Shea Moisture Shampoo Review

About Shea Moisture

Shea Moisture makes clean, fair-trade hair and body care products for men and women. Its line of moisturizing personal care products is specially formulated with all of the delicious benefits of organic shea butter.

The brand has been featured in numerous magazines, and blogs like New York Magazine, Insider, InStyle, Vogue, Allure, Ebony Magazine, Bustle, and many others. It has a solid following of 1.8k on Facebook and Instagram combined.  

This Shea Moisture shampoo review will give you a rundown of the brand and its bestselling products, reveal helpful customer feedback, discounts and promotions, and more. By the end, you’ll be able to decide if its natural hair products are worth purchasing.

Overview of Shea Moisture

The origins of Shea Moisture date back to 1912. In Sierra Leone, Sofi Tucker began to experiment with shea nuts^[1]. In just a few years, she was selling her homemade hair and skin products to local villages across the country. 

Taking care of your hair is an important step in making sure that your body is in its best condition. Luckily, shea butter has many proven benefits. As shown in this study^[2], organic shea butter performs best when used topically and has demonstrated anti–aging and anti-inflammatory properties. We can credit these properties to the unsaponifiable fraction which is found in a high percentage of shea butter. 

Today, Sofi Tucker’s grandchildren own and run Shea Moisture, honoring her and making products from recipes passed down from a healer.

Using potent high-quality ingredients to create effective salves that “stimulate, soothe, surprise, and speak to all the senses” this brand is widely available and its products effectively tackle every hair type and need. Shea Moisture baby and kids products are also available for purchase.

Shea Moisture helps communities, giving a percentage of every sale made to those in need. Plus, the brand created the Social Justice Coalition, a $100K investment fund and campaign that supports Black women-led community activism and social entrepreneurship.

Nowadays, the brand is headquartered in New York where its team continues to produce new and inventive ways to improve hair and body care.

Now that you know a little more about the brand’s roots, this Shea Moisture shampoo review will show you a list of highlights. 

Highlights

• A variety of hair and body care products made with sustainably produced, fair trade, and cruelty-free shea butter
• Shea Moisture’s origins date back to nearly a century ago and are still operated by the founder’s family
• Founded the Social Justice Coalition to support Black women-led community activism and social entrepreneurship
• Made from high-quality, natural ingredients
• No parabens, phthalates, mineral oil, petroleum, or formaldehyde
• 100% post-consumer recycled packaging  
• Lists types and ranges of curly hair that each product is compatible with (for ex. 3A–4C)
• Affordable (most of their soaps and shampoos are only $5–$15) 
• Positive customer feedback 
• Free US shipping on purchases $35+

Before I delve further into this review, I want to highlight the importance of these products being free of parabens, phthalates, mineral oil, petroleum, and formaldehyde.

Parabens can be attributed to drying and irritation of your scalp which ultimately leads to hair loss. They also can bioaccumulate in the fat tissue, and according to this study^[3], act like the hormone estrogen. This causes disruption of the normal function of hormones in both male and female reproductive systems.

In animal testing, phthalates were seen to cause malformations and permanent damage to the male reproductive system. In this study^[4], the same effects were tested on women and the phthalates were shown to cause hormonal imbalance as well.

Mineral oils and petroleum are not inherently bad for the skin or hair, however, even as a moisturizer, they can lead to a build–up of product on your scalp. And this build-up causes stiff and lifeless hair which is weighed down due to product residue. According to this study^[5], mineral oils are only able to lay on the skin and hair rather than penetrate it to provide direct moisturizing benefits. 

In addition, formaldehyde is classified as a carcinogen^[6] so, in high amounts, it can cause cancer. 

In hair smoothing or straightening processes, this study^[7] explains that formaldehyde is unsafe for use in any products due to the fact that formaldehyde gas which is formed when the product is heated is extremely toxic to humans. 

Now onto the products themselves!

Shea Moisture Shampoo Review

Featured next in this Shea Moisture shampoo review are the brand’s bestsellers, including products that help provide intense nourishment, liven up dry hair, and spruce up your curls. 

After providing insight on individual shampoos, this Shea Moisture review will cover some of their leave-in conditioners and body care products to build your entire hair care routine.

It should be noted that most of these items qualify for the SheaScription option, so you can choose to have your favorites auto-delivered between 1 week to 2 month periods. 

Shea Moisture Raw Shea Butter Moisture Retention Shampoo Review

Some of us fry our natural strands using chemicals and heat to achieve certain looks. Of course, this can be extremely damaging. That’s where an intensive moisture shampoo like Raw Shea Butter Moisture Retention Shampoo comes in. 

It’s formulated with vitamins to fortify your hair by saturating each shaft, which helps to minimize breakage. Organic shea butter, sea kelp, and argan oil are the key ingredients that give this product its moisturizing properties. 

Sea kelp is high in minerals such as iodine, which helps promote scalp health and stronger hair since it directly regulates the hormones produced by the thyroid. In this study^[8], a topical solution using marine life was used on different groups with the final result supporting the benefits of sea kelp.

Shea Moisture advertises this shampoo as great for dry, damaged, or colored hair ranging from 3A to 4C. Free of sulfates, the 384ml Raw Shea Butter Moisture Retention Shampoo is sold for $12.

Shea Moisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo Review

Curls fall flat for a number of reasons. Constant color treatments, blow-drying, and even overwashing can hurt your natural curl pattern.

With potent ingredients such as coconut oil^[9], silk proteins, and neem oil, the Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo helps your hair return to its former bouncy glory.

Coconut oil is great for your scalp and also moisturizes your hair thanks to its ability to be easily absorbed by your skin and hair. Plus, it’s ideal for repairing dry hair since it performs better than other oils, as shown in this study^[10]. A test was performed using three oils on living participants, and “…coconut oil was the only oil found to reduce the protein loss remarkably for both undamaged and damaged hair…” 

Silk proteins—which are unique compared to other proteins—improve the shine of hair and add to elasticity, preventing breakage and helping your hair retain moisture. In this study^[11] performing tests on animals such as guinea pigs, it was shown to be non-irritative compared to other products from the same origin. 

This sulfate-free shampoo is perfect for a head full of thick hair, as it gently cleanses without over-stripping. It also contains rosemary leaf oil to protect hair from further damage and hydrolyzed silk to add luster. Shea Moisture coconut oil is mixed in to quench those thirsty strands. 

Rock those healthy, fluffy curls with the 237ml Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo for $12.

Shea Moisture Moringa & Avocado Power Greens Shampoo Review

Avocados are known for their dose of wholesome fats, and moringa often attracts attention for its high levels of Vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants.

The Moringa & Avocado Power Greens Shampoo uses this powerhouse blend, as well as a dose of greens, essential oils, and vital nutrients to restore hair vitality and promote healthy growth.

Gently strengthen your locks over time with the Shea Moisture Moringa & Avocado Power Greens Shampoo, available for $12 (384ml).

Manuka Honey & Yogurte Hydrate + Repair Shampoo Review

Honey^[11] Manuka honey is said to be a miracle food. Aside from the astonishing fact that it never goes bad, it’s also an emollient that locks in moisture. As you might imagine, any substance that does this also helps hair maintain its natural shine and vitality. 

Additionally, the yogurt^[12] in the shampoo contains essential proteins that sink into hair follicles, while also being a common home remedy for giving your scalp some nutrition. Plus, it clears away dead skin cells and stimulates proper hair growth.

The Shea Moisture Manuka Honey & Yogurt Hydrate + Repair Shampoo combines those two ingredients along with baobab, coconut, and Madura oil to completely transform frizzy, unruly hair into a soft mane. 

Baobab oil in hair products is known to nourish the hair follicles and stimulate growth. It also helps prevent hair loss, as it strengthens the hair root. Plus, it’s rich in omega-3 fatty acids and other beneficial vitamins which support your hair’s health. This study^[13] supports the cosmetic potential of baobab seed oil after measuring its “non-irritating, hydrating, and moisturizing…” effects which benefit your skin. 

Drizzle some love onto your tresses with the 305ml Shea Moisture Manuka Honey & Yogurt Hydrate + Repair Shampoo for $10.

Shea Moisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie Review

Ideal for twist-outs, braids, or wash-and-go styles, the Shea Moisture Coconut and Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie works best when used as a styling cream. Designed to be left in, this handy product helps to define those ringlets. 

The Shea Moisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie replenishes natural oils and makes hair more manageable overall. The perfumed paste is made with coconut juice, avocado, and macadamia oils. It’s fairly thick and meant to be used sparingly on split-ends. 

Style and show off those beautiful, fresh coils with the 340g Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie for $14.

Shea Moisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore Leave-In Conditioner Review 

When frequently subjected to straightening irons, chemicals, pollutants, and stress, your hair easily becomes dehydrated. It doesn’t have to be like this. This Shea Moisture leave-in conditioner is here to give you a second chance. 

The Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore Leave-In Conditioner soaks the hair with organic shea butter so that it can heal and repair itself.

It detangles kinky and wavy hair, while the peppermint oil cools and soothes your scalp. As if that wasn’t enough, this Shea Moisture conditioner also shields your hair from environmental aggressors^[14].

Apply this cream to freshly cleansed hair, from top to bottom, spreading evenly. Bring your tresses back to life with the 454g Shea Moisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore Leave-In Conditioner for $14.

Shea Moisture 100% Pure Baobab Oil Head to Toe Nourishment Review

It’s pretty cool to think that nature has our backs. Oil extracted from baobab trees is packed with essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals that nurture hair and skin.

Add Shea Moisture’s 100% Pure Baobab Oil Heal to Toe Nourishment into your daily self-care routine to see immediate and long-term results.  

With Omegas 3,6, and 9, this potion absorbs into strands to make them more supple—resulting in fuller, bouncier curls. You can also massage it into your hands and elbows to help boost the skin’s elasticity.

For a full-body pampering session, purchase the 100% Pure Baobab Oil Heal to Toe Nourishment for only $15 (47ml).

Shea Moisture African Black Soap Bar Review

This Shea Moisture shampoo review can just picture a Sofi Tucker selling her first batch of African Black Soap Bar way back in 1912.

Steeped with history as well as strong clarifying properties, it is cherished among users who suffer from oily skin, acne, eczema, or psoriasis. 

This Shea Moisture soap harnesses the power of a long list of effective ingredients, including shea butter, oats, palm ash, tamarind extract, plantain peel, and aloe. 

Tamarind extract is able to strengthen hair and prevent hair loss due to its high levels of antioxidants, which also make it antiseptic and anti-inflammatory. According to this review^[15], tamarind has a rich history of use as an anti-inflammatory and medicinal plant in traditional medicine which makes its benefits very well known. 

They all come together to keep blemishes at bay and calm troublesome skin irritations for a smoother, protected complexion. 

 The Shea Moisture African Black Soap Bar is “an honored beauty secret” that’s quickly gaining popularity. Wash targeted areas regularly, or lather it over your entire body. The 230g cruelty-free soap rings in at $5.

Shea Moisture Raw Shea Butter Bar Soap Review 

The Raw Shea Butter Bar Soap contains shea butter to keep skin looking immaculate and feeling healthy. 

Frankincense and Myrrh are real gifts from nature: Frankincense oil has anti-inflammatory properties^[16] that reduce redness, and Myrrh has proven natural antibiotic qualities.

Make some room for the 230g Raw Shea Butter Bar Soap on your bathroom shelf, sold on Shea Moisture’s website for $5.

Shea Moisture Reviews: What Do Customers Think?

You’ve just read about some of the brand’s bestselling products, but this Shea Moisture shampoo review needs to give you insight into what really counts: customer experiences. 

After checking out the brand’s website, TheGlobalShuffle, and LakiShaadam, I was able to compile some helpful reviews below. 

Firstly, the Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore Leave In Conditioner is rated 4.3/5 stars by 161 customers on SheaMoisture.com.

Here’s what one reviewer wrote about this Shea Moisture deep conditioner: “It smells so good and I used it on my hair after washing, and my high porosity hair that is normally so hard to keep moisturized was really soft. So now my hair smells sweet and it feels so full of life.” 

Unfortunately, it did not have the same effect on everyone who used it. A few disappointed customers voiced that a formula that was once specialized for Black hair has now changed to cater to everyone.

Theglobeandshuffle left a thorough review for the Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore shampoo and conditioners, analyzing these Shea Moisture hair products from start and finish.

The author was initially displeased with the shampoo’s look, smell, and texture. 

However, after using both products and drying her hair, the author concluded, “My hair felt lighter, the curls were bouncier, and only once it dried could I feel how soft the conditioner made my hair…It also never irritates my skin, doesn’t leave a weird smell in my hair.” 

Lakisha Adams reviewed the Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil Intensive Hydration Hair Mask on her blog, LakishaAdams.

She started off by commenting on the extremely thick texture of this Shea Moisture hair mask—which is a good thing for her hair type—as well as the subtle, sweet scent. 

Adams notes, “It is a good deep conditioner. It leaves your hair shiny, soft, and moisturized.” She also states that it’s “not too expensive.” 

Is Shea Moisture Worth It?

In some form or another, Shea Moisture products have been around for over 100 years. The brand still uses blends handed down to it by a healer, Sofi Tucker.

Plus, Shea Moisture has a credible reputation. And this is one brand you can trust on ethical grounds. For instance, it gives back to the community, and supports Black women involved in community activism^[17], and social entrepreneurship. 

A major benefit of this brand is that once you find a product that complements your hair texture, you can buy it on a regular basis via its subscription service—which is great if you’re looking for effortless refills at a discount price.

The company’s packaging is also made from recycled materials and leaves no waste, while its ingredients are sustainably sourced, organic, and fair trade.

This Shea Moisture shampoo review did find one or two downsides. The brand doesn’t offer returns, so if you do experience an issue with their products (other than a defect) you won’t be able to get your money back. 

Also, the formulas have gone through changes over the years since the original formulas were created, and not everyone has taken well to them. This Shea Moisture shampoo review also acknowledges that the brand’s haircare items work better for certain types of hair than others.

Regarding coarse, thick, or tightly-coiled hair, some conditioners have been noted to actually draw out moisture rather than supplying it to the strands. But, this is definitely a matter of finding products that work for your hair type and texture.

So, are Shea Moisture’s products good? For the majority of customers, they definitely are. They provide intense nourishment and restorative benefits to help you achieve the ideal look you’ve been dreaming of.

And, after taking everything into consideration, this Shea Moisture review believes the brand’s products are worth the buy.

Shea Moisture Promotions & Discounts 

This Shea Moisture shampoo review found that the brand offers free US shipping on orders over $35. On their website, they also offer sales on certain products, like the Shea Moisture Hair Color.

Where to Buy Shea Moisture

Shea Moisture products are available directly from SheaMoisture.com and in many pharmacies, and retailers in North America including:

• CVS
• Vitamin Shoppe
• Target
• Walmart
• Walgreens
• Ulta Beauty
• Stop & Shop
• Shoprite
• Sally Beauty
• Rite Aid
• Kroger

FAQ

Is Shea Moisture Black-owned?

Shea Moisture is a Black-owned brand. They are part of a larger company called Sundial Brands that is also Black-led. 

Are Shea Moisture products safe?

All Shea Moisture products are made from natural ingredients. Some may cause more irritation than others, such as their Sugarcane Extract & Meadowfoam Seed Silicone Free Miracle Styler Leave In Treatment.

This product rates high on the scale for allergies and immunotoxicity, according to EWG.org. This is due to their essential oil fragrance blend. 

Is Shea Moisture fair trade?

The shea butter used in all of the company’s products is fair trade through Community Commerce and sourced from Africa. Shea Moisture states that their products are “Tested on our family for four generations. Never on animals.”

Is Shea Moisture really natural?

Shea Moisture’s products are all certified organic, natural, and non-toxic.

They use combinations of potent ingredients such as shea butter (obviously!), acai berry, argan oil, African black soap, aloe, avocado butter, apple cider vinegar, and more. For a complete, illustrated list, visit the Ingredients section on their website. 

Is Shea Moisture good for dry hair?

This Shea Moisture shampoo review would say that their products are great for dry hair. Shea butter itself is known for its superior nourishing and hydrating properties.

When paired with rich coconut or avocado oils, these shampoos are especially restorative on strands that need special attention. 

Is Shea Moisture for all hair types?

Shea Moisture is an inclusive company that makes products for all hair types. That being said, most of them are specially formulated for coarse, curly hair. 

Are Shea Moisture products recyclable?

Shea Moisture’s packaging is made from 100% post-consumer recycled plastic. It is also fully recyclable. 

How long does Shea Moisture take to ship? 

Shea Moisture orders take 1–2 business days to process. Shipping details will be calculated at checkout, as they vary by the object, location, and weight. The brand offers standard and expedited options. 

Currently, Shea Moisture only ships within the US and offers free shipping on orders $35+. Orders that qualify take about 8 business days to arrive on your doorstep. Customers will receive a tracking number via a confirmation email to locate their packages. 

What is Shea Moisture’s Return Policy?

Shea Moisture does not issue refunds once the package has shipped. If you want to cancel an order, do so before their fulfillment center processes it (within the 1–2 day window).

Contact customer service at [email protected] as soon as possible, and let them know the reason.

If your product arrives damaged, for example, if your Shea Moisture hair dye exploded in transit, Shea Moisture will send a replacement. 

How to Contact Shea Moisture

Still have questions after reading this Shea Moisture shampoo review? You can get in touch with the brand via any of the following methods:

• Phone: 1(866) 478-1925
• Contact form found on their website

Shea Moisture’s customer service team monitors phone lines from Monday to Friday 8:30 AM–9 PM EST.

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