As more people learn about the drawbacks of using shampoos with sulfates and other hair stripping ingredients, they are looking to cleansing conditioners as multi-tasking products that will repair hair. These products are especially useful for those with curly hair, which tends to be drier and frizzier.
Cleansing conditioners can balance curly hair, leaving the roots clean while moisturizing the ends. These products do have to be used more often in order to work properly and require massaging the scalp when applying so that the friction will cleanse. It is also a good idea to use a shampoo every third or fourth wash in order to avoid product build up.
Check out these fantastic cleansing conditioners for Type 2 and Type 3 hair, all under $20!
9 Cleansing Conditioners
L`Oreal Paris EverCurl Hydracharge Cleansing Conditioner, $6.99
This product is a NaturallyCurly Editors’ pick, providing softness and improving hair’s moisture retention. It is both sulfate and paraben-free and has a pump on the top, making it convenient for the shower. This is a fairly heavy cleansing conditioner and is perfect for Type 2C and Type 3 hair types.
MORE: 9 Coily Cleansing Conditioners Under $20
Jessicurl Hair Cleansing Cream, $16.95
Another NaturallyCurly Editors’ Choice, as well as a reader favorite, this cleansing cream gently cleanses, leaving hair silky and frizz-free. The formula, which is free of parabens, silicones, and sulfates, is available in three scents including Citrus Lavender, Island Fantasy, and No Fragrance. This product works best on hair Types 2A through 2C because it is so light.
Curls Curlicious Curls Cleansing Cream, $15
Give wavy and curly hair a treat with this creamy product that is gentle enough for daily use. It is an organic cleansing conditioner and contains natural ingredients such as carrot seed oil and sage leaf, which protect color-treated hair.
Types 2A through 3A should be very successful with this product!
Curl Junkie Daily Fix Cleansing Conditioner, $19
Looking to prep hair for styling without weighing it down? This product is an excellent cleansing solution because it helps to remove silicones, oils, and waxes from the hair while maintaining its natural oils. With 97% naturally derived ingredients and no glycerin, this is a product that curlies can feel good about using! It is ideal for hair Types 2B – 3A.
Darcy’s Botanicals Daily Cleansing Conditioner Cream, $12
This protein-free product offers heavy moisturization and can be used as a leave-in conditioner as well, making it easy to simplify the wavy hair routine. It is very concentrated, making it best for primarily Type 2C waves.
Carol’s Daughter Rosemary Mint Clarifying Conditioner, $16
Initially made to be a clarifying conditioner, this product has become popular as a hair cleanser, offering smoothing ingredients such as jojoba seed oil, sage, rosemary, peppermint oil, and pro-vitamin B5. Hair will feel much softer and healthier! This product can be customized based on hair type; use more for thicker and coarser waves.
Wen Sweet Almond Mint Cleansing Conditioner, $18
Wen provides another multi-tasking cleansing conditioner that can be used as both a hair cleanser and a leave-in product. Containing aloe vera gel, chamomile extract, and sweet almond oil, this product detangles and strengthens hair. It is meant to be a universal product, so it should work well on any wavy or curly hair type!
Hair Milk Co-Wash Cleansing Conditioner, $18
Filled with rich ingredients such as shea butter and agave nectar, this product is detangling and moisturizing, adding shine and manageability to wavy and curly hair. This is the perfect solution for dry and damaged hair! It is ideal for hair Types 2B – 3A.
Lemon-Aid Conditioner, $10.95
Another NC Editor’s Pick, as well as a reader favorite, this cleansing cream gently cleanses, leaving hair silky and frizz-free. The formula, which is free of parabens, silicones, and sulfates, is available in three scents including Citrus Lavender, Island Fantasy, and No Fragrance. This product works best on hair Types 2A – 2C because it is so light.
