Finding the Best Shampoo for Gray or White Hair

It isn’t news that using the right shampoo can make all of the difference in how your hair looks and feels. Luckily, it’s quite easy to find a shampoo formula that works for your mane if you’re dealing with common concerns like color-treated hair or dry, damaged hair. But what if you fall under a less talked about category? We’re talking about shampoo for white and gray hair! As you age, you’ll likely notice that your hair has different needs and therefore requires a tune-up to your hair care routine. The same also holds true for hair that’s been colored gray. This is where we come in. Below, we’re sharing all the details on picking the best shampoo for gray hair and white hair, including a purple shampoo for gray hair. Happy washing!

HOW TO PICK SHAMPOO FOR GRAY AND WHITE HAIR

Before we talk about our best shampoo for white or gray hair, it’s a good idea to give you some background information on what gray hair needs to look its best. What should you look for when choosing shampoo for grey hair? The number one thing is hydration. The Cleveland Clinic states that as you get older, the oil glands become less active, resulting in a decrease in natural oil production. This is why those with gray and white hair tend to have dry hair. Fortunately, with the right moisturizing formula, your gray strands will be happy and hydrated.

Even if your hair isn’t naturally gray or white, the coloring process can also be super drying, meaning a color-safe moisturizing shampoo will be an excellent pick.

You should also consider adding a purple shampoo for gray hair to your hair care routine since silvery strands can get brassy. We’d be willing to bet that isn’t the look you’re going for and neither are most people—that’s why silver shampoo is so popular.

Sulfate-free shampoo for gray hair is also a popular pick. Per the AAD, sulfates can be drying on some hair types, which may make you want to make the switch. If your hair isn’t naturally gray, keep in mind that you may find sulfate formulas impact your color.

OUR BEST SHAMPOOS FOR GRAY OR WHITE HAIR

Looking for a shampoo for grey and white hair that checks all the boxes? We have you covered! Without further ado, allow us to introduce you to three shampoos for gray and white hair.

L’Oréal Pairs EverPure Moisture Shampoo: This sulfate and paraben-free option is formulated with rosemary to deeply replenish dry hair with moisture, giving it lush-touch softness and luminous shine. No wonder it made our list of the best shampoos for gray hair! For the best results, use it with the L’Oréal Paris EverPure Moisture Conditioner.

L’Oréal Paris EverCurl HydraCharge Shampoo: If you have curly, gray or white hair, look no further than this hydrating shampoo for curly strands. The sulfate-free formula contains coconut oil and quenches the hair for soft, manageable, hydrated curls that aren’t frizzy or weighed down. Bring on the curl definition! To get the most out of your shampoo, pair it with the L’Oréal Paris EverCurl HydraCharge Conditioner.

L’Oréal Paris EverPure Brass Toning Purple Sulfate Free Shampoo: Remember those brassy tones we mentioned earlier? If you notice your gray or white hair starting to get orange or yellow tones, you’ll want to swap one of the above formulas for a purple shampoo. This sulfate-free purple shampoo for gray hair hydrates and neutralizes brassy yellow and orange tones in silver hair. Use it with the L’Oréal Paris EverPure Brass Toning Purple Sulfate Free Conditioner two to three times a week as needed to keep brass at bay.

Editor’s tip: As we mentioned, naturally gray and white hair tends to be on the dry side, so if you find that your strands are in need of a little TLC in the moisture department, consider swapping your conditioner for a daily deep conditioner instead. Take your pick from the L’Oréal Paris Elvive Extraordinary Oil Rapid Reviver Deep Conditioner, L’Oréal Paris Elvive Color Vibrancy Rapid Reviver Deep Conditioner (this one’s perfect for colored gray strands!), and L’Oréal Paris Elvive Total Repair 5 Rapid Reviver Deep Conditioner, all of which are meant for daily use and intense moisture.

Next: What Causes Gray Hair?