When it comes to maintaining a healthy scalp and beautiful hair, using a clarifying shampoo is essential. The best drugstore clarifying shampoos help remove buildup from styling products, hard water minerals, and excess oil. In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 products available on Amazon in 2024 that serve as the best drugstore clarifying shampoos. Whether you’re looking for a detoxifying formula or a gentle exfoliating option, our curated list covers it all.
- Clarifying Action: Removes excess oil and buildup for a cleaner scalp and hair
- Gentle Formula: Sulfate-free, parabens-free, and dye-free for a gentle cleansing experience
- Nourishing Ingredients: Promotes scalp health, balancing oil production without drying out hair
- Enhanced Shine: Leaves hair looking shiny and vibrant, enhancing its natural beauty
- Daily Use: Suitable for regular use to maintain clean, healthy hair without irritation
- Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo for Itchy Scalp and Product Build Up - Finally, a Detox that doesn’t suck. Get rid of product and hard water buildup, dirt and oil with this 1-2x week clarifying shampoo. Here's your fresh start, see you next week.
- Time to Detox - This cleansing shampoo uses chelating agents to help remove heavy metals, minerals, and chlorine found in hard water, which can cause color fading to the hair while apple cider vinegar exfoliates, removing flakes and build-up to restore volume, bounce, and shine.
- OUAI Means Yes - In that casual Parisian way. OUAI is about being better IRL. It's about having honest conversations with our community. It's about letting go of unrealistic expectations and embracing your imperfections.
- Made For Effortless Routines - All OUAI hair care products including this sulfate-free shampoo are carefully crafted to cut styling time and nourish your hair health. We put the good stuff in and leave the bad stuff out, without ever sacrificing quality.
- Live Life Your OUAI - OUAI offers luxury hair products at affordable prices that are user-friendly — no glam squad needed. Wet your hair, lather up with ACV shampoo and rinse clean. Follow with any OUAI conditioner to soften your squeaky clean strands.
- DEEP CLEAN + REVITALIZE - Powerful yet gentle formula removes product buildup and acts like a magnet to remove impurities
- COLOR SAFE - Removes chlorine and deposits from hard water while still maintaining color
- WHO IT’S FOR – Works for all hair types needing to remove product buildup or chlorine. Our signature scent is a gender-neutral, all-natural fragrance with oakmoss, ylang ylang and cucumber
- PEACE OF MIND – Dermatologist-tested and made without SLS or SLES sulfates, formaldehyde, phthalates, parabens, or synthetic fragrances. All Odele products are color-safe, vegan and cruelty-free
- WE’RE ODELE – Clean, accessible, high-performance hair care for all. Our award-winning products deliver key benefits sought by every hair type + texture for every age and gender
- Protect Hair Color From Fading: Our Clarifying Shampoo removes hair residue while our Restoring Conditioner locks in hydration to reveal bright, visibly healthy color that lasts, for all hair types. Suitable shampoo and conditioner for color treated hair
- Delivers 2X The Moisture: Our sulfate free shampoo and conditioner features non-stripping, dual action technology, with Vitamin C and Glycine, to remove unwanted hair residue and styling build-up while delivering 2x moisture*. *vs non conditioning shampoo
- For Your Brightest and Strongest Hair Color: Experience a luxurious lather with our clarifying shampoo for build up and our restoring hair conditioner. Alternate with EverPure Bond Repair Shampoo and Conditioner on wash days
- Vegan Shampoo: EverPure hair products have the purest respect for your hair and have been formulated without sulfates, parabens, DMDM hydantoin, added phthalates, dyes and gluten ingredients. Always color caring and powered by science
- L'Oreal Paris Innovation: We are a total beauty care company that combines the latest in technology with the highest in quality for the ultimate in hair color, hair care, hair style, skin care and cosmetics
- Redken Hair Cleansing Cream is a professional clarifying shampoo for all hair types and textures. Removes dry shampoo, product build up, hard water minerals, excess oil and pollution residue from hair.
- Clarifying shampoo purifies, refreshes, and leaves hair shiny. Instantly removes residue. Strengthens hair cuticle and pairs with any Redken conditioner. Suitable for color and non-color treated hair
- Hair cleansing cream clarifying shampoo. With alpha hydroxy acid, fruit acid, and cleansing complex. Deeply purifies hair build up and pollution. Removes copper, iron, magnesium, and calcium minerals.
- Clarifying cleansing cream. Strengthens and adds shine to hair. Deeply cleanses oily and greasy hair instantly. Formulated with AHA fruit acid and cleansing complex. Deep clean professional solution
- Leaves hair feeling thoroughly cleansed. Purifies hair and helps eliminate product build up from dirt, grease, grime, hard water, tap water and styling residues. Helps prepare hair for in-salon services
- PURIFYING FORMULA: Purifying shampoo for build-up revives the scalp without stripping essential moisture, promoting healthier curls. Ideal for waves, curls, kinks or coils.
- SAFE FOR: Curls, coils, kinks, color treated hair, keratin-treated, chemically-treated, and relaxed hair types, maintaining hair health and vibrancy that results in a clean, revived scalp.
- CLINICALLY TESTED: Results: 47% more glossiness, reduced oiliness, and 65% less breakage based on a 21-day study of 35 subjects. Our -clarifying shampoo cleans without stripping moisture.
- CLEAN INGREDIENTS: This product has been tested and formulated with vegan, cruelty-free, sulfate-free, paraben-free, and non-toxic ingredients. It features powerful natural extracts like Hemi15, Sea Moss Extract, and Apple Cider Vinegar for healthy scalp and curls.
- USAGE: Apply to wet hair and scalp, gently massaging into a rich lather. Rinse clean, revealing healthier-looking curls. Use regularly to boost shine, remove build-up, or for a deeper, focused clean.
- Removes 97% of product buildup with one wash
- Removes 95% of sebum + pollution with one wash
- Removes 65% of copper with one wash
- Improves color vibrancy
- Helps keep hair cleaner, longer
- “Sometimes you just need a fresh start. This clarifying shampoo removes mineral deposits, product buildup, excess oils, and even silicones that can build up over time. Use this when needed to get a deeper clean.” - Kristin Ess
- Cleanse + Condition: A clean, well-conditioned canvas is essential. These universal products cleanse + deeply condition to leave hair feeling moisturized, full and looking shiny from root to tip.
- For all hair types, Buildup removing, Purifying + volumizing, Shine enhancing, Mineral detoxifying, Super sudsing
- How To: Depending on the thickness of your hair, squeeze a dime to quarter-sized amount of shampoo into your palm. Apply to wet hair, massaging into the scalp to create a rich lather. Add more shampoo if desired. Rinse thoroughly and repeat if necessary.
- Cruelty free + vegan, free of parabens, phthalates + silicones
- REFRESH & CLARIFY: This 13-fluid ounce bottle of OGX Clarifying Strength + Rosemary Mint Hair Shampoo visibly helps remove oil & residue to clear away buildup - an invigorating clarifying shampoo for women seeking a fresh, weightless feel
- ROSEMARY & MINT: This clarifying shampoo for oily hair is infused with rosemary & peppermint to help refresh & clarify your oily hair. It contains an exclusive blend of carefully selected moisturizing agents for strong, beautiful hair
- HEALTHY HAIR: Our new improved formula protects hair from excessive loss of lipids & proteins which creates frizz & breakage. This gentle clarifying shampoo strengthens strands, protects against damage, and adds shine for your healthiest-feeling hair
- POWERED BY SCIENCE: Lipi Pro Shield Technology gives 2x more protein & lipid protection** & supports hair's protein & lipid barrier for your healthiest hair. The clarifying shampoo is formulated without sulfated surfactants, parabens, or dyes
- OILY HAIR CARE ROUTINE: Mint & rosemary scents leave hair smelling refreshingly clean & leaves hair stronger. For best results, use this scalp shampoo for oily hair with the entire OGX Rosemary Mint Clarifying Strength hair care collection
- Deeply cleanses and removes dulling buildup
- Leaves hair squeaky clean, shiny and full of body
- Ideal for use before a deep conditioning treatment
Buying Guide for the Best Drugstore Clarifying Shampoo
Before diving into the top products, it’s crucial to identify what to look for in a clarifying shampoo. Here’s a buying guide you can use:
1. Ingredients
Look for ingredients like salicylic acid, charcoal, and tea tree oil, which effectively remove impurities and excess oil without stripping your hair of natural moisture. Avoid sulfates if you have color-treated hair, as they can fade your hair color.
2. Hair Type
Consider your hair type when selecting a clarifying shampoo. For oily hair, a stronger formula might be beneficial. Conversely, if you have dry or colored hair, opt for a milder option to avoid dryness or damage.
3. Frequency of Use
Clarifying shampoos are not meant for daily use. Choose a product that’s suitable for your frequency of use. Some options can be used once a week, while others may be gentle enough for bi-weekly use.
4. Scent and Sensation
A pleasant fragrance can enhance the washing experience, while certain ingredients might provide a cooling sensation. Pick something that aligns with your preference.
5. Price and Value
Just because products are from drugstores doesn’t mean they are not effective. Consider the cost per use to determine which product offers great value.
With this in mind, let’s examine the top 10 drugstore clarifying shampoos available on Amazon in 2024.
Top 10 Best Drugstore Clarifying Shampoos on Amazon
1. Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo
The Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo is one of the most popular clarifying shampoos on the market. Formulated to remove up to 90% of heavy buildup, this shampoo is perfect for those who frequently use styling products. It’s gentle enough for weekly use and designed to leave hair fresh and clean.
One of the standout features of this shampoo is its ability to enhance hair color and shine after just one use. Users love its effectiveness at removing residue without drying out the hair. With a simple application, you will feel the benefits almost instantly.
For those looking for a reliable and affordable clarifying shampoo, Neutrogena’s offering certainly ranks among the best drugstore clarifying shampoos in 2024.
- Clarifying shampoo for build up: Deeply cleanses oily hair and scalp to remove residue and excess oil; pH-balanced cream formula is gentle, non-medicated, and non-drying for all hair types, including color-treated hair.
- Sulfate-free shampoo: Free from sulfated surfactants (SLS, SLES), parabens, and phthalates; color safe shampoo formula preserves hair vibrancy and is suitable for daily use on all hair types.
- Pink grapefruit shampoo: Features natural pink grapefruit extract; adds shine and leaves hair feeling refreshed with a bright, citrus scent of bergamot and fresh florals.
- pH-balanced cream formula: Nourishing cream shampoo helps maintain the scalp’s natural barrier; non-stripping, non-drying, and safe for frequent use on oily or color-treated hair.
- All hair types and color safe: Designed for oily hair, color-treated hair, and all hair types; clarifies and restores shine without stripping essential moisture, leaving hair soft, clean, and manageable.
2. Suave Daily Clarifying Shampoo
Suave’s Daily Clarifying Shampoo is a fantastic choice for those on a budget who still want an effective cleansing solution. This shampoo is designed to remove dirt and residue, providing a deep clean that revitalizes dull hair.
With its light scent and refreshing formula, Suave appeals to users who prefer daily washability without the fear of over-drying the hair. Reviewers appreciate that it keeps their hair looking healthy and shiny after cleansing.
This shampoo can be your go-to for a refreshing wash, making it an ideal contender among the best drugstore clarifying shampoos available on Amazon.
- CLARIFYING SHAMPOO FOR BUILD UP: Bring out your hair’s natural shine with the Suave Essentials Daily Clarifying Cleansing Shampoo, designed to remove residue and while retaining moisture.
- GENTLE SHAMPOO: The rich lather of our pH-balanced, hypoallergenic shampoo formula leaves your hair feeling deeply cleansed and refreshed.
- LASTING FRUITY & FLORAL SCENT: While showering and long after you step out, bask in the lasting fresh scents of sparkling fruits and light florals.
- FOR BEST RESULTS: For twice as much moisture vs. a non-conditioning shampoo, pair the Suave Clarifying Shampoo with the Suave Clarifying Conditioner.
- SUAVE IS CRUELTY FREE: Globally, Suave does not test on animals and is Certified Cruelty-Free by PETA.
3. Pantene Pro-V Clarifying Shampoo
Pantene Pro-V is well-known for offering high-quality hair care products, and the Clarifying Shampoo is no exception. This shampoo effectively cleanses while infusing moisture and nourishment, making it perfect for all hair types.
The formula helps remove buildup without compromising on hydration, allowing for soft and manageable hair. With a light, pleasant fragrance, users enjoy the overall experience of washing their hair with Pantene.
Overall, Pantene’s Pro-V Clarifying Shampoo makes for a balanced option between cleansing and maintaining moisture, placing it firmly among the best drugstore clarifying shampoos in 2024.
- HARD WORKING Fuels hair with a potent blend of Pro-V nutrients and antioxidants so hair is soft and primed for optimal fullness
- LONG LASTING Gently cleanses with a vitamin-rich formula with 2x more nutrients, with results that last 72 plus hours
- FULLNESS WITH EVERY WASH Revitalize hair with fullness and movement
- ROOT TO TIP NOURISHMENT These powerful Volume & Body formulas work together to permeate every strand with lightweight nourishment for softer, fuller hair
- HAIR MASK SHOT dry hair moisturizing treatment noticeably repairs extreme damage in 1 use
4. L’Oréal Paris Elvive Clarifying Shampoo
The L’Oréal Paris Elvive Clarifying Shampoo is another outstanding choice for removing buildup. This product caters to those looking for a clean feel without the risk of stripping essential moisture from your hair.
With a formula enriched with botanical ingredients, it helps revitalize hair and deliver a smooth finish. Suitable for various hair types, this shampoo easily fits into your hair care routine and works wonders to bring back your hair’s natural luster.
L’Oréal’s dedication to quality and effectiveness is reflected in this clarifying shampoo, making it noteworthy among the best drugstore clarifying shampoos on Amazon.
- Oily Hair Shampoo and Conditioner: Instantly purify oily roots and hydrate ends without weighing hair down using this shampoo and conditioner set that leaves hair looking fresh and clean from root to tip for up to 48 hours
- Rebalancing Formula: This silicone-free clarifying shampoo and conditioner set features 3 refined clays to rebalance greasy roots, purifying them while hydrating dry lengths
- Expert Treatments: Our Elvive line features powerful treatments formulated with superior technology to revive all forms of hair damage, whether it’s from heat styling, color processing, or dryness
- Custom Hair Solutions: From treatments, masks and serums to leave in conditioners and frizz defying shampoos and conditioners, we've got what you need; Try our thickening, moisturizing and volumizing products
- L'Oreal Paris Beauty: A leading total beauty care company based in Paris, we offer innovative products and unique expertise from beauty experts in makeup, skin care, hair care, styling and hair color
5. OGX Refreshing Scalp + Tea Tree Mint Shampoo
OGX Refreshing Scalp + Tea Tree Mint Shampoo is infused with tea tree oil and mint, providing a refreshing cleanse that invigorates both the scalp and hair. Ideal for oily hair types, this shampoo helps reduce greasy buildup while delivering a cool sensation to the scalp.
This product features a unique formula that balances scalp moisture, which is especially beneficial for those susceptible to irritation. Users rave about its refreshing scent and how it leaves their hair feeling light and bouncy.
Owing to its revitalizing properties, OGX’s Refreshing Scalp + Tea Tree Mint Shampoo can be categorized as one of the best drugstore clarifying shampoos available on Amazon in 2024.
- REFESHING DEEP CLEANSE: This 25.4-fluid ounce bottle of OGX Extra Strength Refreshing Scalp + Teatree Mint Shampoo removes residue without stripping strands to refresh and reset strands
- MINTY TINGLING SCALP SENSATION: The nourishing shampoo features a lightweight blend to deliver a long-lasting clean while leaving hair shiny, soft and hydrated with a healthy look and feel
- HAIR CARE INSPIRED BY NATURE: Its unique formula is infused with tea tree oil to invigorate the scalp, peppermint extract to awaken the senses, and the natural astringent witch hazel to help remove buildup and nourish the scalp
- ENGAGE THE SENSES: Experience a burst of freshness and a sweet peppermint, iced vanilla and tea tree scent for hair that smells fresh and invigorated. Plus the sulfate-free surfactant hair care system is paraben-free and gentle on your locks
6. Bumble and Bumble Sunday Shampoo
Bumble and Bumble’s Sunday Shampoo is a slightly pricier option, but it packs a punch when it comes to deep cleansing. Although it’s not classified as a “drugstore” brand primarily, many users find it accessible via drugstores and online platforms.
This clarifying shampoo is intended for weekly use to remove dulling residue from products and environmental pollutants, leaving hair feeling lightweight and restored. Reviewers note its effectiveness without being harsh on hair.
If you’re seeking a clarifying treatment that provides professional-like results at an affordable price point, this product is an excellent choice.
- WHAT IT IS: Our original, fan-favorite, clarifying cleanser.
- IDEAL FOR: All hair and scalp types that need gentle but deep cleansing, except for color-treated hair.
- HOW IT WORKS: A deep, effective hair and scalp cleanser with a generous, bubbly lather that lifts away impurities that can give hair that end-of-week dullness. But remember, it’s not a pick for color-treated hair.
- FRAGRANCE: A clean, effervescent scent with notes of Sparkling Cassis, Watery Cyclamen, and Mint leaf to complement hair’s Sunday start.
- Color Safe.
7. SheaMoisture African Black Soap Clarifying Shampoo
SheaMoisture offers a unique approach with its African Black Soap Clarifying Shampoo. Formulated with natural ingredients like shea butter and tea tree oil, this shampoo helps eliminate impurities while providing moisture to the hair.
This product is recommended for those with dry or curly hair types, as it minimizes the risk of over-drying. The detoxifying qualities of African black soap help soothe the scalp and prevent buildup.
SheaMoisture’s commitment to natural ingredients makes this shampoo a popular choice for individuals seeking products free of harmful chemicals.
- CLEANSE & CALM SHAMPOO: Treat your scalp and hair with this gentle, yet effective deep cleansing Sulfate Free Shampoo. Lift away pre-wash treatments, dirt, excess oil and flakey build-up as you calm and soothe the scalp.
- DRYNESS PRONE SCALP: Helps soothe itching, while revitalizing hair. Leaves scalp rigorously clean, yet comfortable, creating an ideal environment for healthy hair.
- SOFTENS & DETANGLES: Shea Moisture African Black Soap Bamboo Charcoal Balancing Conditioner hair care instantly softens, detangles and conditions natural hair, this hydrating conditioner also soothes the scalp without weighing hair down the scalp.
- SOOTHES ITCHINESS: This natural Conditioner by Shea Moisture helps soothe itching, while revitalizing hair, this coconut oil conditioner creates an ideal environment for healthy hair.
- CONDITIONS & NOURISHES - African Black Soap, Bamboo Charcoal, Tea Tree Oil, and Willow Bark Extract combine in a potent treatment that boosts hydration levels and nourishes, while absorbing excess oil and removing clogging impurities from the scalp. Hair looks vibrant, lustrous and healthy. Deeply condition hair and nourish scalp with this intensive Treatment Masque.
8. Maui Moisture Smooth & Repair + Vanilla Bean Shampoo
Maui Moisture’s Smooth & Repair + Vanilla Bean Shampoo utilizes a blend of pure coconut water, aloe, and vanilla bean to nourish the hair while gently cleansing impurities. This shampoo is well-suited for those with dry, damaged hair.
What sets this product apart is its focus on hydration, which helps prevent excess dryness typically linked to other clarifying shampoos. The sweet vanilla scent adds a delightful touch to your shower routine, making it one of the best drugstore clarifying shampoos for 2024.
- Hydrating vanilla bean curl repair shampoo
- SMOOTH and REPAIR CURLY HAIR: This 13-fluid ounce bottle of Maui Moisture Smooth and Repair, Vanilla Bean Anti-Frizz Curl Shampoo contains a hydrating formula that helps soften, smooth and defrizz thick, unruly hair
- THICK, COARSE, NATURAL HAIR CARE: Suitable for tight curls and coarse, natural hair, the hydrating repair shampoo is safe for use on color-treated hair as it provides essential conditioning moisture to help tame frizz and detangle
- UNIQUE BLEND WITH ALOE VERA: The rich blend contains 100% aloe vera as the first ingredient along with vanilla bean, coconut oil and kukui nut oil - an ancient Hawaiian ingredient known for its humidity-resistant properties
- NOT ALL MOISTURE IS THE SAME: The gentle and nourishing formula of this sulfate-free surfactant shampoo is vegan, free from silicones, parabens and mineral oil and contains no synthetic dyes
9. TRESemmé Deep Cleanse Shampoo
TRESemmé’s Deep Cleanse Shampoo is known for its ability to remove residue while reviving hair’s natural shine. The lightweight formula helps wash away dirt and impurities without stripping essential moisture.
Many users appreciate the salon-quality results they achieve at home with this affordable option. The pleasant scent and ease of use make it a favorite among those looking to maintain clean and vibrant hair.
This clarifying shampoo certainly holds its ground as a staple among the best drugstore clarifying shampoos in 2024.
- Tresemme Replenish & Cleanse Shampoo is designed to deeply cleanse and purify hair, removing build-up and heavy residue
- Enriched with vitamin C, this cleansing shampoo for greasy hair revitalises from within to add healthy body and gleam
- This professional-quality shampoo gives your hair that fresh, just-left-the-salon feeling
- Our hair care experts are at the forefront of science and safety – every ingredient is carefully selected to ensure your hair receives the best possible care
- Apply Tresemme Replenish & Cleanse Shampoo, lather and rinse, and follow with the Replenish & Cleanse Conditioner to maximise results
10. Clear Scalp & Hair Therapy Shampoo
Clear Scalp & Hair Therapy Shampoo is designed to nourish the scalp while cleansing hair, targeting scalp health to reduce flakes and dryness. Suitable for sensitive scalps, this product helps restore the natural balance of your hair.
The unique formula incorporates vitamins and nutrients, which makes it attractive for those pursuing more than just a cleansing product; it offers restorative benefits as well. Reviewers consistently praise how soft and manageable their hair feels after use.
Combine quality and effectiveness, and you have one of the strong contenders among the best drugstore clarifying shampoos available today.
- ZERO PERCENT SULFATES FORMULA: Dove Clarifying Shampoo for Scalp + Hair Therapy contains ingredients that nourish your scalp with Vitamin B3, Zinc, and 0% sulfates to treat scalp build-up and deep cleaning hair.
- GOOD-BYE TO OIL EXCESS: Our shampoo with zinc revives fine hair without stripping and dissolves excess oils from the scalp to accomplish the Density Boost we are looking for. Ready for a moment of mindfulness as you clarify and cleanse hair?
- A GENTLE CLEANSING: 90% of women experienced gentle cleansing and a refreshed, balanced scalp after a salon study with 40 women applied our hair clarifying shampoo with thin and fine hair in 2023.
- VISIBLY THICKER, STRONGER, FULLER HAIR: This purifying shampoo for oily hair nurtures your roots and strengthens fibers for long-term hair strength and density.
- FORMULATED WITH DERMATOLOGISTS: Our shampoo to remove build-up leverages over 60 years of skincare expertise. Have you seen the full list of Dove products in our Density Boost regime?
Conclusion
Choosing the right clarifying shampoo is crucial for maintaining healthy hair and a balanced scalp. With our selection of the best drugstore clarifying shampoos available on Amazon in 2024, you’re sure to find the perfect match for your hair type and needs.
Whether you’re battling product buildup, excess oil, or a dull scalp, these shampoos bring effective solutions to your hair care routine. Remember to use clarifying shampoos sparingly – typically once or twice a week – to avoid drying out your hair.
Invest in one of these highly-rated options today, and your hair will thank you for it!
Last update on 2025-07-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API | hishecozy.com is a participant in the Amazon Associate program and will earn from qualifying purchases.