10 Top Korean Shampoos & Conditioners for All Your Hair Care Needs

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It seems like Koreans always get it right — from music to skincare to makeup.

And now, hair.

woman with dark hair washing hair with shampoo

If your tresses are in need of some loving and you haven’t found a solution to your hair care problems even with the arsenal of products in the Western world, don’t worry. The Far East has a lot to offer!

In this article, we’ll go over 10 of the top Korean shampoos for all your hair care needs.

Daeng Gi Meo Ri Gold Premium
Editor's Choice
  • Award-winning formulation of 11 medicinal herbs
  • Harnesses ancient knowledge
  • Leaves a refreshing menthol feel after use
Pyunkang Yul Herbal Hair Loss Control Shampoo
Premium Pick
  • Contains a powerful herbal formulation to promote a healthy scalp
  • Also features two patented ingredients for hair growth
  • Also ideal for damaged hair
LG Reen Yungo Shampoo​
Budget Pick
  • Works as a shampoo + hair essence + hair treatment
  • Contains ginseng, mild saponins, and ginger
  • Can help curb hair loss

Why Choose Korean Shampoos?

What makes Korean haircare products — Korean shampoos in particular — different from the options that we have at home?

Three important characteristics that make them truly worthy investments.

Emphasis on Scalp Care

The biggest distinction that separates the top Korean haircare products from their Western counterparts is the fact that they target scalp care as a primary foundation for hair health.

In the West, most shampoo and conditioner manufacturers formulate their products to care for hair strands. 

By contrast, in Korea, hair care starts with a scalp scaler, which cleanses the scalp and removes dirt and dead skin cells. It then moves on to a massage, a mask, a toner, a serum, and a treatment — all for the scalp.

The most astounding thing? Science says they got it right.

According to clinical studies, scalp health plays a big role in resulting hair health. 

In fact, creating an ideal environment for the scalp can even reverse various hair issues such as dandruff or folliculitis.

Additionally, a separate study found that controlling oxidative stress on the scalp can promote better hair retention and reduce hair loss.

More Natural Ingredients

Another major advantage that comes with using Korean shampoos is the inclusion of more natural ingredients as opposed to the options that you’ll find stateside.

Many of the top Korean shampoos and conditioners harness the power of herbs and flowers in their formulation. This is also why many of them smell exactly like their ingredients. 

But these natural products are every bit as effective as products that use more synthetic ingredients. Plus, they deliver great results without side effects. 

For instance, a shampoo with coconut oil and aloe vera can provide effective cleansing for the hair without leaving it dry. Compare this to a product that works up an amazing lather to clean your hair strands but strips it of its oils.

Refreshing, Lightweight Formulas

Finally, Korean shampoos typically use lightweight serums and essences, which carry active ingredients that hydrate the hair even in humid conditions.

American products, on the other hand, typically feature heavy and cream-based formulations. While this isn’t necessarily a bad thing, it can also be rather heavy, especially on hot days.

Factors to Consider in Choosing Korean Shampoos

So how do you start incorporating Korean shampoos into your hair routine?

There are two major factors that you should consider.

Hair Type

Your hair type is important in choosing the right product for you. After all, some shampoos are specially formulated to be effective on certain hair types and unsuitable for others. 

If you have straight, voluminous hair, you can pick up any shampoo off the rack and call it a day. 

But if you have 1a hair that’s extremely thin and fine, you’ll want to opt for a hair care product that can strengthen your scalp and your hair strands to protect against hair loss.

For wavy, coily, or kinky hair, look for the top Korean hair products for curly hair or the top Korean hair products for frizzy hair. 

These products can handle thicker hair strands while also taming frizz and providing shine.

Hair Issues

It’s also crucial to choose a shampoo based on your specific hair needs.

If you have color-treated hair, you’ll want something that not only helps retain hair color but should also provide hydration to your hair, like these hydration treatments.

For damaged hair, opt for a product that offers holistic care, as opposed to something that just boosts shine or volume.

Additionally, think about the following before you make a purchase:

  • Cleansing power
  • List of ingredients
  • Your budget

The Top Korean Shampoos You Can Buy Right Now

Ready to start shopping for the top Korean haircare products?

Here are some of the top buys in the market today.

1
Daeng Gi Meo Ri Gold Premium Shampoo

Need a Korean shampoo that does, well, everything? This one is widely considered the best Korean hair shampoo by bloggers and beauty enthusiasts.

Benefits: Great for scalp protection, dandruff removal, hair strengthening, and anti-hair loss; improves hair volume and manageability; adds shine to locks

Features:

  • Award-winning formulation of 11 medicinal herbs and other amazing ingredients
  • Harnesses ancient knowledge through the use of herbal calamus
  • Leaves a refreshing menthol feel after use

It also has a matching conditioner to step up its magic!

 

A multi-awarded product, the Daeng Gi Meo Ri Gold Premium Shampoo features the brand’s superior formulation that has made it one of the most popular shampoos in Korea. 

It uses 100% domestically sourced herbs, including ginseng and licorice root, and contains no artificial coloring. 

It’s also ideal for a wide range of hair care needs: strengthening, moisturization, volume, and more!

2
Ryo Hair Loss Expert Care Shampoo

Widely considered to be one of the best Korean hair loss shampoos, the Ryo Hair Loss Expert Care Shampoo is a great investment that will have you restocking even before you use it all  up.

Benefits: Offers various benefits for scalp itchiness relief, hair loss, heat protection, hair tensile strength, etc; free from animal-derived ingredients, synethic colors, and more

Features:

  • Research-driven formulation that won an Excellent Research Award from the Society of Cosmetic Scientists of Korea
  • Contains ginseng lead, stem, and fruit, green tea, and chestnut inner shell
  • Features data-driven fragrance design

Talk about doing what it says on the box and even going beyond!

 

Every product claims to provide multiple benefits for the hair, but this shampoo from Ryo actually has the evidence to back it up with both research awards and user satisfaction surveys.

If you need help with boosting hair elasticity, shine, softness, and protection, this product is formulated to target all those and more. Its fragrance design is also sure to make you fall in love with it instantly!

3
LG Reen Yungo Shampoo

For the budget-conscious, this Korean shampoo for dandruff from LG has everything that you need for a fraction of the price of the others on this list.

Benefits: Provides deep cleansing against built-up dirt, oils, and more; offers intense hydration to hair strands; also protects against hair loss

Features:

  • Works as a shampoo + hair essence + hair treatment
  • Contains ginseng, mild saponins, and ginger for effective dandruff relief and nourishment
  • Can help curb hair loss

Plus, it leaves your hair feeling extra clean, so you can be extra confident!

 

If you need something that’s more than just a shampoo, the LG Reen Yungo Shampoo is also a hair essence and hair treatment that relieves dandruff, protects against hair loss, and adds shine to hair.

A lot like using various amino acid treatments, in short.

Its secret? This shampoo contains red ginseng, mild saponins, and ginger to ease dandruff while also helping promote hair growth. 

4
Kerasys Lovely & Romantic Perfumed Shampoo

Make your hair feel like a garden in full bloom with the Kerasys Lovely & Romantic Perfumed Shampoo.

Benefits: Provides multiple scent layers to make your hair smell glorious all day; features natural ingredients; cleans hair efficiently without stripping oils

Features:

  • Comes with a scent cloud that lasts for more than 48 hours
  • Uses fragrances from natural flowers, like daisy, jasmine, and magnolia
  • Contains argan tree kernel oil to improve hair health

Just add water and enjoy lasting fragrance all day, every day!

 

Considered to be the best-smelling Korean shampoo you’ll find on the market, this one will have you falling in love with your crowning glory.

Not only does it smell amazing, but it also features many natural ingredients to make sure your hair health doesn’t get compromised. 

Plus, it comes with a conditioner to complete your hair care regimen.

5
Daeng Gi Meo Ri Tea Tree Cool Shampoo

Another option for the best Korean shampoos for oily hair, this one offers great bang for your buck!

Benefits: Great for oily hair; provides hydration for your locks; adds gloss and volume to hair; leaves a super clean feeling after wash

Features:

  • Contains tea tree oil, peppermint, aloe vera, and rosemary extract to provide holistic hair care
  • Ideal for both oily and sensitive scalps
  • Comes in a big 1000 ml bottle

Your ticket to fresh-smelling, shiny, strong, and clean hair.

 

This other shampoo from the famed brand Deong Gi Meo Ri is especially ideal for those who need oil control but also something delicate and gentle for their sensitive scalp.

As the top Korean shampoo for oily hair, it features a simple but effective formulation of tea tree oil, peppermint, aloe vera, and rosemary extract for deep cleansing and hydration. 

You can also opt to get the Daeng Gi Meo Tea Tree Oil Treatment for even more hair care benefits.

6
Amos Professional O2 Scalp Nourish Green Tea Shampoo Fresh

Straightforward and simple, this one from Amos Professional is infused with all you need to revitalize dull, damaged hair.

Benefits: Great for promoting hair growth, enhancing hair strength, and boosting hydration; ideal for various scalp types; silicone-free

Features:

  • Silicone-free formula that contains aminoacids found in green tea for multiple hair benefits
  • Also has mint leaves to add to your hair's moisture and shine
  • Lightweight finish

Get bouncy, beautiful hair without feeling weighed down.

 

The Amos Professional green tea shampoo is a great all-around shampoo for various scalp conditions: normal, dry, oily, and sensitive.

If you need help with the top Korean shampoo for hair growthand hair strength, this product is for you. Oh, and did we mention it works for both men and women? Truly worth the purchase!

7
Aekyung Kerasys Damage Care Repairing Shampoo

Got damaged hair? Your new holy grail shampoo is here.

Benefits: Specially formulated for brittle and damaged hair; provides excellent hydration, hair strengthening, and shine; has a great fragrance

Features:

  • Has a three-step nourishing system
  • Contains edelweiss and Swiss Alpine herb extracts for optimal hair health
  • Repairs hair while improving its tensile strength and glossiness

Say goodbye to split ends... forever!

 

It won’t be a list of the top shampoos if none of it is specifically designed for brittle or damaged hair. Luckily, you’ve got an amazing option for that with the Aekyung Kerasys Damage Care Repairing Shampoo.

With its three-step nourishment system, this shampoo repairs, strengthens, and hydrates hair. It also has a great scent to top it all off.

8
Kundal Honey & Macadamia Premium Nature Shampoo

Harnessing the power of honey and macadamia, this shampoo is one of the best Korean scalp treatment products on the market.

Benefits: Restores scalp and hair pH balance; improves hair elasticity and boosts scalp health; free from toxic ingredients

Features:

  • Powerful formulation of 10,000 ppm of honey and macadamia + 46 natural extracts
  • Boasts a list of EWG Green Grade ingredients (aside from the fragrance)
  • Hypoallergenic

Impressed yet? Wait until you actually lather it onto your hair.

 

A powerful shampoo that restores hair and scalp pH balance (like low-pH shampoos), the Kundal Honey and Macadamia Premium Nature Shampoo is hands down the top Korean shampoo for daily use.

It leverages the restorative power of honey and macadamia and steps it up further with 46 other natural extracts. Look forward to bouncier hair and a healthier scalp!

9
Ryo Damage Care and Nourishing Shampoo

Maximize your purchase with a shampoo that delivers not one, not two, but five benefits!

Benefits: Offers relief for split ends; helps improve hair softness, elasticity, and shine; provides nourishment and hydration; gentle on the scalp

Features:

  • Contains five patented and 100% Korean ingredients
  • Has 13 plant-derived ingredients to boost hair health
  • Multiple benefits in one bottle

An all-around must-have from one of the best Korean shampoo brands.

 

Claiming to repair damage from the first use, the Ryo Damage Care & Nourishing Shampoo delivers on its bold assertion as evidenced by its repurchase rate.

This shampoo targets everything from hair loss to hair texture. The amazing thing is it works for every single one of them.

10
Pyunkang Yul Herbal Hair Loss Control Shampoo

Looking for a premium product for holistic hair care? Look no further than the best Korean shampoo for hairless issues, the Pyunkang Yul Herbal Hair Loss Control Shampoo.

Benefits: cleanses, revitalizes, and soothes the scalp; promotes shine and moisture; also great for damaged hair

Features:

  • Contains a powerful herbal formulation to promote a healthy scalp
  • Also features two patented ingredients for hair growth
  • Also ideal for damaged hair

With its magical potpourri of everything good for your hair, you'll be whipping your locks with confidence wherever you go.

 

Another amazing Korean hair growth shampoo, the Pyunkang Yul Herbal Hair Loss Control Shampoo boasts an effective but gentle formulation of herbal ingredients to encourage hair growth and ensure holistic scalp care.

At the same time, it doesn’t skimp on what a premium shampoo delivers: shinier locks, softer tresses, and great fragrance!

FAQs About Korean Shampoos

How do Koreans get their hair so soft?

Korean hair care is founded on holistic care.

Aside from using herbal essences and ingredients, they also include nutrient-rich foods in their diet to promote better scalp health. This results in soft, shiny, and well-hydrated strands. 

What is the secret of Korean hair?

Aside from using the top Korean shampoos for Asian hair, Koreans religiously follow a hair care regimen that includes multiple scalp treatments. 

Additionally, they use more natural ingredients that don’t weigh hair down, while still delivering optimal hydration, shine, and fragrance.

Holistic Care for Your Hair

Getting beautiful, shiny hair is everyone’s dream, and each of us deserves to see it to fruition.

When using the top Korean hair products, supplement product use with healthy habits such as eating nutrient-rich food, staying hydrated, and getting enough sleep to truly maximize results.

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Author

  • Kat

    Kat brings a seasoned voice to our beauty blog with 13 years of dedicated writing experience. Her deep-seated passion isn't just limited to words; she's always on the pulse of emerging makeup trends. Beyond her articles, Kat crafts hand-made crochet swimwear and sundresses, and effortlessly steps in as a muse for beauty photoshoots. Kat holds a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology.

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One Comment

  1. How could Moremo NOT be on this list?!? It’s THE BEST Korean shampoo and conditioning treatment I’ve ever tried! PLEASE add Moremo! (I don’t sponsor the company or anything. Just a diehard fan. It brought my bleached hair back to life. It’s shiny, full, hydrated… perfect 👍🏻 👍🏻

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