Best Drugstore Shampoos
See the hair care products from brands like Neutrogena, Pantene, Herbal Essences and more our readers love to lather up with
You name the hair problem, we've all had it. Whether it's frizz that can’t be tamed or pin-thin hair that refuses to be pumped up, our readers say your hair issues can be solved with these drugstore shampoos. They not only deliver on claims, but are cheaper than the two margaritas you'll have during happy hour.
No. 15: Neutrogena Triple Moisture Cream Lather Shampoo, $6.99
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 8.7*
Why: Readers say this product "leaves my hair soft, manageable and well moisturized. I would recommend this to anyone who has color-treated or damaged hair." Another reader with damaged hair adds, "I chemically straighten my hair and I use a flat iron, so you know that my hair needs some moisture at the end of the day. This creamy shampoo cleans my hair and gives it the 'drink of water' it needs." One reviewer loves how it affects her hair's texture saying, "it really does leave hair feeling smooth and soft, which is difficult for my unruly hair."
Agree? Disagree? Write your review here.
*At time of publication
No. 14: John Frieda Brilliant Brunette Shine Release Daily Shampoo with Light Enhancers, $6.49
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 8.8*
Why: One reader says, "John Frieda products NEVER disappoint me. I love the smell of this shampoo. The shine you get after each use gives dark hair a vibrancy that all brunettes will be crazy about. Any highlights in your hair will become more apparent with regular use. Again, BIG results from a drugstore product at a price anyone can afford." Another reader says she's "so in love with it. There are a lot of 'brunette' shampoos out there, but this one is my fave! Smells great, works great, keeps my hair clean and shining and doesn't dry it out."
Agree? Disagree? Write your review here.
*At time of publication
No. 13: Herbal Essences Hello Hydration 2-in-1 Moisturizing Shampoo and Conditioner, $3.99
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 8.8*
Why: One reader says, "The first thing I noticed was how rich and thick it was. I have thick hair so this was just what I needed. Even the next day it was significantly softer and shinier, but not oily or greasy (how'd they do that?!). Since I started using Hello Hydration, I haven't used anything else. [It] is worth a lot more than it is sold for. Thanks, Herbal Essences!" Another reader says, "people think I spend a fortune on my hair products, but really I only use [this] and nothing else ever goes in my hair." One woman confesses this shampoo is "the only one for me" saying, "I got a hold of this shampoo and oh my goodness just by the first wash-and-rinse my hair came out looking so healthy … This is the best and if that wasn't enough ... it smells GREAT!"
Agree? Disagree? Write your review here.
*At time of publication
No. 12: Dove Damage Therapy Intensive Repair Shampoo, $2.29
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 8.9*
Why: Readers call this "much needed therapy in a bottle." One reviewer says, "my hair went from seriously fried to manageable in a week's time. After dying my hair blonde three times in two months my hair was almost about to fall out to the point of going bald!" Another reader "couldn't believe how soft and silky my usually frizzy hair felt. It is a keeper." One woman says, "I feel as if this shampoo is doing everything possible to provide all the nutrients that my hair needs," while another claims it is "the best shampoo I have ever used."
Agree? Disagree? Write your review here.
*At time of publication
No. 11: Sunsilk ThermaShine Shampoo, $5.99
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 8.9*
Why: Readers claim "the name says it all." "I have to say, I have never had so many compliments on my hair as I did during the time I used this shampoo. For the entire time I worked through this one bottle, people remarked on how healthy, shiny and bouncy my hair was." Another reader says it's "perfect for heat-treated hair" saying, "I regularly blow-dry and straighten my hair and had a hard time dealing with flyaways. I was surprised at how shiny and smooth my hair looked -- and it smells great." One reviewer adds, "after trying shampoo after shampoo, and spending more and more money on the priciest, I was about to give up on thinking that shampoo had anything to do with making your hair condition better, but now I'm a total believer -- all because of this $4.50 bottle!"
Agree? Disagree? Write your review here.
*At time of publication
No. 10: Pantene Pro-V Medium-Thick Hair Solutions Frizzy to Smooth Shampoo, $5.99
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 8.9*
Why: Readers agree this shampoo is great for solving common hair problems, "it did wonders for my hair. My hair was in knots, tangles and I was losing my hair with the shampoo I was using. After I used this one for a couple of days it was a complete turnaround." Another reader adds, "I've tried a lot of different brands, and some really expensive ones, but I always go back to Pantene. It leaves my hair smooth and really soft, and with a super healthy look." One reviewer says, "I ALWAYS receive compliments on how shiny and beautiful my hair is. I have naturally wavy hair that must be washed and blow dried each morning, yet I have no signs of damage or split ends!"
Agree? Disagree? Write your review here.
*At time of publication
No. 9: Head and Shoulders Citrus Breeze Shampoo, $7.99
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 9*
Why: Readers call this product "refreshing" and an "oldie but a goodie." "I have an itchy scalp every now and again, but also tend to have really oily hair, so it's hard to find a product that can work with both of these problems. This stuff does, plus it smells so darn good!" Another reviewer adds, "This shampoo is amazing. I use it every day and my hair never looks oily (which is amazing considering how light my hair is!). I can't say enough good things about this. It works wonders, smells great and doesn't leave residue in your hair."
Agree? Disagree? Write your review here.
*At time of publication
No. 8: Finesse BeautiFULL Volume Shampoo, $7.89
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 9*
Why: Readers say this shampoo is "just awesome." "I tried this and love the way it lathers up and the feel of my hair afterwards. It works fantastic and helps keep damage from occurring with any styling methods I use." One reviewer uses it weekly "to really clarify my hair of buildup, because this shampoo is [offers deep] cleansing. I also love their classic fragrance that they've used for years. It's so worth the price." Another reader also raves about the price saying, "People comment on my healthy, thick, shiny hair. If they only knew it's because of this cheap, but effective shampoo …"
Agree? Disagree? Write your review here.
*At time of publication
No. 7: TRESemme Smooth & Silky Shampoo, $3.49
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 9.1*
Why: One reader says, "I have used TRESemme for years. I am 56-years-old. I wish my face looked as young and healthy as my hair does! Thanks TRESemme!" One reader says "this shampoo is everything it promises to be and more. I love how soft and smooth my hair feels and the light scent the shampoo leaves behind. Plus you get so much for your money -- it's really a great buy." Another woman agrees calling it a "quality product," while another says salon brands don't compare, "I have naturally oily and flat hair. All of the expensive salon products don't do anything for it. I absolutely love, love, love this product."
Agree? Disagree? Write your review here.
*At time of publication
No. 6: Aussie Aussome Volume Shampoo, $3.99
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 9.3*
Why: Readers say this shampoo "gives your hair great volume," has a "great price" and "smells good." One reader says, "oh my god, 12 hours [after shampooing] my hair still had volume. I was shocked. And, it feels good in your hair. I can't tell you how many times I've been running my fingers through my hair since I bought this. It just feels so (SO!) light, and bouncy and it moves! For typically thin, slightly wavy, flat hair, this is a miracle." Another gushes, "It is the best volumizer I have ever used. I also have highlighted hair and it doesn't strip or fade the highlights or make my hair feel like straw after a few shampoos."
Agree? Disagree? Write your review here.
*At time of publication
No. 5: Infusium (Moisture)ologie Shampoo, $6.49
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 9.3*
Why: One readers says, "I had tried several products prior to (Moisture)ologie, but none gave the results that this has. I was to the point of putting body moisturizer on my hair every day, and that is not a good look." Another says, "No more dryness! I love this shampoo. My hair is a nightmare to try to tame. Baby-fine and frizzy! The Infusium shampoo has changed all that. Most shampoos dry out my hair, which leads to the frizzies. Not this one! And I can still style it any way that I want." One reviewer likes how you "don’t need conditioner with this. This stuff is pretty amazing for something cheap that you can pick up at the drugstore. My hair tends to get frizzy after blow drying and this definitely seems to help with that."
Agree? Disagree? Write your review here.
*At time of publication
No. 4: Giovanni Smooth as Silk Shampoo, $7.99
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 9.4*
Why: One reader admits "I'm pretty skeptical when it comes to products stating they are 'smooth as silk,' but this product is true to its word. When you rub this shampoo into your hair it smells awesome and your hair feels silky smooth." Another reader says she finally found what she's been looking for: "I was looking for a good non-paraben shampoo for colored hair and this is it! Hair comes out even nicer than when I used to use the John Frieda shampoos -- soft, no tangles, and not weighed down." One reader with curly hair says, "my curls are getting the drink they need … and are shiny, soft and manageable. I'm very happy with this shampoo." Another says, "this shampoo smells really good and I don't have to use conditioner. It's perfect for adding moisture and shine to my dry, dull hair."
Agree? Disagree? Write your review here.
*At time of publication
No. 3: Suave for Kids 2-in-1 Shampoo Smoothers, $2.99
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 9.4*
Why: Mothers swear by this shampoo, "I have a daughter with long hair. She HATES to comb all the way through it because of all the tangles. We have her use this to wash her hair and good-bye tangles!" Another reader says, "I have three grandchildren and this is the shampoo I always keep on hand for when they sleep over. It has a gentle 'no tears' formula, rinses easily and leaves hair soft and manageable … I have to admit that I have used it myself on more than one occasion and it's great for us older kids too." One woman says, "after trying tons of fancy salon brands and 'adult' brands for years, I came back to this. It makes my hair soft, detangled and it smells amazing (which I receive compliments on all the time)."
Agree? Disagree? Write your review here.
*At time of publication
No. 2: Nexxus Diametress Luscious Volumizing Shampoo, $14.99
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 9.5*
Why: Readers say this is a "great shampoo" for limp hair. "I have very straight, thick, limp, oily hair. This product gives my hair lots of body and shine. It also makes it feel so soft and clean. I usually wash my hair every day because it's so oily, but with this shampoo I find that I can wash it every other day." Another reader exclaims, "finally, something that works! I bought this product as a last resort and I am so glad I did. This shampoo not only gives more volume to my fine, processed hair, but it also makes it manageable and shiny." One reader says, "I have tried many volumizing shampoos, but OMG ... NOTHING compares to Nexxus Luscious Volumizing Shampoo! It feels like I have twice the amount of hair!" She calls it "a must buy for people with thin, lifeless hair."
Agree? Disagree? Write your review here.
*At time of publication
No. 1: Jason Tea Tree Oil Shampoo, $7.49
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 9.7*
Why: Readers say "this product is proof that a low costing product can produce high quality results." One reader says, "I have dry, wavy hair with DANDRUFF … I was trying to decide between buying this or Paul Mitchell's Tea Tree Shampoo. I ended up buying this one because it was at my local drugstore and it was way cheaper than Paul Mitchell's. Jason SAVED my hair and now I hardly ever see even a speck of dandruff on my scalp." One mother says, "This stuff is simply fantastic. I purchased it for my son who was having trouble with dandruff. It not only did the trick, but left his hair soft and manageable."
Agree? Disagree? Write your review here.
*At time of publication
No. 15: Neutrogena Triple Moisture Cream Lather Shampoo, $6.99
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 8.7*
Why: Readers say this product "leaves my hair soft, manageable and well moisturized. I would recommend this to anyone who has color-treated or damaged hair." Another reader with damaged hair adds, "I chemically straighten my hair and I use a flat iron, so you know that my hair needs some moisture at the end of the day. This creamy shampoo cleans my hair and gives it the 'drink of water' it needs." One reviewer loves how it affects her hair's texture saying, "it really does leave hair feeling smooth and soft, which is difficult for my unruly hair."
Agree? Disagree? Write your review here.
*At time of publication
No. 14: John Frieda Brilliant Brunette Shine Release Daily Shampoo with Light Enhancers, $6.49
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 8.8*
Why: One reader says, "John Frieda products NEVER disappoint me. I love the smell of this shampoo. The shine you get after each use gives dark hair a vibrancy that all brunettes will be crazy about. Any highlights in your hair will become more apparent with regular use. Again, BIG results from a drugstore product at a price anyone can afford." Another reader says she's "so in love with it. There are a lot of 'brunette' shampoos out there, but this one is my fave! Smells great, works great, keeps my hair clean and shining and doesn't dry it out."
Agree? Disagree? Write your review here.
*At time of publication
No. 13: Herbal Essences Hello Hydration 2-in-1 Moisturizing Shampoo and Conditioner, $3.99
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 8.8*
Why: One reader says, "The first thing I noticed was how rich and thick it was. I have thick hair so this was just what I needed. Even the next day it was significantly softer and shinier, but not oily or greasy (how'd they do that?!). Since I started using Hello Hydration, I haven't used anything else. [It] is worth a lot more than it is sold for. Thanks, Herbal Essences!" Another reader says, "people think I spend a fortune on my hair products, but really I only use [this] and nothing else ever goes in my hair." One woman confesses this shampoo is "the only one for me" saying, "I got a hold of this shampoo and oh my goodness just by the first wash-and-rinse my hair came out looking so healthy … This is the best and if that wasn't enough ... it smells GREAT!"
Agree? Disagree? Write your review here.
*At time of publication
No. 12: Dove Damage Therapy Intensive Repair Shampoo, $2.29
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 8.9*
Why: Readers call this "much needed therapy in a bottle." One reviewer says, "my hair went from seriously fried to manageable in a week's time. After dying my hair blonde three times in two months my hair was almost about to fall out to the point of going bald!" Another reader "couldn't believe how soft and silky my usually frizzy hair felt. It is a keeper." One woman says, "I feel as if this shampoo is doing everything possible to provide all the nutrients that my hair needs," while another claims it is "the best shampoo I have ever used."
Agree? Disagree? Write your review here.
*At time of publication
No. 11: Sunsilk ThermaShine Shampoo, $5.99
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 8.9*
Why: Readers claim "the name says it all." "I have to say, I have never had so many compliments on my hair as I did during the time I used this shampoo. For the entire time I worked through this one bottle, people remarked on how healthy, shiny and bouncy my hair was." Another reader says it's "perfect for heat-treated hair" saying, "I regularly blow-dry and straighten my hair and had a hard time dealing with flyaways. I was surprised at how shiny and smooth my hair looked -- and it smells great." One reviewer adds, "after trying shampoo after shampoo, and spending more and more money on the priciest, I was about to give up on thinking that shampoo had anything to do with making your hair condition better, but now I'm a total believer -- all because of this $4.50 bottle!"
Agree? Disagree? Write your review here.
*At time of publication
No. 10: Pantene Pro-V Medium-Thick Hair Solutions Frizzy to Smooth Shampoo, $5.99
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 8.9*
Why: Readers agree this shampoo is great for solving common hair problems, "it did wonders for my hair. My hair was in knots, tangles and I was losing my hair with the shampoo I was using. After I used this one for a couple of days it was a complete turnaround." Another reader adds, "I've tried a lot of different brands, and some really expensive ones, but I always go back to Pantene. It leaves my hair smooth and really soft, and with a super healthy look." One reviewer says, "I ALWAYS receive compliments on how shiny and beautiful my hair is. I have naturally wavy hair that must be washed and blow dried each morning, yet I have no signs of damage or split ends!"
Agree? Disagree? Write your review here.
*At time of publication
No. 9: Head and Shoulders Citrus Breeze Shampoo, $7.99
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 9*
Why: Readers call this product "refreshing" and an "oldie but a goodie." "I have an itchy scalp every now and again, but also tend to have really oily hair, so it's hard to find a product that can work with both of these problems. This stuff does, plus it smells so darn good!" Another reviewer adds, "This shampoo is amazing. I use it every day and my hair never looks oily (which is amazing considering how light my hair is!). I can't say enough good things about this. It works wonders, smells great and doesn't leave residue in your hair."
Agree? Disagree? Write your review here.
*At time of publication
No. 8: Finesse BeautiFULL Volume Shampoo, $7.89
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 9*
Why: Readers say this shampoo is "just awesome." "I tried this and love the way it lathers up and the feel of my hair afterwards. It works fantastic and helps keep damage from occurring with any styling methods I use." One reviewer uses it weekly "to really clarify my hair of buildup, because this shampoo is [offers deep] cleansing. I also love their classic fragrance that they've used for years. It's so worth the price." Another reader also raves about the price saying, "People comment on my healthy, thick, shiny hair. If they only knew it's because of this cheap, but effective shampoo …"
Agree? Disagree? Write your review here.
*At time of publication
No. 7: TRESemme Smooth & Silky Shampoo, $3.49
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 9.1*
Why: One reader says, "I have used TRESemme for years. I am 56-years-old. I wish my face looked as young and healthy as my hair does! Thanks TRESemme!" One reader says "this shampoo is everything it promises to be and more. I love how soft and smooth my hair feels and the light scent the shampoo leaves behind. Plus you get so much for your money -- it's really a great buy." Another woman agrees calling it a "quality product," while another says salon brands don't compare, "I have naturally oily and flat hair. All of the expensive salon products don't do anything for it. I absolutely love, love, love this product."
Agree? Disagree? Write your review here.
*At time of publication
No. 6: Aussie Aussome Volume Shampoo, $3.99
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 9.3*
Why: Readers say this shampoo "gives your hair great volume," has a "great price" and "smells good." One reader says, "oh my god, 12 hours [after shampooing] my hair still had volume. I was shocked. And, it feels good in your hair. I can't tell you how many times I've been running my fingers through my hair since I bought this. It just feels so (SO!) light, and bouncy and it moves! For typically thin, slightly wavy, flat hair, this is a miracle." Another gushes, "It is the best volumizer I have ever used. I also have highlighted hair and it doesn't strip or fade the highlights or make my hair feel like straw after a few shampoos."
Agree? Disagree? Write your review here.
*At time of publication
No. 5: Infusium (Moisture)ologie Shampoo, $6.49
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 9.3*
Why: One readers says, "I had tried several products prior to (Moisture)ologie, but none gave the results that this has. I was to the point of putting body moisturizer on my hair every day, and that is not a good look." Another says, "No more dryness! I love this shampoo. My hair is a nightmare to try to tame. Baby-fine and frizzy! The Infusium shampoo has changed all that. Most shampoos dry out my hair, which leads to the frizzies. Not this one! And I can still style it any way that I want." One reviewer likes how you "don’t need conditioner with this. This stuff is pretty amazing for something cheap that you can pick up at the drugstore. My hair tends to get frizzy after blow drying and this definitely seems to help with that."
Agree? Disagree? Write your review here.
*At time of publication
No. 4: Giovanni Smooth as Silk Shampoo, $7.99
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 9.4*
Why: One reader admits "I'm pretty skeptical when it comes to products stating they are 'smooth as silk,' but this product is true to its word. When you rub this shampoo into your hair it smells awesome and your hair feels silky smooth." Another reader says she finally found what she's been looking for: "I was looking for a good non-paraben shampoo for colored hair and this is it! Hair comes out even nicer than when I used to use the John Frieda shampoos -- soft, no tangles, and not weighed down." One reader with curly hair says, "my curls are getting the drink they need … and are shiny, soft and manageable. I'm very happy with this shampoo." Another says, "this shampoo smells really good and I don't have to use conditioner. It's perfect for adding moisture and shine to my dry, dull hair."
Agree? Disagree? Write your review here.
*At time of publication
No. 3: Suave for Kids 2-in-1 Shampoo Smoothers, $2.99
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 9.4*
Why: Mothers swear by this shampoo, "I have a daughter with long hair. She HATES to comb all the way through it because of all the tangles. We have her use this to wash her hair and good-bye tangles!" Another reader says, "I have three grandchildren and this is the shampoo I always keep on hand for when they sleep over. It has a gentle 'no tears' formula, rinses easily and leaves hair soft and manageable … I have to admit that I have used it myself on more than one occasion and it's great for us older kids too." One woman says, "after trying tons of fancy salon brands and 'adult' brands for years, I came back to this. It makes my hair soft, detangled and it smells amazing (which I receive compliments on all the time)."
Agree? Disagree? Write your review here.
*At time of publication
No. 2: Nexxus Diametress Luscious Volumizing Shampoo, $14.99
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 9.5*
Why: Readers say this is a "great shampoo" for limp hair. "I have very straight, thick, limp, oily hair. This product gives my hair lots of body and shine. It also makes it feel so soft and clean. I usually wash my hair every day because it's so oily, but with this shampoo I find that I can wash it every other day." Another reader exclaims, "finally, something that works! I bought this product as a last resort and I am so glad I did. This shampoo not only gives more volume to my fine, processed hair, but it also makes it manageable and shiny." One reader says, "I have tried many volumizing shampoos, but OMG ... NOTHING compares to Nexxus Luscious Volumizing Shampoo! It feels like I have twice the amount of hair!" She calls it "a must buy for people with thin, lifeless hair."
Agree? Disagree? Write your review here.
*At time of publication
No. 1: Jason Tea Tree Oil Shampoo, $7.49
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 9.7*
Why: Readers say "this product is proof that a low costing product can produce high quality results." One reader says, "I have dry, wavy hair with DANDRUFF … I was trying to decide between buying this or Paul Mitchell's Tea Tree Shampoo. I ended up buying this one because it was at my local drugstore and it was way cheaper than Paul Mitchell's. Jason SAVED my hair and now I hardly ever see even a speck of dandruff on my scalp." One mother says, "This stuff is simply fantastic. I purchased it for my son who was having trouble with dandruff. It not only did the trick, but left his hair soft and manageable."
Agree? Disagree? Write your review here.
*At time of publication
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