If you’re tired of washing your hair with harsh shampoos that strip moisture, a cleansing conditioner might just be the game-changer you need. These products combine the benefits of a gentle cleanser plus a nourishing conditioner in one, leaving your hair soft, manageable, and refreshed.
Cleansing conditioners are particularly perfect for dry, damaged, or color-treated hair. They clean without harsh sulfates while delivering hydration and protection. Below, we’ll explore the best cleansing conditioners to keep your hair healthy, shiny, and frizz-free.
Top 3 Product Recommendations
- Best Overall: As I Am Coconut CoWash Cleansing Conditioner
- Best for Thick Hair: DevaCurl No-Poo Original Zero Lather Conditioning Cleanser
- Best Budget Option: Suave Professionals Coconut Milk Cleansing Conditioner
1. As I Am Coconut CoWash Cleansing Conditioner
As I Am Coconut CoWash Cleansing Conditioner is a cult favorite for a reason. It gently removes dirt and buildup while infusing hair with hydration. Formulated with coconut oil, castor oil, and tangerine extract, it nourishes and softens each strand.
The creamy formula is easy to apply and rinse out, leaving hair silky and tangle-free. Perfect for curly and wavy textures, it helps define curls without weighing them down. I found it especially effective when switching from traditional shampoos—it made my hair feel cleaner yet softer at the same time.
Pros
- Hydrates hair while cleansing.
- Enhances curl definition and softness.
- Sulfate-free and gentle for sensitive scalp.
- Rich in natural oils for nourishment.
- Reduces tangles and frizz.
Cons
- Slightly pricey compared to drugstore options.
As I Am Coconut CoWash Cleansing Conditioner is the best overall choice for anyone looking for a gentle yet effective cleansing conditioner that hydrates and softens hair.
2. DevaCurl No-Poo Original Zero Lather Conditioning Cleanser
DevaCurl No-Poo Original is ideal for thick, curly hair that needs extra moisture. Its non-lathering formula cleanses hair without stripping natural oils, leaving it soft, manageable, and frizz-free.
The blend of botanicals and conditioning agents nourishes hair deeply while enhancing curl pattern. It’s perfect if your curls tend to dry out easily. After using it, my thick curls felt softer and looked more defined without the heavy or greasy feel that some conditioners leave behind.
Pros
- Moisturizes while cleansing effectively.
- Enhances curl definition and reduces frizz.
- Free of sulfates, parabens, and silicones.
- Lightweight and non-greasy.
- Gentle enough for frequent use.
- Suitable for color-treated hair.
Cons
- May feel too rich for fine hair types.
- Higher price point.
DevaCurl No-Poo Original is perfect for thick or curly hair that needs hydration plus gentle cleansing without stripping natural oils.
3. Suave Professionals Coconut Milk Cleansing Conditioner
Suave Professionals Coconut Milk Cleansing Conditioner is a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on performance. It nourishes, softens, and detangles hair while removing light buildup.
Formulated with coconut milk and lightweight oils, it provides hydration without weighing hair down. I found it particularly handy for quick wash days, as it leaves hair manageable and smelling great.
Pros
- Affordable and effective.
- Hydrates and detangles hair.
- Sulfate-free and gentle for daily use.
- Pleasant, light coconut fragrance.
- Works well on most hair types.
- Reduces frizz and enhances softness.
Cons
- Might not remove heavy buildup from styling products.
Suave Professionals Coconut Milk Cleansing Conditioner is the best budget-friendly choice for daily cleansing plus hydration.
4. Briogeo Be Gentle, Be Kind Avocado + Quinoa Co-Wash
Briogeo’s co-wash is rich in avocado oil and quinoa extract, providing deep nourishment while gently cleansing. It’s ideal for all hair types, especially color-treated hair.
This co-wash leaves hair soft, shiny, and smooth. I loved how it refreshed my hair on non-shampoo days without leaving residue. It also tames frizz while adding natural bounce.
Pros
- Nourishing blend of avocado oil and quinoa extract.
- Sulfate-free and safe for color-treated hair.
- Detangles and softens hair.
- Lightweight, non-greasy formula.
- Controls frizz effectively.
- Pleasant natural scent.
Cons
- Expensive compared to drugstore options.
Briogeo Be Gentle, Be Kind Co-Wash is perfect for gentle cleansing with hydration for shiny, soft hair.
5. Maui Moisture Heal & Hydrate + Shea Butter Co-Wash
Maui Moisture Heal & Hydrate Co-Wash blends aloe vera juice with shea butter and coconut oil to deeply nourish and cleanse hair. Perfect for dry, damaged hair, it restores softness and shine.
Its creamy texture glides easily through hair, reducing tangles and frizz. I noticed my hair felt stronger and hydrated after just a few uses.
Pros
- Deep hydration for dry or damaged hair.
- Gentle cleansing without stripping oils.
- Sulfate-free and paraben-free.
- Smooths and softens hair.
- Enhances natural shine.
- Pleasant tropical scent.
Cons
- May feel heavy for fine hair types.
Maui Moisture Heal & Hydrate Co-Wash is a great choice for restoring moisture while cleansing without harsh chemicals.
6. Carol’s Daughter Hair Milk Cleansing Conditioner
Carol’s Daughter Hair Milk Cleansing Conditioner combines shea butter, meadowfoam seed oil, and aloe to nourish, cleanse, and detangle hair. It’s ideal for natural, curly, or textured hair.
It leaves hair soft, manageable, and shiny. I found it especially helpful for maintaining curl definition while reducing frizz and tangles.
Pros
- Gentle cleansing with nourishing ingredients.
- Moisturizes and defines curls.
- Sulfate-free and color-safe.
- Reduces frizz and tangles.
- Lightweight, non-greasy formula.
- Suitable for daily use.
Cons
- Slightly expensive for larger quantities.
Carol’s Daughter Hair Milk Cleansing Conditioner is a solid option for curl definition plus gentle cleansing with hydration.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Cleansing Conditioner
1. Hair Type
Choose a formula that suits your hair type. Fine hair may need lightweight cleansing conditioners, while thick or curly hair benefits from richer, more moisturizing options.
2. Ingredients
Look for nourishing oils like coconut, shea butter, or argan. Avoid products with sulfates or harsh chemicals that can strip natural oils.
3. Scalp Health
A gentle, sulfate-free formula helps maintain a healthy scalp while cleaning without irritation.
4. Color-Treated Hair
If your hair is colored, pick a color-safe cleansing conditioner to prevent fading.
5. Hydration and Softness
Check for moisturizing ingredients that enhance softness, shine, and manageability.
6. Frizz Control
Many cleansing conditioners help reduce frizz. Look for those with oils or proteins if frizz is a concern.
Benefits of Using a Cleansing Conditioner for Color Protection
Cleansing conditioners are excellent for protecting color-treated hair. They gently cleanse without stripping dyes, keeping hair vibrant longer. They also restore hydration lost during coloring, reducing breakage and enhancing shine.
Pro tip: Pair your color-safe cleansing conditioner with a leave-in or light oil for extra protection and moisture.
Conclusion
The best cleansing conditioners make hair care simpler while nourishing your strands. Whether you prefer the hydration of As I Am Coconut CoWash or the budget-friendly Suave Professionals Coconut Milk option, there’s a product for every hair type and need. Gentle cleansing plus hydration is the key to soft, shiny, and manageable hair.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a cleansing conditioner every day?
Yes! Cleansing conditioners are gentle enough for daily use, especially if your hair is dry or curly.
2. Do cleansing conditioners remove product buildup?
They remove light buildup, but heavy styling residue may require occasional shampooing.
3. Will cleansing conditioners weigh down fine hair?
Some formulas may, so choose a lightweight version for fine hair types.
4. Can I use a cleansing conditioner on color-treated hair?
Absolutely! Look for color-safe, sulfate-free formulas to maintain vibrant hair.
5. How do I apply a cleansing conditioner?
Apply to wet hair, massage into scalp, work through lengths, and rinse thoroughly.
6. Are cleansing conditioners suitable for curly hair?
Yes! They are especially great for curly hair, enhancing definition and reducing frizz while cleansing gently.
