15 Best Co-Washes For Curly Hair
The ultimate guide to pampering your hair for smooth, bouncy, and healthy locks.
Lindsay Loo is a cosmetologist who has spent 10 years behind the chair in a storied salon in Chelsea. She is a certified Wella Master Color Expert and also has experience backstage at New York Fashion Week. She has a private studio and loves to make her clients feel amazing and welcomed.
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Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.
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Co-washing means washing your hair only with conditioner, and not a shampoo. Thick, wavy, curly hair may love the TLC from this nourishing and moisturizing conditioner wash. If you are here looking for the best co-washes for curly hair, we got you covered. You can choose any of the 15 co-washes enlisted below to help you get started with this recent trend.
In This Article
What Is Co-Washing?
Co-washing stands for Conditioner Only Washing. It means skipping the shampoo and using only a conditioner to cleanse your hair. If you are new to this concept, it may sound bizarre since most conditioners are meant to moisturize your hair and not remove the grease and buildup it accumulates between washes.
But here’s the thing. Most shampoos contain a lot of sulfates and other surfactants that create that rich lather we all love. However, our hair does not always need that much cleansing. In fact, regular shampooing can even strip your hair of its essential oils, leaving it dull and dry.
With a co-washing method, you can gently remove dirt and buildup from your hair while still giving your gorgeous curls some much-needed moisture and hydration. However, you need not forget about shampoo entirely. Co-washes are meant to be used between regular shampoo washes and can provide enough cleansing that you can delay your next shampoo wash by a couple more days. Depending on your hair type, texture, and other requirements, you may alter your co-washing frequency according to what suits you best.
Here are a few simple steps to help you figure out the correct way to co-wash curly hair.
How To Co-Wash Curly Hair
- Start with soaking wet hair as it is easier to detangle and helps spread the product better.
- Apply the co-wash to the top of your head.
- Massage it into your scalp using your finger pads. This motion will help lift grease and dirt. You can also use a shampoo brush for better results.
- Divide your hair into two sections and repeat the above steps on the back of your head.
- Apply the co-wash along the lengths of your hair, gently detangling it with your fingers.
- Allow the product to sit for a minimum of 3-5 minutes to let your hair absorb all the nourishment it needs.
- Finally, rinse your hair thoroughly with water.
We hope that helped give you some ideas on how to use co-wash correctly. Now, let’s take a look at the 11 best co-washes for curly hair with numerous positive reviews that can help you achieve gorgeous locks without a fuss.
Top 15 Co-Washes For Curly Hair
1. Best For Daily Use :Aunt Jackie’s Flaxseed Recipes Purify Me Moisturizing Co-wash Cleanser
Aunt Jackie’s Flaxseed Recipes Purify Me Moisturizing Co-wash Cleanser is just what you need to keep your curls free of impurities and buildup, as it cleanses without stripping them of moisture. This co-wash for curly hair works to improve the overall health of your hair while providing deep cleansing. It is perfect for chronically dry hair and gentle enough for daily use. The formula is rich and creamy, helping to soften your hair and replenish your curls with moisture. You may check out this video detailing a tester’s experience for a better understanding of this product.
- Suitable for all hair types
- Gentle enough for daily use
- Deeply cleanses and removes buildup
- Nourishes hair with moisture
- Improves hair health
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Petrolatum-free
None
Pro Tip2. Best Dye-Free Formula:Head & Shoulders Royal Oils Moisturizing Co-Wash
The Royal Oils Moisturizing Co-Wash from Head & Shoulders is enriched with coconut oil that helps provide long-lasting hydration and scalp relief, while gently cleansing and hydrating your hair. With regular use, this co-wash cleanser can help balance and restore the health of your scalp. The rich conditioning restorative formula provides gentle cleansing and soothing relief from dry scalp and itchiness. Your hair becomes softer and more moisturized with every use. The co-wash is ideal for natural, curly and coily hair.
- Ideal for curly hair
- Gentle enough for daily use
- Provides intense hydration
- Provides relief from dry, itchy scalp
- Pleasant fragrance
- Dye-free
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Low lather
None
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has garnered over 1,657 positive reviews on Amazon, and the number continues to grow.
3. Best For Damaged Hair:Kristin Ess Hair Ultra Hydrating Curl Co-Wash
Kristin Ess Hair Ultra Hydrating Curl Co-Wash is your one-stop cleansing solution for coarse, frizzy, curly, and natural textures. This co-wash gently cleanses your scalp and hair without stripping off the natural oils from your hair. It restores, moisturizes, protects, cleanses, and conditions hair in the most gentle manner. The composition of the shampoo is safe for keratin and color-treated hair. It is the ideal solution for damaged hair that cannot handle rigorous cleansing.
- Suitable for medium to coarse curl types
- Cruelty-free
- Color and keratin safe
- Vegan
- Drying alcohol-free
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Silicone-free
None
Aunt Jackie's Flaxseed Recipes Purify Me Moisturizing Co-wash Cleanser Best For Daily Use | Head & Shoulders Royal Oils Moisturizing Co-Wash Best Dye-Free Formula | Kristin Ess Hair Ultra Hydrating Curl Co-Wash Best For Damaged Hair | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hair Type | All hair types,Dry | Kinky, Coily, Curly | Curly |
| Dimensions | 3 x 3 x 8.25 inches | 2.52 x 2.52 x 7.97 inches | 1.9 x 3 x 8.2 inches |
| Weight | 8 Ounces | 1 Pounds. | 10.2 Ounces. |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 911 | 1,657 | - |
| Price | $8.99 | $16.93 | $13.46 |
4. Best For Color-Treated Hair:As I Am Coconut Cowash Cleansing Conditioner
The As I Am Coconut Cowash Cleansing Conditioner is a favorite product of most curly haired beauties. It is best suited for coiled and curly hair textures. The coconut co-wash gently cleanses your scalp and hair without stripping the moisture. The formula is enriched with a revitalizing blend of tangerine, castor oil, and coconut oil. It entirely removes product buildup and impurities from your hair while nourishing it to promote healthy hair growth. Regular use leaves you with soft, shiny, hydrated locks that are effortlessly manageable. This video review will help you learn more about the tester’s experience of using the product.
- Suitable for daily use.
- Safe for color-treated hair.
- Contains natural ingredients
- Keeps hair hydrated
- Spreads easily
- Gently removes residue
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Pleasant fragrance
- May not work on all hair types.
5. Best Low Lather Formula:Pantene Gold Series Deep Hydrating Co-Wash
The Pantene Gold Series Deep Hydrating Co-Wash is hailed as the “gold standard in moisture.” It can work wonders on dry, damaged hair. This deeply moisturizing co-wash has been formulated with the help and expertise of scientists and stylists. It is an ultra-rich cleansing conditioner that not only cleans your hair and gets rid of dirt and impurities but also makes it soft and manageable. The co-wash is free of harsh chemicals and is infused with argan oil. It helps preserve the natural essential oils in your hair. This video detailing a reviewer’s experience will help you make an informed decision about your purchase.
- Suitable for curly, coily hair types
- Preserves the hair’s natural oils
- Low lather formula
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Dye-free
- Convenient pump dispenser
- Pleasant fragrance
- May leave some hair types feeling greasy.
Quick TipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
With 457 positive reviews on Amazon, this product has become a bestseller.
6. Best For Frizzy Hair:Tea Tree Lavender Mint Moisturizing Cowash
The Tea Tree Lavender Mint Moisturizing Cowash has a creamy, no-lather formula that provides gentle cleansing for your hair and scalp. It is nourishing for dry, coarse hair with natural curls, making them more manageable. The hydrating co-wash contains nourishing ingredients like oils of monoi, pequi, and jojoba that replenish dry hair with moisture, calm frizzy hair, and make your locks shiny. The gentle anti-static co-wash is perfect for using between regular shampoo routines to help your hair stay nourished and moisturized.
- Non-lathering formula
- Provides intense hydration
- Calms frizz
- Makes hair shiny
- Adds shine
- Helps reduce static
- Vegan
- Pleasant fragrance
- Expensive
7. Best Moisturization:Eden BodyWorks Natural Cleansing CoWash
Eden BodyWorks Natural Cleansing CoWash helps provide conditioning for your hair between regular shampoo routines. It restores moisture into the hair while eliminating product buildup, grease, and residue. It nourishes the hair and scalp to create a healthy environment that promotes hair growth. The co-wash contains a host of moisturizing ingredients, such as shea butter, coconut oil, aloe vera, and avocado oil. The hydrating formula is easily absorbed into the hair, where it works to keep the moisture in and prevent your hair strands from drying out. Its non-irritating, lightweight formula and pleasant fragrance have made it a favorite among reviewers.
- Provides intense moisture
- Gently removes buildup
- Makes hair soft and shiny
- Makes curls more manageable
- Travel-friendly packaging
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- No animal testing
- May leave behind some residue.
- May irritate sensitive skin.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Almost 4,277 happy users have mentioned the value and quality of this product.
8. Best Creamy Lather:Cantu Complete Conditioning Co-Wash
The Cantu Complete Conditioning Co-Wash is perfect for cleansing your curls and scalp while keeping it all from drying out and helping in frizz control. It prevents product buildup and contains a unique blend of more than 15 natural butters and oils that intensely moisturize your hair. The co-wash for curly hair includes 100% pure shea butter, and the formula is free of any harsh chemicals that might damage your hair. This creamy cleansing conditioner is the ideal product for wavy and curly hair.
- Provides intense hydration
- Gently removes buildup
- Travel-friendly packaging
- Mineral oil-free
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Silicone-free
- May leave a residue.
- Does not have enough slip.
9. Best pH-Balanced Formula:Luxe Organix CoWash Cleansing Conditioner
The Luxe Organix CoWash Cleansing Conditioner can help you extend your shampoo days by getting rid of buildup without drying out your hair. It leaves you with softer, smoother curls that are easier to manage. It is safe for color-treated and keratin-treated hair as well. The cruelty-free co-wash is made without harsh salts and chemicals that can damage your hair in the long run, leaving it dull, dehydrated and lifeless. It enhances the natural shine and moisture of hair damaged by chemical treatments, leaving it as soft as if you just stepped out of a salon. Several reviewers highly recommend this product for its hydrating formula and fresh, minty scent.
- pH-balanced
- Color-safe
- Keratin-safe
- Cruelty-free
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Gluten-free
- Expensive
- May make hair greasy.
10. Best In Travel-Friendly:As I Am Olive & Tea Tree Oil Dandruff Cowash
As I Am Olive & Tea Tree Oil Dandruff Cowash helps treat dryness and itchiness in the scalp caused by dandruff. It provides soothing relief using olive oil and tea tree oil. The scalp care and curl care co-wash helps provide relief from dry flakes and irritation due to dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. It offers intense hydration for dry and curly hair and helps make your curls more vibrant and manageable.
- Removes product buildup
- Keeps hair hydrated
- Soothes itchy scalp
- Travel-friendly packaging
- Affordable
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- May irritate sensitive skin.
- Strong smell
11. Best For Dry Hair:Urban Hydration Jamaican Castor Oil Shampoo and Detangler
The Urban Hydration Jamaican Castor Oil Shampoo + Detangler cleanses your hair well while giving intense moisturization to dry hair in one usage. The shampoo cleanses, revitalizes, strengthens, and thickens your curls. Additionally, the shampoo is safe for all hair types, including natural, relaxed, colored, and high-porosity hair. This co-wash provides valuable minerals to hair follicles and increases blood flow to the scalp. It has ginger and aloe extract, which are rich in vitamins A and E and heal damaged hair. They also promote growth in high-porosity hair. The natural nourishing ingredients help reduce breakage and give relief to eczema and dandruff-afflicted dry and itchy scalp.
- Softens the hair
- Prevents breakage
- Tames dry & itchy scalps
- Safe for all hair types
- Helps heal damage
- Adds moisture
- Dye-free
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free⋅
- Silicone-free⋅
- Phthalate-free
- Paraffin-free
- Polybead-free
- Might not be suitable for type 4C hair
12. Best Gentle Formula:Curl Drench Cleansing Conditioning CoWash
The Curl Drench Cleansing Conditioning CoWash is the perfect solution for keeping curly hair clean and nourished. It contains a generous dose of hydration in its essential conditioning ingredients. It gently cleanses your hair while nourishing the scalp and preserving its natural oils. It helps in curl maintenance and in curl retention, giving you softer and more manageable locks with every wash.
- Suitable for extremely curly and coily hair
- Provides gentle cleansing
- Keeps hair hydrated
- Makes hair more manageable
- Reduces frizz
- Sulfate-free
- Availability may be an issue.
- Expensive
13. Best Lightweight Option:Moptop Co-Wash Cleansing Conditioner
The Moptop Co-Wash Cleansing Conditioner provides lightweight moisture to curly and wavy hair types, helping smooth the hair shaft. The formula contains calming aloe extract and sea botanicals that infuse dry hair with much-needed moisture. It helps make hair more manageable and adds a healthy shine. The co-wash also contains honey, which helps balance the natural oils in your scalp to prevent buildup during no-shampoo days.
- Easy to use
- Suitable for wavy, curly, coily hair
- Provides moisture
- Reduces frizz
- Color-safe
- May not work for fine hair.
- May irritate sensitive skin.
"This curl product is great for defining curls and adding softness. It's lightweight and keeps frizz at bay without the greasy feel. It is perfect for a natural look. I quite like how shiny it leaves my hair."
14. Best For Healthy Hair Growth:Alikay Naturals Cowash Me Cleansing Conditioner
The Alikay Naturals Cowash Me Cleansing Conditioner helps break down and remove excess buildup and residue on the scalp and hair roots. It fills the cracks of the hair cuticles and helps in repairing damage caused by heat and pollution. It provides intense hydration to the hair from within and promotes healthy hair growth. Regular use stimulates blood flow in the scalp, has a softening effect on curls, making them more manageable, and adds a healthy shine.
- Natural, organic ingredients
- Sulfate-free
- Keeps hair moisturized
- No harsh chemicals
- Pleasant fragrance
- Expensive
- May not be easily available.
15. Best Natural Ingredients:Taliah Waajid Creamy Curly Co-Wash
Taliah Waajid Creamy Curly Co-Wash cleanses the hair to remove all product build-up and residue without stripping off natural moisture. It is infused with coconut oil and aloe vera to deeply condition the hair. This creamy curl-enhancing co-wash moisturizes and detangles the hair and makes it smoother, softer, stronger, and shinier. The unique formula of the shampoo is suitable for straw sets, chemically relaxed hair, and two-strand twisted hair. The lightweight and flake-free formula of the shampoo adds definition to the curls.
- Sulfate-free
- Formulated with natural ingredients
- Provides longer and stronger hold
- Lightweight
- Flake-free
- Suitable for most hair types
- None
Co-washing is a great alternative to traditional shampooing when it comes to cleansing your curls. It is a method of cleansing your hair and conditioning it. Co-washes help to preserve the natural oils of your scalp and keep your hair hydrated. So, co-washes are always in demand. There are a few things you should look for when choosing a co-wash for your curly hair:
Things To Look For In Co-Washes For Curly Hair
- Curl-Specific: Look at the labels and choose a co-wash specifically designed for curly hair. They offer a hydration boost to your tight curls and improve their appearance.
- Ingredients To Look For: Look for a co-wash that contains natural conditioning ingredients like aloe vera, honey, shea butter, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin. These agents replenish the lost moisture and nourish your strands. Curly hair tends to be more delicate than other types of hair, so you want to make sure you are using a product that will be gentle on your strands.
- Ingredients To Avoid: Avoid co-washes free of harsh chemicals and irritants like parabens, phthalates, alcohol, mineral oil, petrolatum, and synthetic dyes. They dry your strands, weigh down your curls, and make them look dull. Additionally, choose a sulfate-free co-wash. Sulfates are harsh chemicals that can strip away natural oils and moisture from your hair.
- Formula: Opt for a creamy formula that gently cleanses your scalp and reveals soft, shiny curls. In addition, pick a formula that lathers quickly and removes the product buildup between your tight curls. However, remember to perform a patch test to check for skin irritation.
- Fragrance: Fragrance is an essential aspect to keep in mind. Strong scents cause nausea. Therefore look for a formula that is either odorless or has a mild, pleasant fragrance.
- Packaging: Invest in a co-wash that comes in a compact, travel-friendly bottle. Choose pump-dispenser bottles over tub containers as they are more hygienic and easy to use.
Cosmetologist Lindsay Loo says, “Co-washing products should not lather. When you are co-washing, exfoliate your scalp with the product using your hands or a scalp brush. Always using motions that will not tangle or disturb your curl pattern.”
Infographic: Things To Consider While Buying The Best Co-Wash For Curly Hair
Hydration is key to maintaining healthy tresses for those with curly hair. It not only strengthens hair but also tames frizz. Although curly hair-friendly products may work, one hair hack may change your entire curl game – co-washing! This hack requires only one product to wash your hair: a conditioner. However, it cannot be a regular conditioner.
Check out the infographic below to understand what you should consider while picking the right drugstore co-wash for curly hair. Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Maintaining curly hair is quite a task! They require just the right amount of hydration to keep them bouncy and frizz-free. With the best co-washes for curly hair, you can have defined curls and waves throughout the week. These listed products offer restorative care and are perfect for cleansing the scalp and the curls without drying them out and are perfect for use between two shampoo sessions. Try the Aunt Jackie’s Flaxseed Recipes Co-wash Cleanser for everyday use. For dry and color-treated hair, opt for the As I Am Coconut Cowash Cleansing Conditioner, while the Kristin Ess Hair Ultra Hydrating Curl Co-Wash is suitable for individuals with medium to coarse curl types. They are all scalp-friendly and sulfate-free, while some are color-safe and formulated with natural ingredients.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Sakshi Bahal is passionate about all things hair and loves to try out new hair care products. Co-washes are her go-to method to moisturize her tresses once in a while. Her list of the best co-washes for curly hair has been based on carefully weighing the most popular options on the market. Co-washing allows you to clear away dirt and buildup while giving your beautiful curly locks the hydration they need.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should curly hair co-wash?
People with curly hair can try co-washing once or twice every seven to ten days. Some people co-wash more frequently, but it is not recommended to do so since there is a risk of accumulating unwanted buildup on curly tresses.
Is co-wash better than shampoo for curly hair?
A co-wash is definitely good for curly hair. Since curly hair tends to look dried up faster than straight hair, co-washes in between shampoos help to deeply moisturize the tresses to make them appear silky.
Do you use a conditioner after co-wash?
While conditioning is not essential after co-washing, you should pair the two up if your hair is extra dry.
Is co-washing helpful for curly hair wigs?
Yes, you can use co-washes on curly hair wigs. Co-washing can help you get tangle-free tresses and keep your wig frizz-free.
Does co-washing make hair greasy?
No, co-washing your hair once every 3 days will not make your hair greasy. However, excessive use will lead to greasy tresses and product buildup on your scalp.
When co-washing your hair, should you use a hair mask after or before?
You can use a hair mask after co-washing your hair. This process will moisturize your scalp and add more strength to your tresses.
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