10 Best Shampoos For Hair In India (2024) - Secrets Revealed!

To lather or not lather: the choice of shampoos for your luscious locks is endless! And with endless options come endless confusion: which one to pick amongst the pretty, sparkly bottles in the aisle? Here is where we jump right in to simplify your jargon and present India's top 10 best shampoos for hair.

The range covers shampoos for all hair types, porosity and volume. That targets specific problems like hair fall, dandruff, greasiness and such!

Top 10 Best Hair Fall Shampoo In India

Sr. No.	Product	Recommended Hair Types	Amazon Rating
1	Loreal Professional Shampoo	All hair types	4.3
2	Dove Hair Fall Rescue Shampoo	Hair prone to breakage and hair fall	4.3
3	Tresemme Keratin Smooth Shampoo	Frizzy and unmanageable hair	4.3
4	Matrix Biolage Shampoo	Most hair types	4.1
5	Selsun Anti-dandruff Shampoo	Dandruff-prone hair and scalp	4.4
6	Mamaearth Onion Shampoo	Weak or damaged hair	4.0
7	Clinic Plus Shampoo with Egg Protein	Dull and lifeless hair	4.3
8	Head and Shoulders Anti Dandruff Shampoo	All hair types with dandruff issues	4.4
9	Ketomac Shampoo	Stubborn dandruff	4.2
10	Love Beauty And Planet Shampoo	Various hair types, environmentally conscious consumers	4.1

 

 "Healthy hair is not just a feature, it's a testament to self-care, nourishment and respect for oneself."  

Why Picking the Right Shampoo is Important?

Selecting the right shampoo is incredibly important. Not only cleanses the scalp and hair follicles but also prepares the hair to absorb other products like masks, serums & oils for better hair health. Using the wrong shampoo can lead to adverse effects like hair fall, itchy scalp, greasy hair, low volume, flatness, frizz, etc. So, choosing the right shampoo tailored to your specific hair type and concerns can have the following benefits:

• Reducing hair fall and preventing baldness. Reducing dandruff and lice problems.
• Cleansing the scalp and hair of grime and buildup.
• Locking in moisture and making the hair shiny and less prone to breakage.
• Maintaining your hair type (especially curls), colour and more!

Top 10 Shampoo in India

We have listed down the top 10 best shampoos for hair in India, with extensive research:

1. Loreal Professional Shampoo

Loreal founded on July 30, 1909, in Paris, France and had taken the shampoo brands in a whirlwind! A popular go-to shampoo brand for many, for it offers a wide range of formulae that target specific hair concerns. Whether heat and colour protection, frizz, dandruff, or lustre, Loreal has an option for everything you need! Popular Loreal Professional Shampoo lines include Total Repair 5-in-1 Shampoo, Absolut Repair Shampoo, Metal DX Shampoo and so on.

Pros:

• Claims to use high-quality ingredients that give you said results.
• Delivers noticeable results, as reviewed by various buyers.
• Offers a wide variety of options based on your hair type and concern.

Cons:

• Some buyers have reviewed that it contains sulphates that are harmful to the hair.
• Heavily scented and can irritate some.
• Pricier than others available in drugstores.

Price: Rs. 200-800

Some Loreal Shampoos, such as the Loreal Paris Shampoo pouch, are available in pouches for on-the-go use.

2. Dove Hair Fall Rescue Shampoo

The Dove Franchise started in USA 1957, as a soap bar and expanded the business to body and face washes, and hair care. Dove Hair Fall Rescue Shampoo is the top choice for treating hair fall and breakage. Popular in the shampoos segment as most loved anti hair fall shampoo.

NutriLock Actives lock the moisture and nutrients, making the hair healthier, stronger and less prone to shedding. Great for almost all hair types! Dove also has other types of shampoos to choose from like Hair Therapy Shampoo, Intense Repair Shampoo, Straight and Silky Shampoo and so on.

Pros:

• Visibly less hair fall on continued use of your hair care routine.
• Gentler formula, thereby not causing any irritations.
• Affordable and easily available in drugstores.

Cons:

• Unsuitable for greasy hair, for it is a moisturising shampoo.
• Might not be helpful in hair fall caused by hormonal or scalp-related problems.
• It contains sulphates and may be damaging to use for a longer period.

Price: Rs. 100-800

Available in pouches for easy travel and convenience, as Dove Shampoo pouch.

3. Tresemme Keratin Smooth Shampoo

Tresemme founded in 1947, in New York City, and has steadily built its name since then as a haircare brand. The Tresemme Keratin Smooth Shampoo is a highly sought-after shampoo that provides frizz-free, sleek, and manageable hair for up to 48 hours! Smooth in consistency and formulated with care. Other Tresemme shampoos you can also choose from are Detox and Restore Shampoo, Repair & Protect Shampoo, Smooth and Silky Shampoo, amongst others.

Pros:

• Formulated with keratin and argan oil that deliver the claimed results.
• Safe for colour-treated and dyed hair.
• Affordable than other salon options available.

Cons:

• Not suitable for finer hair typer, as it makes it appear flat and without volume.
• It contains sulphates that might be harmful to the hair.
• Definitely on par with a salon keratin treatment.

Price: Rs. 200-1000

As a Tresemme Shampoo pouch, it is also offered in pouch packaging for effortless portability.

4. Matrix Biolage Shampoo

Matrix was founded in Cleveland, Ohio in 1980, and the Biolage line came way after its initial success. The Matrix Biolage Shampoo boasts high-quality ingredients that target hair problems like hair breakage, grime and product buildup, dandruff and so on. Its gentler formula is soothing on the scalp and pleasant to use. Types of Matrix Biolage Shampoos available for use are Hydra Source Shampoo, Smooth Proof Shampoo, Volume Bloom Shampoo, and many more!

Pros:

• Formulated with high-quality and natural ingredients that provide a salon finish reducing breakage.
• Has a shampoo for every hair type and problem and thus provides a targeted solution.
• Delivers effective results and a smooth, frizz-free look.

Cons:

• Typically, more expensive and not readily available.
• Strong fragrances can be irritable to many.
• Prone to making the hair oily and greasy.

Price: Rs. 300-800

5. Selsun Anti-dandruff Shampoo

Selsun was founded in 1953, North Chicago, Illinois, but is mostly manufactured in Australia. Selsun Anti-dandruff shampoos are the oldest and best-known medicated shampoos for target solutions to dandruff and related hair problems.

It visibly reduces dandruff and clears the scalp of grime. Herbal in its approach and also works for lice infestations. Types of Selsun shampoos to choose from are Selsun Blue, and Selsun Gold along with their other variants.

Pros:

• Clinically proven for dandruff-reduction upon the very first use.
• Affordable and easily available in drugstores.
• Herbal composition that does not harm hair health in any way.

Cons:

• Has a pungent smell that might be not pleasant to some.
• Contains selenium sulphide, which strips the hair and scalp of its natural oils.
• Not colour-safe, or has a variant for curly hair, often leads to frizz.

Price: Rs. 400-700

6. Mamaearth Onion Shampoo

Mamaearth was founded in 2016, at Gurgaon, India, and its products are known to be gentle on the skin and hair and use natural ingredients. The Mamaearth Onion Shampoo is specifically formulated to target hair health and reduce hair fall because of breakage. It visibly strengthens hair and is suitable for all hair types. There are other various Mamaearth shampoos options too like Rosemary Anti-hairfall shampoo, Lemon Anti-dandruff shampoo, Curd Smoothening shampoo and many others!

Pros:

• Contains natural ingredients like onion seed oil, sulphide, and keratin that are essential to strengthen hair & prevent breakage.
• Clinically and dermatological tested for visible results.
• Free of artificial sulphates and parabens and can be used for a longer period.

Cons:

• Fails to treat hair fall due to hormonal or scalp-related problems.
• The strong smell of onion can be unpleasant or irritating to some.
• Expensive than most shampoos that are available in the drugstore.

Price: Rs. 300-900

7. Clinic Plus Shampoo with Egg Protein

Perhaps the most popular and used shampoo in this list, Clinic Plus Shampoo is one of the oldest shampoo brands in India. It was first launched in the UK, in 1954, and in India, in 1987 as a ‘can be used by all in the family’ shampoo. With its egg protein formula, it strengthens hair and avoids breakage. Clinic Plus has no other variants of shampoos to choose from, and this is their sole product.

Pros:

• Egg protein is a natural source of keratin that strengthens hair and avoids breakage.
• Mild formula that is gentle on hair.
• Affordable and easily available in stores.
• Excellent in combatting hair fall in men and women.

Cons:

• Not best for oily hair, as it fails to cleanse it properly.
• Strong fragrance may irritate some buyers.
• Better options available that target the same problems.

Price: Rs. 200-500

As a Clinic Plus Shampoo pouch, it is also offered in pouch packaging for easy storage and travel.

8. Head and Shoulders Anti Dandruff Shampoo

Head and Shoulders was founded in Manhattan, 1961 and is one of the oldest shampoo companies that people know of. Its efficiency in reducing dandruff has been seen for a long time. It cleanses the scalp and leaves the hair soft and tangle-free. Head and Shoulders has other types of shampoos along with this like Smooth & Silky Anti Dandruff Shampoo, Cool Menthol Anti-Dandruff Shampoo, and 2-in-1 Anti-hairfall Anti-dandruff Shampoo + Conditioner, amongst others.

Pros:

• Clinically proven to reduce dandruff and itchiness with the help of a key ingredient, pyrithione zinc.
• Lathers well and is known to be pleasant to use.
• Affordable and easily available in stores.

Cons:

• Not moisturising to dry hair types.
• Not colour-safe or suitable for curly hair types.
• Pyrithione zinc can often irritate some people. Thereby, it should be patch-tested before use.

Price: Rs. 200-500

Available in pouches for on-the-go dandruff control, such as the Head and Shoulders Shampoo pouch.

9. Ketomac Shampoo

Ketomac was founded in 2006 at Jharmajri, Himachal Pradesh, and is one of the best medicated lines of dermatologically tested and approved shampoos. It is advised for people with extreme dandruff conditions, and no other products can keep it at bay. It has key ingredients that inhibit dandruff and flakiness. Ketomac shampoos come in variations with differing ketoconazole percentages in them.

Pros:

• Contains ketoconazole, which keeps the fungal growth of dandruff at bay.
• Regular use alleviates issues like itching and irritation.
• Soothes and nourishes the scalp.

Cons:

• Leads to excessive drying of the hair.
• Increases sun sensitivity, so the use of high-SPF sunscreen is recommended.
• Not for use by pregnant and lactating mothers.

Price: Rs. 200-300

10. Love Beauty And Planet Shampoo

Love Beauty and Planet was founded in 2017 in Englewood Cliffs, USWA, with eco-friendly and preserving body and hair care products. The Love Beauty and Planet Shampoo is eco-friendly and ensures that the products used are being ethically sourced. It is mild and gentle on the scalp and targets the specific problem. It uses natural ingredients as its composition.

Love Beauty and Planet Shampoos come in various options to target specific problems like Coconut Water & Mimosa Flower shampoo for volume, Natural Argan Oil & Lavender shampoo for frizz control, Curry Leaves, Biotin & Mandarin shampoo for split-end control and so on.

Pros:

• Use of natural ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, argan oil that enriches and nourishes hair.
• Eco-friendly, vegan and sustainable in quality.
• Natural and mild fragrance that is not irritating.

Cons:

• Not effective for severely damaged or oily hair types.
• Reviewed to leave product buildup on the scalp and hair.
• Unable to lather or be used for proper cleansing.

Price: Rs. 300-600

11. Indulekha Anti Hairfall Shampoo

Indulekha is a well-known, trusted Indian brand renowned for its herb-based hair care solutions. The brand combines the richness of traditional Ayurvedic formulation with modern scientific advancement and research focusing on natural ingredients for healthier hair and scalp.

Indulekha Shampoo is highly famous for its Ayurvedic formula that includes natural ingredients such as bhringraj, amla and many other herbs. It nourishes the hair to make it strong and healthy, purporting for serious issues of hair loss and disheartening effects of dullness. The blend in this shampoo cleans your scalp by promoting good hair growth. Chemical-free, it's suitable for daily use and ideal for those who want to go natural in their hair regime.

Pros:

• The product contains natural and Ayurvedic ingredients which helps in strengthening and nourishing hair to its core.
• The shampoo is chemical-free.
• It can be used every day.

Cons:

• It is relatively costly for a regular user who uses ordinary shampoos.
• Results vary depending on the hair type and condition.

Price: ₹200 to ₹350 for 200 ml

12. Ivrea Head Lice Shampoo

Ivrea is among the big names that offer a great line of premium hair care products. The brand is especially recognized due to its strong belief in using quality ingredients and novel formulations that answer various hair needs related to health and beauty.

Ivrea Shampoo is rich in natural extracts that promote hair health and vigour. These ingredients gently wash out hair problems like dandruff, dryness, and damage. This nourishing shampoo will rehydrate your locks, fortify strands of hair, and generally soothe the scalp. Its mild formula makes it suitable for daily use and renders a refreshing experience with every wash.

Pros:

• Formulated with natural, nourishing ingredients.
• Fight regular hair problems like dandruff and dryness.
• Hydrates and strengthens.
• Gentle enough for everyday use.

Cons:

• It is quite pricey compared to regular shampoos.
• Availability is in some areas limited.

Price: ₹250 and ₹400 for 200 ml

Did You Know?

A hair is incredibly strong? A single strand of hair can support up to 100 grams in weight, which means an average head of hair could theoretically support the weight of two elephants!

How To Use Shampoo For The Best Wash?

While shampooing, remember these steps and key points for optimal results:

1. Use lukewarm water, for it helps activate the shampoo ingredients.
2. Detangle your hair before washing to avoid unnecessary hair fall.
3. Use a dime-sized portion and lather it in your palms before applying.
4. Always apply the shampoo to your scalp and never to your hair unless necessary.
5. Wait for a few minutes and let the shampoo cleanse your scalp before rinsing it.
6. Rinse with cold water if possible and repeat, if so required.
7. Some shampoos lather while some don't; thereby, lather is not a sign of cleansing.

Buying Guide for Best Shampoos in India

Before buying and committing to a shampoo, you must keep these things in mind.

Firstly, understanding different hair types and their specific needs:

• Curly Hair: Shampoos targeting curly hair vastly differ from regular ones. Brands like CurlVana are famous for providing products that care for curly and wavy hair types.
• Keratin-treated Hair: For keratin-treated hair, always choose shampoos that do not have sulphates in them, for they can strip the hair of its protein and moisture.
• Silky Hair: To achieve silky hair, choose shampoos with hydrating agents like hyaluronic acid and argan oil to achieve a shiny, lustrous look!
• Damaged Hair: Use of repairing shampoos enriched with keratin and ceramides and bon-building shampoos are highly suggested for damaged hair, especially those with chemical and heat damages.
• Smooth Hair: Keratin and hydrating agents help the hair achieve a smooth and frizz-free look, and thereby should be looked for in ingredients when choosing a shampoo.

Second comes, key ingredients to look for in a shampoo:

• Keratin Shampoo: Keratin smoothens the hair, making it silky and frizz-free. It is extremely useful in locking moisture and nutrients.
• Ketoconazole Shampoo: Ketoconazole shampoos are highly effective in reducing dandruff by inhibiting fungal growth and avoiding flakiness and scalp itchiness.
• Chemical-free Shampoo: Look for sulphates and parabens in the ingredients of the shampoos, and avoid them like the plague! Using harsh chemicals on the hair can lead to thinning and breakage.

Finally, importance of checking user reviews and rating:

It is incredibly important to check user reviews and ratings before choosing a particular shampoo. Read the reviews whether the shampoo has alleviated specific concerns and/or has any side effects of use. It helps knowing whether it would be a suitable product to use for the long term.

Frequently Asked Questions About  Best Shampoos in India

Which shampoo is best for hair?

Choose the shampoo that targets your hair problems and is meant for your hair type to get the best results.

Which shampoo is best for dandruff?

Ketomac shampoos and Selsun shampoos are clinically tested and proven to reduce dandruff.

Which shampoo is best for hair growth and thickness?

Look for castor oil in ingredients for the best hair growth and thickness shampoo.

Which shampoo is best for hair fall control?

Loreal shampoos are best for hair fall control and strengthening hair.

How to use conditioner after shampoo?

Here's a quick guide below stating how to use conditioner after shampoo:

1. After shampooing, take a dime-sized portion of the conditioner.
2. Spread it on both hands and apply it on the tips and length of your hair.
3. Never apply conditioner to your scalp unless you have a dry scalp.
4. Let it sit for a minute, then rinse it off properly.

What is mild shampoo?

Mild shampoos have minimal fragrance and gentle formula and generally do not lather. They are best suited for people with skin irritations, allergies and conditions like eczema.

Conclusion: Zeroing Down The List Of The Best Shampoo

Selecting the right shampoo is incredibly important; it enriches and cleanses the hair. Choosing a shampoo unsuited for your hair type leads to adverse effects like frizz and dryness. Watch out for the sulphates in your shampoo, and oil your hair four to five hours before shampooing. There is no thumb rule as to how many times in a week you should shampoo your hair, and so do it whenever your hair feels grimy or greasy.

What do you think? Did we cover all the best shampoos on the list? Let us know in the comments what more could be added and your favourites and eco-friendly options!