Choosing a natural shampoo can have a visible impact on the strength, softness, and overall health of your hair. Instead of using products laden with sulfates and synthetic fragrances, natural shampoos contain plant-based cleansers and nutrient-rich ingredients that promote scalp and hair health. From top picks to the science behind core ingredients, this guide has everything you need to find the right formula for your hair type – without the trial and error.

The 10 Best Natural Shampoos

1. Avalon Organics Biotin B-Complex Thickening Shampoo

If your hair feels thin or lacks volume, Avalon Organics’ Biotin B-Complex Thickening Shampoo is an excellent option. Saw palmetto and biotin are combined in its plant-based recipe to give your hair a fuller look, and the mild, sulfate-free base keeps your scalp comfortable. It helps strengthen hair from the bottom up and is gentle enough for daily use.

2. SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo

If you have curls, coils, or waves, SheaMoisture’s Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo delivers moisture without heaviness. The coconut oil helps soften and hydrate, while silk protein adds shine and enhances curl definition. It’s a perfect fit for curly hair that needs nourishment while retaining shape and bounce.

3. Maple Holistics Tea Tree Special Shampoo

Maple Holistics Tea Tree Special shampoo is great for anyone who suffers from dandruff, an itchy scalp, or irritation. Tea tree and rosemary oils work together to soothe flakes and provide a refreshing cooling sensation. For those whose scalp is frequently irritated or oily, this shampoo soothes the discomfort and does not strip the hair. 

4. PURA D’OR Original Gold Label Anti-Thinning Shampoo

PURA D’OR’s Original Gold Label Anti-Thinning Shampoo is well-known for helping improve the look and feel of thinning hair. Its botanical blend—including natural DHT blockers—supports density, while argan oil adds hydration. It’s also free of sulfates and parabens, making it a clean, supportive option for long-term strengthening.

5. Acure Curiously Clarifying Lemongrass Shampoo

For oily hair or heavy product users, Acure’s Curiously Clarifying Lemongrass Shampoo offers a refreshing cleanse. The lemongrass delivers a bright, clean scent, while argan oil ensures your hair doesn’t feel stripped. It’s vegan, cruelty-free, and perfect for restoring balance when your hair needs a gentle reset.

6. WOW Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo & Conditioner Set

The WOW Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo & Conditioner Set is widely loved for restoring scalp pH, reducing frizz, and boosting shine. The ACV works to remove buildup, leaving your scalp fresh and hair naturally glossy. When paired with the conditioner, it transforms dull strands into smoother, softer hair.

7. Maui Moisture Heal & Hydrate + Shea Butter Shampoo

Maui Moisture’s Heal & Hydrate Shampoo is a rich, creamy formula made with aloe vera juice and shea butter, making it perfect for dry or damaged hair. It leaves hair softer, smoother, and more manageable without using harsh sulfates.

8. Jason Restorative Biotin Shampoo

Jason’s Restorative Biotin Shampoo uses biotin, vitamin B5, and ginseng to support stronger, fuller hair while relying on a gentle plant-based cleansing system. It’s a clean, affordable natural option that works well for daily use.

9. Tree to Tub Soapberry Balancing Shampoo

Tree to Tub’s Soapberry Shampoo uses wild soapberry as its natural cleanser to maintain the scalp’s pH. Paired with organic aloe, chamomile, and lavender, it’s ideal for sensitive scalps or anyone wanting a very gentle, soothing wash.

10. Majestic Pure Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo

Majestic Pure’s Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo combines raw ACV with keratin to strengthen and smooth weakened hair. It cleans thoroughly without stripping natural oils, leaving your hair softer, shinier, and more manageable. Over time, it helps improve texture and resilience for healthier-looking hair.

Product Comparison Table

Product Name	Key Features
Avalon Organics Biotin B-Complex Thickening Shampoo	Biotin + saw palmetto, plant-based formula, sulfate-free; great for thinning or limp hair
SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo	Coconut oil hydration, silk protein shine boost, enhances curl definition
Maple Holistics Tea Tree Special Shampoo	Tea tree + rosemary oils, reduces dandruff, cooling/soothing feel
PURA D’OR Original Gold Label Anti-Thinning Shampoo	Natural DHT blockers, argan oil hydration, sulfate- & paraben-free
Acure Curiously Clarifying Lemongrass Shampoo	Lemongrass + argan oil, removes buildup, vegan and cruelty-free
WOW Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo & Conditioner Set	Balances scalp pH, reduces frizz, boosts shine
Maui Moisture Heal & Hydrate + Shea Butter Shampoo	Aloe-based, ultra-moisturizing, ideal for dry or damaged hair
Jason Restorative Biotin Shampoo	Biotin + B5 + ginseng, strengthens hair, gentle plant-based cleanser
Tree to Tub Soapberry Balancing Shampoo	Soapberry pH-balancing cleanser, soothing botanicals, great for sensitive scalps
Majestic Pure Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo	Raw ACV + keratin, strengthens hair, cleans without stripping

What Makes a Natural Shampoo Effective?

Tea Tree Oil: A Proven Helper for Dandruff and Scalp Irritation

One of the most widely studied natural shampoo ingredients is tea tree oil, and the research behind it is surprisingly strong. A clinical trial evaluating a 5% tea tree oil shampoo found that participants experienced a 41% reduction in dandruff severity, along with noticeably less itchiness and greasiness compared to the placebo group. That’s a major improvement for a botanical ingredient—and it’s one reason tea tree–based natural shampoos remain popular among people dealing with flaky or irritated scalps. Since many natural shampoos rely on plant oils instead of harsh antifungal chemicals, this study shows that you can still get real, measurable results using a cleaner formula.

Biotin: Helpful for Deficiency, But Not a Miracle for Everyone

Biotin is another ingredient you’ll often see on natural shampoo labels, especially those marketed for “hair growth.” But what does the science really say? A dermatology review looking at multiple studies found that biotin’s benefits are mainly significant for people with an underlying deficiency or specific hair disorders—not necessarily for individuals with normal biotin levels. That doesn’t mean biotin shampoos are useless, but it does highlight the importance of realistic expectations. In the context of natural shampoo, biotin still plays a supportive role in maintaining stronger, more resilient strands, yet it shouldn’t be viewed as a magic fix. Instead, it works best as part of a wider routine that includes gentle cleansers, nourishing oils, and scalp-friendly botanicals.

How to Choose the Right Natural Shampoo

Finding the best natural shampoo depends on your hair’s needs. Use these simple tips to decide:

1: Match Ingredients to Your Scalp Type

• Oily scalp: Tea tree, ACV, rosemary
  
• Dry or itchy scalp: Aloe vera, glycerin, lavender
  
• Balanced scalp: Mild coconut or argan-based cleansers

2: Pay Attention to Your Hair Texture

• Curly hair: Moisturizing formulas with shea butter or coconut
  
• Fine hair: Lightweight cleansers with pomegranate or biotin
  
• Damaged hair: Keratin, argan, or strengthening botanical oils

3: Avoid Harsh Additives

Steer clear of:

• Sulfates
  
• Parabens
  
• Synthetic fragrance
  
• Formaldehyde releasers

Natural shampoos should clean gently without stripping your scalp barrier.

Benefits of Using Natural Shampoo

Switching to natural shampoo offers several noticeable improvements:

1. Less Scalp Irritation – Gentle botanical cleansers prevent dryness and flaking.

2. Stronger Hair Over Time – Ingredients like biotin, keratin, and plant extracts help support long-term strength.

3. Better Moisture Balance – Natural oils protect hair without creating heavy buildup.

4. Eco-Friendly Formulas – Most natural shampoos use recyclable packaging and biodegradable ingredients—great for sustainable living.

Conclusion

Natural shampoo makes it easy to upgrade your haircare routine without exposing your scalp to harsh chemicals. With options for every hair type—from clarifying ACV blends to nourishing coconut-based formulas—you can choose a product that supports healthier, stronger hair over time. If you’re exploring more ways to simplify your daily routine, check out this helpful guide to capsule kitchen essentials for inspiration on living more sustainably.

FAQs

1. Is natural shampoo suitable for every hair type?

Yes. Most natural shampoos are formulated for specific needs—curly, fine, oily, or dry hair—making it easy to find one that suits you.

2. Does natural shampoo lather less than regular shampoo?

Often yes, because it uses gentler surfactants. However, this doesn’t affect cleansing power.

3. Can natural shampoo help with hair growth?

It can support healthier roots, which may improve the appearance of thickness over time.

4. Will I go through a transition phase when switching to natural shampoo?

Some people notice their hair feels different for the first few washes, especially after leaving sulfates behind.

5. How frequently should natural shampoo be used?

Most people can use it 2–4 times a week, depending on scalp oiliness and styling product use.