12 Top Glycerin Shampoos: Top Picks for Hydrated, Healthy Hair

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Navigating the maze of haircare products to find the ideal shampoo for your specific needs, like frizz control, dryness relief, or dandruff elimination, can be overwhelming.

But there’s a secret weapon in haircare that you might not be aware of: glycerin shampoo. Glycerin pulls moisture into the hair shaft, smooths out frizz, and leaves your hair feeling softer, more manageable, and gloriously shiny.

A woman is washing her hair with a glycerin shampoo in a bathtub happily

If you have yet to find the top glycerin shampoo for your specific needs, don’t worry. We’ve got you covered.

We’ve researched to provide you with a list of the top glycerin shampoos available. No matter your hair type or concern, there’s something for you. Keep reading to discover your perfect shampoo match!

Curls Blueberry Bliss Reparative Hair Wash
Editor's Choice
  • Rich and creamy glycerin, sulfate-free formula
  • Formulated with organic blueberry extract, aloe leaf Juice, and chamomile extract
  • Pleasant Blueberry Bliss signature scent
Neutrogena Exfoliating Healthy Scalp Clarify & Shine Shampoo With Pink Grapefruit
Budget Pick
  • Clarifies and exfoliates scalp
  • Safe for color-treated hair
  • Sulfate- and paraben-free
INNERSENSE Organic Beauty Pure Harmony Hairbath
Premium Pick
  • Nourishes and strengthens hair
  • Boosts hair volume
  • Contains coconut, green tea, rice brand, and pumpkin seed oil

What Is Glycerin?

Glycerin, or glycerol, is a colorless, odorless, viscous liquid that is sweet-tasting and non-toxic. Derived from natural sources like vegetable oils or animal fats, glycerin is prized for its hydrating properties. 

Glycerin is a powerful humectant. In the beauty industry, you’ll often find glycerin in products such as lotions, creams, soaps, and even some makeup items. 

Its moisturizing abilities also make it a key component in hair care products like conditioners and hair masks.

13 Top Shampoo Products With Glycerin

Note

  • Please note that not all the items on our list contain glycerin within the first three to five ingredients, but glycerin is still prominently placed close to the top of the ingredient list.

    Despite this placement, these products deliver all the esteemed benefits commonly associated with glycerin shampoos.
  • Shampoos cannot be formulated predominantly with glycerin.

    While glycerin is an effective conditioner and moisturizer, it’s not recommended to use 100% glycerin because this will cause dehydration. It must also be harmoniously combined with other ingredients for optimal stability and benefits.

Now, let’s dive into the top 13 shampoos with glycerin!

1.
CLn 2-in-1 Gentle Wash & Shampoo

If you're looking for an anti-dandruff glycerin shampoo for sensitive skin and scalp, the CLn 2-in-1 Gentle Wash & Shampoo is a great choice.

Benefits: Gently cleanses the skin; does not irritate the scalp; hydrates and soothes sensitive skin and hair

Features: 

  • Fragrance-free and free from harmful ingredients
  • Specially formulated for all sensitive skin and hair types
  • Glycerin-infused lightweight and mild formula 

This fragrance-free glycerin shampoo is designed for those with itchy, flaking, and irritated scalp.

The CLn 2-in-1 Gentle Wash & Shampoo has a moisture-rich glycerin formula that cleanses and provides soothing relief to your skin and scalp.

One of the standout qualities of this shampoo is its two-in-one functionality. You can use it to clean your scalp and shave sensitive areas.

It’s suitable for all sensitive skin and hair types, including fine or fragile hair. The gentle and mild formulation allows you to incorporate it into your daily routine without any worries.

With no fragrance, antibiotics, parabens, or triclosan, it’s an excellent option for those who prefer a more natural approach to their hair care.

2.
Theorie Pure Ultra Gentle Hypoallergenic Shampoo

Discover the magic of Theorie Pure Ultra Gentle Hypoallergenic Shampoo, the perfect solution for sensitive skin and scalp conditions!

Benefits: Provides calming hydration; promotes healthy, glowing hair; does not cause irritation

Features: 

  • Soothing aloe vera base
  • Fragrance-free
  • Nourishing botanicals

This unscented glycerin shampoo is ideal for those with sensitive scalps and allergy-prone skin.

The Theorie Pure Ultra Gentle Hypoallergenic Shampoo is designed for people with sensitive scalps, eczema, psoriasis, and other skin concerns.

The shampoo’s unique formulation is based on aloe vera instead of water, providing a calming and hydrating effect on your scalp and hair.

Aside from having glycerin, this product is also enriched with nourishing botanicals, such as argan oil, marula oil, vitamins E and C, and jojoba oil, making it a luxurious option that leaves your hair soft and healthy.

Its hypoallergenic formula eliminates common irritants in other hair care products, ensuring a comfortable and soothing experience for you and your hair.

It’s also suitable for everyday use, and the practical pump bottle makes it easy to dispense the right amount of product.

3.
Caswell-Massey Shower Gel

Elevate your daily routine with unmatched radiance and nourishment with this sulfate-free glycerin dual-purpose body wash and shampoo.

Benefits: Nourishes the skin and hair; gentle on the scalp; refreshing scent

Features: 

  • Glycerin-rich, plant-based formula
  • Cruelty-free
  • No parabens, sulfates, or phthalates

Discover the ultimate all-in-one solution for your hair and skin with Caswell-Massey's luxurious glycerin-rich shower gel.

Specially formulated with essential oils, the Caswell-Massey Heritage Collection gel nourishes and conditions your skin and hair in one simple step.

With its gentle, plant-based formula, this glycerin shampoo is suitable for all skin types, making it an excellent addition to your daily shower routine.

Moreover, the product is free of harmful ingredients like parabens, sulfates, and phthalates, ensuring you can keep your hair and skin healthy without worrying about potential side effects.

Plus, the cruelty-free attribute will appeal to those concerned about animal welfare.

4.
Curls Blueberry Bliss Reparative Hair Wash

This is the best glycerin shampoo for curly hair! It nourishes and repairs your curls while promoting healthy scalp and hair growth.

Benefits: Softens dry curl; hydrates parched strands; encourages healthy scalp and hair growth

Features: 

  • Rich and creamy glycerin, sulfate-free formula
  • Formulated with organic blueberry extract, aloe leaf Juice, and chamomile extract
  • Pleasant Blueberry Bliss signature scent

Give it a try, and experience the transformation in your curls!

The Curls Blueberry Bliss Reparative Hair Wash is a game-changer if you’re searching for a sulfate-free glycerin shampoo that caters to wavy, curly, and coily hair types.

This product boasts a rich and creamy texture that guarantees to soften dry curls and provide hydration, leaving your locks luscious and vibrant.

It’s formulated with certified organic blueberry extract, aloe leaf juice, and chamomile extract, designed to nourish and repair your hair.

Additionally, the product’s blend encourages a healthy scalp and hair growth, ensuring long-term benefits with regular use.

Plus, the brand’s Blueberry Bliss signature scent is a delightful touch that adds an enjoyable, fresh fragrance to your hair.

5.
INNERSENSE Organic Beauty Natural Pure Harmony Hair Bath Shampoo

This organic glycerin shampoo is an excellent option for those seeking a natural and gentle product that nourishes and strengthens hair while promoting volume.

Benefits: Helps improve hair health; boosts hair volume; keeps hair looking vibrant

Features: 

  • Gentle, natural formula perfect for fine to medium hair
  • Organically and sustainably sourced ingredients
  • Free of parabens, sulfates, and cruelty

Try this shampoo and embrace the power of natural, organic ingredients for your hair care routine.

The INNERSENSE Organic Beauty Natural Pure Harmony Hair Bath Shampoo features a unique formula that gives your hair a weightless, clean feeling. It also balances hair moisture and leaves it looking vibrant and voluminous.

Along with glycerin, this shampoo contains quinoa, rice extracts, and oils like shea butter, coconut, and avocado that nourish your hair.

The formula is free of chemicals and harsh ingredients, making it safe for everyday use. It is ideal for those with sensitive skin or allergies or those simply seeking an eco-friendly and cruelty-free hair care option.

Plus, INNERSENSE Pure Harmony Hair Bath Shampoo is committed to using ethically harvested and transparently sourced ingredients.

6.
Alter Native Coconut & Argan Glycerine Shampoo Bar

This moisturizing glycerin shampoo bar gives your hair a nourishing and eco-friendly cleanse.

Benefits: Nourishes hair; adds shine; removes hair and scalp residue

Features: 

  • Suitable for all hair types
  • Contains natural essential oils
  • Cruelty-free and planet-friendly

Wash your hair with natural oils and experience a new shampoo experience.

This shampoo is enriched with glycerin and essential oils, offers natural nourishment for luscious, shiny hair, and is suitable for all hair types.

You’ll also appreciate the rich moisturizing effect of this glycerin shampoo. Plus, it leaves a refreshing scent.

The Alter Native Coconut & Argan Glycerine Shampoo Bar presents a fantastic eco-friendly solution for a clean and nourishing hair care routine.

Adjusting to the shampoo bar may take a few weeks, but a little persistence goes a long way, and you’ll master the amount needed for a thorough cleanse while using an eco-friendly shampoo alternative.

7.
SheaMoisture Intensive Hydration Shampoo

This glycerin shampoo is ideal for anyone seeking intense hydration and moisture for their dry, damaged hair.

Benefits: Infuses damaged hair with intense moisture; softens and revitalizes hair; protects hair from environmental influences

Features: 

  • Sulfate-free formula
  • Blended with manuka honey, mafura oil, and fig extract
  • Cruelty-free and made without harsh chemicals

With its numerous benefits and features, this glycerin shampoo is an excellent choice for anyone looking to give their dry, damaged hair some much-needed love and care.

SheaMoisture’s Intensive Hydration Shampoo offers numerous benefits for those with dry, damaged hair. 

Its sulfate-free formula cleanses hair while infusing it with much-needed moisture, leaving it feeling soft and revitalized.

This shampoo blend of manuka honey, mafura oil, and fig extract protects your hair from environmental influences that can cause further damage.

This shampoo is also formulated without sulfates, parabens, phthalates, mineral oil, and petrolatum, making it a healthier choice for your hair and scalp.

In addition to its numerous benefits, the SheaMoisture Intensive Hydration Shampoo has a delightful scent that will leave your hair smelling fresh and clean. 

8.
Nutrafol Shampoo, Cleanse and Hydrate Hair and Scalp

The Nutrafol Shampoo is a volumizing glycerin shampoo that could be your go-to choice for a gentle, hydrating experience.

Benefits: Gently cleanses and hydrates hair; enhances hair volume; prevents scalp dryness

Features: 

  • Physician-formulated for thinning hair
  • Suitable for all hair types, including color-treated hair
  • Sulfate-free and deeply cleansing

This moisturizing glycerin shampoo's cleansing properties and beneficial ingredients make it a great choice for promoting hair growth and overall health.

Nutrafol Shampoo cleans and hydrates your hair and scalp while enhancing hair volume, strength, and texture.

This shampoo is designed for those who have thinning hair. It also works to effectively remove excess oil and prevent scalp dryness.

The nutrient-rich glycerin formula of Nutrafol Shampoo incorporates antioxidant Australian wild berries, vegan proteins, and prebiotics. This mix helps support hair health while promoting a balanced and healthy scalp.

The product claims that users may experience results in as little as two weeks with consistent use.

Additionally, it’s sulfate-free and safe for color-treated hair, making it an excellent option for those who want a gentle but thorough cleanse.

9.
Infusium Moisturize and Replenish Professional Shampoo

Consider Infusium Moisturize and Replenish Professional Shampoo for a hydration boost to your dry, dull hair.

Benefits: Rejuvenates dry, damaged hair; moisturizes and revitalizes hair; ensures fragrant hair and scalp

Features: 

  • i-23 Complex formula
  • Infused with avocado and olive oils
  • Classic light and soothing scent

If you are struggling with dry, damaged hair? This shampoo provides excellent hydration.

This powerful shampoo provides hydration and rejuvenation to the hair courtesy of the i-23 Complex formula, which features a blend of proteins and conditioners to promote shinier, healthier hair.

Plus, the infusion of avocado and olive oil works with glycerin to give your hair the moisture it craves, resulting in soft, manageable locks.

This shampoo also features a classic light and soothing scent, with a fresh, subtle fragrance that provides a pleasant sensory experience while you tackle your hair care routine.

10.
Moroccanoil Hydrating Shampoo

If you're looking for a glycerin-based shampoo to hydrate and revitalize your hair, go for the Moroccanoil Hydrating Shampoo!

Benefits: Hydrates hair and scalp; softens hair; leaves a luxurious scent

Features: 

  • Suitable for all hair types
  • Comes in different forms
  • Contains argan oil

Make your hair soft, manageable, and sweet-smelling with this excellent glycerin shampoo for frizzy hair!

This Moroccanoil Hydrating Shampoo is designed to hydrate and nourish your hair. Its all-age range and versatile hair type compatibility expertly cater to everyone’s needs.

This glycerin shampoo helps combat frizz and dryness, providing the ideal solution for hair hydration. It comes in a cream, gel, and lotion form, offering diverse options to suit your personal preferences and hair care needs.

Plus, the unique Fragrance Originale scent adds a touch of luxury to your hair care routine, leaving your hair smelling delightful and refreshed.

11.
Neutrogena Exfoliating Healthy Scalp Clarify & Shine Shampoo

The Neutrogena Exfoliating Healthy Scalp shampoo is an excellent choice to revitalize your oily scalp and hair with an anti-residue, clarifying formula.

Benefits: Gently exfoliates the scalp; balances scalp oils; keeps your hair smooth and shiny

Features: 

  • Gentle, non-medicated formula
  • Refreshing pink grapefruit scent
  • Paraben and phthalate-free, color-safe

This glycerin shampoo for oily hair will leave your hair feeling immaculate without causing damage.

If you have oily hair, you probably know how important it is to find the right shampoo to combat greasiness while maintaining your hair’s natural shine and smoothness.

This Neutrogena shampoo is designed to cleanse and exfoliate your scalp and hair, making it a great option.

While it’s not a glycerin-based shampoo, this Neutrogena product still utilizes glycerin to help keep hair smooth while offering effective cleansing and exfoliation for oily hair and scalp. 

It also has a refreshing pink grapefruit scent, which smells great and acts as a natural exfoliant. The formula is also gentle and non-medicated, making it suitable for all hair types, including color-treated hair. 

12.
Garnier Fructis Curl Nourish Sulfate Free Shampoo

Experience healthier and stronger hair with the nourishing power of Garnier Fructis Curl Nourish Shampoo. 

Benefits: Intensely nourishes hair; helps define curls; gently cleanses hair without stripping natural hair oils

Features: 

  • Sulfate and silicone-free
  • Contains coconut, jojoba, and macadamia oils
  • 48-hour curl definition with a complete system

This is an excellent bet if you are searching for a glycerin shampoo for frizzy hair that also offers intense hydration, curl definition, and eco-friendliness.

The Garnier Fructis Curl Nourish Shampoo is designed to provide gentle cleansing without stripping your hair of natural moisture.

A woman is holding up a bottle of garnier curl nourish sulfate free shampoo on  a beige bakground

Infused with active fruit protein, vitamins B3 and B6, and a blend of coconut, jojoba, and macadamia oils, this paraben-free glycerin formula ensures your curls remain well-defined, smooth, and frizz-resistant.

With its commitment to greener beauty, the shampoo’s bottles, excluding pumps and caps, are 100% recycled plastic.

Moreover, this product is leaping bunny-certified, cruelty-free, and vegan.

Benefits of Glycerin for Hair

If you’re wondering what makes glycerin stand out, let’s explore its benefits for hair.

Retains Hair Moisture

As mentioned earlier, glycerin is a powerful humectant that attracts moisture into your hair and helps retain it so your hair strands stay hydrated.

This makes glycerin ideal for dry or frizzy locks, hydrating them and transforming brittle hair into soft, manageable strands.

Enhances Curl Definition

For those with curly or wavy hair, glycerin can be a game-changer. By helping the hair retain moisture, glycerin enhances curl patterns and helps reduce frizz.

When the hair shaft is adequately moisturized, curls and waves appear more defined and smooth, making glycerin an excellent ingredient for those looking to achieve bouncy and well-defined, healthy curls.

 Close up of happy smiling woman touches her curly natural hair

Strengthens and Prevents Hair Breakage

Hair that is well-moisturized is less prone to breakage. Glycerin provides the necessary hydration and ensures that hair remains supple and elastic.

Elasticity refers to hair’s ability to stretch without breaking and return to its original shape. Also, well-hydrated hair possesses good elasticity, reducing the chances of damage during styling or brushing.

Scalp Health

Just as it benefits the strands, glycerin also promotes a healthier scalp. By drawing moisture to the skin of the scalp, glycerin can help alleviate dryness, itching, and flaking.

A well-moisturized scalp creates a healthy foundation for hair growth, reducing issues like dandruff and ensuring that hair grows from a hydrated, nourished base.

Back view of millennial female brunette with long thick wavy hair take shower wash head using a shampoo

Side Effects of Glycerin on Hair

Glycerin is generally a safe and natural ingredient, but it can occasionally cause side effects, such as the following:

  • Overhydration: In very humid conditions, glycerin may cause hair to absorb excessive moisture, leading to frizz.
  • Dehydration: In dry climates, glycerin might extract moisture from the hair, causing dryness.
  • Buildup: If not properly rinsed, glycerin shampoos can leave residue, which can weigh down hair.
  • Allergic reactions: Some individuals might experience itchiness or scalp irritation.
  • Product interactions: Glycerin shampoos might not mix well with certain hair products, altering results.
  • Varied results by hair texture: Effects can differ based on hair type.

Quick Tips

  • Keep in mind that it’s always a good idea to do a patch test before using any new product extensively.
  • If you experience an adverse reaction, stop using the product and consult with a dermatologist or healthcare professional.
  • Additionally, reading product reviews and consulting with a haircare professional can provide guidance tailored to individual hair needs.
A bottle of shampoo and a comb on a wooden cutting board.

What To Look for When Buying Shampoos With Glycerin

Although glycerin has side effects, its benefits for hair still shine.

So when searching for the top glycerin shampoo, keep the following factors in mind:

  • Glycerin concentration: If you want to improve your hair’s moisture levels, look for a shampoo with a high glycerin content to get the most of this ingredient’s benefits.  

    To learn if there’s a high concentration of glycerin in the product, check the ingredients list on the shampoo’s label. Glycerin should be listed near the top, indicating a higher concentration.

    If it’s listed toward the end of the list, its concentration in the formula might be too low to offer significant benefits.
  • Sulfate-free options: A sulfate-free glycerin shampoo may be the better choice for sensitive scalps.

    Sulfates can strip the hair of natural oils, causing dryness and irritation. Opting for a sulfate-free formula can provide the benefits of glycerin while maintaining your hair’s natural moisture balance.
  • Specific hair concerns: Different shampoos address various hair needs, like a volumizing glycerin shampoo for those who want more body in their hair or glycerin shampoo for curly hair to enhance natural curls.

    Choose a glycerin shampoo that aligns with your needs, whether hydration, curl definition, or frizz control.
Caucasian woman washes her brown hair with shampoo bar on a bathtub

Frequently Asked Questions About Glycerin Shampoos

Does Glycerin Help Itchy Scalp?

A glycerin-based shampoo may help alleviate an itchy scalp by providing much-needed moisture. However, it’s important to note that glycerin may not directly solve the problem.

You might need a targeted treatment alongside your glycerin shampoo if you have an itchy scalp due to dandruff or another underlying condition. 

When Should You Avoid Glycerin in Your Hair?

You should avoid using glycerin in your hair if you notice any unpleasant side effects or live in an area with extremely low humidity.

Glycerin works best in moderate to high humidity conditions, as it pulls moisture from the environment to your hair.

In low-humidity environments, glycerin may have trouble retaining moisture, potentially making your hair feel drier.

Can I Use Glycerin Shampoo Every Day?

Whether you can use glycerin shampoo daily depends on your hair type and preference.

Daily use is beneficial if you have dry or frizzy hair that benefits from the extra moisture.

However, remember that daily shampooing can strip natural oils from your hair, so it’s crucial to alternate wash days and follow up with a conditioner, especially if you have dry hair.

So listen to your hair, and adjust your shampoo routine to suit its needs best.

A beautiful young woman holding her strong and shiny long hair against a gray background

Experience Nourished and Soft Hair With Glycerin Shampoos

So there you have it. Now you know more about glycerin shampoos and how they can be a game changer for your hair. Whether you have curly, oily, or fine hair, there’s likely a glycerin shampoo suited for your needs.

Remember, everyone’s hair is different, so it may take some experimenting to find the perfect glycerin shampoo for your specific needs.

It’s worth giving glycerin shampoo a try. After all, who doesn’t want hydrated, voluminous hair and a healthy scalp? Now explore the world of glycerin shampoos; your tresses might greatly benefit!

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Author

  • A woman with red hair smiling for the camera.

    Shai is a licensed pharmacist with a Bachelor of Arts in Pharmacy. She uniquely intertwines her medical expertise with a fervent passion for beauty. With an intrinsic understanding of ingredients and formulation, she's the proud creator of her own line of products designed exclusively for naturally curly hair. Over her four-year writing career, Shai consistently delivers content enriched by her distinct blend of knowledge and enthusiasm.

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