best shampoos for Asian hair The products curated for this article are independently chosen by the editorial team. If you make a purchase through the links mentioned below, we may receive a commission. Check out our product research & curation process

Soft and shiny hair locks feel so flattering. However, seeing your hair lose its natural strength and luster can be frustrating. Hence, we have curated this list of some of the best shampoos for Asian hair that can strengthen, soften and nourish your tresses. Using these shampoos, you can make your hair strands smooth and healthy. 

Asian hair is usually more voluminous than other hair types. However, it may need a little more care and nourishment to seal in the moisture. Shampoos with natural ingredients like rice water, essential oils, green tea, honey, aloe vera, etc can moisturize your hair naturally while ensuring your hair strands don’t lose their natural luster. With these shampoos, you can ensure your hair roots and hair follicles get superior protection and nourishment to tackle unpleasant hair fall, breakage, and dryness. Our findings show that Asian hair may need more nourishment than other hair types because it loses moisture quickly and feels dry. 

Finding the best shampoo that can offer you optimal care and protection can be quite confusing owing to the varied composition of shampoos. To help you find the best shampoo, we have curated a list of our favorite products. Scroll away to see our recommendations.

Why Do You Need a Special Shampoo for Asian Hair?

Asian hair may be mostly straight and thick. However, it may also be wavy and thin owing to the genetic variations and the varied composition of hair care products used. Usually, Asian hair is known for its pigmentation, straightness, and large diameter. It is believed to have the strongest mechanical properties (1). However, with thick hair, tending to the roots and hair follicles becomes a challenge. Asian hair is more prone to dryness, breakages, and damage. Hence, a special shampoo is needed that can cater to the multiple needs of Asian hair and give those tresses premium nourishment and care.

Our top picks

12 Best Shampoos for Asian Hair

Complete your hair care regimen with this tea tree shampoo by Paul Mitchell. Formulated with the rich blend of tea tree oil, peppermint, and lavender, this nourishing shampoo rejuvenates and hydrates your hair,  leaving your tresses soft and smooth. The deep-cleansing formula of this nourishing shampoo conditions your hair and scalp effectively. Leaving no room for scalp build-up, this Asian shampoo makes your hair feel refreshed and clean. A total game-changer, this product is perfect to flaunt your soft and silky hair locks. 

Pros

  • Renews your hair texture
  • Vegan
  • Cruelty-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Removes scalp build-up
  • Deep-cleansing composition
  • Makes your hair oil-free

Cons

  • May cause scalp itchiness
  • 2

    Best Overall

    Pura D'or Anti-thinning Biotin Shampoo and Conditioner

    Pura D'or Anti-thinning Biotin Shampoo and Conditioner
  • Indulge in a luxurious hair care experience with this biotin shampoo and conditioner by Pura D'or. Enriched with organic argan oil, vitamin E oil, tea tree oil, aloe vera, and nettle extracts, this moisturizing shampoo and conditioner set is perfect to nourish your hair follicles and roots. This revitalizing shampoo and conditioner is fully packed with black cumin seed, pumpkin seed, green tea, zinc, and many other soothing natural ingredients that condition your hair deeply. Bid goodbye to hair-thinning worries as this anti-thinning shampoo and conditioner will work like magic on your hair to slow down hair loss — and you’ll definitely be surprised by the amazing results of this product which is best suited for Asian hair.

    Pros

    • Gluten-free
    • Reduces hair fall
    • Hypoallergenic
    • Paraben-free
    • Vegan
    • Sulfate-free
    • Silicone-free

    Cons

    • May cause scalp dryness
    • Strong smell
  • 3

    Best for Dandruff

    Wow Skin Science Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo

    Wow Skin Science Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo
  • Make your hair beautiful and strong with this rejuvenating shampoo by Wow Skin Science. Infused with the goodness of apple cider vinegar, argan oil, sweet almond oil, and nettle leaf extracts, this shampoo makes your hair soft and lustrous. The cleansing properties of this conditioning shampoo clear out dead scalp cells, dirt, dust, and the remains of styling products, leaving your hair soft and thick. Nourish your hair and protect it from breakages, thinning, and split ends with this product that gives visibly beautiful results that will make you go Wow.

    Pros

    • Reduces dandruff
    • Softens your hair
    • Paraben-free
    • Sulfate-free
    • Cruelty-free
    • Vegan

    Cons

    • May cause scalp greasiness
  • 4

    Best Moisturizing Formula

    Maple Holistics Silk18 Shampoo And Conditioner Set

    Maple Holistics Silk18 Shampoo And Conditioner Set
  • Pamper your hair with this nourishing shampoo and conditioner set by Maple Holistics. The purifying blend of silk amino acids and jojoba oil makes this hair care set perfect for strengthening and hydrating your hair strands. Making your hair strong and healthy, this product offers optimal moisture and gentle care to your hair locks. Flatter naturally lustrous and bouncy hair with this paraben-free product designed to suit all hair types.

    Pros

    • Moisturizing formula
    • Sulfate-free
    • Makes your hair soft and shiny
    • Smoothes your curls

    Cons

    • Unpleasant scent
    • May cause scalp itchiness
  • 5

    Best for Hair Growth

    Luv Me Care Rice Water Shampoo

    Luv Me Care Rice Water Shampoo
  • Bid goodbye to thinning hair, damaged hair, and hair loss with this rice water shampoo by Luv Me Care. Formulated with natural ingredients like rice water, citrus reticulata peel, ginger root, biotin, and caffeine, this nutrient-rich shampoo gives your hair a voluminous and supple appearance. Owing to its rich composition, this product is perfect for sealing in moisture to keep your hair and scalp hydrated and nourished. Get your luxurious hair care treatment at home with this shampoo designed for both men and women. 

    Pros

    • Paraben-free
    • Softens your hair
    • Lathers nicely
    • Promotes hair growth
    • Indulgent smell

    Cons

    • May feel greasy
  • 6

    Ryo Scalp Deep Cleansing & Cooling Shampoo

    Ryo Scalp Deep Cleansing & Cooling Shampoo
  • Pamper your hair with this deep cleansing shampoo by Ryo. Infused with the goodness of pine leaf, green tea, fermented mint, houttuynia cordata, corn mint extract, agar extract, and ginseng extract, this cooling shampoo hydrates your hair and scalp without making it feel dry or brittle. With its gentle exfoliating formula, this conditioning shampoo absorbs pollutants on the scalp and eliminates excess sebum to give you a rejuvenated hair care experience. The refreshing eucalyptus and lemon scent enhances the natural fragrance of your hair and makes it feel clean and refreshed. 

    Pros

    • Free from harsh chemicals
    • Soothes your scalp
    • Reduces sebum production
    • Pleasant smell

    Cons

    • May cause dryness
  • 7

    MyKirei By Kao Nourishing Shampoo

    MyKirei By Kao Nourishing Shampoo
  • Give your hair premium moisturization with this gentle conditioner by MyKirei. Infused with vitamin-rich rice water and Japanese Tsubaki extract, this nourishing conditioner makes your hair feel soft and strong. Powerfully packed with oleic acid, proteins, and glycerides, this product tends to your Asian hair types and restores its natural luster. With the mild formula of this conditioner, your hair feels deeply cleansed without getting dry and brittle. Make your hair locks lustrous and smooth with this conditioner that locks in moisture effectively. 

    Pros

    • Cruelty-free
    • Vegan
    • Unscented
    • Pleasant smell
    • Doesn't weigh down your hair

    Cons

    • May make your hair dry and tangled
  • 8

    Best Unscented Formula

    Majestic Pure Argan Oil Shampoo

    Majestic Pure Argan Oil Shampoo
  • Crafted to make your hair healthy and lustrous, this shampoo hydrates your scalp deeply. Infused with a nourishing blend of Morocco, avocado oil, jojoba oil, camellia seed oil, botanical keratin, almond oil, and coconut oil, this shampoo delivers all the essential nutrients to make your hair healthy and strong. Rich in vitamins, carotene, and essential fatty acids, this product conditions your scalp and hair to make your hair soft and smooth. Feel flattered while this shampoo enhances the natural luster and strength of your hair. 

    Pros

    • Antioxidant formula
    • Suitable for all hair types
    • Cruelty-free
    • Nourishes your hair
    • Sulfate-free

    Cons

    • Thin consistency
  • 9

    Best Nourishing Formula

    Deity of Hair Plant Shampoo for Hair Loss

    Deity of Hair Plant Shampoo for Hair Loss
  • Say goodbye to hair loss with this conditioning shampoo by Deity. Infused with plant-based extracts, this shampoo penetrates deeply into your scalp and gives it proper nourishment. Formulated to enhance blood circulation, this gentle shampoo makes your hair roots and follicles super strong. Give your hair proper nourishment with this shampoo and get visibly beautiful results. To seal in the moisture, follow it up with a conditioner and make your hair bouncy and lustrous. 

    Pros

    • Reduces hair fall
    • Cleanses your scalp
    • Promotes hair growth
    • Nourishes hair follicles

    Cons

    • May cause dryness
  • 10

    Best for Hair Fall

    Daeng Gi Meo Ri Gold Premium Shampoo

     Daeng Gi Meo Ri Gold Premium Shampoo
  • Upgrade your hair care regime with this moisturizing shampoo by Daeng Gi Meo Ri. Infused with pure red ginseng and Korean ginseng, this mild shampoo offers premium nourishment to your scalp. Powerfully packed with natural ingredients, this product doesn't strip away the natural oils of your hair and gives it protection against breakage and unpleasant fallouts. Designed to give your hair locks a beautiful luster, this organic shampoo promotes hair growth naturally. Featuring a subtle green tea scent, this makes your hair calm and relaxed. 

    Pros

    • Mild formula
    • Softens your hair
    • Free from artificial colors
    • Reduces dandruff
    • Soothing green tea scent

    Cons

    • Not suitable for oily hair
  • 11

    Best for Coarse Hair

    Tsubaki Extra Moist Shampoo

     Tsubaki Extra Moist Shampoo
  • Flaunt healthy, strong, and lustrous hair with this super-hydrating shampoo by Tsubaki. Infused with Tsubaki hair oil, it gets absorbed into your scalp and gives your hair strands a soft and smooth appearance. Powerfully packed with oleic and linoleic acid, this shampoo is perfect to pamper your hair naturally. Designed to renew your hair texture, it works wonders for flat hair. Featuring a creamy rich texture, your natural luster is enhanced without causing any damage to your hair roots. 

    Pros

    • Softens your hair
    • Rich lather
    • Enhances hair luster
    • Reduces breakages
    • Pleasant smell

    Cons

    • Defective pump
  • 12

    Best Paraben-free Formula

    PhytoWorx Hair Recovery Shampoo

    PhytoWorx Hair Recovery Shampoo
  • Rejuvenate your hair with this shampoo by PhytoWorx. Infused with essential oils, aloe vera juice, green tea extracts, ginger root extracts, and Malus Domestica cells, this conditioning shampoo is perfect for promoting hair growth naturally. The rich blend of cucumber fruit extract and pomegranate extract renews your hair texture to make it healthy and strong. Get soft and shiny hair locks with this luxurious shampoo offering premium nourishment and care. Featuring a delicate scent, it makes your hair smell wonderful.

    Pros

    • SLS free
    • Paraben-free
    • Softens your hair
    • Free from harsh chemicals
    • Sweet scent

    Cons

    • Slower results

    How to Choose Shampoos for Asian Hair?

    Here are some of the factors to consider before buying thebest shampoos for Asian hair:

    Formulation: One of the most important factors to consider before buying a shampoo is the formulation. Asian hair is prone to breakages and damage. Using mild, gentle, and nourishing shampoos will make your thick hair strands soft and smooth without stripping away its natural oils. On another note, using shampoos that contain sulfate and paraben may cause scalp dryness and itchiness. You should also steer clear of products that contain a lot of harsh chemicals to prevent unpleasant hair falls and severe damage to your scalp.

    Sharing the side effects of using shampoos with sulfates and parabens, our contributor Nate Masterson, Hair Expert at Maple Holistics, says, “Sulfates and parabens are considered as potentially-harmful ingredients, because the long term effects of their usage are yet to be determined. In the short-term, sulfates and parabens strip our hair of all its natural oils, and this leads to hair that is dry and more prone to breakage.”

    Know Your Hair Type:  Before making shampoo a part of your Asian hair care routine, ensure it’s formulated for your hair type. If you have oily hair, you may want to go for lightweight shampoos that won’t weigh down your hair. However, if you have dry hair, you may go for rich and moisturizing formulations to keep your hair nourished and soft.

    Read the Label: To ensure that a shampoo won’t do more harm than good, it’s important to go through the labels carefully. You may check if you’re allergic to certain ingredients and avoid using them. You may also look out for natural ingredients like vitamins, essential oils, plant-based extracts, etc to give your hair proper nourishment. 

    How to Use Shampoos for Asian Hair?

    Step 1: Wash your hair with cold or warm water. Avoid using hot water as it may strip away the natural oils of your hair. 

    Step 2: Take an appropriate amount of shampoo on your hand or directly on your scalp.

    Step 3: Massage gently in a nice lather. Avoid rubbing it harshly as that may cause scalp irritation. 

    Step 4: You may start with your scalp first and then move to the ends as they are more prone to dryness.

    Step 5: Follow up with a conditioner to seal in the moisture.

    Contributor: Nate Masterson, Hair Expert - Maple Holistics

    Conclusion

    Asian hair may be among the thickest hair types. However, your locks can feel dehydrated and the scalp build-up can be quite messy. Bad hair days feel worse and good hair days are hard to come by. Hence, having some of the best shampoos for Asian hair relieves you of the stress of finding the best hair care requirement for your moody Asian hair. Using these products, you can deliver all the nutrients your hair needs without causing it further damage. Properly nourished hair feels flattering, bouncy, and strong. Ensure you go through the buying guide to get the best product. Happy shopping!

    FAQ's

    Does Asian hair need shampoo?

    A good shampoo helps cleanse the scalp and hair and can reduce breakages and fallouts. Asian hair needs shampoo for deep cleansing and eliminating excess build-up.

    Should Asian hair be washed every day?

    Asian hair may feel dry if washed every day. Washing your hair 2-3 times per week is sufficient to cleanse your scalp and hair naturally.

    Is shampoo for Asian hair safe for color-treated hair?

    Shampoos that don’t contain sulfate may be safe for color-treated hair. However, it’s best to check the label to get proper information.

    Will washing my hair every day make hair grow faster?

    Washing your hair every day can make it prone to breakages and dryness. Asian hair needs a lot of moisture so washing it every day may not be a good idea.

    How do Asians get thicker hair?

    Asians have naturally thick hair. It may also be because of genetic or environmental factors.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    Alvira Dsouza, our in-house hair care expert follows a hair care regime religiously. As an expert, she understands the different requirements of Asian hair. She believes a good shampoo can nourish your hair roots and make your tresses soft and smooth. Hence, after extensive research, she has curated this list of some of the best shampoos for Asian hair that can give your hair strands beautiful luster and strength.

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust Select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!

    Author BIO

    With a keen eye for detail and a passion for hairstyling, Alvira is a certified Hair Expert who brings the latest tre More