As African American men, our hair thrives on moisture. And the right shampoo keeps the hair hydrated and silky all day long.
It doesn’t matter whether your hair is dry, wavy, straight, or curly, there’s always a shampoo to give you that great feel. While it is best to wash your face more and your hair less frequently, a good routine can produce great results. In today’s market, brands and celebrities are churning out products more than ever before. Should that get to you?
Well, we all have to answer that at some point. When looking for the right product for your hair, it is wise to consider how well it works for your unique hair type. It should lessen dandruff outbreaks as well as prevent hair breakage.
If you prefer to keep curly or wavy hair, then it is advisable to assess how hair products affect your hairstyle. The best shampoo for black men accentuates your hair’s best qualities while also alleviating undesirable hair conditions.
The 5 Top-Rated Shampoos for Black Male Hair
To find the right shampoo, we reviewed a couple of products. One of the many factors we considered includes how effectively the shampoo moisturizes and washes the hair. We scrutinized its ingredients, aroma, value for money, and so on.
We also wanted one that would benefit our black brothers battling with an itchy, irritated scalp due to dryness. In the end, our selection encompasses products that are good for men of color.
| Best for | Shampoos for Black Men |
| Best Overall | Baxter of California Daily Fortifying Shampoo |
| Value for Money | Billy Jealousy Monsoon Mist Tea Tree Daily Shampoo |
| Anti-Dandruff | Jack Black Double-Header Shampoo & Conditioner |
| Thinning Hair | MenScience Androceuticals Daily Shampoo |
| Moisturizing Hair | Maple Holistics Tea Tree Shampoo |
Baxter of California Daily Fortifying Shampoo made the top of our list out of all the shampoos we compared. For those dealing with different hair conditions, this shampoo created with unique components reinforces the hair nutrients, leaving it conditioned and stronger. It contains coconut extract and wheat protein which are known for their moisturizing properties.
Let’s get started!
How to Choose the Most Suitable Shampoo for Men of Color
While looking for the right shampoo for black men, you must find the ones suitable for your hair type. A good product should lather properly while washing your hair and keep your hair hydrated.
To ensure that a shampoo is good for you, you should examine its components, scents, and cleaning power. If you are allergic to some ingredients, avoid products that have them.
Let’s examine some details in what follows.
1. Check What It’s Made Of
As a rule of thumb, everyone should know what their shampoos contain. Whether you like it or not, hair products can either nourish your hair or damage your scalp. You would likely see that some of these products are promoted as being sulfate-free, silicone-free, paraben-free, and phthalate-free.
While not all these substances are harmful to use, you should observe how your scalp reacts to them. When you see a product containing sulfate, you could assume that it is chemically intensive, but that is not always the case.
Every form of sulfate is varied in severity, but all may be unpleasant to your scalp or hair. A study by Ginger King suggests that the “-yl” form is harsher on your skin compared to the “-eth” variety.
Consequently, the sodium version, sodium lauryl sulfate, is more offensive than the ammonium versions, ammonium laureth sulfate, and ammonium lauryl sulfate. Do note that it isn’t recommended to use a shampoo containing sulfate to color-dyed hair as it could wash off the color.
There are also natural ingredients like coconut oil, tea tree oil, jojoba, avocado, wheat protein, coal tar, and other organic compounds. If you prefer to stick with an organic option, you can do well to see how it helps your hair. Still, prevent the shampoo from entering your eyes. Being organic doesn’t mean it won’t irritate your eyes.
Whether you choose to go green or use the ones with chemical compounds, it’s all up to you. Every product has its pros and cons. There are also products that contain a mix of natural and chemical compounds. Look out for the properties you desire. While a product with antibacterial characteristics could be great for your hair, it could irritate your scalp.
2. Observe How It Smells
Have you ever wondered why women’s shampoos smell better than men’s? It’s down to contents. You’d see women’s shampoo containing a subtle scent of jasmine, vanilla, or even lavender. On the other hand, men’s shampoo would simply scent earthly.
It’s time we up our game. There are so many nice-smelling shampoos for black men out there. And if you stay with your partner, they may prefer you use a product with a nice scent. Wouldn’t it be nice to get a shampoo you can share with your spouse?
3. Examine How Effectively It Cleanses the Hair
While ingredients and fragrances are important factors, it’s good that you do not forget to consider how well it works. An all-natural product that doesn’t clean your hair well would be a bad buy.
If you want to get rid of oil buildup in your hair, then a clarifying shampoo would be the right choice. Granted, it should moisturize your hair while getting rid of the unwanted dirt. Avoid products that promise to get your hair squeaky clean, as they also get rid of restorative oils that your hair needs.
What Is the Best Shampoo for Black Men?
The best shampoo for black men is Baxter of California Daily Fortifying Shampoo, closely followed by Billy Jealousy Tea Tree Shampoo and Jack Black Double-Header Shampoo.
As you continue reading, you’ll get to know why they are the best shampoos for black male hair. We would also say what we like about them, areas they can improve, and address some frequently asked questions.
Baxter’s Daily Fortifying Shampoo for Men is a product from Baxter of California, a company that has been in the beauty world since 1965. Even if you are not easily impressed, using this shampoo with a conditioner produces great results.
Best Shampoo for Black Men
It smells fantastic, feels nice, and the effect is excellent! While this product is not the cheapest you can find, it delivers good value for money. Whether you have a lot of hair or you’re keeping a low cut, the shampoo does a great job.
As black men, we can benefit from some of the ingredients in this shampoo. It contains wheat protein, coconut extract, and some other natural ingredients. It is also free from both sulfates and parabens, which is a plus for everyone who likes natural products. The natural components of the shampoo help with healthy hair conditions.
The scent is something that you’d probably also like about this shampoo. It has a wonderful mint scent and even better, a tiny tingling effect on your scalp. That’s not all. It lathers well, so it’s pretty good for deep-cleansing your hair. If you’ve got a buildup of other products, then this shampoo would most likely get rid of it.
There are some misconceptions about the Daily Protein Shampoo and the Daily Fortifying Shampoo. The truth of the matter is that Baxter replaced the former with the latter. While some who used Daily Protein Shampoo can’t seem to make a switch, the latest Baxter product is just as good.
What We Like
What Can Improve
Final Verdict
If you don’t have much hair, you can use the Baxter of California shampoo once or twice a week. If you have a lot of hair, using it a little more time would be appropriate. This shampoo has been consistently good over the years. It is also quite aesthetically pleasing.
When it comes to color-treated men’s hair, you simply cannot use any shampoo you come across. You need a product that washes your hair while preserving the color of your dyed hair. That’s where Billy Jealousy Monsoon Mist Tea Tree Shampoo comes in.
Best Affordable Shampoo for Black-Skinned Men
This shampoo restores hair nutrients with the amazing natural ingredients it contains.
The Monsoon Mist is a blend of aloe vera juice, peppermint oil, rosemary leaf extract, and jojoba seed oil. This combination is perfect for naturally boosting hair growth. And most importantly, the shampoo contains tea tree oil. Hence, the reason for the ‘tea tree’ in its name. The scent is also natural, no synthetic ingredient was used for that.
A generous amount of tea tree (melaleuca alternifolia) possesses some hair growth properties. For many years, people have utilized tea tree leaves to heal anything from a cut to flu. This revitalizing shampoo soothes irritated and itchy scalp and leaves the scalp and hair feeling completely revitalized, while also encouraging healthier hair development. The tea tree formula deals with build-up from other products as well.
What We Like
What Can Improve
Final Verdict
This is an affordable shampoo that does not need other products to get your desired results. If you are among those searching for a product that keeps hair color while avoiding buildup, then you will be pleased with this formula. It’s a superb option, and after using it a couple of times, you’ll see how well it cleanses the hair.
Looking for a shampoo that smells good, is not offensive, and adds texture to your hair? If not Jack Black’s, then what?
The fact is, we find it difficult to pick between the Jack Black Double-Header Shampoo + Conditioner and the Jack Black True Volume Thickening Shampoo. Depending on what you want in a shampoo, you can select either of the two products.
One reason many like the Double-Header Shampoo is that it washes and conditions the hair. It’s more like a two-in-one product. The shampoo retains moisture in the scalp for a fair amount of time. While it is a little more expensive than other options, it presents excellent value for money.
The shampoo keeps your hair healthy, thick, and soft, just the way you want it. But that’s not all; it lathers very well. We would advise that you try as much as possible to prevent the shampoo from entering your eyes. While many two-in-one products do not cleanse the hair effectively, leaving oil residue on the scalp, that’s not the case with Jack Black.
We would recommend that you get this product from reputable sources, as they tend to be fakes sold by some salons.
What We Like
What Can Improve
Final Verdict
We’re not the only ones that like Jack Black’s Shampoo. Black men across the globe enjoy it. That is evident from the great reviews it has received from most retailers. You can get this shampoo for your hair. While it may be expensive, a bottle will last a long time and is well worth the extra cost.
If you are searching for the best dandruff shampoo for black men, then you should get MenScience Androceuticals Daily Shampoo. If you’ve got flakes or cysts on the scalp caused by blocked hair follicles, this is a product that can help you deal with such troubles.
Best Shampoo for Thinning Hair
MenScience Androceuticals is a brand known for providing men’s grooming products. The products are scientifically made by experts in the field.
This product contains chemical and natural ingredients that none of them are irritating to the scalp. The ingredients include Panthenol, Vitamin E, and salicylic acid to help those dealing with dandruff. While it constitutes some acids, Alpha and Beta Hydroxy Acids, it does not have severe impacts. The acids help with breaking down build-ups and allow vitalization. Some chemicals help to fight hair loss in the shampoo.
For serious cases of hair problems, we would recommend that you consult with a dermatologist. While it is good for dandruff and breakouts on the scalp, there is only so much it can do for you. Nevertheless, it’s a great product. The scent is gender-neutral, so a female could use the shampoo as well.
What We Like
What Can Improve
Final Verdict
MenScience Androceuticals Daily Shampoo can effectively clear dandruff and cysts from the scalp. When used daily, your scalp will return to its natural form. This shampoo is highly recommended if you have acne or extreme irritation on your scalp. You’d most likely enjoy using this product.
Maple Holistics is a brand that offers natural products to users around the world. This shampoo contains numerous natural oils, the essential oils include lavender and tea tree.
Best Moisturizing Shampoo for Black Guys
There are so many positives to draw from this shampoo. Its pleasant flowery fragrance is something to expect from a natural product. The lavender scent is also pretty noticeable. If you’d love a subtle masculine scent, then you can check this shampoo out.
As a natural product, there are hardly any synthetic chemicals in the content of the shampoo. The shampoo contains vegan ingredients like peppermint leaf oil, tea tree leaf oil, rosemary leaf oil, hydrolyzed corn protein, hydrolyzed wheat protein, hydrolyzed soy protein, and jojoba seed oil.
Whether you are considering switching to natural shampoo or not, you may want to learn more about how harmful chemicals in some shampoos can worsen dry scalp. After applying Maple Holistics Shampoo to your hair, you will feel fresh and your scalp healthier. Say goodbye to flaky and dry hair, as this product doubles as a dandruff shampoo for black men.
What We Like
What Can Improve
Final Verdict
Maple tea tree shampoo is a vegan-based shampoo that helps with itchy scalp, and flaky hair while keeping lice at bay. It does this without leaving a greasy residue. The scent is natural and maintains a cool feeling.
Bear in mind, this guide will be revamped as frequently as possible to share my present favorites with you. Furthermore, let’s consider the various types of shampoo for African-American Men.
Types of Shampoo for African-American Men
Selecting one out of the available variety of shampoo products for black men could be quite daunting. Well, that is why we are here.
In the previous section, we’ve recommended various shampoos based on their cleaning power, scent, treatment options, and scalp friendliness. While many people rate shampoos based on cleaning abilities, that’s not all you should care about. It is best to also consider your hair conditions and what may work best for you.
For you to understand this better, we’d go further to classify shampoos based on their different purpose. Let’s begin.
1. Regular Shampoo
When people say they are in search of shampoos for all hair types, they are probably looking for regular shampoo. They are used by individuals who do not have hair troubles or need any treatment.
These shampoos are designed to remove sebum from the hair. Sebum, on the other hand, serves as a protective layer for the scalp and hair. The shampoo does this without affecting the natural oils in the hair. Hence, it is suitable for all hair types.
2. Curly Hair Shampoo
Contrary to widespread belief, even curls need to be shampooed. There are usually product buildups and excess oil underneath the curls. And they need to be removed.
Interestingly, there are shampoos specifically designed for that. It would also help in maintaining the bounciness of the curls. As a result of dryness sometimes experienced in curly hair, its formulas contain moisturizing agents. This helps in ensuring softness and lustrousness.
3. Daily Shampoo
Daily shampoo, also known as everyday shampoo is used more frequently than other types. It also contains fewer surfactants. In simple terms, surfactants are agents in shampoos that are used to break down product buildups and eliminate oil, dirt, and more. The most common type is the anionics in daily shampoo which contribute significantly to its detergency and lather.
Compared to the other types of shampoo, the daily formulas have fewer sulfate contents. Hence, they are milder when applied to the hair and scalp. Like everyday soaps used by men, this shampoo causes no harm. They also do not contain many conditioning ingredients.
4. Deep-Cleansing Shampoo
If you are wondering about the kind of shampoo we would recommend for bald black men, then you have our answer – deep-cleansing shampoo. Whether you have hair or not, it doesn’t matter as this shampoo focuses on the scalp to eliminate tenacious debris from your hair that your regular shampoo may ignore. It also offers cleaning, antibacterial, and relaxing properties.
Oils and debris can accumulate on a bald scalp, so applying a dab of deep-cleansing shampoo does the magic. It also helps to keep your head flake-free when you apply a hydrating conditioner as well. So, you’ve got an option if you’re bald and got dandruff. Tea tree oil, willow bark extract, and dandelion are all prominent plant components in this type of shampoo.
5. Anti-Breakage Shampoo
Hair breakage is unavoidable while combing, brushing, or caring for one’s hair daily. A fortifying shampoo for hair breakage can assist your hair to develop stronger strands. Irrespective of the cause of hair breakage, it gets the job done. It can help you achieve that glossy sheen.
The shampoo works to restore and revive damaged, fragile hair to maintain it clean, better, stronger, and healthier hair strands and scalp. To reduce roughness and achieve smoother, thicker hair, you can use an anti-breakage shampoo.
6. Dry Shampoo
Dry shampoo is often used to remove dirt, oil, and buildup from the hair. Technically, it is not a shampoo. This is because you do not need to wash the hair after application. As the name implies, you don’t need water. It is applied to dry hair.
The product simply retains the natural oils present in the hair. You can take a tiny bit of the shampoo and apply it to your hair. It’d then absorb the unwanted oils and buildups.
These types of shampoo come in different forms. It could be in the form of a spray, powder, or liquid. No matter the form, it helps eliminate dirt from hair. The starch-based or alcohol-based ingredients help in absorption.
Like regular shampoo, it removes sebum from hair while retaining natural oils. The removal of dirt can help your hair smell better. Please note that the use of dry shampoo does not replace washing your hair the normal way.
7. Clarifying Shampoo
Amongst the several kinds of shampoos out there, clarifying shampoo is best used to remove residue and product buildup. If you use several hair products, then you should use this shampoo sometimes.
In determining how often you should use this, consider your hair type and how often you use styling products. If you color-treated your hair, then you have to be more careful.
While it’s good to include this in your hair care routine, it’s advisable to use a conditioner alongside. Note that this isn’t a regular shampoo that you should use all the time. It can make your hair dry and rough.
8. Moisturizing Shampoo
We’ve seen people question the relevance of moisture in the scalp over the years. Well, hope you’re not one of them. That’s because moisture does more good than harm. Without a bit of moisture, you’d most likely experience dryness on the scalp.
And as a result of the dryness, it could likely make hair strands brittle. In time, that could lead to a flaky scalp.
When there are fewer natural oils in the hair, it reduces the ability of the scalp to retain moisture. So, to keep moisture, you need more natural oils on your scalp. If you need help, that’s where moisturizing shampoo comes in.
This formula would leave your hair buttery soft when applied. We urge folks with oily hair to skip moisturizing shampoos. You don’t need it.
9. Color-Treated Hair Shampoo
As we mentioned earlier, those with color-treated hair are encouraged to avoid clarifying shampoo as it could tamper with the hair color. Hence, we would recommend a shampoo that doesn’t make a mess of the color you’ve dyed your hair with. When you color-treat your hair, you definitely wouldn’t want a shampoo to strip your hair of its beauty.
The good news is that there are shampoos that work well with that. Whether you’ve colored your fades, dreads, or curls, you have got no worry. It contains proteins that prevent damage to your dyed hair.
10. Volumizing Shampoo
Volumizing shampoo, also known as thickening shampoo, adds volume and texture to hair since oil and debris may weigh it down.
While the effects could be temporary, it give solidity to hair strands by inflating them with polymers and other chemicals. It opens the delicate hair cuticles without doing any damage. Thereby promoting hair growth.
Volumizing shampoo may aid in preventing lank and lifeless curly hair. Panthenol, witch hazel, wheat protein, silk protein, and rice protein are the main constituents of this kind of shampoo. The different ingredients are meant to address distinct aspects of the hair.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Bottom Line
From our analysis and extensive testing, the best shampoo for black men is Baxter of California Daily Fortifying Shampoo. While we examined every other shampoo on our list, Baxter’s stood above the others.
Like others, if you are seeking the best black men’s shampoo, look no further. As long as you care about your scalp and the ingredients that shampoo contains, you will not have a problem with this natural product. The shampoo smells nice, moisturizes the scalp, helps with dry scalp and flaky head, and a bottle lasts a while.
Please if you’ve got an oily scalp, avoid using any shampoo that would increase the moisture content on your scalp. If you need to get rid of unwanted oils, then you should be looking at getting a clarifying or deep-cleaning shampoo. Do not overuse it though.
Also, do not neglect thickening, or volumizing shampoos if you want fuller hair. Those kinds of shampoos contain fewer moisturizing agents and help in getting rid of unwanted oils too. As a rule of thumb, test shampoo on a part of your body before applying it to your scalp. This is very important if the shampoo contains many chemicals.
About the Author
Dante Morton
Grooming ProfessionalDante Morton is a grooming professional and fashion expert. He has a jovial personality and a passion for skincare, as well as styling the hair and beards of black men. Before joining GroomHour, Dante worked with several big players in the beauty industry. Join Dante and several monthly readers on GroomHour.com, and enrich your lifestyle with reliable grooming resources.
