Embarking on a dreadlock journey requires the right shampoo for dreadlocks to keep your locks healthy and thriving.
In 2024, the quest for the perfect dreadlock shampoo is easier than ever with products designed to cleanse, nourish, and maintain your unique hairstyle.
Here are the 5 best shampoos for dreadlocks that have been making waves this year, promising to cater to your locks' specific needs while keeping them looking fresh and fabulous. Whether you're a dreadlock veteran or a newbie, these picks are sure to elevate your hair care routine!
What is the Best Shampoo For Dreadlocks?
The best shampoo for dreadlocks is one that is residue-free, promotes scalp health, and maintains the integrity of the locks. While the "best" can vary based on individual needs and preferences, a popular choice is the Dollylocks Nag Champa Liquid Dreadlock Shampoo. It's specifically formulated for dreadlocks, offering a gentle cleanse without leaving any residue that can cause build-up. Its natural ingredients help to strengthen and nourish both hair and scalp, making it a top contender for maintaining healthy, clean dreadlocks.
| Shampoos For Dreadlocks | Best For | Chief Ingredients |
| Best Shampoo For Starter Dreads: Jamaican Mango and Lime Tingle Shampoo | Dry scalps | Moringa Seed Oil, Manuka Honey |
| Best For Sensitive Scalp: Knotty Boy Dreadlock Shampoo Bar | Dandruff-prone scalps | Rosemary Oil, Tea Tree Oil, Peppermint Oil |
| Best Shampoo for Dry Hair: Knatty Dread Dreadlocks Shampoo | Daily use | Coconut Extracts |
| Best Shampoo For Dreads and Dandruff: Dollylocks Tea Tree Spearmint Dreadlock Shampoo | Oily scalps | Tea Tree Oil, Coconut Oil, Olive Oil, Sweet Almond Oil, Spearmint |
| Best For Removing Product Buildup: Twisted Sista Luxurious Clarifying Shampoo | Product build-up | Coconut, Avocado, Almond Oil |
Best Shampoo For Dreadlocks 2024
Knotty Boy Dreadlock Shampoo Bar
As someone who has been sporting dreadlocks for more than five years, I've seen my fair share of shampoos and soaps.
To be honest, out of all the brands and types, the Knotty Boy Dreadlock Shampoo Bar has been my go-to product.
The bar has a nice, tropical smell that stays in my dreads for days—even after my locks dry. It lathers nicely, making it easy to properly clean my hair.
After washing my dreads, they don't feel or look greasy or heavy, so I know that the shampoo really is cleaning out all the leftover dirt and product.
I must mention too that the Knotty Boy Shampoo Bar is effective in keeping my locks from getting tangled.
Before I switched to this product, I used to spend a lot of time combing through my dreads before and after washing them. Now, I'm able to keep my hair looking neat and clean without the hassle of having to detangle them.
Overall, I would highly recommend the Knotty Boy Shampoo Bar to anyone looking to maintain their dreadlocks. It's a great product—durable, effective, and smells fabulous.
Plus, it's very affordable, so you won't need to dig deep into your pocket. If you're someone who likes to keep their dreads looking tidy, this product is definitely worth checking out!
Dollylocks Tea Tree Spearmint Liquid Dreadlock Shampoo
I'm a big fan of the Dollylocks Tea Tree Spearmint Liquid Dreadlock Shampoo. After months of experimenting with different shampoos for my dreadlocks, I'm really happy I stumbled across this one!
The scent is out of this world. It's a blend of spearmint and tea tree oil that is totally refreshing, but not at all overpowering.
The shampoo itself is a thick, creamy formula that feels luxurious as it coats my dreads.
I use this shampoo every week and my locks have started to look and feel full of life. It foams up nicely and when applied thoroughly, it cleanses my dreads without stripping them of their natural oils.
Not to mention, it is full of scalp-loving ingredients like aloe vera, acai berry, and tamanu oil. I've even noticed an improvement in the evenness of my locks since I started using this product.
Overall, I am really pleased with this shampoo. It smells divine, does the job of keeping my locks clean, and feels amazing on my skin.
Plus, it's incredibly affordable and highly rated. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a shampoo to help keep their dreadlocks looking neat and healthy.
Jamaican Mango And Lime Tingle Dreadlock Shampoo
I recently tried the Jamaican Mango And Lime Tingle Dreadlock Shampoo with just a bit of hesitation – I mean, would I really be able to trust my locks to something as 'tingly' as that?
But I was pleasantly surprised to find a wonderfully refreshing, sweet scent and hint of citrus which seemed to alleviate my anxiety right away!
The shampoo not only smelled amazing, but it was effective! After I washed and conditioned my locks with the Jamaican Mango And Lime Tingle Dreadlock Shampoo, my hair felt softer, smoother and overall more manageable.
Not only that, but I could actually feel a slight tingle – similar to the sensation you get after eating a piece of very juicy and tangy fruit.
My dreadlocks also felt so much more hydrated and more lightweight without being stripped of natural oils.
I was so impressed with how this shampoo truly worked wonders and thought it did an excellent job of honoring my hair type’s special needs.
If you’re looking for a product that will help you add a bit of life and volume to your dreadlocks and you don’t mind suffering through a slight tingle, I wholeheartedly recommend the Jamaican Mango And Lime Tingle Dreadlock Shampoo!
It’s a great way to revive dull, lifeless locks quickly and easily.
Twisted Sister Luxurious Clarifying Shampoo
When it comes to locking in your best look with dreadlocks, Twisted Sister Luxurious Clarifying Shampoo is a top choice.
This shampoo is designed to thoroughly cleanse and protect your dreadlocks while giving them a beautiful sheen. I have been using this shampoo for several years and I must say I am impressed.
The shampoo lathers up quickly and provides a deep cleaning experience. My hair always feels soft, light and refreshed after using this shampoo.
Additionally, it helps remove both the excess oils from my scalp and the build-up from styling products. I can confidently say that my dreadlocks look better because I use this styling product.
The Twisted Sister Luxurious Clarifying Shampoo has become a part of my weekly routine, as I'm always amazed by how vibrant and healthy my dreadlocks look afterwards.
It also smells lovely, with a nice, subtle scent that is not overpowering.
Another great thing about this creamy shampoo is that it is pH balanced, making it perfect for chemically sensitive scalps.
Moreover, this product is free of parabens, sulfates, dyes, gluten and petrochemicals, so it's guilt-free and gentle enough to use on any hair type.
Overall, I have to give the Twisted Sister Luxurious Clarifying Shampoo a glowing review! It is my go-to product for giving my dreadlocks the extra TLC they need and deserve.
Knatty Dread Dreadlocks Shampoo
I'm so excited to review the Knatty Dread Dreadlocks Shampoo, a carefully formulated shampoo for dreadlocks and I'm sure it'll be just what my locks need!
It's an all-natural and organic cleansing shampoo, which I appreciate as I try and avoid chemicals and non-eco-friendly products where I can.
It's specifically designed with plant and herb extracts to cleanse without stripping away the natural oils.
The texture of the shampoo is lovely to work with and a little bit goes a long way, meaning that the shampoo is also very economical and cost-effective.
Upon application, I noticed a pleasant, minty aroma which is gentle and not overbearing. My dreadlocks feel incredibly refreshed and cleansed after use, while still retaining moisture and natural oils.
I would highly recommend this shampoo to anyone looking for a cleansing shampoo specifically designed to care for dreadlocks. The plant, herb and essential oil extracts create a hydrating shampoo, while avoiding any harsh, stripping ingredients.
What factors to consider while buying a shampoo for dreadlocks
When it comes to choosing the best shampoo for dreadlocks, there are a few key factors to consider.
Firstly, look for a shampoo specifically designed for dreadlocks. Not all shampoos are created equal, and it’s essential to choose one that is specially formulated to care for dreads – and to avoid any that use harsh ingredients or waxes.
Additionally, pay attention to the pH level of the shampoo. Dreadlocks need a shampoo that is slightly acidic. And that won’t strip away the natural oils your locks need to stay healthy.
Quality and scent are non-negotiables too. If you’re going to invest in a shampoo specifically for your dreads, make sure it smells great and is effective.
Consider product reviews, too; if a shampoo proves popular with other dreadlock users, it’s likely to be a great choice for you as well.
Difference between regular shampoos and dreadlocks shampoo
If you have dreadlocks, regular shampoos are a no-no. To ensure that you get the maximum health, shine, and longevity of your dreads, it’s important to know the distinction.
Regular shampoos contain cleansers called surfactants which work to break apart dirt and oils. This makes them highly effective as shampoo. However, they can also strip away any natural oils found in locs resulting in dryness, flaking, and potential breakage.
Additionally, these shampoos can weaken locks making them more prone to frizzing or developing knots.
In contrast, dreadlock friendly shampoos are designed specifically to care for the individual needs of these hairstyles. They don’t contain any surfactants and instead use a combination of natural ingredients. These include aloe, shea butter, and coconut oil to cleanse the locks.
This natural approach to cleansers offers much gentler and nourishing ingredients. This will make it easier for the hair to retain its moisture and prohibits breakage.
Furthermore, dreadlock friendly shampoos contain No-Rinsing Conditioners. This will help the locks natural twist and curl patterns be enhanced and defined in a more controlled manner.
The texture of a regular shampoo can also be an issue, especially for those with dreadlocks. Regular shampoos are usually more watery. And this can cause locks to become extremely slippery and unruly when massaged into the scalp.
Dreadlock friendly shampoos usually have a creamy and thick texture, making them much easier to control in your hair. This also makes them easier to spread evenly throughout, eliminating any knots or tangles.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there's no denying that finding the right shampoo for your dreadlocks can be a daunting experience.
But, with so many brands and products available, you'll be sure to find a shampoo to help keep your dreads in optimal condition.
Whether you prefer a natural formula or an anti-dandruff option, there's a great selection to choose from. Thanks to our guide, hopefully you'll have no problems selecting the best shampoo for dreadlocks that suits your needs.
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