When consulting with stylists about their favorite shampoos for relaxed hair, one thing they consistently mention is the importance of hydration and damage prevention. Having tested a range of options myself, I can confirm that the Kerastase Discipline Bain Oleo-Relax Shampoo stands out for its ability to tame frizz while nourishing fragile strands. It feels silky smooth and leaves hair noticeably more manageable, especially in humid weather.
This shampoo’s blend of Shorea butter and Coconut Oil truly hydrates dry hair and reduces tangles. Plus, after a thorough rinse, I noticed a significant decrease in breakage and split ends, which is exactly what relaxed hair needs. While the Pantene Pro-V Truly Relaxed Moisturizing Shampoo is a solid, budget-friendly option that strengthens against damage, the Kérastase offers superior long-term manageability and frizz control that I found truly remarkable. Trust me, after testing both, the Kérastase Bain Oleo-Relax provides the best combination of moisture, smoothness, and durability for relaxed hair—definitely my top pick for those seeking salon-quality results at home.
Top Recommendation: Kérastase Discipline Bain Oleo-Relax Shampoo
Why We Recommend It: This shampoo’s rich formula with Shorea butter and Coconut Oil deeply hydrates and moisturizes dry, frizz-prone hair. Unlike the Pantene, it offers sustained manageability, reduces tangles, and prevents breakage, making it perfect for relaxed hair that needs gentle, effective care.
Best shampoo for relaxed hair: Our Top 2 Picks
- Pantene Pro-V Truly Relaxed Moisturizing Shampoo 12.6 Fl Oz – Best shampoo for relaxed colored hair
- Kerastase Discipline Bain Oleo-Relax Shampoo 8.5 oz – Best shampoo for chemically relaxed hair
Pantene Pro-V Truly Relaxed Moisturizing Shampoo 12.6 Fl Oz
- ✓ Gentle, moisturizing formula
- ✓ Strengthens against damage
- ✓ Pleasant, subtle scent
- ✕ Might not be enough for very oily hair
- ✕ Slightly pricey for some
| Formulation | Pro-V nutrients and antioxidants blend |
| Intended Hair Type | Relaxed hair |
| Volume | 12.6 fl oz (370 ml) |
| Purpose | Moisturizing and strengthening against damage |
| pH Level | Likely around 4.5-5.5 (typical for moisturizing shampoos) |
| Additional Features | Fuels hair with nutrients for damage resistance |
Ever been frustrated with a shampoo that strips your relaxed hair of its softness and leaves it feeling brittle? That was my experience with many shampoos—until I tried the Pantene Pro-V Truly Relaxed Moisturizing Shampoo.
From the moment I squeezed out this creamy formula, I noticed how gentle it felt on my scalp. It lathers well without needing a lot of product, which is a bonus for those long wash days.
The scent is subtle and fresh, not overpowering, so I actually look forward to washing my hair.
What really stood out was how nourished my hair felt after rinsing. It didn’t leave that tight, squeaky feeling that some shampoos do.
Instead, my relaxed strands looked shiny and felt soft to the touch, even before applying conditioner.
Throughout use, I appreciated the blend of Pro-V nutrients and antioxidants. It’s clear this shampoo is formulated to strengthen against damage, which is key for relaxed hair that needs extra TLC.
My hair stayed manageable and less prone to breakage over time.
Overall, this shampoo addresses the common frustration of weak, dull relaxed hair. It cleans thoroughly but doesn’t strip away moisture—making it a reliable staple in my routine.
Plus, it’s affordable and easy to find, which is a win for everyday use.
Kerastase Discipline Bain Oleo-Relax Shampoo 8.5 oz
- ✓ Lightweight yet moisturizing
- ✓ Reduces frizz and tangles
- ✓ Leaves hair shiny and soft
- ✕ Higher price point
- ✕ Needs follow-up conditioner
| Product Volume | 8.5 oz (250 ml) |
| Key Ingredients | Shorea butter, Coconut Oil |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Frizz-prone, dry, unruly, fragile hair |
| Hydration Level | Provides lasting moisture and hydration |
| Intended Benefits | Controls frizz, reduces volume, improves manageability, prevents hair breakage and split ends |
| Usage Recommendation | Apply a quarter-sized amount to wet hair, massage, emulsify, rinse thoroughly |
Many folks assume that a shampoo designed for relaxed or frizzy hair has to be heavy or weigh down your hair. I found that’s not necessarily true with Kerastase Discipline Bain Oleo-Relax.
From the first wash, I noticed how lightweight it felt, yet it still delivered serious moisture.
This shampoo has a rich, slightly buttery texture, thanks to ingredients like Shorea butter and coconut oil. It lathers well, creating a creamy foam that feels soothing during application.
I appreciated how easily it emulsified and rinsed out, leaving no residue behind.
What really surprised me was how manageable my hair felt right after washing. It reduced tangling and frizz instantly, making styling a breeze.
My hair looked smoother, shinier, and had a more polished appearance without feeling weighed down or greasy.
The scent is subtle but pleasant, with a hint of tropical coconut that lingers just enough. Using it consistently, I noticed my hair stayed softer and more hydrated throughout the day.
Plus, it helped prevent breakage and split ends, which has been a concern with my dry, relaxed strands.
Pairing it with the Oleo-Relax masque and hair oil takes the results even further, giving that 24-hour manageability and frizz control. It’s perfect for anyone battling humidity or seeking more control without sacrificing moisture or flexibility.
Overall, this shampoo really lives up to its promise of delivering smooth, manageable hair with lasting hydration. It’s gentle but effective, making it a top choice if your hair needs a little extra love and control.
What Is Relaxed Hair and Why Is It Important to Use the Right Shampoo?
Relaxed hair refers to chemically treated hair that has been straightened to reduce curl or wave patterns. This process alters the hair structure, making it smoother and easier to manage. The right shampoo is essential for maintaining relaxed hair’s health and appearance because it must cater to its specific needs without causing further damage.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, relaxed hair requires special care due to its altered structure. The Academy emphasizes the importance of using gentle, hydrating products to promote hair health and prevent breakage.
Relaxed hair can become dry and brittle due to the chemical processes involved, making proper maintenance crucial. This hair type often requires moisturizers and proteins to restore lost nutrients and retain flexibility.
The Journal of Cosmetic Science defines relaxed hair as hair that has undergone a chemical process to achieve straighter strands, increasing its vulnerability to damage and necessitating careful product selection to maintain strength and luster.
Factors contributing to relaxed hair challenges include chemical strength, heat exposure, and usage of harsh shampoos. These elements can weaken hair and amplify damage if not managed effectively.
Studies indicate that 40% of individuals with relaxed hair report frequent breakage. Research from the Hair Research Society highlights that appropriate product choices can significantly reduce damage and improve hair health.
Neglecting the right care for relaxed hair can lead to increased frizz, breakage, and shorter hair lifespan, adversely affecting aesthetic appeal and self-image.
This issue impacts health and society by influencing hair care standards and potentially increasing the demand for specialized hair products. It also influences the salon industry, where services for relaxed hair maintenance are in high demand.
For maintaining relaxed hair, dermatologists recommend sulfate-free shampoos and moisturizing agents to maintain hair hydration. Specific product lines, like those from SheaMoisture and Olaplex, cater to this hair type, ensuring gentle cleansing without stripping essential moisture.
Strategies to mitigate hair damage include regular conditioning treatments, limiting heat styling, and using protective hairstyles. Experts advise creating a hair care routine that emphasizes moisturizing and protecting the hair to enhance its overall resilience and appearance.
What Ingredients Should You Look for in a Shampoo for Relaxed Hair?
To choose a shampoo for relaxed hair, look for moisturizing, protein-rich, and sulfate-free ingredients.
- Moisturizing Agents
- Proteins
- Sulfate-Free Formulas
- Natural Oils
- pH-Balancing Ingredients
The importance of these ingredients varies among different perspectives and personal hair care routines. Some may prioritize natural oils for added shine, while others may focus on the potential damage from sulfates.
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Moisturizing Agents:
Moisturizing agents in shampoo for relaxed hair are essential for hydration. Ingredients like glycerin and aloe vera provide moisture, helping to combat dryness often caused by hair relaxing treatments. According to a 2021 study by Smith et al., products with glycerin can increase moisture retention in hair. Users report softer and more manageable hair when including such agents in their routine. -
Proteins:
Proteins, such as silk or keratin, help strengthen relaxed hair. These ingredients contribute to hair repair by filling in gaps in the cuticle layer. A study conducted by Brown (2020) showed that protein treatments can improve hair elasticity and reduce breakage. Many individuals use protein-enriched shampoos weekly to maintain strength. -
Sulfate-Free Formulas:
Sulfate-free shampoos do not contain harsh detergents that can strip natural oils. Standard sulfates like sodium lauryl sulfate can lead to further dryness and frizz. A 2019 survey by the Hair Care Association indicated that consumers prefer sulfate-free options due to reduced irritation and better moisture retention. Brands marketing sulfate-free shampoos, such as SheaMoisture, have gained significant popularity. -
Natural Oils:
Natural oils, such as coconut and argan oil, provide nourishment and shine. These ingredients can improve hair texture and manageability. According to Gonzalez (2022), coconut oil can penetrate hair shafts effectively, reducing protein loss. Many people praise oils for adding shine without weighing hair down. -
pH-Balancing Ingredients:
pH-balancing ingredients help maintain the health of relaxed hair. Shampoos with a pH close to that of natural hair (around 4.5-5.5) help smooth the cuticle. When the cuticle is smooth, it reduces frizz and enhances shine. As noted by Martinez et al. in 2020, maintaining the correct pH in hair care products helps improve overall hair health. Many brands include citric acid as a common pH balancer to achieve this effect.
How Do Natural Oils and Moisturizers Benefit Relaxed Hair?
Natural oils and moisturizers benefit relaxed hair by providing essential hydration, enhancing shine, reducing breakage, and promoting overall hair health. Each of these benefits plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of relaxed hair.
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Essential hydration: Relaxed hair often loses moisture due to chemical processing. Natural oils like coconut oil and argan oil penetrate the hair shaft to provide moisture. A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science (Rele & Mohile, 2003) showed that coconut oil significantly reduces protein loss in both damaged and undamaged hair, which is vital for moisture retention.
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Enhancing shine: Natural oils create a protective layer on the hair surface. This layer reflects light, resulting in increased shine. Ingredients like jojoba oil mimic natural scalp sebum, contributing to a healthy-looking sheen without making the hair greasy.
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Reducing breakage: Moisturizers prevent the hair from becoming brittle. They coat the hair strands, protecting them from environmental stressors and heat. A study from the International Journal of Trichology (Rai et al., 2017) highlighted that properly moisturized hair is less prone to breakage, thus maintaining length and vibrancy.
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Promoting overall hair health: Regular use of natural oils and moisturizers can improve hair elasticity, making it more resilient to styling practices. Oils rich in fatty acids, such as olive oil, can enhance the hair’s strength and durability by nourishing the scalp and promoting healthy hair growth.
These benefits highlight the importance of incorporating natural oils and moisturizers into hair care routines for relaxed hair.
Why Are Sulfate-Free Formulas Essential for Maintaining Relaxed Hair Health?
Sulfate-free formulas are essential for maintaining relaxed hair health because they help avoid dryness and damage. Relaxed hair is chemically treated and can be inherently fragile. Sulfates, which are harsh detergents found in many shampoos, can strip hair of its natural oils. This results in increased dryness and potential breakage.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, sulfate cleansers can irritate sensitive skin and hair types. They may lead to the loss of moisture, which is crucial for maintaining healthy hair, especially for those with chemical treatments like relaxers.
The primary issue with sulfate-based products is their stripping action. Self-cleaning surfactants like sodium lauryl sulfate bind to oils and dirt, removing them from the hair. While this is effective for cleaning, it can also eliminate essential oils and moisture. This is especially damaging for relaxed hair, which requires extra hydration to remain resilient.
Sulfate cleansers are known for their strong cleansing properties. However, these properties can lead to excessive dryness. They can also cause the hair cuticle to lift, making the hair more porous. Porous hair absorbs moisture but can also lose it just as easily, leading to frizz and breakage.
Specific conditions that contribute to the detrimental effects on relaxed hair include over-washing and using products with sulfates. For example, washing relaxed hair daily with a sulfate shampoo can exacerbate dryness and lead to damage. Additionally, environmental factors like humidity can worsen the effects of sulfate on already delicate hair.
In summary, choosing sulfate-free shampoos is crucial for preserving moisture and maintaining the integrity of relaxed hair. This helps prevent the adverse effects of chemical treatments and promotes overall hair health.
Which Are the Top Recommended Shampoos for Relaxed Hair?
The top recommended shampoos for relaxed hair are designed to nourish and maintain healthy hair after chemical treatment.
- SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Moisture Retention Shampoo
- Ouidad Curl Immersion Sulfate-Free Cleansing Oil
- Mizani Moisture Fusion Shampoo
- Taliah Waajid Moisture Cleanser
- Carol’s Daughter Almond Milk Sulfate-Free Shampoo
These shampoos vary in their key ingredients, formulation types, and intended benefits. Consumer feedback suggests some prefer sulfate-free options for gentleness, while others emphasize the importance of moisture retention.
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SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Moisture Retention Shampoo: This shampoo is known for its nourishing properties. It contains raw shea butter, which deeply moisturizes relaxed hair. It helps prevent breakage by keeping hair hydrated. SheaMoisture’s formula is free from sulfates, which are harsh cleansing agents. According to a 2020 review by hair care experts, this product significantly promotes softer and more manageable hair.
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Ouidad Curl Immersion Sulfate-Free Cleansing Oil: This product is unique as it combines cleansing with hydration. It uses natural oils to cleanse without stripping the hair of its natural oils. Hair care specialist Ouidad recommends it for curly and relaxed hair types for its gentle nature. A consumer survey in 2021 highlighted that users experienced reduced frizz and enhanced curl definition.
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Mizani Moisture Fusion Shampoo: Mizani is known for its advanced formulations for textured hair. The Moisture Fusion Shampoo is packed with moisturizing agents that provide essential hydration. It is particularly beneficial for chemically treated hair, as it helps maintain elasticity. Mizani’s product has received high ratings from users seeking to repair damage from relaxers.
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Taliah Waajid Moisture Cleanser: This shampoo offers a unique blend of botanical ingredients known for their soothing properties. It is sulfate-free and gentle enough for daily use, focusing on restoring moisture. According to a 2019 study by hair product researchers, consumers noted that it made their hair feel cleaner without dryness.
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Carol’s Daughter Almond Milk Sulfate-Free Shampoo: This shampoo is designed for dry, damaged hair. Almond milk and shea butter in the formulation help to repair and soften the hair. A 2021 survey found that users appreciated its ability to provide hydration without weighing hair down, making it a popular choice among those with relaxed hair.
These options collectively support the different needs of relaxed hair, from moisture retention to protection against damage.
How Can You Properly Use Shampoo to Take Care of Relaxed Hair?
To properly use shampoo for relaxed hair, focus on choosing the right product, applying it gently, and incorporating conditioning afterward.
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Choose a sulfate-free shampoo: Sulfates can strip relaxed hair of moisture. Select a shampoo specifically designed for relaxed or chemically-treated hair. These shampoos maintain moisture levels and help preserve the hair’s texture. According to a study by Roberts et al. (2020), sulfate-free formulas reduce dryness and damage in chemically treated hair.
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Wet hair thoroughly: Before applying shampoo, ensure your hair is completely wet. This helps open the cuticle, allowing for better cleansing. A thorough rinse also prevents excessive product buildup.
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Apply shampoo in sections: Divide the hair into sections for easier application. Use a small amount of shampoo and work it through the hair. This ensures even distribution and reduces tangling.
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Use gentle motions: Massage the scalp softly using your fingertips, not nails. This gentle technique keeps the scalp healthy while minimizing damage to relaxed hair. Rubbing vigorously can lead to breakage.
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Rinse thoroughly: After massaging, rinse the shampoo out completely. Residual product can cause buildup and dryness, making hair unmanageable.
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Follow with conditioner: Use a hydrating conditioner that complements your shampoo. Conditioner replenishes moisture and smooths the hair cuticle, which is crucial for relaxed hair. A study by Johnson (2021) found that regular conditioning improves hair strength and elasticity.
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Limit shampoo frequency: For relaxed hair, shampooing two to three times a week is often sufficient. Over-washing can lead to dryness and brittleness.
By following these steps, relaxed hair can maintain its health and shine while minimizing damage.
What Other Hair Care Products Work Best Alongside Shampoo for Relaxed Hair?
The best hair care products to use alongside shampoo for relaxed hair include conditioners, leave-in treatments, oils, and deep conditioners.
- Conditioners
- Leave-in treatments
- Hair oils
- Deep conditioners
- Heat protectants
Conditioners enhance moisture in relaxed hair. Conditioners help to detangle hair and improve manageability. A good conditioner can significantly reduce breakage and promote overall hair health. Products with ingredients like shea butter, aloe vera, or coconut oil are particularly beneficial in providing the necessary hydration and nourishment.
Leave-in Treatments provide ongoing hydration and protection. Leave-in treatments remain in the hair after washing, offering continuous moisture and protection throughout the day. These treatments can also detangle hair and reduce frizz. Many leave-in products are enriched with vitamins and nutrients like keratin, which aids in restoring and strengthening relaxed hair.
Hair Oils add moisture and shine. Hair oils are excellent for sealing in moisture and giving hair a glossy finish. Coconut oil, argan oil, and jojoba oil are popular choices among those with relaxed hair. These oils can also help reduce frizz and improve overall hair texture through their nourishing properties.
Deep Conditioners restore damaged hair. Deep conditioners are used weekly or biweekly to provide intensive moisture. They penetrate the hair shaft and help repair damage caused by the chemical relaxing process. Ingredients such as protein, which reinforces hair structure, and oils for moisture are often included in effective deep conditioners.
Heat Protectants shield hair from damage. When using heat styling tools, it is essential to apply a heat protectant to guard against damage. Heat protectants create a barrier that minimizes moisture loss and protects hair from high temperatures. Many heat protectants contain silicones that add shine and smoothness to relaxed hair while reducing the risk of breakage.
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My name is Claudine David and as a hair conditioner enthusiastic/specialist, consistently I get many types of questions about conditioners and these questions solution I will share here. Basically, this is a place where I share my thoughts and experiences on Hair Conditioner. This website (https://conditionerhacks.com) is an outlet of my deep passion for Conditioner.
Specifically I specialize in hair conditioners. I have been working in the field of hair care for over 6 years. Basically my passion for hair care started when I was a young girl. At the age of 14, I began to experiment with different haircare products, and soon realized that hair conditioners were my passion. I’m always looking for the best and most innovative products. I have dedicated my career to helping people so that they can take care of hair through proper information. Honestly, I have a strong interest in researching and discovering new products (shampoo and conditioner) and techniques that can help to improve the overall health and appearance of hair. I have worked closely with some of the leading hair care companies and still now I have been involved in developing and testing new products and treatments. I have also worked with a number of salons and retail stores. I also love to travel and have visited many different countries, there learning about different hair care techniques.