15 Best Co-Washes For Natural African Hair (2024), Hairstylist-Approved
Hydrate hair without stripping natural oils with effective and affordable products.
Jill Turnbull is an internationally acclaimed freelance hairstylist, colorist, and makeup artist with over 47 years of experience. She founded her own beauty brand and her work has been featured in editorial magazines worldwide.Jill is also a highly sought-after educator, renowned for her direct, meticulous, and modern approach to hair, makeup, and styling for fashion shoots and advertising campaigns.
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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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Experience: 5 yearsAditi Naskar has a postgraduate degree in English literature from Presidency University, Kolkata, a bachelor’s degree in education from WBUTTEPA, Kolkata, and a diploma in health and wellness. She is an associate commerce editor with 5 years of experience and specializes in reviewing fitness and health products.
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Experience: 8 yearsArshiya Syeda is the Co-Editor-in-Chief of StyleCraze with 8 years of experience. Prior to that, she was a content writer who combined her writing and research skills to write over 200 high-performing articles on hairstyles, hair care, and skin care.
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Unlike the traditional cycle of shampooing and conditioning, co-washing is a conditioner-only washing. Instead of just shampooing, it follows the concept of using a cleansing conditioner to provide intense moisture to the scalp and hair and clean them. In this article, we have curated the 15 best co-washes for natural hair that you should consider purchasing. It retains the natural oil and gently hydrates your hair while providing restorative care to damaged tresses. It also rejuvenates the hair, allows it to recover from any hair dryness or damage, and gives you soft, smooth, and clean hair. So, go ahead and check the list!
In This Article
Benefits Of Using Co-Wash For African Hair
Here’s how co-washing can benefit your Afro hair:
- Reduces frizz
- Smoothes curls
- Enhances curl structure
- Softens hair
- Makes curls manageable and tamable
- Leaves the hair fresh
- Keeps the hair hydrated
- Keeps the hair clean
Let’s now check out the top 15 co-washes for kinky and coily hair.
15 Best Co-Washes For Natural African Hair
1. Best Overall:Unwash Bio-Cleansing Conditioner
The Unwash Bio-Cleansing Conditioner has a unique non-lather formula that attracts and removes dirt and surface buildup. It does not strip any natural oils from the hair and makes it frizz-free and full of bounce. The nourishing oils and organic extracts, like evening primrose oil and hydrolyzed keratin, keep your hair soft. The emulsion method effectively cleans your hair and even helps it dry faster. It also moisturizes while it cleanses, leaving your locks smooth, silky, and easy to manage. This moisture retention conditioner allows for curl definition with its botanical ingredients. This video detailing a tester’s experience will help you make an informed decision about your purchase.
Pros
- Reduces frizz
- Strengthens hair
- Moisturizes hair
- Softens hair
- Adds shine
- Safe for color-treated hair
Cons
- May make the hair greasy.
- May irritate the scalp.
CautionSome of the product’s ingredients like hemp seed oil might trigger allergies. If you experience inflammation or redness, discontinue it immediately.
2. Best For Coily Hair:Head & Shoulders Moisturizing Co-Wash
The Head & Shoulders Royal Oils Moisturizing Co-wash balances and restores scalp health with regular use. It is a rich, cleansing conditioner that gently cleanses hair and relieves the scalp from dryness and itch. It also leaves the hair soft and moisturized. This shampoo is expertly designed to provide scalp relief for kinky and coily hair. The low-lather coconut oil formula moisturizes your hair and helps refresh your scalp and hair in between washes. It allows frizz control and scalp care and works with a protective style as well as a twist-out style. Since this product’s benefits range from curl restoration to dandruff control, reviewers highly recommend this product for your curly tresses.
Pros
- Moisturizes hair
- Reduces frizz
- Softens hair
- Enhances curls
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Luxurious coconut scent
Cons
- Does not come with a pump.
- Might weigh the hair down.
- Might not suit all hair types.
Quick TipDryness can increase frizziness in coily hair. Pair this product with a nourishing oil to avoid frizz.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Almost 1,657 happy users have mentioned the value and quality of this product.
3. Best For Shiny Hair:Renpure Professional Coconut Creme Co-Wash
The Renpure Professional Coconut Creme Co-Wash Cleansing Conditioner helps restore hair strength. It makes curly hair healthy, smooth, and shiny. The coconut oil protects the hair by lubricating each hair strand, while the coconut cleansers remove impurities like dirt, grime, and excess buildup. The hydrating keratin, amino acids, and protein repair and rejuvenate damaged, protein-free hair. This co-wash conditioner doesn’t contain sodium chloride, sulfates, dyes, harsh salts, parabens, and gluten. Watch this video to get a detailed review of the product based on a tester’s experience with it.
Pros
- Reduces frizz
- Strengthens hair
- Moisturizes hair
- Adds shine
- Paraben-free
- Gluten-free
- Sulfate-free
- Sodium chloride-free
Cons
- Thin consistency
- Might make hair rough.
- Might cause allergic reactions like burning.
Unwash Bio-Cleansing Conditioner Best Overall | Head & Shoulders Moisturizing Co-Wash Best For Coily Hair | Renpure Professional Coconut Creme Co-Wash Best For Shiny Hair | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hair Type | All | Kinky, Coily, Curly | - |
| Dimensions | 3 x 3 x 1 inches | 2.52 x 2.52 x 7.97 inches | 3 x 3 x 8 inches |
| Weight | 8 Ounces | 1 Pounds. | 16 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 1,380 | 1,657 | 2,889 |
| Price | $49.0 | $16.93 | $9.0 |
4. Best Fast-Rinsing Conditioner:Matrix Biolage Cleansing Conditioner
The Matrix Biolage Cleansing Conditioner is made for curly hair. It is a low-lathering and fast-rinsing conditioner. This soap-free conditioner is formulated with pomegranate that preserves the curls’ natural bounce. It gently cleanses and defines your curls without stripping your hair of its natural oils. If you are tired of your unruly hair, put this product to the test. According to many reviewers, this conditioner makes your curly hair soft and manageable while providing the best cleansing experience.
Pros
- Refreshes hair
- Hydrates hair
- Reduces frizz
- Defines curls
- Makes the hair soft and smooth
Cons
- Might make the hair stiff.
- Might make the hair greasy and scrunchy.
5. Best For Color-Treated Hair:As I Am Coconut Co-Wash Cleansing Conditioner
The As I Am Coconut Co-Wash contains a special blend of natural ingredients that stimulate healthy hair growth from the follicular level. This cleansing conditioner removes impurities like dirt and product residue from the hair and scalp. It not only preserves moisture but also adds more moisture to keep your hair hydrated until the next cleanse. This conditioner spreads easily through the hair and can be rinsed off easily. It is safe for color-treated hair and gentle enough for daily use. Here’s a video detailing a tester’s experience to help you know more about this product.
Pros
- Detangles hair
- Hydrates hair
- Adds shine
- Softens curls
- Reduces frizz
- Safe for color-treated hair
Cons
- Unhygienic jar packaging
- Makes hair drier.
- May cause allergic reactions.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has garnered over 10,788 positive reviews on Amazon, and the number continues to grow.
6. Best Hydrating Formula:Flawless By Gabrielle Union Hydrating Co-Wash Cleansing Conditioner
The Flawless By Gabrielle Union Hydrating Co-Wash Cleansing Conditioner is enriched with nourishing ingredients like Coconut oil, Castor Seed Oil, Passionfruit Seed Oil, Rice Oil Complex, Shea Butter, and Marshmallow Extract. It detangles hair, removes dirt and build-up, leaving hair hydrated and well-conditioned. It works great for curly, coily, textured hair types. Many reviews on Amazon have praised the formula for being free of sulfates, parabens, and silicones.
Pros
- Hydrates hair
- Softens hair
- Makes hair manageable
- Detangles hair
- Conditions hair
- Removes product buildup
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Silicone-free
- Great for coily and curly hair types
Cons
- Might make hair feel sticky
7. Best Low-Lather Formula:Pantene Gold Series Deep Hydrating Co-Wash
This ultra-rich cleansing conditioner provides your hair with a moisturized feel, softness, and manageability. The argan oil formula protects your hair’s natural oils and hydrates it deeply. The low-lather formula is not only gentle on new hair growth but also strengthens, conditions, and moisturizes fragile ends. This deep conditioner cum cleanser is specifically designed to nourish and strengthen the hair and make it manageable.
Pros
- Softens hair
- Detangles hair
- Restores strength against damage
- Reduces frizz
- Conditions hair
- Cleanses hair
- Hydrates hair
Cons
- May weigh the hair down.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 457 reviews, this product has become a fan favorite among users.
8. Best Nourishing Formula: Design Essentials Natural Almond & Avocado Nourishing Co-wash
The Design Essentials Natural Almond & Avocado Nourishing Co-wash is formulated with hair-nourishing natural ingredients such as almonds and avocado that help to nourish, add shine, and intensely moisturize the hair. It leaves you with clean, soft-to-touch hair without stripping the natural oils from your mane. It also helps to eliminate frizz and makes curly hair manageable. The creamy, hydrating formula makes detangling a breeze. Multiple reviewers on Amazon like its consistency and its ability to reduce frizz.
Pros
- Gentle formula
- Detangles hair
- Defined curls
- Paraben-free
- Paraffin-free
- Mineral oil-free
Cons
- May make the hair greasy
9. Best Frizzy Curls:Tea Tree Lavender Mint Moisturizing Cowash
The Tea Tree Lavender Mint Moisturizing Co-Wash is a creamy, no-lather rinse. It contains lavender, mint, and tea tree oil that calm and cleanse the irritated scalp and nourish dry, coarse hair, and natural curls, making them manageable. The monoi, pequi, and jojoba oils help replenish moisture, fight frizz, and add shine. This co-wash detangles your hair while locking in natural oils. It helps hair texture and aids in hair maintenance.
Pros
- Reduces frizz
- Strengthens hair
- Moisturizes hair
- Softens hair
- Adds shine
- Cleanses hair
Cons
- Thick consistency
10. Best For Kinky Curls: Urban Hydration Jamaican Castor Oil Co-Wash & Conditioner
In only one wash, the Jamaican Castor Oil Co-Wash and Conditioner from Urban Hydration deeply cleans, hydrates, and revitalizes damaged hair. It is especially helpful for high porosity hair and type 3 and 4 hair. The key component of this co-wash and conditioner is Jamaican castor oil, which is well-known for its capacity to strengthen and encourage hair development. Aloe vera juice and ginger are two more natural components that help repair damage and increase hydration.
Pros
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Dye-free
- Safe for color-treated hair
Cons
- Does not detangle hair
11. Best For Hair Growth:EDEN BodyWorks Natural Cleansing Cowash
The EDEN BodyWorks Natural Cleansing Co-Wash retains the hair’s natural moisture and prevents it from drying due to styling tools. It breaks down any residue and cleans the scalp and hair thoroughly, maintaining a healthy environment for hair growth. It contains coconut oil, shea butter, aloe vera, and avocado oil, which seep into the hair and hydrate it from within. The nourishing ingredients also seal the extra moisture in, keeping the hair from drying out. It helps detangle hair and makes it healthier and softer.
Pros
- Refreshes hair
- Hydrates hair
- Reduces frizz and split ends
- Defines curls
- Makes the hair soft and smooth
- Imparts shine
Cons
- Might not suit sensitive skin.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 4,277 Amazon acclaimed reviews, this product is sure to find a place in everyone’s shopping bag.
12. Best Anti-Dandruff Solution:LuxeOrganix CoWash Cleansing Conditioner
This co-wash leaves the hair feeling soft, smooth, and manageable. It provides relief from dandruff and helps the scalp recover and heal. It washes the scalp and hair clean, removing all residue and leaves hair feeling fresh, soft, and frizz-free. This pH-balanced conditioner is suitable for hair that has undergone chemical or keratin hair treatments or color-treated. Multiple reviewers on Amazon highly recommend using this product, especially if you have a sensitive scalp.
Pros
- Reduces frizz
- Strengthens hair
- Moisturizes hair
- Adds shine
- Detangles kinky curls
- Maintains pH balance
Cons
- May make the hair greasy.
- Might cause allergic reactions.
13. Best For Hair Styling:Cantu Shea Butter Apple Cider Vinegar Dry Co-Wash
The Cantu Apple Cider Vinegar Dry Co-Wash is part dry shampoo and part conditioner. It contains apple cider vinegar, tea tree oil, and shea butter, which provide deep cleansing and nourishment. It absorbs any excess oil and adds natural shine without leaving behind any white powder residue. Reviewers on Amazon love this product’s ability to make their hair feel clean and fresh without weighing it down.
Pros
- Moisturizes hair
- Reduces frizz
- Softens hair
- Enhances curls
- Helps in styling
Cons
- Does not work on fine oily hair.
14. Best Lightweight Formula:Creme Of Nature Creamy Hydration Co-Wash Cleansing Conditioner
The Creme Of Nature Creamy Hydration Co-Wash contains a special butter blend of argan oil to revitalize curls. It cleanses the hair without removing any natural moisture and treats various scalp issues. The argan oil protects the hair and helps it retain moisture. This co-wash removes any product residue and keeps the hair hydrated and frizz-free. The color-safe formula retains 90% of hair color after 10 washes.
Pros
- Tames curls
- Detangles hair
- Adds shine
- Softens curls
- Reduces frizz
- Color-safe
- Lightweight
Cons
- May make the hair rough.
- May cause allergic reactions and shedding.
15. Best For Dry Hair: Aunt Jackie’s Purify Me – Moisturizing Co-Wash Cleanser
The Aunt Jackie’s Purify Me – Moisturizing Co-Wash Cleanser is made to clean and condition hair without stripping it of its natural oils. It kindly and efficiently cleanses curly, coily, or kinky hair. It contains nourishing ingredients like flaxseeds, coconut oil, and olive oil that work together to hydrate and nourish dry, brittle hair deeply. Additionally, it contains apple cider vinegar, which aids in removing buildup and pollutants and leaves hair feeling clean and revitalized.
Pros
- Sulfate-free
- Adds shine
- Softens curls
- Reduces frizz
Cons
- None
If you have natural African hair, you know that it can be difficult to find products that work well for your hair type. Co-washing is a great way to keep your hair hydrated and healthy, but finding the right co-wash for your hair can be tricky. Here are a few things to look for in a good co-wash for natural African hair.
Things To Look For In Co-Washes For Natural African Hair
- Ingredients: Choose co-washes with nourishing ingredients like aloe vera, honey, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin to keep your tresses moisturized and hydrated. Make sure the co-wash is free of sulfates and harsh chemicals. These can strip the natural oils from your hair, leaving it dry and brittle. Instead, opt for a co-wash that is made with gentle, all-natural ingredients.
- Gentle Cleansing: Natural African hair can be delicate, so it is important to find a co-wash that has gentle cleansing properties. Look for one that is designed specifically for natural African hair, as these will usually be the most gentle. Look for a co-wash that contains proteins. Proteins help strengthen and repair damaged hair.
- Moisturizing Properties: You want to look for a co-wash that will add moisture to your hair. Natural African hair can be prone to dryness, so it is important to find a product that will help to hydrate and nourish your strands. Look for products that contain hydrating ingredients like shea butter or coconut oil.
Don’t forget to pay attention to how your hair feels after using the co-wash. If it feels dry or brittle, that is a sign that the product isn’t right for you. However, if your hair feels soft and manageable, you’ve found a winner!
- Budget: Finally, you want to find a co-wash that is affordable. There are many high-quality products on the market, but not all of them have to be expensive. By taking the time to compare prices and reviews, you should be able to find a great option that fits into your budget.
Infographic: Tips For Co-Washing Natural African Hair
Natural African hair is diverse and unique, varying in texture, thickness, and curl pattern. It requires special care to maintain its health and strength. Co-washing is key to detangle the coils and make the hair more manageable, all while retaining its natural moisture. The infographic below explores the essential tips for co-washing natural African hair the right way. Check it out!
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
For African hair, co-washes can help eliminate frizz while smoothing curls and making the strands manageable. Co-washes can add more power to your hair care routine. They are more effective and safer compared to daily cleansing of your hair with regular shampoos. Some co-washes also soften the hair while helping in hydrating your strands. The Unwash Bio-Cleansing Conditioner helps define curls with a deep conditioning formula, the As I Am Coconut Co-Wash Cleansing Conditioner adds moisture and stimulates hair growth, and the Pantene Gold Series Deep Hydrating Co-Wash restores hair strength and improves manageability. The emulsion method in these co-washes helps in cleaning your scalp and deeply nourishes your locks. If you want natural shine, bounce, and volume in your hair, co-washes can be very effective. However, steer clear of co-washes that can make your hair rough.
Why Trust Stylecraze
Shiboli Chakraborti, the author, is a certified skin care coach and loves to write articles about hair care products. In this article, she talks about co-washes for natural African hair. The products mentioned in the list have been chosen after thorough research and based on positive user feedback. According to her, co-washing is one of the best methods because it retains the natural oil and gently hydrates your hair.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is co-wash good for African-American hair?
Yes, co-washing has multiple benefits for African-American hair like enhanced curl structure, reduced frizz, and improved hair health.
How often should you co-wash natural black hair?
Co-wash natural black hair every 10 days. If you have an active lifestyle, use a co-wash maybe once weekly.
How often should I co-wash my 4C hair?
Co-wash your 4C hair once weekly.
Do you co-wash on wet or dry hair?
Co-wash on wet hair for the best results.
Do you use co-wash before or after shampoo?
Co-washing is cleansing your hair with a conditioner, which does not require using shampoo. After co-washing, follow up with a second round of conditioner.
How often do Black people wash their hair?
Natural Hair should be washed once or twice weekly to prevent excessive dryness.
Does co-washing help hair grow?
Yes, co-washing helps maintain healthy curls, which promotes hair growth.
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