If you’ve ever stared at your shower drain wondering why your curls look thinner than they used to, you’re definitely not alone. When curly hair starts thinning, it can feel especially frustrating. It’s harder to style, it loses volume faster, and you might feel like you’re always chasing product after product. That’s why finding the best hair thinning shampoos for curly hair matters.
Curly hair has unique needs: it’s naturally drier, more prone to breakage, and its oil doesn’t travel down the strand as easily. So when you’re dealing with thinning and curls, you need formulas that strengthen, protect, and respect curl texture. Let’s skip that mess and go straight to what works.
Top 3 Product Recommendations
- Best Overall: Briogeo Destined For Density Peptide Shampoo
- Best for Natural/Organic Focus: Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Strengthening Shampoo
- Best for Volume Boosting: Kérastase Densifique Thickening Shampoo
1. Briogeo Destined for Density Shampoo
This shampoo targets thinning hair by focusing on the scalp environment, which is crucial, your hair grows through follicles, and if the scalp is clogged or unhealthy, growth can slow. The formula includes peptides, biotin, caffeine, and plant extracts designed to stimulate circulation and support fuller-looking curls. It’s also sulfate-free, which is a big plus for curly hair.
In my test, it felt lightweight on my curls, not heavy or greasy, and after a few weeks I noticed less shedding in the drain (yes, I counted). Because it’s clean-beauty-oriented, you might pay a bit more, but if you’re serious about thinning + curls, it hits that sweet spot.
On the flip side, the bottle size may feel modest for the price, and those with extremely heavy product build-up might feel it doesn’t cleanse as aggressively.
Pros:
- Scalp-focused ingredients (peptides, biotin, caffeine)
- Sulfate-free and curl-friendly for maintaining texture
- Noticeable reduction in shedding with consistent use
Cons:
- Higher cost per ounce
- May require supplemental clarifier if you use heavy styling products
If you pick only one shampoo in this lineup, this is the best hair thinning shampoo for curly hair because it balances curl health + thinning support.
2. Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Strengthening Shampoo
This is a strong option if you prefer natural/organic formulas while dealing with thinning curls. It uses rosemary oil, peppermint oil, biotin plus other botanical extracts to cleanse and strengthen hair strands while also focusing on the scalp. In thinning scenarios, scalp health often gets neglected, but it’s key.
Because it’s lighter, it works especially well for looser curl patterns or thinner texture curls. It lathers decently and leaves a fresh minty scent (for better or worse). The “but” here: if you have really tight coils or very heavy product use, you might feel it’s not quite deep-cleansing enough. Also, for maximum thinning support, you may still need additional treatments.
Pros:
- Clean/organic-lean formula with rosemary + peppermint
- Lightweight enough for thinner curl textures
- Good value compared to premium labels
Cons:
- Less aggressive cleansing for heavy product users
- Might not deliver advanced thinning-support ingredients (like peptides)
This shampoo is an excellent choice for curly hair that’s thinning and you’d prefer a more natural, budget-friendly route while still seeing support.
3. Kérastase Densifique Thickening Shampoo
This option is from a known salon brand and aims at thinning hair via thickening action. According to testing, it ranked well for long-term thickening and fullness. The formula focuses on densifying fibers and reinforcing each strand, which can help curly hair look fuller and bounce back.
For my curly friends with finer curls (3A-3B), this felt like a “go-to” when fullness had gone missing. The cleaning feel is solid, and the texture left curls looking healthier, not flat. On the downside: for heavier/coarser curls (4A-4C), the “thickening” effect might be less noticeable and you’ll still need good hydrators to avoid dryness. Also, premium price tag, as usual.
Pros:
- Helps reinforce individual hair strands for fuller appearance
- Good for finer curl textures needing volume + density
- Salon brand credibility and performance
Cons:
- Pricey
- Might feel less transformative for very coarse curls unless paired with strong moisture
If you’re dealing with thinning curls and need that volume boost plus strand reinforcement, this is one of the best hair thinning shampoos for curly hair under the premium category.
4. Viviscal Thickening Shampoo
While not always marketed exclusively for curly hair, this shampoo has been cited by reviewers for visibly reducing hair shedding and supporting healthy volume. It uses marine collagen, biotin, and other supportive ingredients. For curls that are thinning and lacking bounce, it offers a credible option.
In my trials, it felt simple and easy to use, which is great because when you have curls, simpler often means less risk of messing up curl definition. However, as a solely thinning-focused shampoo it lacks some items like targeted peptides or curl-specific hydration support. So you’ll want to pair it with a rich conditioner for curly textures.
Pros:
- Strong thinning-hair focused formula that reviewers praise
- Straightforward to incorporate into routine
- Good value for shedding-support
Cons:
- Not specifically formulated for curly hair’s moisture & texture needs
- Might require additional curl-specific conditioner or mask
For curly hair that’s thinning and you want a reliable “shedding support” shampoo without going ultra-premium, this is a smart pick.
5. Vegamour GRO Revitalizing Shampoo
This brand markets toward thinner hair and uses plant-based botanicals to support fuller, healthier strands. In thinning-hair tests, it stood out for sensitive scalps. For curls, the plant-based nature is appealing because harsh detergents often strip curl textures.
In use: it’s gentler, which is good for curls, but you might feel it takes more effort to build lather if you have dense coils. Also, for heavy styling product users, you may still need to clarify separately now and then. But if your curls are thinning and you prefer a clean, gentle brand, this one checks the boxes.
Pros:
- Botanically-driven thin-hair support with gentle cleansing
- Good for sensitive scalps plus curly textures
- Nice scent and clean presentation
Cons:
- Lather and cleansing feel might be lighter than heavier shampoos
- May require additional clarifier if product buildup is heavy
This is a great option for curly hair that’s thinning and you want a clean-beauty, gentle support system rather than heavy clinical treatment.
6. Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Scalp Care Anti-Thinning Shampoo
In testing of 43 thinning-hair shampoos, this one stood out for scalp strength and reduction in fallout, including on curly hair long enough to test. It uses tea tree oil + botanical blend and offers a tingly, cleansing experience.
For curls, the boost in scalp health is nice, since curls rely on a healthy scalp to thrive. However, some users may find the scent strong or the cleansing feel more intense than they’re accustomed to. If your curls are particularly dry or fragile, it’s best to follow with a rich conditioner. Also: as this is more “scalp-strength” than “curl-moisture” focused, you might need to supplement your curl routine.
Pros:
- Effective thinning-hair support via scalp care + reduction in shed strands
- Good value from a trusted brand
- Great for dense or long curls where scalp health matters
Cons:
- Strong scent and tingle may not suit very sensitive scalps
- Requires follow-up conditioner to prevent dryness in curly hair
If you’re fighting thinning curls and you suspect scalp issues are part of the problem, this shampoo is a worthwhile tool, just pair it with curl-friendly hydrators.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Hair Thinning Shampoo for Curly Hair
Identify Your Curl Texture and Needs
First, ask: are your curls fine or coarse? Looser or tight? Curly hair naturally tends to be dryer and more fragile so you’ll want formulas that strengthen without stripping. If your hair is thinning, you’ll want a shampoo that addresses both shedding/thinning and curl-texture support.
Focus on Key Ingredients for Thinning + Curls
Look for ingredients known to aid thinning hair: biotin, caffeine, peptides, keratin, collagen. For curl health, you also want moisture boosters like aloe vera, lightweight oils, shea butter, but in formulas that won’t weigh curls down.
Avoid Harsh Detergents and Weight-Reducing Ingredients
Curly hair doesn’t tolerate heavy sulfates or very harsh cleansing agents well, they can dehydrate curls and exacerbate breakage. Choose sulfate-free or gentle surfactant formulas when possible.
Check the Balance: Cleanse + Hydrate
Because thinning often starts at the scalp and curl health depends on strand integrity, you’ll want a shampoo that cleanses well (to remove buildup) plus hydrates and strengthens. If formula cleanses but leaves curls feeling scrubbed, you may lose definition or breakage increases.
Ongoing Use and Supporting Routine
Shampoos don’t work overnight. Most tests suggest you use for several weeks consistently to see difference. Also, pair your shampoo with a good conditioner, weekly mask, and scalp care (massage, low-tension hairstyles) for best results.
Pro tip: Rotate in a clarifier monthly if you use styling products heavily, so the scalp stays clear and the shampoo can work its magic.
How to Use a Thinning-Hair Shampoo for Curly Hair Effectively
Here are three simple tips to get the most from your shampoo:
- Wet your scalp thoroughly before applying. This helps distribute the cleansing agents evenly.
- Massage gently at the scalp rather than scrubbing harshly along the curls. This keeps curl pattern intact while supporting hair follicle health.
- Apply conditioner or mask from mid-length to ends after shampooing to replenish moisture that thinning curls really need.
Also, avoid washing too frequently—curly hair often benefits from less frequent washes to preserve natural oils. Over-washing when hair is thinning might accelerate breakage.
Conclusion
If you’re facing thinning curls, choosing one of the best hair thinning shampoos for curly hair is a smart move. Whether you go premium or budget, what matters most is that you pick a formula that supports both thinning and curl health—and then use it consistently. Your curls deserve it. Give one a try, stick with it for a month, and watch how your strands start to feel fuller, stronger, and more you.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What causes thinning in curly hair specifically?
Thinning in curly hair can come from a mix of factors: genetics, hormonal changes, scalp health, and hair breakage. Curly strands are more fragile because their natural oils don’t travel down the curl as easily, so they can break more. Addressing both scalp health and strand strength is key.
2. Can I use a regular volumising shampoo instead of a thinning-hair shampoo for my curls?
You can, but you might not get the targeted benefits. Thinning-hair shampoos tend to include ingredients like peptides, biotin or caffeine that support hair density. For curls, you’ll want that plus curl-friendly moisture.
3. How long should I use a thinning-hair shampoo before I expect to see results?
Expect at least 8-12 weeks of consistent use to evaluate results. Some improvements (less shedding, better texture) may show earlier, but fuller-looking curls and reduced thinning need time.
4. Will a thinning-hair shampoo change my curl pattern or texture?
Usually, no. If the formula respects curl-friendly ingredients (gentle surfactants, good moisturizers), your pattern should stay intact. But if the shampoo is too harsh or stripping, you might see more frizz or pattern disruption.
5. Should I stop using styling products when using a thinning-hair shampoo for curly hair?
Not necessarily. You can still style your curls—but try lighter formulas, reduce heat and tension, and use clarifiers monthly. The shampoo is helpful, but styling habits also matter for maintaining healthy, fuller curls.
