Apr 24, 2024
Honest reviews and all the prices—because girl, we’ve got you covered
This is your bible for all things combination hair and we’re here to tell you the truth about your products, especially if you're dealing with that oh-so-familiar dilemma: greasy roots and dry ends. We feel you, sis. It's like your scalp and ends are speaking different languages, right? But fear not, because we've got your back with a lineup of the 15 best shampoos tailored just for girlies like you, dealing with the ups and downs of combination hair.
You know those mornings when you wake up, and it's like your hair is playing some wild game of tug-of-war? Your scalp's screaming for a cleanse, while your ends are practically begging for a drink. Yep, been there, done that. But trust us, finding the perfect shampoo doesn't have to be a wild goose chase that costs us all our dollars.
With our no-nonsense reviews and all the tea on prices, consider this your go-to guide to slaying those hair goals. Whether you're fighting off excess oiliness, thirsting for moisture, or a bit of both, we've got the rundown that you’re looking for. So, grab your favorite mug (or wine glass—no judgment here), settle in, and let's get down to it. Greasy roots and dry ends? Not in our house—let's unleash all those secrets to your best hair day yet.
Oh and P.S.: The silky smooth jLo locks we see in the movies aren’t that common, so we’re all in the same boat.
Understanding combination hair
Alright, girl, let's get real about combination hair—it's like having two kinds of strands at once. You've got the greasy roots partying up top while the dry ends are screaming for hydration down below. It's the ultimate hair conundrum, but guess what? You're not alone in this struggle.
Combination hair is a tricky beast, often leaving you feeling like your hair just can't make up its mind. But fear not, because we're here to break down the mystery and help you embrace your unique locks.
Causes of combination hair
So, what's behind this whole oily-at-the-top, dry-at-the-bottom situation? Well, it's a bit of a mixtape, really. Let's break it down…
Genetics: Sometimes, you can blame your parents for this one. Thanks, mom and dad! Genetics play a big role in determining your hair type, including whether you'll be blessed with combination locks.
Lifestyle choices: From overloading your strands with products to subjecting them to the heat of styling tools, your daily habits can impact the health of your hair. It's all about finding that balance, and putting that curling iron DOWN.
Environment: Mother Nature can be beautiful at times, but boy is she your nemesis when it comes to your hair. Whether you're battling the dry air of winter or the humidity of summer, the elements can take a toll on your locks.
Hair products: Ah, the endless array of hair products promising miracles in a bottle. But beware, not all products are created equal. Using the wrong shampoo or conditioner can throw your hair's natural balance out of whack—and that’s why we’re here to give you all the best reccos.
We know, we know, it sounds harder than it is. But don't worry, it's not all doom and gloom. Armed with the right knowledge and the perfect collection of products, you can conquer combination hair like a boss.
Understanding the types of combination hair
Just as our skin can be oily in some areas and dry in others, our hair does some copying. Understanding the types of combination hair is really important for selecting the right products to address its unique needs.
Oily scalp, dry ends
Why does my hair get greasy so fast? Well, that is one of the most common types of combination hair problems. The scalp produces excess oil, leading to greasiness, while the ends of the hair lack moisture and appear dry and brittle. Factors like genetics, hormonal fluctuations, and environmental influences can contribute to this imbalance. Choosing a shampoo that effectively cleanses the scalp without stripping away moisture from the ends is key to managing this type of combination hair.
Dry scalp, oily ends
In contrast to the previous type, gals with this combination hair type experience dryness at the scalp and excess oiliness at the ends of the hair. Dry scalp may result from things like dehydration, harsh hair products, or scalp conditions like dandruff—while oily ends can be attributed to the natural distribution of sebum along the hair shaft. Using a moisturizing shampoo to hydrate the scalp and a lightweight conditioner to nourish the ends can help restore balance to this hair type.
Seasonal variation
Combination hair can also show some seasonal variations, with changes in weather impacting its behavior. For example, hair may become drier in the winter months due to exposure to dry indoor air and harsh weather conditions, while it might get oilier in the summer due to increased humidity and sweat production. Adapting your hair care routine to accommodate these seasonal changes can help maintain balance and prevent dryness or excess oiliness. In other words, dry brittle ends? Summer just makes it a whole lot worse. Pack on some moisture and hope for the best!
Understanding your specific combination hair type is the first step towards achieving a healthy and balanced mane. By selecting shampoos and hair care products tailored to address the unique needs of your scalp and hair, you can maintain optimal hydration levels, promote hair health, and ensure that your locks look and feel their best year-round.
Now, the bit we’ve all been waiting for. What is the best shampoo for combination hair? Let’s take a look.
3) Kérastase Specifique Bain Divalent Shampoo - $42
Rating: 9/10
Pros: Effectively cleanses oily roots, hydrates dry ends, stunning scent.
Cons: Pricey for regular use, may not lather as much.
Experience the perfect balance with Kérastase Specifique Bain Divalent Shampoo. Formulated to target oily roots and dry ends simultaneously, this shampoo leaves your hair feeling refreshed and revitalized. However, its luxurious formula comes with a price tag, and some users may find that it doesn't lather as much as other shampoos—but we think it’s almost a 10/10. Love!
2) Redken All Soft Argan-Oil Enriched Shampoo - $26
Rating: 8/10
Pros: Softens and strengthens hair, luxurious scent, adds shine.
Cons: May be too heavy for fine hair, contains sulfates.
Indulge in the ultimate hair pampering experience with Redken All Soft Argan-Oil Enriched Shampoo. Enriched with argan oil and keratin, this shampoo transforms dry, brittle hair into silky-smooth strands that shine with health. Unfortunately, those with fine hair may find it too heavy, and some locks may prefer a sulfate-free formula.
3) Philip Kingsley Moisture Balancing Shampoo - $34
Rating: 8.5/10
Pros: Hydrates dry ends, purifies scalp, gentle formula.
Cons: Slightly expensive, may not provide enough moisture for extremely dry hair.
Unlock the secret to beautifully balanced locks with Philip Kingsley Moisture Balancing Shampoo. Designed to hydrate dry ends while purifying the scalp, this gentle formula leaves your hair feeling clean and nourished. As always with products over 30 bucks, its price point may deter some buyers—and those with extremely dry hair may require additional moisture.
4) Aveda Scalp Benefits Balancing Shampoo - $33
Rating: 9/10
Pros: Soothes and hydrates scalp, natural ingredients, strengthens hair.
Cons: Pricey, may not be suitable for sensitive scalps.
We trust Aveda with our life, so you can trust this recommendation. Level up your hair care routine with Aveda Scalp Benefits Balancing Shampoo. Infused with botanical extracts and essential oils, this shampoo soothes the scalp while strengthening the hair from root to tip. Like all Aveda products, it has a premium price, so it’s not for the faint hearted. We found that those with sensitive scalps may experience irritation, but in the grand scheme of things, it’s pretty perfect. Chef’s kiss.
5) Moroccanoil Clarifying Shampoo - $26
Rating: 9/10
Pros: Removes buildup effectively, nourishes scalp and hair, luxurious scent.
Cons: Pricey, may be too heavy for fine hair.
Experience the ultimate hair detox with Moroccanoil Clarifying Shampoo. Hair products, hard water and mineral deposits, chlorine, and environmental impurities can all leave scalp buildup over time, which can cause dull, greasy or limp hair, but this is fab for fixing that! Infused with argan and avocado oils, this clarifying formula removes impurities and buildup from the scalp and hair, leaving your locks feeling clean and refreshed. Beauty comes at a price, and with its luxurious formula there’s a higher price tag. The downside? Those with fine hair may find it too heavy.
6) Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Triple Detox Shampoo - $36
Rating: 9.5/10
Pros: Removes impurities effectively, leaves hair feeling clean and refreshed, long-lasting freshness.
Cons: Pricey, may not provide enough hydration for extremely dry hair.
Transform your hair care routine with the Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Triple Detox Shampoo. Formulated with activated charcoal and witch hazel extract, this gentle detoxifying shampoo removes buildup and impurities from the scalp and hair, leaving your locks feeling clean, refreshed, and ready for those grease-free after work drinks. Again, its premium price may be a deterrent for some—and those with extremely dry hair may require something more hydrating, but this one could be our winner.
7) Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal + Coconut Oil Micro-exfoliating Shampoo - $15
Rating: 7/10
Pros: Detoxifies scalp, hydrates hair, gentle formula.
Cons: Expensive, may not be suitable for sensitive scalps.
We’ve found a goodie with this one! The Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal + Coconut Oil Micro-exfoliating Shampoo is infused with charcoal and coconut oil, and comes with a gentle formula that detoxifies the scalp and hydrates the hair. It leaves your locks feeling clean, refreshed, and revitalized. It’s a pretty good price for under $20, but sadly, it may be a deterrent for some because of the charcoal, so sensitive scalps be careful!
8) Oribe Serene Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo - $52
Rating: 8.5/10
Pros: Soothes scalp, reduces flakes, luxurious formula.
Cons: Pricey, may not be suitable for color-treated hair.
The only reason this one doesn’t deserve a 10/10 is because of the price. Shock horror, it’s over $50, but girl is it good! Experience the world of luxury with the Oribe Serene Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo. Formulated with salicylic acid and caffeine, this gentle yet effective shampoo soothes the scalp, reduces flakes, and leaves your hair feeling clean and refreshed. The only downside is that those with color-treated hair may prefer a sulfate-free formula—but other than that, we are obsessed (with this kinda price, we’re using it *sparingly*).
9) Bumble and Bumble Seaweed Shampoo - $29
Rating: 8/10
Pros: Cleanses scalp, moisturizes hair, lightweight formula.
Cons: Expensive, may not provide enough hydration for dry hair.
Refresh your hair with the Bumble and Bumble Seaweed Shampoo. Enriched with seaweed extract and sea kelp, this lightweight formula cleanses the scalp and moisturizes the hair, leaving your locks feeling clean, refreshed, and revitalized. It’s at an OK price point, it’s really good for the scalp, but it’s smell is… interesting. We’ll let you decide on this one.
10) Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Special Shampoo - $31.40
Rating: 9/10
Pros: Invigorates scalp, refreshes hair, soothing formula.
Cons: Strong scent, may be drying for some hair types.
Revitalize your hair care routine with Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Special Shampoo. Infused with tea tree oil, peppermint, and lavender extracts, this invigorating formula cleanses the scalp, refreshes the hair, and leaves your locks feeling clean, refreshed, and revitalized. We love that it leaves a tingling sensation on the scalp, but its strong scent may not be suitable for everyone—and those with dry hair may find it more drying *cry*.
11) SheaMoisture African Black Soap Bamboo Charcoal Deep Cleansing Shampoo - $11
Rating: 6/10
Pros: Deep cleanses scalp, clarifies hair, affordable.
Cons: Strong scent, may be too harsh for sensitive scalps.
Curly girlies, we’ve got you. Experience the power of nature with the SheaMoisture African Black Soap Bamboo Charcoal Deep Cleansing Shampoo. Infused with African black soap and bamboo charcoal, this deep-cleansing formula clarifies the scalp and hair, leaving your locks feeling clean and fresh, ready to go all day long. It does come with a strong scent, and can be drying—so those with dry wispy hair, put this down. For its price, you can’t complain.
12) OGX Nourishing Coconut Milk Shampoo - $8
Rating: 8/10
Pros: Hydrates hair, adds shine, affordable.
Cons: Contains sulfates, may be too heavy for fine hair.
Nourish your hair with OGX Nourishing Coconut Milk Shampoo. Infused with coconut milk and coconut oil, this hydrating formula moisturizes the hair, adds shine, and leaves your locks feeling soft, smooth, and silky. If it’s got anything coconut, you can trust it, that’s for sure. Be careful though—its sulfate content may not be suitable for everyone, and those with fine hair may struggle.
13) Herbal Essences BioRenew Blue Ginger & Micellar Water Shampoo - $6
Rating: 6.5/10
Pros: Cleanses scalp, refreshes hair, affordable.
Cons: Strong scent, may not provide enough hydration for dry hair.
We’ve scoured high and low, and have found a drug store goodie. Refresh your hair care routine with the Herbal Essences BioRenew Blue Ginger & Micellar Water Shampoo. Infused with blue ginger and micellar water, this cleansing formula removes impurities, refreshes the hair, and leaves your locks feeling clean and clarified. Like with most clarifying shampoos, you may need some added moisture, but that’s where conditioner comes into play.
14) Not Your Mother's Clean Freak Refreshing Dry Shampoo - $9
Rating: 8/10
Pros: Absorbs oil, refreshes hair, affordable.
Cons: White residue, may not provide enough volume for some hair types.
Short on time? Overslept the alarm? That’s where dry shampoo comes to rescue for us combination hair girls. Revive your locks on-the-go with the Not Your Mother's Clean Freak Refreshing Dry Shampoo. Formulated to absorb oil and refresh the hair, this dry shampoo leaves your locks feeling clean and looking like a fresh blowout. Many dry shampoos are the same, but the white residue may not be suitable for everyone, and those seeking added volume may prefer a different formula.
15) OUAI Detox Shampoo 300ml - $32
Rating: 9/10
Pros: Clarifies scalp, removes buildup, luxurious formula.
Cons: Pricey, may be too drying for some hair types.
We can’t get a-OUAI (get it?) without mentioning one of the biggest brands out there at the moment. Detoxify your hair with OUAI Detox Shampoo. Infused with apple cider vinegar and keratin, this clarifying formula removes buildup and impurities from the scalp and hair, leaving your combination hair looking slick and clean. It has a luxurious formula which comes with a higher price tag—and those with dry hair may find it too drying. Either way, we love this!
Look after your hair, have some patience, and all your woes will go away
Hopefully, all the questions on "why does my hair get greasy so fast," "why is my hair so oily," and "how to fix dry hair" are all covered. And as hard as it may seem, all you need is some good hair care, a whole lot of TLC, and a little bit of patience.
Navigating the world of combination hair may seem like a daunting task, but armed with the right knowledge and products, you can embrace your unique mane with confidence. From oily scalps to dry ends and everything in between, understanding the intricacies of combination hair is the key to unlocking its full potential.
Whether you opt for a clarifying shampoo to banish excess oil, a moisturizing formula to hydrate dry ends, or a combination of both, the important thing is to listen to your hair's needs and adjust your routine accordingly. With a little time and perseverance, you can achieve the perfect balance and unleash the full beauty of your combination hair.
So go ahead—embrace what you’ve been given, pack it with love and attention, and let your locks shine like never before. Here's to healthy, balanced, and beautiful hair that makes you feel like the queen you are!