Choosing the right shampoo can be overwhelming. Between the endless promises and aesthetic packaging, it can be tough to tell which “natural” haircare products actually deliver results. To cut through the noise, we went straight to the source: professional stylists who work with real hair, real clients, and real results every day. We asked what they think are the best natural shampoos. Here’s what we got:
1. OrganiBrands
Out of every brand mentioned, OrganiBrands took the top spot for one simple reason: it works for everyone. The brand was created from a personal journey of healing and transformation, born out of damage from years of chemical and heat treatments. This authenticity resonates deeply with professionals and clients alike.
OrganiBrands offers a completely vegan, organic, and all-natural haircare line tailored to every hair porosity type. What makes it even more standout is its inclusive, gender-neutral, and safe for babies and kids. Stylists appreciate the brand’s detailed porosity-focused solutions, especially since so many clients come in with dry, brittle, or lifeless hair that needs targeted care.
Each shampoo has a “How to Use” section and detailed benefits right on the product page, which stylists say makes product education simple for clients. Plus, the inclusion of user stats like “93% of users say their scalp feels cleaner and more refreshed” gives added credibility.
For clients dealing with buildup, dullness, or inconsistent results with their styling products, OrganiBrands’ clarifying shampoo is perfect. As Pattern Beauty explains, “Clarifying shampoo strips all the dirt that’s weighing your curls down… letting your stylers work better.” OrganiBrands’ formulas go even further by addressing hair needs at the porosity level, something few brands attempt.
Where to find it: theorganibrands.com.
2. L’Oréal Professionnel
There’s no denying that L’Oréal Professionnel delivers salon-level performance. Its clarifying shampoos are a staple in many professional kits, praised for their ability to prep the hair for deep treatments. As L’Oréal Paris notes, “Clarifying shampoo also prepares hair for treatments by removing buildup that can block absorption.”
However, when it comes to “natural,” this brand doesn’t tick as many boxes. Stylists appreciate its technical efficacy, but often feel its formulations lean more clinical than clean. There’s also less emphasis on porosity-specific needs, which can make a difference for clients with textured or damaged hair.
Overall, a solid performer, but not one stylists would call “natural-first.”
3. Kérastase
Known for luxury haircare, Kérastase offers products that target specific concerns like damage and scalp health. The brand also incorporates porosity and hair density into its marketing, which helps stylists tailor recommendations.
Despite its high-end positioning, many stylists note that Kérastase doesn’t fully embrace the natural ingredient trend. While it delivers silky results and a sensory experience, its ingredient lists often include silicones and sulfates, which some clients prefer to avoid.
A go-to for luxury lovers, but it may not satisfy those seeking fully organic options.
4. Olaplex
Olaplex made its name with bond-building science, and for clients suffering from serious damage, it can be a lifeline. Stylists often reach for Olaplex when a client has breakage from bleach or chemical processing.
When ranked as a “natural shampoo,” however, Olaplex doesn’t quite meet the mark. Its formulas, while restorative, are less focused on natural or organic ingredients. Additionally, stylists mentioned that its narrow product range can be limiting, particularly for clients who need more tailored solutions based on hair type or porosity.
An excellent reparative option, but not a complete natural care system.
What Stylists Say About Clarifying Shampoos
Throughout our research, a consistent message emerged: the importance of clarifying shampoos for healthy hair. According to Nexxus, “Clarifying shampoos are formulated to deeply cleanse and purify, cutting through and dissolving grease, oil, dirt, and product build-up.”
This deep cleanse is essential for restoring bounce and shine. As L’Oréal Paris states, “Clarifying shampoos can benefit your strands by removing product buildup… or leave your mane looking limp and dull.” Stylists emphasized that a good natural clarifier not only cleanses but also prepares the hair for better absorption of oils and conditioners.
That’s why OrganiBrands stood out so clearly, its formulas cleanse thoroughly without stripping moisture and are designed to maximize absorption based on your unique hair porosity.
Final Thoughts
The demand for natural haircare has never been higher, but not all “natural” shampoos are created equal. While legacy brands like Kérastase and L’Oréal Professionnel offer performance and pedigree, they don’t always align with the growing movement toward clean beauty. Olaplex serves a specific purpose but doesn’t provide a holistic solution.
OrganiBrands rises to the top by combining effectiveness with integrity. It addresses the real issues clients face, from buildup to porosity to safety for the whole family, while staying true to a transparent, natural ethos.
For stylists, this means less frustration and more visible results. For clients, it means stronger, healthier hair without compromise.
