Drugstore shampoos – and budget-friendly beauty products overall – are making a comeback. We wholeheartedly agree with this trend. After all, the top drugstore shampoos, as you know, rival their pricier counterparts. drugstore foundations or mascaras , maintain high quality even though it is very affordably priced.
Actually, numerous leading drugstore shampoos are produced by well-known brands such as Dove or L'Oréal, catering to different hair types and concerns. Still not convinced? Last December, major influencer Alix Earle took to TikTok To express that she’s moving away from luxury shampoo formulas in preference for a more straightforward option: Pantene shampoo, which she praises for giving her silky-smooth locks. She reminisced about having vibrant hair during her high school years thanks to basic hair care products. This led many fans to chime in with their agreement that budget-friendly shampoos have always worked well for them (in contrast to highly touted yet expensive alternatives that often fall short).
Best Drugstore Shampoos for 2025
- L'Oréal Paris EverPure Bond Repair Shampoo
- Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Strengthening Shampoo
- Kristin EssHair The One Signature Shampoo
- Dove Scalp and Hair Therapy Moisturizing Shampoo
- Garnier Fructis Hair Filler + Vitamin Cg Strengthening Repair Shampoo
- Pura D'Or Anti Hair-Thinning Biotin Shampoo
- Ogx Renewing + Argan Oil of Morocco Shampoo
- Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Scalp Build-Up Control
- Monday Moisture Shampoo
- Head & Shoulders Gentle Moisturizing Shampoo
- Pantene Pro-V Daily Moisture Renewal Shampoo
- Vichy Dercos Selenium Sulfide Shampoo for Dandruff Relief
- Viviscal Thickening Shampoo
- L'Oréal Paris EverPure Sulfate-Free Purple Shampoo
That said, this decision should not be made randomly. Shampoos, as with conditioners It can significantly influence both the appearance of your hair and its structure at a cellular level, affecting factors such as moisture content and scalp condition. Various shampoos perform differently depending on hair type and texture, making it essential to discover the most beneficial formulation suited for you—whether your goal is to enhance your natural curls to undo the harm from heat damage caused hair styling tools , or something different altogether - holds great significance.
Eager to switch to using a drugstore brand for your shampoo needs? Let us guide you in choosing the perfect bottle to try out. A number of the suggestions listed below have been taken directly from Pawonation.com’s recommendations. Top Hair Care Products Throughout History - which was curated by polling close to 700 beauty Industry experts—and we have made it our mission to put numerous products through their paces—have led us to recommend shampoos that genuinely deserve your attention.
Here we go with the 14 top drugstore shampoos of 2025 designed to help you achieve fabulous hair at a lower cost.
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L'Oréal Paris EverPure Bond Repair Shampoo
The L'Oréal EverPure range boasts its commitment to being entirely free from sulfates and suitable for every type of hair imaginable. It stands out as particularly excellent for shampoos found at drugstores, specifically tailored for color-treated locks. The core focus of this restorative shampoo lies in reinforcing the structural bonds weakened during processes like bleaching, highlighting, or overall coloring. To get the best results, use it once to three times weekly—allowing it to sit for 5 to 10 minutes prior to washing can enhance its efficacy. Its impressive performance has secured a well-deserved place among our selection of top products. best Amazon beauty products , following more than 2,000 five-star reviews on the merchant's website.
Editor tests and feedback comments: "Blame it on bleach or regular use of hot tools - my hair leans on the dull side, no matter how many hair masks I slather on. After two washes with the corresponding conditioner, this shampoo gave me a visible boost in shine. That, combined with a little leave-in conditioner on my ends, creates the effect of super healthy hair." - Pawonation.com Shop Senior Beauty and Lifestyle Commerce Editor Claire Sullivan
Cost at the time of publication for this article: $8.97
Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Fortifying Shampoo
This Mielle Organics shampoo is truly effective TikTok struck, earning praise from numerous buyers who commend its effectiveness in promoting hair growth and thickness. Enriched with biotin, this shampoo fortifies strands, enhances luster, and combats split ends. As claimed by the female-founded company, the product works best for hair textures categorized as types 3A through 4C, although anyone Will see it as a beneficial enhancement to their hair care regimen. Have curly hair? You'll specifically enjoy the remarkable bounce the Rosemary Mint Strengthening Shampoo offers, along with an enhanced look of vitality and hair wellness.
Editor tests and feedback comments: After enjoying the benefits of the brand’s rosemary oil, I decided to try their shampoo. This product gives me a refreshing cool feeling on my scalp whenever I apply it, and it consistently keeps my curls moisturized and vibrant. However, due to its dense consistency, you'll need to work hard to create foam. Nonetheless, because a small amount can go such a long distance, the cost-effectiveness is truly impressive. Sullivan
Cost at the time of publication for this article: $9.97
Kristin Ess Hair One Signature Shampoo
Finding a sulfate-free shampoo that leaves your hair feeling thoroughly cleansed can be challenging, but celebrity stylist Kristin Ess has developed her The One Signature Shampoo precisely for achieving this perfect balance.
This ranks among the top drugstore clarifying shampoos because it effectively cleanses without stripping away the natural oils from your hair. It also boosts shine, creates luxurious foam, and features advanced technology designed to seal split ends while safeguarding your whole mane against damage from environmental factors. Unlike most drugstore shampoos known for their artificial fragrances, this product boasts an elegant scent profile featuring sandalwood and amber essences.
Editor testing and evaluation comments: "When considering the cost, I consistently find myself pleasantly surprised with the outcomes after using this shampoo. It creates sufficient foam which allows me to effortlessly apply the product throughout my scalp in one go, eliminating the need for a second washing session. Despite how well it cleanses, it doesn’t make my hair feel tangled or overly dry. Additionally, the pump design ensures an easy and clean application every time." - Sullivan
Cost at the time of publication for this article: $11.97
Dove Scalp + Hair Therapy Moisturizing Shampoo
The neighborhood pharmacy might not be the best spot for locating sulfate-free shampoos, yet this exceptional choice from Dove serves as an outlier. This product effectively cleanses your locks without robbing them of essential dampness; rather than being overly tough on your scalp, it strikes a balance using components such as vitamin B3 and zinc. Additionally, Dove’s formulation helps lock in moisture and fortify hair strands, resulting in robust tresses. days Although all types of hair can benefit from this choice, it is especially suggested for individuals with dry, coarse locks or a delicate scalp.
Cost at the time of publication for this article: $9.31
Garnier Fructis Hair Filler + Vitamin Cg Strengthening Repair Shampoo
Those with fine, damaged hair will appreciate the thickening results of Garnier's Hair Filler Shampoo. Peptides and citric acid work to patch up weak spots in individual strands of hair, resulting in fuller-looking, healthier hair with consistent use. For best results, use it with the rest of Garnier's Hair Filler System (which includes a repair treatment, conditioner , and hair serum ). Then witness as your hair undergoes an unprecedented transformation.
Cost at the time of publication for this article: $7.99
Pura D'Or Anti-Hair Thinning Biotin Shampoo
Loaded with a carefully selected mix of botanical components such as nettle leaf extract and seaweed, this popular drugstore shampoo aids in fortifying hair follicles, leading to more voluminous-looking locks over time. Individuals who have sensitive scalps or chemically treated, colored hair—and those with fine or thin strands—will likely be pleased with the outcomes they achieve after only a handful of washes using this product. However, do not our Over 17,000 five-star reviews on Amazon convey a strong and unmistakable message.
Editor testing and feedback documentation: I frequently include this shampoo in my hair care regimen. Given that I have thick hair, I've observed some thinning near my temples lately and have started using various serums and supplements to address it. None compare to how pleasant this shampoo is to use—it boasts a mild fragrance, foams up effortlessly, and makes me feel refreshed without leaving my scalp dry.
Cost at the time of publication for this article: $29.99
Ogx Revitalizing + Moroccan Argan Oil Shampoo
Following its relaunch last year, the Ogx Renewing + Argan Oil of Morocco Shampoo features LipiPro Shield technology—designed to fortify hair by delivering proteins and lipids, safeguarding against damage and frizz. This affordable shampoo’s key component is argan oil, known for enhancing shine and moisture upon first use. To enhance your routine further, think about using it alongside the Ogx Revitalizing with Argan Oil of Morocco Conditioner : Another pharmacy staple that never disappoints.
Editor testing and review notes: I've found that some moisturizing shampoos tend to make my hair heavy, leading to insufficient volume and prompting me to schedule my next shampoo session earlier than desired. However, this particular shampoo does an excellent job of adding moisture without making my hair look oily or limp — which is quite uncommon. Sullivan
Cost at the time of publication for this article: $8.89
Monday Moisture Shampoo
The initial impression you may get from the Monday Moisture Shampoo could be its stylish and modern design. However, delve deeper into what this product offers, and you'll discover it’s a high-end solution designed to add moisture to parched and impaired locks (in reality, it stands out as one of the top shampoos at your local pharmacy tailored specifically for curly and coiled tresses). Enriched with ingredients like coconut oil, rice protein, shea butter, and vitamin E, it aims to smooth the hair cuticles, enabling your strands not just to attain but also maintain their hydration levels effectively. retain Moisturizing properties and providing a glossier look overall. Concerning the fragrance of the shampoo? It boasts a peak-of-spring gardenia aroma that will make you eager to jump into the shower with each washday.
Cost at the time of publication for this article: $6.97
Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Scalp Build-Up Control
Even though an $8 shampoo may cause some raised eyebrows—especially when purchased at a place like CVS—we assure you that there’s nothing fishy about this top-selling product from Neutrogena. The T/Sal Therapeutic Scalp Build-Up Control Shampoo is highly effective against dandruff thanks to its key component, salicylic acid. This ingredient not only clears up scalp build-up and decreases inflammation but also relieves itchiness and dryness often linked with such issues.
Cost at the time of publication for this article: $7.32
Head & Shoulders Bare Soothing Hydration Shampoo
Formulated with just nine ingredients and free of silicones and sulfates, Head & Shoulders' Bare Soothing Hydration Shampoo acts as a dandruff-eliminating wizard by way of zinc pyrithione. Consistent use will put a definitive end to your scalp's flakiness, and notes of orchid and aloe will entice you to lather it up.
Cost at the time of publication for this article: $10.99
Pantene Pro-V Daily Moisture Renewal Shampoo
Pantene’s Pro-V Daily Moisture Renewal Shampoo and Conditioner sell at a rate of one unit per second, indicating their enduring popularity and effectiveness. It wouldn’t be surprising if these were the products Alix Elar was endorsing. the previously mentioned poem about drugstore haircare products , and it meets this expectation by offering 72 hours of rich nutrition and hair strength enhancement. The shampoo is mild enough for everyday use—providing silky smoothness from your scalp down to the tips, ensuring you'll be eager to keep using it.
Cost at the time of publication for this article: $6.39
Viviscal Thickening Shampoo
Viviscal is well-known mainly for its popular hair growth supplements, however, their Thickening Shampoo stands out as an exceptional product too. It works effectively against hair thinning due to various reasons such as stress, excessive styling, age-related changes, lack of essential nutrients, among others—resulting in lusher, more voluminous locks. The effectiveness comes from this shampoo’s special blend featuring seaweed, marine collagen, biotin, and keratin—all top-tier components when it comes to promoting healthy hair.
Cost at the time of publication for this article: $11.39
L'Oréal Paris EverPure Sulfate-Free Violet Shampoo
L'Oréal’s sulfate-free purple shampoo from their popular EverPure range boasts a lavender hue designed to counteract brassiness and eliminate yellow tones. This formula is ideal for maintaining the vibrancy of your blonde, chemically treated hair well beyond your visit to the salon. Since hydration plays a crucial role in caring for dyed tresses, this shampoo goes further than surface-level moisturizing; it provides deep conditioning benefits too.
Cost at the time of publication for this article: $7.99
Vichy Dercos Selenium Sulfide Shampoo for Dandruff Control
Vichy's Selenium Sulfide Anti-Dandruff Shampoo stands out among treatments designed specifically for dandruff. This shampoo utilizes selenium sulfide—an antifungal ingredient—along with niacinamide and glycerin to significantly decrease flaking, alleviate itching, and combat dryness. Balancing oil reduction with hydration can be challenging, but this product manages both tasks effectively, establishing itself as one of the top choices for oily hair at the drugstore level.
Cost at the time of publication for this article: $19.99
Where to Buy Drugstore Shampoos Online
Prices for beauty bargains at physical drugstores often vary depending on where you live, yet they generally remain steady—and frequently lower!—at stores such as Amazon, Ulta, or Target. Buying shampoo online not only offers insights into frequent queries regarding these products but also reveals feedback from customers with different hair types and requirements, detailing their likes and dislikes. Additionally, it highlights which supplementary items from the same brand’s range might be worthwhile purchases. Here, we outline the advantages of shopping through several key online platforms known for selling highly rated drugstore shampoos.
- Amazon.com In recent years, Amazon has transformed into the one-stop shop for casual beauty lovers and industry experts alike. The retailer's storefront boasts an incredible assortment of vetted beauty essentials, including drugstore mascara , women's perfume , and skin care tools those featuring thousands of genuine customer reviews you can peruse before hitting “add to cart.” A significant advantage of purchasing items that are both budget-friendly and offer fast shipping is provided by this feature. beauty products on Amazon Do you get access to discounts throughout the entire year?
- Ulta.com Ulta usually provides the broadest selection of shampoo brands at budget-friendly prices, featuring popular drugstore options such as L'Oréal and Ogj. Additionally, if you are an Ulta Beauty Rewards member, you can rack up points with every purchase which can then be used to add extra beauty goodies to your cart. The program also grants access to exclusive discounts, early sales, and a free gift on your birthday. All things considered, you'll be tempted to shop at Ulta for more than just shampoo. Trust us.
- Target.com This retailer’s online beauty section highlights quick deals on popular drugstore shampoos, along with periodic complimentary gift cards for your subsequent purchase. They provide same-day pick-up and curb-side delivery services, hassle-free returns of beauty products even once they've been unsealed, plus expedited or two-day shipping choices. Essentially, it embodies ease – guaranteeing you spend minimal effort obtaining the glossy hair you aspire to have.
- CVS.com Ordering beauty items from CVS’s website offers numerous discounts and benefits that you wouldn’t get when purchasing in person. Throughout the year, your online purchases can qualify for complimentary delivery on qualifying goods and help accumulate ExtraBucks using a CVS ExtraCare card. You’ll probably discover a wider variety of shampoos online compared to what's available across all their physical stores. Provided decision fatigue doesn't kick in, this is definitely an advantage worth noting.
How We Selected the Top Drugstore Shampoos
To compile our selection of the finest drugstore shampoos, Pawonation.comShop editors performed comprehensive testing and evaluation of items that lead their segment within the marketplace. They gauged consumer opinions as well, scrutinized ingredient compositions past promotional claims, and validated authenticity through meticulous methods. Additionally, numerous recommendations were ensured for inclusion. Head & Shoulders' Gentle Soothing Moisturizing Shampoo , Kristin Ess Hair's Essential Signature Shampoo , and Vichy's Dercos Selenium Sulfide Shampoo for Dandruff Control , among others) consistent with what Pawnation.com considered as the Best Hair Care Products of the Year bestowing upon them an additional layer of expert endorsement.
For testing purposes, we ran several trials within our group, considering the diversity of hair textures and requirements. We incorporated each shampoo into our personalized grooming habits to assess whether they delivered their promises over an extended period without causing negative side-effects such as drying out natural oils or dulling colored locks. Ultimately, from this evaluation, we narrowed down fourteen exceptional choices that offer distinct benefits, always prioritizing both the health of your hair and the contents of your wallet.
Why Trust Pawonation.com
Since 1910, Pawnation.com, often dubbed “the fashion Bible,” has served as the premier authoritative source for top-tier professionals within the international women’s and men’s fashion, retail, and beauty sectors. It also provides valuable insights to mainstream media covering these industries. Now, Paw nation .com remains a reliable go-to for up-to-the-minute news and trends, catering not only to those working behind the scenes but also to everyday shoppers. The site’s shopping experts persistently maintain Paw nation . com's high editorial benchmarks through their carefully curated collections backed by specialists' recommendations. Find out more about us here.
Meet the Testers & Authors
Stacia Datskovska She serves as a senior commerce writer at Pawonation.com. Before her current role, she was an assistant digital editor at ELLE DECOR, focusing on high-end topics related to luxury, culture, and lifestyle from a design perspective. Over the last several years, her articles have been featured in publications such as USA Today, Baltimore Sun, Teen Vogue, Boston Globe, Food & Wine, among others. Earlier in her career, Datskovska honed her skills in e-commerce at Mashable, where she evaluated various products, reported on major sales events, and compiled gift guides. She earned both her Bachelor’s degrees in Journalism and International Relations from New York University. Currently, Datskovska frequently writes about top-tier haircare items within the beauty sector—including shampoo—and tends to favor purchasing these goods at local pharmacies, echoing similar sentiments shared by Alix Earle regarding shopping preferences.
Claire Sullivan She serves as the Senior Beauty and Lifestyle Commerce Editor at Footwear News and Pawonation.com, authoring and overseeing content related to beauty, fashion, and lifestyle topics. With more than eight years of professional writing and editing under her belt, particularly with major publications such as Martha Stewart Living, Martha Stewart Weddings, InStyle, and Byrdie, she brings extensive expertise to her role. Having evaluated numerous products throughout her career, she excels in identifying items that truly enhance skincare and haircare routines. For this piece about leading drugstore shampoos, she was involved in assessing various options.
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