The Best Shampoo For Locs (Updated For 2024)

The Best Shampoo For Locs

With a beautiful bedhead full of locs, you look daring, bold, and somewhat mysterious.

Dreadlocks have become a hairstyle that is loved by so many that we now have hair extensions that imitate them for persons who are not ready to permanently get locs in

From as early as the 1500s, dreadlocks were known to have been in existence judging from the holy Hindu writings where Lord Shiva was said to have had ‘jata’ a Sanskrit word which is translated to mean ‘twisted locks of hair’.

Dreadlocks were also existent in ancient Egypt, this is strongly believed because of the statues and poor artifacts of ancient Egyptians.

ImageProductFeaturesPrice
Best overall
PURA D'OR Advanced Therapy Shampoo
PURA D’OR Advanced Therapy Shampoo
9.7
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Best for zero residue
Dread Head HQ Dread Dreadlock Soap
Dread Head HQ Dread Dreadlock Soap
  • Easy to rinse out after use
9.6
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Most versatile
Knatty Dread Dreadlocks Shampoo
Knatty Dread Dreadlocks Shampoo
  • Great for dreadlocks ALL hair types
  • Reduces drying time after washing.
9.6
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Best for damaged hair
SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Replenishing Shampoo
SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Replenishing Shampoo
9.6
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Best 2 in 1
Lion Locs Shampoo and Conditioner
Lion Locs Shampoo and Conditioner
9.6
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Best detox option
Peculiar Roots Clarifying, Detox Vegan ACV Shampoo
Peculiar Roots Clarifying, Detox Vegan ACV Shampoo
  • APPLE CIDER VINEGAR
  • CLARIFYING & DETOXIFY HAIR
  • REPAIR DAMAGED HAIR
9.6
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Best for itchy scalp
Fermosa Shampoo - Clarifying & Nourishing
Fermosa Shampoo – Clarifying & Nourishing
9.6
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For buildup removal
Jamaican Mango & Lime Tingle Shampoo
Jamaican Mango & Lime Tingle Shampoo
9.6
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Why You Need A Loc Shampoo

Taking proper care of your locks is extremely important if you want them to stay healthy.

Locs might look like a hairstyle that should not require so much hair care but it does, it needs to be cared for just as often and as gently as one would care for their natural hair

We’ve put all the work into finding you the best shampoos for your locs so you don’t need to do so yourself, especially if you’ve just begun your deadlock journey and you need the best products to ensure you get it right.

The Best Shampoo For Locs

The health and growth of your locs will decline if it is not properly washed and paid attention to while you have them in. This means that you need to invest in the best shampoos for your locs to ensure that the growth and nourishment needs of your locs are constantly met.

Look no further, we have handpicked the absolute best shampoos suited for your locs, all you need to do is show your locs some love by picking which best suits you.

Best overall
1. PURA D'OR Advanced Therapy Shampoo
9.7/10 Our Score

Many people struggle with brittle or fragile hair that is highly prone to thinning, for such persons the struggle does not end after you get your hair locked.

The best loc shampoo for thinning hair.

Your hair looks solid in locks but the texture does not change, this means that you need a shampoo that prevents your hair from thinning and that’s why Pura D’or anti-thinning biotin shampoo is just right for you.

What we like about this loc shampoo:

  • Made to cater specially to brittle or weak hair
  • Soothing for sensitive scalp
  • Makes damaged hair stronger.

What we would change: 

  • Must be washed thoroughly to avoid residue.

Why we recommend this loc shampoo:

The pura d’or anti-thinning shampoo is great for your locs because it protects your hair from damage and strengthens it, it also thickens your hair so that in the long run your hair is less prone to breakage even after discontinuing use. It is void of harmful chemicals and stimulates healthy hair growth with ingredients that nourish the scalp and hair follicles. It also has argan oil and biotin to increase protein in the hair and combat itchiness.

Best for zero residue
2. Dread Head HQ Dread Dreadlock Soap
9.6/10 Our Score
  • Can be used on sensitive scalp.

The best zero residue loc shampoo.

When there is a buildup of hair products in your hair, it just ends up suffocating your scalp and causing dirt to stay lodged in your hair, even if that product is a shampoo that is meant for cleaning, its residue being left behind is unhealthy.

Since locs are thick and are likely to have residue easily lodged between your hair strands you need a zero residue loc shampoo such as the dread HQ dreadlock shampoo.

What we like about this loc shampoo: 

  • Does not leave behind residue
  • Easy to rinse out after use
  • Has no added scent or oily residue
  • Can be used on sensitive scalp.

What we would change:

  • None we can find.

Why we recommend this loc shampoo

The dread head HQ dreadlock shampoo is an amazing pick for persons with dreads because of its ability to cleanse thoroughly without leaving behind any residue. By cleansing your hair of all oils and products that might have been lodged into your strands, it makes the locking or re-twisting process easier, faster, and tighter. 

Most versatile
3. Knatty Dread Dreadlocks Shampoo
9.6/10 Our Score
  • Great for dreadlocks ALL hair types
  • Reduces drying time after washing.

The best versatile loc shampoo.

While it is great to have a shampoo that caters to a particular hair need, it is best to have one that caters to several hair needs in one use.

Instead of dividing to conquer by purchasing different shampoos for different hair needs, you can simply address all your hair needs in one wash. To help you with this, we’ve brought you a versatile loc shampoo- the knatty dread dreadlocks shampoo.

What we like about this loc shampoo:

  • Gives you fuller and thicker dreads
  • Does not leave behind residue
  • Gives your hair an organic and healthy scent
  • Great for all deadlock hair types.

What we would change:

  • None we can find.

Why we recommend this loc shampoo

The knotty dread dreadlocks shampoo is a miracle in a bottle, it is sure to become your dreadlock’s best friend after the first few washes. It does not leave behind any oils or residue after wash days, it thickens your hair and adds a healthy volume to it after every use. It is also especially lovely for the coconut oil scent that it adds to your hair and the healthy shine it leaves behind. Your hair is certain to feel cleaner after each wash and void of any product residue because it is lightweight your dreads also take less time to dry. It tightens your dreads and also aids the growth of new hair.

Best for damaged hair
4. SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Replenishing Shampoo
9.6/10 Our Score

The best loc shampoo for damaged or natural hair.

Natural hair is tricky to manage, when you get it locked it needs a lot more care and constant treatment to prevent hair damage. If you’re a kinky or curly head that decided to get some locks, we’ve got the perfect shampoo for you.

If your hair has undergone damage recently and you need to return it to a healthy state, we’ve got you as well. The shea moisture strengthens and restore shampoo is amazing for natural hair and damaged hair.

What we like about this loc shampoo:

  • Made to cater to the needs of natural hair locks
  • Great shampoo for colored, damaged, and chemically treated hair
  • Has no added toxic chemicals
  • Feels super gentle on the scalp.

What we would change:

  • none we can find.

Why we recommend this loc shampoo

The shea moisture strengthens and restores shampoo is made with pure Jamaican castor oil and other organic ingredients to cater to the growth and nourishment needs of natural hair, damaged hair, colored hair, and chemically treated hair.

If your hair falls into any of these categories, then this is the best shampoo for your locs. It removes buildups in your hair, moisturizes your hair, strengthens your hair, and promotes a healthier growth pattern. It is a cruelty-free shampoo which had no toxic chemicals and is gentle on the scalp.

Best 2 in 1
Lion Locs Shampoo and Conditioner
9.6/10 Our Score

The best 2-in-1 shampoo for locs.

Washing your hair with shampoo is important, but having a conditioner to go in with after using your shampoo is just as important. Conditioners are an ideal way to provide your hair with extra moisture as this is what keeps it looking healthy, strong, and vibrant.

It also minimizes the frizz and tangling of your locs. Your best bet to wash your hair clean and add extra moisture is by getting a 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner such as the lion locs shampoo and conditioner.

What we like about this loc shampoo (and conditioner):

  • Cleanses and moisturizes in one wash
  • Can be left in your hair or rinsed out
  • Made suitable for all hair types
  • 100% vegan and cruelty-free.

What we would change:

  • none we can find.

Why we recommend this loc shampoo (and conditioner)

The lion locs 2-in-1 dreadlocks shampoo and conditioner is an excellent choice for your locs no matter your hair type. It is great for hair repair, it also softens, hydrates, and cleanses your hair. It prevents hair loss, dry or frizzy hair, and stimulates better hair growth. It can be left in as a leave-in conditioner or rinsed out like a cleansing shampoo, it’s your choice. 

Best detox option
Peculiar Roots Clarifying, Detox Vegan ACV Shampoo
9.6/10 Our Score
  • APPLE CIDER VINEGAR
  • CLARIFYING & DETOXIFY HAIR
  • REPAIR DAMAGED HAIR.

The best detox loc shampoo.

Detoxing your locs once in a while is a great way to get rid of product build-ups that you never knew were present that might have gathered in between your locs for a long period.

By doing this, you keep your hair healthy and give your hair follicles and scalp some much-needed breathing space for healthier growth. For this reason, we’ve got you the best detox shampoo for locs – the peculiar root clarifying and detox shampoo.

What we like about this loc shampoo:

  • Made with Apple cider vinegar for detoxification 
  • Removes buildup from your hair
  • Gentle and suitable for all hair types.

What we would change:

  • It is overpriced for the size (8oz).

Why we recommend this loc shampoo

The peculiar roots clarifying and detox shampoo is the ideal choice for anyone looking to detox their locs after noticing a buildup of used products. It enriches the hair with aloe juices which soothes the scalp, stimulates hair growth with pomegranate seed oil, and removes build-up and bacteria from the hair with Apple cider vinegar. It is chemical-free and is made to nourish and hydrate your scalp.

Best for itchy scalp
7. Fermosa Shampoo - Clarifying & Nourishing
9.6/10 Our Score

The fermosa clarifying, nourishing, and hydrating shampoo is enriched with Apple cider vinegar to combat itchy hair and get rid of dandruff infestations.

The best shampoo for itchy scalp.

Your locs may get itchy from time to time for several reasons, it could be as a result of styling damp locs, dead skin cells in your scalp, dust or dirt stuck in the roots of your hair, or protective styles that are too tight, or dandruff.

In cases like this, you need a shampoo such as the Formosa clarifying, nourishing, and hydrating shampoo to remedy the situation.

What we like about this loc shampoo:

  • Reduces frizz
  • Kills dandruff in your locs
  • Strengthens your locs
  • Provides extra moisture.

What we would change:

  • none we can find.

Why we recommend this loc shampoo

It protects your hair from frizz and dryness by providing extra moisture. It is made with a blend of healthy organic ingredients and does not contain any harmful chemicals. It also prevents hair loss and split ends.

For buildup removal
Jamaican Mango & Lime Tingle Shampoo
9.6/10 Our Score

The Jamaican mango and lime tingle shampoo and conditioner is an ideal shampoo and conditioner combo for getting rid of product buildup in your locs.

The best shampoo and conditioner for removing buildup in locs.

It is easy to have product buildup in your locs especially if you’re just beginning your loc journey and you’re not yet experienced in how to properly apply products to your hair. Buildups in your locs can cause hair breakage and cause your locs to feel heavy.

To remedy this, you need a buildup removal shampoo on your wash days and the Jamaican mango and lime tingle shampoo and conditioner will do the job right.

What we like about this loc shampoo and conditioner: 

  • Gently cleanses your scalp
  • Moisturizes and nourishes your hair
  • Prevents breakage by removing buildup
  • Strengthens the scalp and stimulates growth

What we would change: 

  • none we can find.

Why we recommend this loc shampoo and conditioner

It contains tea tree extract which is responsible for stimulating new growth in the scalp. It also provides the hair with extra moisture to nourish the roots after getting rid of buildup. It also provided the locs with protein that strengthens it and prevents breakage.

Choosing a Loc Shampoo For Your Hair Type ( Buying Guide )

We know that you must have already chosen a loc shampoo from the list we provided above by simply looking at the benefits, but you need to take certain things into careful consideration so that you’re picking a loc shampoo that is truly perfect for you.

We have some simple tips that you would need to go over before purchasing a loc shampoo, as always we’ve got you : 

1. Make sure it suits your hair type

Ensure that the loc shampoo you choose is indicated to be suitable for your hair type, we made sure to indicate which shampoos are suitable for all hair types and which shampoos are made especially for a particular hair type to make it easier for you to make the best choice.

2. Pick a shampoo that does not leave residue

The reason why regular shampoo is not ideal for locs is that it leaves residue behind in your locs after every wash which results in tangling and damage, so you would do your locs good by going for a shampoo that leaves little or no residue behind after washing.

3. Watch out for shampoos with chemical ingredients

Avoid loc shampoos they have chemical additives, they will only end up making your loc journey tougher by causing damage to your hair go with organic shampoos instead which will nourish and moisturize your locs.

What Is The Best Shampoo For Your Locs? 

The best shampoo for your locs is the shea moisture strengthen and restore shampoo, it is perfect for all hair types, it caters to the needs of damaged hair, curly hair, natural hair, colored hair, and chemically treated hair.

It is also a great shampoo for getting rid of buildup in your locs, it is made with organic ingredients such as pure Jamaican castor oil to moisturize and nourish the hair with every wash.

Its effects are also long-lasting and your locs are sure to be stronger, vibrant, softer, and protected from damage.

Best for damaged hair
4. SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Replenishing Shampoo
9.6/10 Our Score

Frequently Asked Questions

Is clarifying shampoo good for dreadlocks?

Yes! Clarifying shampoos are great for washing your dreadlocks. They are known to have far less creamy consistency or oil residue in comparison to other shampoos, this means that you can be certain that no buildups would be left in your locks to cause any damage.

Is sulfate-free shampoo good for dreadlocks?

Yes, sulfate-free shampoos are a great match for your dreadlocks. They are certain to nourish and cleanse your hair without stripping your scalp of its natural oils. Sulfate is a lock damaging ingredient and you should avoid using shampoos that contain it on your locks.

How often do you shampoo dreadlocks?

For a nourished, moisturized, and healthy set of locks it is important to wash your dreadlocks every two to three weeks without fail. This process cleanses your locks, removes debris, detoxifies your hair, and stimulates new hair growth.

Summary

Locs are a representation of the African heritage, they are wild, free, and beautiful to identify with. But because they leave your hair in thicker bits, it requires shampoos that fit the texture and needs of dreadlocks. 

With any of the shampoos reviewed above, you can keep your locs feeling strengthened, protected, softer, untangled, moisturized, and refreshing.

You can never go wrong with hair products that have been formulated with organic ingredients and zero chemical additives, so all of the above options are perfect! 

Simply use our buying guide to pick the perfect shampoo suited for your hair types and hair needs and you’re certain to have a smooth loc growth journey.

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