Top Drugstore Shampoos Recommended by Editors

Drugstore shampoos have become increasingly popular, offering effective results without a hefty price tag. Brands like L’Oreal Paris, Dove, and OGX are recommended for their scalp-soothing actives, moisturizing oils, and clarifying formulas, all starting at just $6. Real Simple’s team, alongside experts like Jennifer Korab and Leigh Hardges, tested various shampoos to find the best options that cleanse without drying the scalp and leave hair hydrated.

One standout is the Aveeno Oat Milk Blend Shampoo, which deeply moisturizes hair without weighing it down, leaving it soft, smooth, and frizz-free. Another favorite, Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo, is known for its ability to keep oily scalps clean longer and effectively address dandruff and hair loss. It’s important to choose the right shampoo based on your hair type, such as OGX’s Biotin & Collagen Shampoo for fine hair or Kristin Ess Clarifying Shampoo for removing product buildup.

Overall, sulfate-free options like the SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Shampoo benefit those with curls, providing definition and reducing frizz. Meanwhile, the L’Oréal Paris Sulfate-Free Repair Shampoo proves to be a great choice for color-treated hair. For those dealing with dryness, Dove’s Hydrating Shampoo offers softness and hydration.

When selecting a shampoo, consider your hair type and concerns, whether fine, thick, oily, or dry. While sulfates are effective cleansing agents, they might not suit those with dry hair or sensitive scalps. Thus, choosing the right formulation can greatly enhance your hair’s health and appearance.