft. It also clarifies the scalp with minimal stripping. It's an affordable shampoo that performs as well as pricier alternatives, according to customers. However, it doesn't add volume and a couple of reviews said its fruity scent is too artificial.

Davines NOUNOU Nourishing Illuminating Shampoo For Color-Treated Hair

Best shampoo for dyed hair

Davines NOUNOU Nourishing Illuminating Shampoo For Color-Treated Hair
Image: Supplied/Finder

Pros

  • Leaves hair soft and clean
  • Suitable for sensitive scalps

Cons

  • More expensive than competitors
  • Can be too drying

Why we chose it

Davines NOUNOU Nourishing Illuminating Shampoo For Colour-Treated Hair is our choice for the best shampoo for dyed hair. On Amazon, it has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from more than 900 reviews.

The NOUNOU Shampoo features a rich formula that gently cleanses colour-treated hair while giving it deep nourishment. It also helps hydrate your tresses and restore their natural softness. It contains sweet almond butter and vitamin F that help to restructure the hair shaft.

In addition to smelling amazing, customers loved that it produces a thick lather –you only need a small amount to cover the entire head. It leaves their hair more vibrant-looking and softer. People with sensitive scalps mentioned that it soothes their scalp while thoroughly cleansing it. It's more expensive than its competitors, but reviews said one bottle lasts a long time. However, it tends to be drying, which is a con if your scalp is already dry.

Batiste Dry Shampoo

Best dry shampoo

Batiste Dry Shampoo
Image: Supplied/Finder

Pros

  • Has a pleasant smell
  • Good value for money

Cons

  • Too drying for some
  • Some said it leaves a white residue

Why we chose it

The Batiste Dry Shampoo is our pick for the best dry shampoo available online. It has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from more than 6,000 Amazon reviews. This product is also one of our top picks for the best dry shampoos you can purchase in Australia right now.

This multi-award-winning dry shampoo fixes and revitalises greasy, lifeless hair between washes. According to the company, the waterless formula targets excess oil at the roots. Apart from being vegan-friendly, this product comes in a wide range of scents and sizes as well. It also helps add texture and volume.

This dry shampoo has been a cult favourite, with many customers adding that it is a staple of their hair kit. Others loved that it comes in different fragrances and types to suit all kinds of hair. It is quite effective at removing excess oil at the roots, according to others. However, it tends to leave a white residue. Several reviews also said it's quite drying.

OGX Argan Oil Morocco Conditioner

Best overall conditioner

OGX Argan Oil Morocco Conditioner
Image: Supplied/Finder

Pros

  • Good value for money
  • Suitable even for damaged hair

Cons

  • Some customers experienced hair fall
  • Difficult to rinse

Why we chose it

We recommend the OGX Argan Oil Morocco Conditioner as the best overall conditioner available online. It has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 7,000 Amazon reviews.

This hydrating conditioner helps repair and renew dry hair. It also helps treat damaged and brittle hair, leaving it shinier and softer. It has a citrus-fresh scent that leaves hair smelling amazing. This conditioner is free from parabens and sulphated surfactants as well.

Customers loved this conditioner's price point. They said it works wonders for their locks while being affordable. Others mentioned that it absorbs quickly and doesn't feel heavy. People with damaged hair also said it helps in repairing it. The citrusy scent also smells delicious. A few customers criticised the product for being difficult to rinse. Several others also experienced hair fall when using this conditioner, but these seem to be isolated cases.

Shea Moisture Coconut and Hibiscus Curl and Shine Conditioner

Best conditioner for curly hair

Shea Moisture Coconut and Hibiscus Curl and Shine Conditioner
Image: Supplied/Finder

Pros

  • Helps define curls
  • Lightweight and absorbs quickly

Cons

  • Doesn't add shine according to some
  • Some reviews said it has a chemical-like fragrance

Why we chose it

Our pick for the best conditioner for curly hair is Shea Moisture's Coconut and Hibiscus Curl and Shine Conditioner, which has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 9,000 Amazon reviews.

This Shea Moisture conditioner features an all-natural, lightweight formula that helps smoothen and restore dry hair without weighing your locks down. It also helps soften and detangle frizzy hair while infusing the curls with moisture and shine-boosting nutrients.

Apart from helping define curls, many reviews loved that it's quite lightweight and absorbs quickly. Customers mentioned that it doesn't feel sticky and rinses cleanly. It also helps define their curls while keeping their shape. The conditioner infuses locks with intense moisture and helps manage frizz. Despite being advertised as a shine-giving conditioner, customers said it doesn't really add shine to their tresses. Others also didn't like that it smells like chemicals.

Toni & Guy Volume Addiction Conditioner

Best conditioner for fine hair

Toni & Guy Volume Addiction Conditioner
Image: Supplied/Finder

Pros

  • Helps detangle hair
  • Leaves hair soft and volumised

Cons

  • Too drying according to some
  • Some found it difficult to rinse

Why we chose it

For fine hair, we selected the Toni & Guy Volume Addiction Conditioner for Fine Hair as the best conditioner. It has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from more than 400 Amazon customer reviews.

This conditioner for Toni & Guy is specifically formulated to bring volume and fullness to fine hair. It also adds body to your hair while leaving it healthier and more vibrant. In addition to leaving hair intensely nourished and lightweight, it repairs damage as well.

People with fine hair said this works wonders and adds volume to flat locks. It also leaves the hair softer and bouncier. Customers said that it smells fantastic and doesn't weigh their hair down. It also helps control frizz and detangles the hair. A couple of customers said it's too drying for their liking. Some reviews also complained that it's quite difficult to rinse but added that it's not a dealbreaker.

Giovanni 2Chic Be Gone Conditioner

Best conditioner for frizzy hair

Giovanni 2Chic Be Gone Conditioner
Image: Supplied/Finder

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Controls frizz while leaving hair soft

Cons

  • Too greasy for some
  • A few reviews reported that it leaves a white residue

Why we chose it

Giovanni's 2Chic Frizz Be Gone Conditioner is our choice for the best frizzy hair conditioner. On Amazon, it has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from over 3,000 reviews.

This conditioner contains a dual smoothing complex of shea butter and sweet almond oil to help manage frizz and flyaways without weighing your hair down. According to the company, it is also formulated with a blend of argan, jojoba and coconut oils for hydration. Apart from being colour-safe, it is paraben and cruelty-free.

The 2Chic Frizz Be Gone Conditioner is an affordable product that helps tame unruly frizz while leaving the hair soft and nourished. Customers loved that it doesn't feel sticky and rinses easily. Apart from being vegan-friendly, it also leaves colour-treated hair more vibrant. People with an oily scalp found the conditioner too greasy. Others also said it leaves a white residue, but these seem to be isolated cases.

GK Hair Balancing Conditioner

Best conditioner for oily hair

GK Hair Balancing Conditioner
Image: Supplied/Finder

Pros

  • Degreases and balances hair
  • Helps repair damaged tresses

Cons

  • Some said it doesn't add shine
  • Feels heavy according to some reviews

Why we chose it

GK Hair's Balancing Conditioner is our choice for the best oily hair conditioner. It has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from more than 100 Amazon reviews.

Formulated with a blend of natural seed oils and plant extracts, the GK Hair Balancing Conditioner helps remove excess oil while leaving the scalp thoroughly cleansed. It also restores the pH level of the scalp while helping repair damaged strands for healthier hair. This conditioner is free from gluten, DEA, TEA, sulphate and parabens as well.

Many customers loved how refreshed their scalp feels after using this product. They added that it doesn't strip their hair of moisture. It also softens and detangles hair strands. Reviews liked the refreshing scent and that it rinses cleanly. A couple of customers said it feels heavy but added that it's not a dealbreaker as it's a rinse-off product. Others also mentioned that it doesn't make their hair look shiny.

Sukin Natural Balance Conditioner

Best conditioner for natural hair

Sukin Natural Balance Conditioner
Image: Supplied/Finder

Pros

  • Good value for money
  • Helps balance the hair

Cons

  • Doesn't control frizz according to some
  • Some customers said it's too drying

Why we chose it

We recommend Sukin's Natural Balance Conditioner as the best conditioner for natural hair. On Amazon, it has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 200 reviews.

According to the company, this conditioner is free from sulphates, silicones and other chemicals that can dry out the hair and scalp. It is also formulated for naturally balanced and healthy hair. The conditioner contains extracts of burdock nettle and horsetail, which help promote lustre while revitalising your locks.

Thanks to its blend of baobab and sesame oils, the Sukin Natural Balance Conditioner leaves the hair shiny and soft to the touch. Reviews praised the product for being lightweight. Others also liked that it's not greasy and rinses cleanly. It has a scent of mandarin, tangerine, lavender and vanillin that customers found delicious. But despite being advertised as non-drying, a couple of customers said it left their scalp too dry. It also doesn't help control frizz, some said.

Marc Anthony Strengthening Grow Long Caffeine Leave-In Conditioner

Best leave-in conditioner

Marc Anthony Strengthening Grow Long Caffeine Leave-In Conditioner
Image: Supplied/Finder

Pros

  • Doesn't weigh the hair down
  • Absorbs quickly without leaving a sticky residue

Cons

  • Some said it didn't help detangle strands
  • Too thick for some

Why we chose it

Our pick for the best leave-in conditioner is Marc Anthony's Strengthening Grow Long Caffeine Leave-In Conditioner, which has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from more than 10,000 Amazon reviews.

This leave-in conditioner helps detangle and repair hair breakage. It also helps restore moisture while promoting stronger locks. The product is free from sulphate, parabens, SLS and phthalates. Apart from being extra-nourishing, it leaves the hair soft and shiny.

Customers loved how affordable this leave-in conditioner is. They added that it is even better than higher-end brands they've used in the past. It also doesn't weigh the hair down and helps manage frizz. Some reviews said it absorbs quickly, leaving no residue on the hair. It comes in a spray bottle that produces a fine mist. However, several customers found the consistency too thick – they recommended spraying it to your palms instead of directly to the hair because it tends to go everywhere. Others said it doesn't help detangle strands despite being advertised as doing so.

Bold Uniq Purple Conditioner

Best purple conditioner for blonde hair

Bold Uniq Purple Conditioner
Image: Supplied/Finder

Pros

  • Neutralises brassy tones
  • Leaves blonde hair looking more vibrant

Cons

  • May leave a purple stain on hands
  • Some reviews said it doesn't moisturise

Why we chose it

For the best purple shampoo for blonde hair, we selected the Bold Uniq Purple Conditioner. It has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from more than 1,000 reviews on Amazon.

The Bold Uniq Purple Conditioner is formulated with violet pigments to tone done unwanted yellow tones. It also helps treat dry, damaged strands, leaving the hair silky and nourished. It is paraben, sulphate and cruelty-free as well. The conditioner is vegan-friendly and packed in a bottle made from ocean waste plastic that is fully recyclable.

Despite being pricier than other purple conditioners, customers thoroughly enjoyed this conditioner. They said it leaves their blonde and colour-treated hair looking a lot more vibrant and softer than before. It also doesn't weigh the hair down and rinses cleanly. But since it has a purple hue, you may need to use a glove when applying it, otherwise it may leave purple stains on your hands. It is advertised as moisturising, but customers didn't notice this effect.

Derma E Scalp Relief Conditioner

Best conditioner for dry scalp

Derma E Scalp Relief Conditioner
Image: Supplied/Finder

Pros

  • Soothes itchy scalp
  • Helps detangle strands

Cons

  • Doesn't add volume, according to some
  • Some customers said it feels tingly

Why we chose it

If you're looking for the best conditioner for dry scalp, we recommend Derma E's Scalp Relief Conditioner. It has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from more than 400 Amazon customer reviews.

The Derma E Scalp Relief Conditioner contains salicylic acid that helps remove flakes and build-ups. It also contains sweet almond oil, argan oil and aloe to detangle strands, leaving the hair soft and shiny. The conditioner's therapeutic psorzema herbal blend replenishes dry, irritated and scaling scalp. In addition to being 100% vegan and cruelty-free, it is made without paraben, sulphate, mineral oil, lanolin, GMO and gluten.

According to customers, this helps soothe and relieve their itchy, irritated scalp. It also helps remove excess oil and control dandruff. Some reviews liked that it feels lightweight and adds shine to their tresses. However, it doesn't really add volume. Since it contains salicylic acid, tea tree and menthol, customers said it feels tingly, but added that it goes away after a couple of minutes.

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Methodology

53
Brands considered
125
Products compared
21
Best products chosen
  • We compared shampoos and conditioners from over 50 brands and more than 100 products.
  • We then assessed hundreds of customer reviews and ratings from Amazon.
  • The products on this list are chosen by our editorial team and are not selected based on commercial relationships.

Types of shampoo

Once you look past the marketing lingo on the label, how many different types of shampoo are there? The answer varies depending on who you ask, but as a general guide, these are the main options available to you:

  • Shampoo for dry or oily hair. If you've got dry hair and scalp, look for a shampoo that moisturises and hydrates. If your hair is oily, a balancing or volumising shampoo could be your best bet. Of course, if your hair is not too oily, not too dry, and has no real issues to report, you can look for a shampoo designed for normal hair.
  • Shampoo for different hair textures and densities. There are also products designed specifically for people with curly, straight, wavy, fine or thick hair. For example, if you've got curly hair, you might want to look for a shampoo designed to minimise frizz, while someone with thin or fine hair should choose a volumising shampoo.
  • Shampoo for damaged hair. There are also shampoos designed to repair damaged hair, such as clarifying shampoo that removes product build-up, and shampoos that can restore health to coloured hair. Repair shampoos commonly contain extra protein to help strengthen your strands.

Then there are those products designed for other specialist purposes. Anti-dandruff shampoos, for example, contain a range of active ingredients to prevent dandruff and soothe a dry scalp.

Two-in-one shampoos are another popular option and combine shampoo and conditioner in one product. They can shorten your hair care routine, and choosing this option means there's one fewer bottle crowding up your shower cubicle.

If you want to get the most out of your hair between washes, consider a dry shampoo to boost volume and keep your hair looking clean for longer.

How to compare shampoos

Ready to compare shampoos to find the right one for your hair? Make sure you consider the following factors when weighing up your options.

Ingredients

Check the ingredients list to find out what's in your shampoo. Some sources recommend keeping an eye out for a surfactant known as sodium lauryl sulphate (or SLS). SLS provides the lather for your shampoo, but there are claims that it may damage your hair and potentially cause skin irritations. If you're keen to avoid SLS, look for a shampoo labelled as sulphate-free.

Scalp type

Shampoo isn't just for cleansing your hair, it's also for your scalp and roots. So ask yourself whether you have a dry or oily scalp. If your scalp is dry, look for a shampoo that promises to moisturise and hydrate. If your scalp is oily, look for a balancing or volumising shampoo.

Hair type

Next, consider the density of your hair. Is it thin, thick or somewhere in between? Is it straight, wavy or curly? There are formulas designed for just about every hair type you can imagine, so read the label to find out whether a product could be right for you.

Price

Shampoo prices can vary widely between brands, so be sure to compare options and shop around for the best price. As a general guide, shampoos in your local supermarket tend to range from 40 cents to over $6 per 100mL. As bottle sizes vary, be sure to consider prices on a per-100mL basis to ensure a fair comparison.

Scent

Any shampoo you choose for long-term use will obviously need to have a pleasant scent. It might take a little bit of trial and error before you find a fragrance that's just right.

How often should you wash your hair?

This is the big question many of us would like to know the answer to, but unfortunately, it's one with no easy answer. How often you should wash your hair will depend on your hair and scalp type, plus other factors like how much product you use and even how much you sweat.

Generally speaking, if your hair isn't especially dry or oily, washing every two or three days will be fine. Thin hair or an oily scalp may require more regular washing, even daily in some cases, while people with thick, curly or dry hair can usually get away with going a little longer between washes.

It all comes down to what works best for you, so make sure you recognise the signs that indicate your locks are overdue for some TLC.

Things to consider before choosing a shampoo

There are a few other factors to consider before stocking up on shampoo:

  • No-poo method. Its name might not sound all that healthy, but advocates of this approach claim that it actually provides a whole lot of benefits for your hair. Washing your hair without using traditional shampoo is an option you might like to consider if you don't want to strip natural oils from your hair, or if you just want to use fewer chemicals as part of your beauty routine. There are several no-poo washing options available, with one of the most popular being a combination of baking soda and apple cider vinegar.
  • Dry shampoo and shampoo bars. Traditional liquid shampoo isn't the only option to keep your hair looking its best. Dry shampoo offers a quick and convenient way to reduce the signs of dirt and oil in your hair, extending the time between washes, but it's not a replacement for regular shampoo. Shampoo bars are also a convenient option and also touted as being more environmentally friendly than regular shampoo, so they may be worth a look if you're searching for a different approach to hair care.
  • Why conditioner matters. Of course, shampoo is only one part of your hair care routine – after cleansing your hair with shampoo, applying conditioner will detangle and smoothen your hair. The end result is locks that look healthier and shinier, so check out our conditioner buying guide for more information.

What should I know about conditioner?

We've all heard about the importance of using shampoo and conditioner as part of a regular hair care routine, but what does conditioner actually do?

While shampoo cleanses, it's the conditioner's job to soften and detangle hair and to smoothen hair to protect your strands against damage. The end result is hair that's shiny and healthy, has less static, and is easier to style however you like.

Types of conditioner

Hair conditioner labels, like the labels on a lot of other beauty products, are chock-full of marketing buzzwords and all manner of impressive-sounding claims. So how can you cut through all the lingo to find the best conditioner for your needs?

Well, the most important thing you can do is work out your hair type, and then check the label to find out if a product is designed with your luscious locks in mind. Whether you have hair that is fine or thick, straight or curly, dry or oily, you'll find a product to suit.

For example, if your hair is curly, you might want a moisturising formula designed to tackle frizz. If your hair is thin or fine, a volumising conditioner will help give it more life.

Next, you can also check whether a conditioner is designed to target specific types of hair damage. Some products are designed for coloured hair, for example, while others are made specially for dry and damaged hair.

Once you know what type of hair you have and what you want your conditioner to do, the choice becomes much easier.

How to compare conditioners

The only way to make the right buying decision is to compare conditioners to find a product that's a perfect match for your hair. Be sure to consider the following factors when weighing up your options.

Ingredients

Check the ingredients list to find out what you're putting in your hair. One common ingredient it's recommended you keep an eye out for is a surfactant known as sodium lauryl sulfate (or SLS), which helps haircare products lather. There are claims that SLS may damage your hair if overused and potentially irritate your skin, so you may want to look for a sulfate-free conditioner if you suffer from sensitive skin or eczema.

Hair needs

Next, consider if you have any special needs in terms of improving the look or health of your hair. For example, do you want to repair damaged hair? Do you need your hair to have more shine or volume? Do you want to condition your hair and tackle a dandruff problem at the same time? Check the label to make sure the conditioner you choose will be up to the task.

Hair type

First and foremost, look for a conditioner that has been specifically designed for your hair type. Whether your hair is curly or straight, oily or dry, check the label to make sure the product suits your tresses.

Price

If you're buying from a supermarket, conditioner prices range from around 70 cents to roughly $10 per 100mL. If you're buying a salon brand, you may pay even more.

As always, remember to compare the price per 100mL to ensure an accurate comparison.

Scent

Find a product with a fragrance you like – it will make you a whole lot happier to put the product in your hair.

Things to consider before choosing a conditioner

There are a few other factors you should consider before buying conditioner:

  • Two-in-one shampoo and conditioner. If you're looking to save time on your hair care routine, or just have one fewer bottle crowding up your shower space, you could consider using a two-in-one shampoo and conditioner. These products aren't the right choice for everyone, but it could be worth trying them out on your hair and seeing what results they produce.
  • Switching up your conditioner. There's a common misconception that you need to switch up your shampoo and conditioner regularly to ensure that your hair doesn't become "immune" to their effects, but this simply isn't true. Of course, if your conditioner isn't producing the best results for your hair, feel free to change things up.
  • Choosing a shampoo. Conditioner is only one part of your haircare routine. If you need help choosing the right shampoo, check out our shampoo buying guide.

How and when to use conditioner?

So you've chosen the right conditioner for your hair and you're ready to put it to work, but when is the best time to use it?

The general rule when conditioning your hair is that you need to use shampoo before you reach for the conditioner. Use the amount recommended on the label, then apply it to the tips and strands of your hair, not to your scalp. Once you've massaged the conditioner in, leave it in place for the time recommended on the label (commonly one to two minutes) and then rinse thoroughly.

However, some people with specific hair types may be able to benefit from what's known as reverse washing: using conditioner before using shampoo. Some hairdressers claim that for people with fine hair, reverse hair washing can nourish and hydrate your locks without leaving them greasy and heavy. So if your current shampoo-then-conditioner routine isn't working, it might be worth a try.

Ask for advice

Of course, whichever approach you choose, it may take some trial and error to find out what works best for you. If in doubt, follow the instructions on the label, or ask your hairdresser for advice on how to get the most out of your hair care routine.

If you're ready to make bad hair days a thing of the past, check out our guide to the best shampoos and conditioners in Australia. And when you're ready to start shopping, take a look at our guide to the best sites to buy haircare products online in Australia.

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Ericka Pingol is a writer for Finder specialising in reviews. She has previously written articles about property investment, finances, and health. She’s a huge fan of Tina Fey, bubble teas and dogs. Ericka has a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of the East, Manila and is currently writing her thesis for a Master’s degree in Communication See full bio

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