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.  

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.

According to a study shampoos are not merely purifying cosmetics; they play a vital role in maintaining the health and beauty of our hair, imparting gloss, improving manageability, and promoting hair growth.

Shea Moisture stands out as a trusted choice that harnesses the power of natural and herbal ingredients like aloe vera, coconut oil, and she butter, a key ingredient in many products.

But Shea Moisture’s impact goes beyond hair care. With a commitment to community support, 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.

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.

Shea Moisture Pros and Cons

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

Pros

• Natural and Organic Ingredients: Shea Moisture is known for using natural and organic ingredients in their products, which can be beneficial for those who prefer cleaner and more environmentally friendly options.
• Diverse Product Range: Shea Moisture offers a wide range of products to cater to different hair and skin types, allowing customers to find the right fit for their specific needs.
• Nourishing and Hydrating: Many Shea Moisture products are formulated with ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and argan oil, known for their moisturizing and nourishing properties. These ingredients can help improve the overall condition and health of the hair and skin.
• Ethical Sourcing: Shea Moisture is committed to ethically sourcing their ingredients, supporting fair trade practices and promoting sustainability in the communities they work with.
• Inclusivity: Shea Moisture embraces inclusivity by offering products suitable for various hair types, including those with curly, coily, and textured hair. They aim to cater to a diverse range of beauty needs and empower individuals to embrace their natural hair.

Cons

• Scent and Texture: Some individuals may find the scent or texture of certain Shea Moisture products to be overpowering or not to their liking. Personal preferences for fragrance and product texture can vary.
• Price Point: Shea Moisture products tend to be priced higher compared to some mainstream hair care brands. This can be a drawback for individuals on a tight budget or looking for more affordable options.
• Product Performance: While many people have positive experiences with Shea Moisture products, it’s important to note that product performance can vary depending on individual hair and skin types. What works well for one person may not yield the same results for another.
• Availability: Shea Moisture products may not be as readily available in all regions or countries, which can limit accessibility for some customers.

It’s important to consider your personal preferences, budget, and specific hair or skin concerns when deciding whether Shea Moisture is the right brand for you.

The Importance of Clean Ingredients in Hair Care

I want to emphasize that Shea Moisture products are formulated without parabens, phthalates, mineral oil, petroleum, and formaldehyde.

This commitment to clean ingredients sets Shea Moisture apart, ensuring that you can trust their products for your hair care needs. By avoiding these potentially harmful substances, Shea Moisture prioritizes the health and well-being of your hair and scalp.

Their dedication to using safe and natural ingredients means that you can feel confident and reassured when incorporating Shea Moisture into your hair care routine. Experience the benefits of their clean formulations and enjoy healthier, nourished hair without the worry of harmful additives.

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, 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, 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, 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 so, in high amounts, it can cause cancer.

In hair smoothing or straightening processes, this study 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.

By opting for Shea Moisture, you can trust that you’re using products that prioritize the health and vitality of your hair.

Experience the benefits of their clean formulations and enjoy the confidence of knowing that harmful additives are not part of your hair care routine. Shea Moisture is committed to providing you with nourished and beautiful hair while ensuring your overall well-being.

Ingredients

Shea Moisture is known for its use of natural and organic ingredients in its products. While the specific ingredients can vary depending on the product line and individual product, here are some commonly found ingredients in Shea Moisture products:

Shea Butter

Shea butter is a key ingredient in many Shea Moisture products. It is a rich, moisturizing butter derived from the shea nut. Shea butter is known for its nourishing and hydrating properties, making it beneficial for both hair and skin.

According to a study organic shea butter performs best when used topically and has demonstrated anti–aging and anti-inflammatory properties.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is often used in Shea Moisture products for its moisturizing and conditioning properties. It helps to soften and smooth the hair and skin.

Argan Oil

Argan oil is a highly prized ingredient known for its nourishing and moisturizing properties. It is commonly used in hair care products to promote shine, reduce frizz, and enhance manageability.

According to a study, the pre-treatment of hair with argan oil was found to be effective in protecting it against oxidative damage. The study observed a significant reduction in protein loss in the groups that underwent oil pre-treatment.

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is a soothing and hydrating ingredient commonly found in Shea Moisture products. It helps to calm and moisturize the skin, promoting a healthy complexion.

Jamaican Black Castor Oil

Jamaican black castor oil is often included in hair care products by Shea Moisture. It is believed to promote hair growth, strengthen the hair, and nourish the scalp.

Honey

Honey is a natural humectant known for its moisturizing and antibacterial properties. It can be found in various Shea Moisture products, providing hydration and promoting a healthy complexion.

Rosehip Oil

Rosehip oil is rich in antioxidants and essential fatty acids. It is often used in skincare products to moisturize, brighten, and promote a more even skin tone.

Rosehip oil, derived from rosehip seeds, offers potential benefits for hair health. Rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants, it can nourish the scalp and hair strands, promoting healthier and shinier hair.

Rosehip oil’s anti-inflammatory properties can soothe the scalp, reducing itchiness and dryness. It strengthens hair strands, reducing breakage and supporting hair growth. The oil also forms a protective barrier, shielding hair from environmental damage.

It’s important to note that ingredient lists may vary from product to product, and it’s always a good idea to read the specific product labels or consult the Shea Moisture website for detailed information on the ingredients used in each individual product.

Benefits

Nourished and Hydrated Hair

Shea Moisture products often contain shea butter, which is known for its nourishing and hydrating properties. It can help moisturize and improve the texture of both the scalp and hair strands.

Soft and Smooth Hair

The inclusion of coconut oil in Shea Moisture products contributes to their moisturizing and conditioning abilities. It helps soften and smooth the hair, making it more manageable and reducing frizz.

Promotes Shine and Reduces Frizz

Argan oil, another common ingredient in Shea Moisture products, is prized for its nourishing and moisturizing properties. It can promote shine, reduce frizz, and enhance the manageability of the hair.

Soothes and Calms the Scalp

Aloe vera, often found in Shea Moisture products, is known for its soothing and hydrating properties. It can help calm the scalp and alleviate any discomfort, promoting a healthy scalp environment.

Strengthens and Nourishes Hair

Jamaican black castor oil, a staple in Shea Moisture’s hair care products, is believed to promote hair growth, strengthen the hair, and nourish the scalp, contributing to overall hair health.

Hydrates and Promotes a Healthy Complexion

Honey, included in various Shea Moisture products, is a natural humectant that moisturizes the hair and skin. It also possesses antibacterial properties, promoting a healthy complexion.

Nourishes and Protects the Hair

Rosehip oil, a rich source of antioxidants and essential fatty acids, can nourish the scalp and hair strands. It forms a protective barrier, shielding the hair from environmental damage and promoting overall hair health.

It’s important to note that the specific benefits may vary depending on the individual product and its formulation within the Shea Moisture range. Checking the product labels and descriptions can provide more detailed information on the benefits of each specific product.

5 Shea Moisture Shampoo Bestsellers

Shea Moisture Raw Shea Butter Moisture Retention Shampoo

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, 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

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, 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. 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 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.

Manuka Honey & Yogurte Hydrate + Repair Shampoo

Honey 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 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 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 Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore Leave-In Conditioner

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.

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 African Black Soap Bar

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, 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.

Who is She Moisture For?

Shea Moisture is a brand that caters to a wide range of individuals, including those with diverse hair and skin types. The brand offers products for various hair textures, including curly, wavy, coily, and straight hair. Shea Moisture products can be beneficial for people looking to address specific hair concerns such as dryness, frizz, breakage, or scalp issues.

Additionally, Shea Moisture offers skincare products that can be suitable for different skin types, including dry, sensitive, and combination skin. The brand focuses on using natural and organic ingredients, making it appealing to those seeking cleaner and more natural beauty options.

Furthermore, Shea Moisture products are often formulated with a consideration for specific needs, such as those of individuals with textured or ethnic hair. The brand has gained popularity for providing inclusive options that cater to the unique needs of diverse hair and skin types.

In summary, Shea Moisture is designed for individuals seeking hair and skincare products that prioritize natural ingredients, cater to various hair and skin types, and address specific concerns such as dryness, frizz, or sensitivity.

Alternatives

If you’re looking for alternative hair care brands, here are a few options to consider:

• Klorane Shampoo: Klorane offers a range of shampoos that cater to different hair types and concerns. Their products are known for their gentle formulations and use of botanical ingredients.
• Prose: Prose provides personalized hair care products tailored to your specific hair needs. They offer customized shampoos, conditioners, and other hair treatments based on an online consultation and analysis.
• Briogeo: Briogeo focuses on clean and natural hair care formulations. Their products are free from sulfates, silicones, parabens, and other potentially harmful ingredients.
• Madison Reed: Madison Reed specializes in hair color products that prioritize ingredient quality and minimize harsh chemicals. They offer a range of hair dyes, root touch-up products, and hair care items.
• Function of Beauty: Function of Beauty allows you to create custom hair care products tailored to your specific hair goals and preferences. They offer personalized shampoos, conditioners, and other hair care solutions.

Each of these brands has its own unique offerings and approaches to hair care. Exploring their products and customer reviews can help you find an alternative to Shea Moisture that aligns with your specific hair care needs and preferences.

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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Looking for more hair care options? Here are a few other brand to consider in your search:

Klorane Shampoo

Prose

Briogeo

Madison Reed 

Function of Beauty