When you have natural hair, it can be challenging to find the best products (including shampoos and conditioners, leave-ins, and stylers) for your unique crown of curls. Lifestyle, scalp health, and whether you have high porosity or low porosity hair make a difference in determining what's best to invest in. And then, once you've finally assembled your perfect collection of products, you need to learn how—and the order in which—to use them. Just the thought of crafting this unique natural hair routine is enough to leave anyone feeling exhausted.
"There is no one-size-fits-all answer," agrees Jamila Powell, founder of haircare brand Naturally Drenched, when I question her on the best natural hair routine. "Listen to your hair and pay attention to how your hair looks and feels."
This means checking for symptoms of breakage, a dry or itchy scalp, acne, frizz, and other factors, which can clue you into what cadence and ingredients work best for you.
"Experiment with different schedules and products to discover what works best for your unique hair needs," Powell agrees. "Also, consulting with a hairstylist or a natural hair specialist can also provide personalized guidance based on your hair's specific characteristics is suggested."
A natural hair specialist herself, Powell is a wealth of information on caring for natural and curly hair of all types and porosity levels. Below, she shares her knowledge, detailing the best methodology for finding a natural haircare routine that works for you.
Shampooing Natural Hair
Keeping your hair clean is fundamental to having a gorgeous mane and healthy scalp. Powell agrees, attesting, "Washing natural hair properly is essential to maintain its health, moisture, and overall appearance."
But one of the trickiest aspects of haircare for anyone (but especially for those with natural hair) is determining how frequently you should wash.
"The best frequency varies depending on factors such as lifestyle, condition of the hair, and personal preference," she explains. "If it becomes dry, itchy, or greasy, it may be time to wash. Typically, once a week will suffice, but if you work out on a regular basis or are prone to sweating, you may have to wash your hair more frequently. Ultimately, the key is to find a washing frequency that keeps your hair clean, moisturized, and healthy without stripping it of its natural oils."
To properly shampoo natural hair, she suggests "thoroughly saturating your hair with water, and then sectioning your hair in fours so you can make sure all your hair and scalp are being properly cleansed. If your hair has a lot of product build up, I would start with a clarifying shampoo, and then follow up with one or two shampoos using a moisturizing shampoo. You don’t want to dry your hair out, so try and only use a clarifying shampoo once a month."
And when it comes to picking your everyday, non-clarifying shampoo? Powell advises assessing your hair type, porosity, and needs, as well as determining your stylistic preferences. She points out, "The right shampoo depends on the person’s hair, and the desired outcome," she says.
"For fine hair, a lightweight shampoo with volumizing properties is recommended,” says Powell. “Innersense Pure Harmony is a good lightweight shampoo that won’t weigh the hair down and that will give the hair volume.” The clean, cruelty-free option also works on medium hair, and is packed with ingredients made to enhance both the health and appearance of the user’s mane. Its quinoa and rice extracts, for instance, strengthen strands, while coconut and avocado oils condition hair thoroughly, preventing braekage and frizz.
Pros: clean; cruelty-free; conditioning; expert approved
Cons: some users find it irritating—patch test before use
Customer Review: "I've been using this for years now and after experimenting I've found that a little goes a long way. My hair is just past my shoulders with a 3C curl pattern. I use three to four pumps and make sure to work it through with a lot of water. I detangle in the shower so as I'm working the product through my hair I add a drizzle of water if I feel like a section needs more slip. I lightly rinse my scalp so nothing is sitting on my skin, add in a little gel, and I'm done!" -Ulta
For those with damaged, dry, or high porosity hair, it may be necessary to invest in a shampoo that offers an extra boost of hydration. "If you are looking for more moisture or are struggling with frizz, you might want to try the Innersense Hydrating Cream Hairbath," suggests Powell. The clean formula is infused with shea butter, avocado oil, Tamanu oil, and monoi oil, all of which promote softness and shine by moisturizing hair and sealing the cuticle.
Pros: clean; cruelty-free; expert-approved
Cons: some users with thin hair found it weighed hair down
Customer Review: "The hair bath cleanses all the build up of products used prior to washing, and followed up with the conditioner, with its great slip, locks in moisture and leaves my curls BOUNCING. I have 3C/4A/4B [curls]just past shoulder length; shrinkage is above my shoulder." -Ulta
If your hair is particularly in need of some TLC (if it’s been bleached, for instance, or if it’s suffered damage from UV rays, pollution, or chlorine), then you may be in need of an even stronger option. “If someone is experiencing damage or has color treated hair try Briogeo’s Don’t Despair, Repair Shampoo,” says Powell. The popular option was made with damaged hair in mind and features fortifying plant proteins, moisturizing rosehip oil, and antioxidant-rich algae extract.
Pros: clean; expert-approved; gluten-free
Cons: some find it doesn't lather easily
Customer Review: "A long term staple of mine! I have sensitive skin/hair and it has never flared me up or irritated before! Scent is fresh and not overpowering!" -Sephora
As Powell stated, it’s important to incorporate a clarifying shampoo into your natural haircare routine, particularly if you work out frequently, live in a hot or humid (read: sweat-inducing) climate, or if you use a lot of hair products and stylers that could result in buildup. In any of these cases Ouai’s viral Detox Shampoo is just the ticket. It’s suitable for all hair types and is especially effective at cleansing excess oil from users’ scalps. It also banishes flakes and dandruff—a crucial quality as we head into the winter months.
Pros: cruelty-free; bestseller; works on all hair types; gets rid of flakes and dandruff; suitable on sensitive skin
Cons: some users experienced irritation—patch test first
Customer Review: "I LOVE this shampoo! It's expensive, yes, but it's one of a kind in my opinion. I have sensitive skin and a sensitive scalp, and this doesn't bother me. It clarifies so well without drying out my hair too much. I have extremely fine hair, but lots of it, so it's hard for me to find things that work well for my hair. This brings tons of volume back in too, but doesn't dry out my scalp like volumizing shampoo tends to." -Sephora
Co-Washing Natural Hair
For many people with high porosity or natural hair, co-wash is an excellent alternative to shampooing. This is particularly the case for those who need to wash their hair every day, but don't want to use a potentially stripping shampoo each time.
"If someone is experiencing increased dryness or frizz, they might want to incorporate co-washing, or if they are washing their hair more than once a week, they may use a co-wash for the second shampoo when they are washing their hair," adds Powell. "Co-wash products usually provide a gentle cleanse, but it can lead to product build up if a co-wash is solely used without a shampoo."
"Also, if you have a scalp condition such as dermatitis or dandruff, co-washing might not be suggested," she warns. "The cleansing ingredients of a co-wash might not be strong enough to break done the debris and oil on your hair and scalp, which can worsen the condition." Therefore, it may be best to consult a trichologist, hairstylist, or dermatologist before incorporating a co-wash into your routine.
According to Powell, “a suggested cowash would be the Rawkyn Deep Conditioning Co Wash,” which is formulated with honey, charcoal, and fruit extracts in order to remove build-up and sebum from hair without stripping it of the moisture it needs. She adds, “It has great moisturizing properties along with protein for added strength, and it gently cleanses the hair.” It also promises to unclog pores on the scalp, which is especially helpful for those with oily or combination skin, or who suffer from dandruff or acne on the scalp.
Pros: expert-approved; great for all hair and skin types; protein-infused; cleansing; free of fragrance, silicones, and sulfates
Cons: none found
This moisturizing co-wash from Taraji P. Henson’s beloved haircare brand, TPH, is recommended for use by itself or as a second step in your shower routine, between shampooing and conditioning. It cleanses and softens hair with its no-lather formula, and is infused with nourishing ingredients like shea butter and olive fruit oil. Made with natural hair in mind, it’s also vegan, cruelty-free, and certified clean. Reviewers love how effectively it defines curls, and they rave about how shiny their hair looks after each use.
Pros: shine-enhancing; Black-owned brand; made with natural hair in mind; vegan; cruelty-free; clean
Cons: some users dislike the design of the bottle
Customer Review: "I have very thick hair. So thick it takes hours to dry. My mother also has thicker hair though thinner especially since she’s 67. Both of us swear by this stuff! My mother says her hair has never looked better and I’d agree. My hair doesn’t take as long to dry and gone are the horrendous knots that left me in tears." -Target
Treating Natural Hair
Between your shampoo and conditioner steps, Powell points out that you may want to treat any scalp or hair concerns you have. Most treatments, including protein treatments, scalp scrubs, and scalp tonics, need to be left for several minutes before they're washed out. Thus, feel free to apply, engage in the rest of your shower routine, and wash out when the time's up.
“If your hair is struggling with breakage and dryness, you can use a pH restorative treatment like Rebalance before you apply your conditioner,” says Powell. She instructs that it’s best left on for three to five minutes, distributed evenly throughout from hair's roots to ends, ideally using a detangling brush for even distribution. Use the treatment once to twice per week, or as needed, for soft, defined curls that are free of frizz.
Pros: vegan; expert-approved; cruelty-free; free of parabens; large bottle
Cons: none found
While Rebalance is formulated to restore hair’s pH levels, Powell says that Naturally Drenched’s Restore treatment is a moisture mask. It’s best left on for five to ten minutes, after which she says to “thoroughly rinse out all product.” These mask seeks to define curls, improve texture, and enhance shine through a burst of hydration. It’s best used once to twice per week, and it’s safe for all hair types and curl patterns, as well as for color -treated hair.
Pros: color-safe; expert-approved; shine-enhancing; vegan; cruelty-free; free of parabens
Cons: small container
Conditioning Natural Hair
After your hair is thoroughly cleansed and you've washed all the shampoo out, it's time to condition. To do so, distribute product from mid-lengths to ends (you don't need to apply so much to the top of your hair, and you'll want to avoid creating buildup on your scalp). Let the conditioner sit for a few minutes, using that time to shave, wash the rest of your body, exfoliate, or anything else you need to do. Then rinse. You can also condition your hair by way of a moisturizing hair mask, which is typically left on longer.
But conditioning doesn't end in the shower. After you've emerged, Powell recommends applying leave-in conditioner to "freshly washed" hair.
"Select a leave-in conditioner that suits your needs," she continues. "Depending on your hair's thickness and length, you may want to create two to four sections for easier application. Dispense a small amount of leave-in conditioner into your hand. Rub the leave-in conditioner between your palms, and apply the leave in to the ends of your hair and work your way up toward the roots to prevent excess product from accumulating on the scalp. Use your fingers or a detangling brush to distribute the product evenly."
This clinically tested conditioner from is especially fantastic for high porosity, curly hair. It’s formulated by Philip Kingsley, the trichology center and brand devoted to creating healthy products that prevent breakage and hair fall in the long term. I love the way the conditioner feels on my hair and how long it lasts—with this creamy formula, a little goes a long way. Whenever I use it, I find that my hair is easier to dentangle and that my curls look more defined.
Pros: clinically tested; developed by doctors; editor-approved; gluten-free
Cons: expensive
“For a conditioner, I would recommend the Restore Moisture Masque,” says Powell. She explains, “It’s aloe vera based and provides a lot of moisture to all textures without weighing the hair down.” To use the 100 percent vegan formula, simply work the product evenly through hair and leave on for 10 minutes. For an extra boost of hydration, you can even put on a shower cap while the mask is on. The brand recommends using the product once to twice a week in order to maintain softness and moisture in hair.
Pros: expert-approved; color-safe; vegan; cruelty-free
Cons: small container
Powell specifically recommends this lightweight leave- in conditioner from Innersense for those with natural hair, and it’s easy to see why. The clean, cruelty-free formula is free of phthalates, sulfates, parabens, silicones, and other compounds that could potentially damage hair. Instead, it’s formulated with moisturizing ingredients like Tamanu Oil and aloe vera, along with eucalyptus and honey, which enhance shine and banish frizz. The conditioner is also detangling, so you won’t have to yank and potentially break your hair as you’re combing through it.
Pros: free of phthalates, parabens, silicones, and sulfates; clean; cruelty-free; expert-approved
Cons: strong smell
Customer Review: "It has a nice organic smell. It's not overwhelming. Makes my hair feels fresh after I blow dry my hair. I have slightly coarse hair and it works for me." -Ulta
To evenly distribute your hair mask, conditioner, or leave- in conditioner through your hair, Powell recommends this bruch from Naturally Drenched, which also works as a scalp massager. I own one, and I love how gently it detangles my curls. Each time I use it, I notice significantly less hair coming out in my brush than when I use my other, stiffer brushes. Plus, this flexible tool also features an ergonomic handle that makes brushing easy and comfortable.
Pros: ergonomic handle; minimizes pulling and breakage; expert-approved; editor-approved
Cons: may not be strong enough to get tougher tangles and knots out
Styling Natural Hair
When styling your hair, Powell recommends drying it with a hair dryer and diffuser to ensure long-term hair health.
"Air drying natural hair can cause damage to your hair long-term because the hair shaft swells when wet, which over time can weaken the cuticle layer causing cracking," she explains. "This cracking can occur deeper in your cortex leading to damage and breakage. Not to mention depending on the thickness of your hair—it’s harder for the hair to completely dry."
But how do you use a tool to dry hair without inadvertently causing heat damage? "A better alternative is to use indirect heat," says Powell. "A diffuser paired with a blow-dryer works well. You can place the blow-dryer on medium or high heat with low to medium pressure. Hover with the diffuser, or if you want more curls, you can lightly scrunch the curls using a push pull method. Another alternative is a hooded dryer."
And to style curls for optimal definition during the drying process, Powell says, "In general, you can use a foam, gels, curl balm or a combination of styling products." But it's important consider what level of hold you're looking for before you invest in a new styler.
"It really depends on the persons desired outcome, and how long they want the style to last," she admits. "Foams typically have a lighter hold and can provide definition. Used alone, a foam might not provide the longevity of a gel depending on the product. Gels often have varying holds and pair well with foams."
“If you are looking for a light hold with volume you can try Design Me Curl Balm,” Powell recommends. The balm is made with waves, curls, and coils in mind, and comes in an easy to use bottle that allows you to squeeze out as much or as little as you need. It’s a cruelty-free formula that’s safe for color-treated hair, and it promises to provide a light, buildable hold that never looks or feels crunchy. A mere quarter-sized drop promises to bring you the definition of your dreams.
Pros: cruelty-free; expert-approved; color-safe; light hold
Cons: strong smell
This product is based in aloe vera, making it a multi-tasking holy grail that moisturizes while it styles. It’s perfect for defining and elongating curls, and has enough hold to be used for a quick wash and go look. It’s also suitable for all curl patterns, including twists, coils, and starter locs. For best results, the brand recommends applying the product section by section onto wet hair, styling using your fingers, and finally using a diffuser to dry hair and lock curls into the style you want.
Pros: cruelty-free; free of dyes, sulfates, phthalates, and parabens; biodegradable
Cons: some users reported irritation—patch test first
Customer Review: "Living in a humid climate, I've always struggled with maintaining frizz-free curls, but with Uncle Funky's Daughter Curl Stimulator, my curls remain smooth and controlled even in high humidity. It truly helps my hair withstand the elements and keeps my curls looking fabulous. The application process is straightforward, and a little goes a long way. I simply apply a small amount of the Curl Stimulator to damp hair, scrunch it in, and let my hair air dry or use a diffuser." -Target
“For a medium to stronger hold, you can check out Ouidad’s Advanced Climate Control Heat and Humidity Gel, which is available in both regular and strong hold,” says Powell. Per the product’s name, is designed to control frizz, especially for those who live in humid climates. It promises to deliver maximum hold without causing any dreaded crunch or buildup, and it both tames frizz and prevents it from happening. It contains sericin, a protein that helps strengthen hair strands and diminish frizz, as well as wheat protein, which is detangling.
Pros: protein-infused; great for humidity; good for all hair types; expert-approved
Cons: some users wish it was stronger
Customer Review: "I have very wavy/curly hair and always struggle with frizz. Ouidad advanced humidity gel has been a game changer for me. Beautifully defined curls with zero frizz. One thing to keep in mind, hair will gel a little stiff initially. But with a little shake of the curls, they are soft and bouncy." -Ulta
This styling gel is Powell’s favorite product for those who need something with a”a firmer hold.” It creates shine while keeping curls defined, and is perfect for fixing shapeless, frizzy hair. Its formula is infused with nettle and eucalyptus, both of which increase shine and make hair stronger and more flexible. It also incorporates rooibos tea, which contains antioxidants that rejuvenate damaged, high porosity hair so that you don’t have to sacrifice your hair’s long-term health for your short-term style.
Pros: expert-approved; clean; cruelty-free; sustainable packaging
Cons: some users found it drying
Customer Review: "I have mixed curl patterns. My hair tends to be on the frizzy side. This product together with I Create Volume gives me the perfect balance of moisture, hold, shine, definition and great smell. I transitioned to these products after experience postpartum hair loss and hormonal changes which caused my hair to go crazy. I love these products for my hair. Great results!" -Ulta
