Top 5 Low-Poos That Won't Strip Hair

Although Co-Washing is ideal for Curly Girls who use the CG method, everyone SHOULD use a Low-Poo at least once a month, if not more. Even water-soluble ingredients can leave build-up after a while, so using a Low-Poo can help start with a clean canvas now and then. Some people Low-Poo exclusively, some every week, some every two weeks. Only YOU know what's right for your hair and how it responds to certain ingredients, so the decision as to how often is completely yours.

The key ingredient Curly Girls try to avoid is Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS). The alternative is a Low-Poo with Cocomidopropyl Betaine OR Cocobetaine, which are found in many popular brands on the market. These mild surfactants can lift product build-up off the hair shaft without causing the same stripping/drying effect as SLS.

I've tried many winners and losers in this category and here are my top 5 Low-Poos, in no particular order:

1. DEVACURL LOW-POO

This gentle cleanser smells wonderful and contains natural ingredients like Chamomile and Rosemary. One of the pioneers of the Low-Poo movement, this has been around for a long time and has legions of fans.

2. SHEA MOISTURE CURL AND SHINE SHAMPOO

SheaMoisture is one of my all-around favorite brands because they are free of pretty much everything: sulfates, silicones, parabens, etc. AND they are cruelty-free. At a lower price point than the Deva brand, this is a great way to keep healthy hair at a drugstore price.

3. MIXED CHICKS SULFATE-FREE SHAMPOO

With avocado and sweet almond oil as ingredients, you'll be sure to enjoy this natural low-poo. Paired with Mixed Chicks Leave-In Conditioner, your hair will be soft and your curls will be nicely moisturized and defined.

4. CAROL'S DAUGHTER BLACK VANILLA SHAMPOO

Enhanced with lavender and aloe leaf juice, this sulfate-free shampoo smells amazing and leaves curls hydrated without stripping. 

5. SHEA MOISTURE AFRICAN BLACK SOAP SHAMPOO

If you have any sort of dry or itchy scalp issues, this is the low-poo for you. Hair is cleansed gently without aggravating any pre-existing skin conditions.

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