Leah LOVES hair. So much so, she dedicated an entire website to it! One of the founders of Hair Everyday and Chief Editor, Leah enjoys reviewing all the hair products and showcasing the best. She believes her most underrated articles are her hair care tips!
Coarse hair can be a total deal-breaker. You lose time and patience while trying to fix it!
This problem can be caused unconsciously by a lot of our everyday habits like using heating tools, styling the hair often, subjecting it to sun damage etc.
But it is possible to fix coarse hair to an extent using hair care products.
If you have unruly, unmanageable hair, you need to use the best shampoos for coarse hair. These contain ingredients that can smoothen your hair through prolonged use.
| Shampoos For Coarse Hair | Best For | Chief Ingredients |
| Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Moisturising Shampoo | Oily Scalp | Tea Tree Oil, Lavender, Mint Extract |
| Wella Professionals Invigo Colour Brilliance Shampoo | Color-Treated Hair | SLS, Finger Lime Extract, Polyquarternium-10 |
| Controlled Chaos USE ME Hair Cleanser | Frizzy Hair | Aloe Vera, Shea Butter, Jojoba Seed Oil, Lavender Oil |
| Just Nutritive African American Natural Hair Shampoo | African American Hair | Aloe Vera, Neroli Flower, Hibiscus, Castor Oil, Kokum Butter |
| Redken All-soft Mega Shampoo | Thinning Hair | Aloe Vera, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Cactus Flower Extract, Arginine |
| Dove Nutritive Solutions Shampoo | Damaged Hair | Arginine, Buriti Fruit Oil, Hydrolyzed Keratin |
| Forever Smooth X- treme Shampoo | Relaxed Hair | Keratin Protein, Avocado Oil, Almond Oil, Sunflower Oil, |
| Helis’s Gold Revitalising Shampoo | Dry Scalp | Rice Starch, Silk Amino Acids, Sodium Hyaluronate |
Top Shampoos For Coarse Hair 2023
What Do You Mean By Coarse Hair
Coarse hair refers to a specific hair texture characterized by thick, large-diameter individual hair strands. It is the opposite of fine hair, which has thinner strands. Coarse hair strands have a larger circumference, making them more robust and less flexible than finer strands. This hair type often feels rougher or more textured to the touch.
Coarse hair can be naturally occurring, or it can be a result of various factors, including genetics. People with coarse hair may find it more resistant to styling, as it tends to be less pliable and may require extra effort to achieve certain hairstyles. Coarse hair can be straight, wavy, curly, or tightly coiled, and it may vary in color and thickness from person to person.
Due to its unique characteristics, coarse hair may have different care and styling needs compared to fine or medium-textured hair. It often benefits from extra moisture and conditioning to keep it manageable and prevent excessive dryness or frizz.
How To Choose The Right Shampoo For Coarse Hair
Choosing the right shampoo for coarse hair is essential to keep it healthy, manageable, and looking its best. Coarse hair often needs extra moisture and nourishment due to its thick and sometimes dry texture. Here are some tips on how to choose the right shampoo for coarse hair:
- Look for Moisturizing Formulas: Coarse hair tends to be on the drier side, so opt for shampoos that are specifically designed to hydrate and moisturize. Look for keywords like “moisturizing,” “hydrating,” or “nourishing” on the shampoo labels.
- Avoid Sulfates: Sulfates can be harsh on coarse hair and may strip away natural oils, leading to dryness and frizz. Look for sulfate-free shampoos, which are gentler and help retain moisture.
- Consider Cream-Based Shampoos: Cream-based or sulfate-free cream shampoos are excellent choices for coarse hair. They provide a rich, creamy lather that cleanses without over-drying.
- Look for Ingredients like Argan Oil or Shea Butter: Ingredients like argan oil, shea butter, and coconut oil can provide extra hydration and help tame frizz in coarse hair.
- Choose a Shampoo for Your Specific Hair Type: Coarse hair can be straight, wavy, curly, or coiled. Select a shampoo that caters to your specific hair type, as the needs can vary.
- Pay Attention to Your Scalp: Even though you’re focusing on your hair, it’s essential to consider your scalp’s health too. Choose a shampoo that maintains a healthy scalp environment, as a healthy scalp contributes to healthy hair.
How Can Shampoo Help Reduce Coarse, Rough Hair
Shampoo can play a crucial role in helping to reduce the coarseness and rough texture of your hair when selected and used correctly. Here’s how shampoo can help:
- Moisturization: Many shampoos are formulated with moisturizing ingredients such as natural oils (e.g., argan oil, coconut oil), shea butter, or hyaluronic acid. These ingredients help hydrate and condition the hair, making it softer and smoother.
- Sulfate-Free Formulas: Sulfates, commonly found in shampoos, can be harsh and drying on the hair. Sulfate-free shampoos are gentler and help prevent excessive dryness and roughness.
- pH Balance: Shampoos that are pH-balanced are designed to maintain the natural pH of the hair and scalp. This helps keep the hair’s cuticle layer smooth, reducing coarseness and frizz.
- Clean Scalp: A clean and healthy scalp is essential for maintaining the overall health of your hair. Shampoos effectively remove dirt, excess oil, and product buildup from the scalp, allowing your hair to grow in a healthier environment.
- Anti-Frizz and Smoothing Properties: Some shampoos, especially those designed for frizzy or coarse hair, contain ingredients that help control frizz and smooth the hair cuticle, resulting in a sleeker, less coarse appearance.
- Strengthening Ingredients: Shampoos infused with strengthening ingredients like keratin or biotin can help improve the hair’s overall texture and reduce brittleness, contributing to a smoother feel.
To make the most of your shampoo for reducing coarse, rough hair, select a product tailored to your specific hair type and needs. Be mindful of the ingredients, focusing on moisturizing and smoothing properties.
Additionally, follow a complete hair care routine, including using a conditioner or mask to provide extra hydration and protection for your hair. Regular trims to remove split ends can also improve the overall texture of your hair.
How I tested the best shampoos for coarse hair?
Before testing these shampoos for coarse hair, we have made sure that they have the following characteristics which makes them extremely beneficial for coarse hair:
- Moisturising- The main aim of shampoo for coarse hair is to make sure that your hair is hydrated. We have tested the products based on the hydrating capacity of their ingredients.
- Smoothening- It is also important to make sure that the hair remains smooth and shiny but we have also made sure that they do not contain harmful ingredients that provide temporary shine.
- Cleansing Power- It is also important that there is no buildup or dirt on your head since this could contribute to coarse and dry hair, so all the shampoos given below cleans your hair thoroughly.
So if you are struggling with dry, limp, lifeless, coarse hair, read on to find the best shampoos that you can use to fix your coarse hair.
Paul Mitchell Tea tree Lavender Mint Moisturising Shampoo
When I was looking for a shampoo to help my hair get clean and get control coarseness at the same time, I came across this product.
I liked that the chief ingredient here is tea tree oil which is antibacterial, helps remove excess oiliness and encourages hair growth.
When I first used it on my scalp and let it sit there for about 10 minutes then rinsed it off, my scalp felt so refreshed! It also made my hair feel so soft after washing which has never happened before with any other shampoo in the past. It’s like having a whole new head of hair!
Also the tea tree has anti-inflammatory properties that soothe scalp irritations.
It also encourages hair growth. Lavender extracts help in strengthening the hair to facilitate hair growth and thickening.
Peppermint oil also stimulates hair growth and reduces hair fall. It leaves you feeling fresh throughout the day.
The shampoo is infused with moisture-rich conditioners and amino acids that work together to provide intense hydration and quench your dry and coarse hair.
My favorite part has to be that it also has an amazing smell without the use added perfumes.
I suggest using this shampoo if you’ve got coarse hair and oily scalp.
Pros:
- Gluten, Paraben and sulphate free formula that is safe for sensitive scalp
- Colour-safe as it doesn’t contains SLS or SLES
- Vegan formula that is cruelty-free
- Pleasant smell that comes from essential oils and not perfumes
Cons:
- None that I could see
My Ratings:
- Moisturizing – 3.5/5
- Smoothening – 4/5
- Cleansing Power – 5/5
Related: Coarse Hair Tips
Related: Best Shampoo For Tangled Hair
Wella Professionals Invigo Colour Brilliance Shampoo
I have colored my hair a lot and I am always looking for something that will protect my color. I was so excited when i found this shampoo, because it is the best shampoo to protect your hair from damage caused by coloring.
This product also helps in preventing split ends which makes your hair look healthier after washing with this amazing shampoo.
What I liked a lot about this shampoo from Wella professionals is that it transformed my coarse hair into smooth, silky hair in just 2-3 washes. So the formula is supremely effective!
It is specifically made for colored hair that is coarse due to dehydration and it also contains Lime caviar which provides intense moisturisation to your strands.
It closes the cuticle after colouring which makes the colour stay for longer.
I also loved that it guarantees to protect your hair colour for up to seven weeks.
So if you have color-treated coarse hair I say go for it!
Pros:
- Colour- safe as it doesn’t contain sulfates
- Pleasant fragrance that isn’t too overpowering
- Contains Lime Caviar that helps reduce oiliness and cleanses hair without removing moisture
Cons:
- May cause itchy scalp due to it’s natural, preservative-free formula
My Ratings:
- Moisturizing – 4/5
- Smoothening – 4/5
- Cleansing Power – 4.5/5
Controlled Chaos USE ME Hair Cleanser
I have been using this shampoo for over 2 weeks now. And honestly, I’m okay with never using any other kind of shampoo again!
It’s very gentle on my hair and it leaves my hair feeling soft, clean, shiny, silky smooth and healthy! The smell is amazing too as the jasmine essential oil has a nice scent to it.
This is definitely an affordable option in terms of skincare products because you don’t need much quantity at all for your whole head just a small amount will do!
I also loved that it’s a low-foaming cleanser that helps in maintaining the pH of your scalp. It can be used on all hair types including chemically treated and coloured hair.
This shampoo is created with the goodness of jasmine and lavender essential oils that relax and soothe your senses.
So if you have an irritated scalp and want something that helps with coarse hair this shampoo is your best bet!
Also, this frizz control shampoo is best suited for dry hair and scalp with eczema as it’s free of harmful ingredients such as sulfates, parabens, BPA and Gluten.
Pros:
- Balances pH suits sensitive and inflamed scalp
- Sulfate, paraben, BPA and gluten free formula suits allergy-prone and sensitive skin
- Doesn’t strip hair dye as it doesn’t contain sulfates
- Suitable for all hair types as it’s both nourishing and cleansing.
Cons:
- Might leave residue as some ingredients are too heavy and rich
My Ratings:
- Moisturizing – 4.5/5
- Smoothening – 5/5
- Cleansing Power – 3.5/5
Just Nutritive African American Natural Hair Shampoo
This shampo is exclusively made for those with African American hair. It has a rich, creamy texture that provides moisture to your hair.
It is infused with the goodness of Hibiscus and Marshmallow extracts.
Hibiscus is a popular natural ingredient that is a part of a lot of DIY recipes and acts as a conditioner.
Both these ingredients work together to assist you in smooth detangling to make your hair smoother.
Other ingredients include Kokum Butter and Castor oil that provides hydration to your hair. Kokum butter improves hair elasticity and stimulates hair growth.
Castor Oil makes your hair stronger and healthier and hydrates your scalp. Other ingredients include Aloe Vera, Mango Butter, Coconut Oil and Soy Protein.
It has an amazing fragrance that I loved, derived from Pure Orange peel, Pepper and Rosemary.
Pros:
- Vegan
- Sulfate-free
- Value-for-money
- Suitable for African American hair
- Contains natural ingredients
- Refreshing fragrance
Cons:
- Might irritate your scalp
Redken All-soft Mega Shampoo
This shampoo is ideal for severely dry or coarse hair. The main ingredient of this shampoo is Aloe vera which is a highly nutritious ingredient for the hair.
It tackles several hair issues such as Itchy scalp, oily hair, hair thinning etc while promoting hair growth and restoring moisture.
It guarantees to keep your hair hydrated and soft, replenish moisture levels and hydrate severely dry and coarse hair.
This shampoo is best suited for medium to thick hair. It makes your hair manageable and shiny.
Pros:
- Softens hair
- Value for money
- Lasts long
Cons:
- Not suited for coloured hair
- Contains sulfates
Dove Nutritive Solutions Shampoo
If you are one of those girly haired girls who just cannot tame their frizz, this shampoo might be your holy grail.
It mainly focuses on dehydrating your dry strands and giving definition to your curls.
This shampoo penetrates deep into your hair to strengthen them and reduce hair fall or breakage.
The main ingredients in this shampoo are Nutrients, proteins and Buriti Oil. Buriti oil is loaded with Omega-9 and helps in giving a good definition to your curls.
Pros:
- Pleasant smell
- Contains Buriti Oil
- Suitable for curly hair
- Lightweight
Cons:
- Contains Sulfates
ColorProof SuperRich Moisture Shampoo
If you have hair that has become dry and coarse after subjecting it to colouring, this is a great option for you.
This shampoo lathers well and leaves your hair squeaky clean and vibrant. It guarantees 96% colour retention after up to ten washes.
Although this shampoo is on the pricier side, it is justified by the wide array of benefits it provides.
It protects your hair from sun and heat damage, replenishes, nourishes and hydrates dry hair, gently cleanses without stripping colour and infuses moisture, shine and vitality.
Pros:
- Colour proof
- Sulfate and paraben-free.
- Salt-free
- Lightweight
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- 450° heat protection
- UVA and UVB protection
Cons:
- Expensive
Wella Brilliance Shampoo for Coarse hair
Having coarse hair can be a daily struggle, but finding the right shampoo can make all the difference. Wella Brilliance Shampoo for Coarse Hair has been a game-changer in my hair care routine. From the moment I started using it, I noticed a significant improvement in the texture and manageability of my coarse locks.
One of the standout features of this shampoo is its ability to effectively cleanse without stripping away essential moisture. It lathers beautifully, and a small amount goes a long way. This is especially important for coarse hair, which often requires more product to thoroughly clean.
What truly sets this shampoo apart is its ability to enhance the vibrancy of color-treated hair. It helps preserve my hair color, leaving it looking fresh and radiant for longer periods between salon visits. Plus, the formula contains diamond dust, which adds a luxurious shine to my hair, making it appear healthier and more lustrous.
Another advantage is that it’s safe for daily use and free from sulfates, making it gentle on my hair and scalp. While the price point may be slightly higher than some other shampoos, the quality of this product and the impressive results make it worth every penny. Overall, Wella Brilliance Shampoo for Coarse Hair has become a staple in my hair care routine, and I highly recommend it to anyone with coarse or color-treated hair looking for improved texture and vibrancy.
Pros:
- Colour-safe
- Pleasant fragrance
Cons:
- None
Helis’s Gold Revitalising Shampoo
This is another shampoo that helps in softening coarse hair that has been dry and dehydrated due to colouring. It helps in reversing the damage on the hair and replenishes stressed-out hair.
It contains a myriad of natural ingredients like Helichrysum Italicum Essential Oil that helps in maintaining healthy hair follicles and makes the hair stronger.
It also soothes any scalp irritations. Other ingredients include Silk Protein, Flaxseed oil, Creatine and Natural Betaine.
These ingredients form a protective barrier for sealing moisture and nourish hair to improve elasticity and add shine.
This shampoo is free of harmful ingredients like SLS, parabens, silicones, mineral oil etc.
- Pros:
- Silicone, Mineral Oil and paraben, SLS free
- Colour safe
- Contains Helichrysum Italicum Essential Oil
Cons:
- None
Forever Smooth X- treme Shampoo
This is a professional grade shampoo that delivers smooth, silky hair. It is suitable for all types of hair including permed, coloured or keratin-treated hair.
This is especially recommended for usage after getting keratin treatment done on your hair.
It is enriched with a lot of natural ingredients including Avocado oil, almond oil, sunflower oil, coconut oil and wheat germ.
These oils provide intense hydration and nourishment to your hair.
Another important ingredient in this shampoo is keratin, one of the most important proteins for maintaining healthy hair.
This shampoo is recommended for those with medium to coarse hair. It is free of harmful ingredients such as Sulfates, parabens, SLS, SLES and Sodium Chloride.
Despite being free of sulphates, this shampoo lathers well to give you clean and smooth hair.
Pros:
- Sulfate, paraben and sodium-chloride free.
- Pleasant fragrance
- Colour safe
- Gentle
Cons:
- Expensive
Schwarzkopf Professional BC Bonacure Excellium Taming Shampoo
Schwarzkopf Professional BC Bonacure Excellium Taming Shampoo has been a true revelation for my mature and coarse hair. From the very first use, it became evident that this shampoo is designed with a deep understanding of the unique needs that come with aging hair.
What stands out most is its ability to infuse a sense of youthful vitality into my locks. After each wash, my hair not only feels impeccably clean but also remarkably resilient and full of life.
One of the most remarkable effects of this shampoo is its taming power. For those of us dealing with coarse or unruly hair, it’s a game-changer. It expertly tames frizz, making daily styling a breeze. The coarseness that once made my hair hard to manage has been significantly reduced, leaving it much more manageable.
If you’re like me and have color-treated hair, you’ll appreciate the color protection this shampoo offers. It does an admirable job of preserving the vibrancy of your hair color, allowing you to enjoy that salon-fresh look for a more extended period. It’s a reliable ally in the battle against fading hues.
Beyond its taming and color-protecting abilities, Schwarzkopf’s Excellium Taming Shampoo is enriched with Q10 and Omega-3, two ingredients that provide essential care for aging hair. These components improve the overall texture and suppleness of your locks, making them feel softer and more youthful.
Despite its powerful effects, this shampoo remains gentle on both hair and scalp. The mild formula ensures that it cleanses effectively without causing dryness or irritation. However, it’s essential to note that this is a premium product, and the results do justify the cost.
In conclusion, if you’re seeking a comprehensive solution to revive and rejuvenate your mature or coarse hair, Schwarzkopf Professional BC Bonacure Excellium Taming Shampoo is an investment in both the health and beauty of your hair that’s well worth considering.
Pros:
- Suitable for mature hair
- Colour-safe
- Volumising
- Does not leave residue
Cons:
- None
FAQs About Shampoos For Coarse Hair
How do I make my coarse hair smooth?
The best way to make your coarse hair smooth may vary depending on the type of hair, how much hair is coarser, and your personal preferences.
However, some general tips that may help include using a shampoo that is specifically designed for coarse hair, conditioning the hair regularly, and using a styling product that is specifically designed for coarse hair.
Also this may vary depending on the type, severity, and amount of coarse hair.
However, some tips that may help include using a hair smoothing serum or cream every day, using a hair dryer on cool settings (never on high), and using a wide-tooth comb to help detangle the hair.
Why does sulfate free shampoo make my hair feel like straw?
Sulfates are a type of mineral that are used in many shampoos, conditioners, and other hair care products. They are typically Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), Potassium lauryl sulfate (KLS), or Ammonium lauryl sulfate (ALS). These types of sulfates can strip the hair of its natural oils, which can cause it to feel dry, straw-like, and frizzy.
There are many sulfate free shampoos on the market that are made with alternative ingredients, such as cocamidopropyl betaine, coconut oil, argan oil, or lavender oil, which can help to restore the hair’s natural oils and protect it from damage. It’s also important to shampoo regularly and use a conditioner that contains proteins and other nutrients to keep the hair strong and healthy.
So this was a list of the top shampoos for coarse hair in the market. I tested all of these on the basis of their moisturizing abilities, cleansing power, and how well they soften coarse hair.
But you need to look at other aspects such as your scalp type and hair issues if you want to buy a shampoo for coarse hair.
Don’t forget to pick a product that matches your budget as well.
Why You Should Trust Haireveryday?
The author of this article, Leah Marie Priest has a degree in Cosmetology with years of experience in dealing with hair care, scalp care, and hairstyling. As someone who extensively deals with all kinds of hair textures, products, styling methods and more, hair Leah Marie knows what kind of products and procedures suit each hair type and person. We have also tested these hair products and processes ourselves to provide you an unbiased review about every product. Each of our articles are also reviewed by a team of medical professionals so that you get the most accurate and expert-reviewed information.
Also Read:
Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Lavender Mint Moisturizing Shampoo
The shampoos for coarse hair help soften and detangle your tresses. The Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Lavender Mint Moisturizing Shampoo is suitable for all hair types.
Product SKU: NLRKR29692KB
Product Brand: Paul Mitchell
Product Currency: USD
Product Price: $34.75
Price Valid Until: 2025-05-02
Product In-Stock: InStock
4
Pros
- Sulfate free
- Lovely scent
- Natural formula
- Cleanses without stripping scalp of oils
Cons
- Not for curly hair
To Summarize
