Everyone loves beautiful, silky smooth hair, and the best drugstore conditioners can help you achieve just that! When you use a hydrating and moisturizing product like a conditioner, it gets absorbed into the outer layer of the hair and nurtures, hydrates, and softens the coarse dry strands, removing tangles that are often caused by pollution, heat damage, and rough tugging, or even harsh chemical treatments such as hair coloring.
Conditioners are one of the most underrated hair products and people have wrong assumptions about conditioning their hair regularly. We’re here to remind you that regardless of whether or not you are naturally blessed with smooth hair, you need to use a conditioner. That’s why we’ve spent hours researching all the listed products and testing all of them to help you make an informed choice.
According to Dr Jenny Liu, a board-certified dermatologist, “Your hair consists mostly of keratin protein, and when it comes out of the roots essentially it's just dead tissue. Your hair is made of multiple layers - the cortex which constitutes the bulk of your hair shaft, the cuticle which covers and protects the outside parts of your hair, and the inside cortex which is water-loving or hydrophilic. The cuticles, on the other hand, are more water-repelling and so they actually have oil covering the outside, mostly to serve as a protective mechanism.”
Our top picks
11 Best Drugstore Conditioners
The Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Leave-In Conditioning Cream is a nourishing hair conditioner with a cream-like texture infused with argan oil that expertly penetrates into frizzy, dry hair to smoothen each and every strand. Its frizz-control qualities endure even up to 97% humidity. The drugstore conditioner is 99% vegan and globally cruelty-free. The formula is crafted with active fruit protein, an exclusive combination of citrus protein, vitamins B3 and B6, fruit and plant-derived extracts, and strengthening agents that are designed to provide healthier, stronger hair. The fructose-rich formula can soak into even the frizziest, most unmanageable hair strands for lasting smoothness and shine.
Hair Type: Frizzy and dry
Product Dimensions: 2.53 x 5.06 x 5.59 inches
Weight: 1.28 pounds
Key Ingredients: Plant keratin and argan oil
Pros
- Hydrating
- Moisturizing
- Great for hair frizz
- Long Lasting
- 99% vegan
Cons
- Not ideal for oily hair
2
Best For Dry Hair
TRESemmé Conditioner Moisture Rich 3 Count for Dry Hair
The TRESemmé Conditioner Moisture Rich 3 Count for Dry Hair delivers optimal hydration at its peak to specifically target dryness and really lock in the moisture exactly where the hair needs it the most. The formula is moisturizing yet lightweight made with vitamin E and biotin to help soften the hair without weighing it down. The conditioner is designed to revive dry hair and restore vibrancy to soft hair you can feel the touch and a shine that almost appears professional, like you’ve freshly stepped out of the salon, and it lasts for days at a stretch. Pro tip: use a detangling spray after for the best results.
Hair Type: Dry
Product Dimensions: 8.93 x 4.99 x 9.73 inches
Weight: 6.22 pounds
Key Ingredients: Vitamin E and biotin
Pros
- Moisturizing
- Lightweight formula
- Great for dry hair
- Nutrient-rich
- Provides shine
- Makes the hair soft
Cons
- Not ideal for oily hair
Quick Tip
You can use this condition as a deep treatment. Apply a generous amount on your hair and cover it with a shower cap. Leave it on for 15-30 minutes before rinsing it off.
3
Best Nourishing
OGX Nourishing + Coconut Milk Moisturizing Conditioner for Strong & Healthy Hair
Designed to nourish and moisture-sensitive hair, the OGX Nourishing + Coconut Milk Moisturizing Conditioner for Strong & Healthy Hair transports your hair to the tropics without leaving the comfort of your home. The affordable conditioner for dry hair is formulated with coconut milk and coconut oil which helps strengthen strands while also softening them. After just one wash your hair will be left looking glowing, healthy, and beautiful. The formula is suitable for all hair types and hair textures, adding a lustrous super shine and moisture to any strand it touches without weighing it down. The icing on the cake - it contains whipped egg whites for added protein.
Hair Type: Normal
Product Dimensions: 2.5 x 3.5 x 9.25 inches
Weight: 1.59 pounds
Key Ingredients: Coconut milk, coconut oil, and ultra whipped egg white protein.
Pros
- Hydrating
- Contains coconut milk
- Good for all hair types
- Contains coco
- Provides shine
Cons
- On the more expensive side
4
Best Sulfate-Free Option
Aveeno RoseWater & Chamomile Blend Sulfate-Free Conditioner with Colloidal Oat
The Aveeno RoseWater & Chamomile Blend Sulfate-Free Conditioner with Colloidal Oat is soft and gentle on your hair, providing a soft and soothing effect that makes it the perfect drugstore conditioner for fine or fragile hair. The formula is completely void of sulfates, dyes, and parabens and safe for each and every hair type including color-treated hair. Oat is the primary ingredient in its rich, natural formula that is loaded with scalp-soothing properties. The conditioner is also infused with rose water and chamomile, which provides the much anticipated soft-as-a-petal look in just one wash. This conditioner is one of a kind with its unique blend of nourishing hair strands from root to tip.
Hair Type: Dry, straight, and wavy
Product Dimensions: 1.69 x 3.39 x 7.2 inches
Weight: 13.4 ounces
Key Ingredients: Rose water and chamomile
Pros
- Rose water infused
- Nourishing
- Contains oats
- Sulfate-free
- Good for all hair types
Cons
- On the more expensive side
5
Best Fragrance-Free Conditioner
Vanicream Hair Conditioner
The Vanicream Hair Conditioner has a multitude of properties that fight the good fight for healthy hair. It is fragrance-free, pH balanced for all hair types, and has detangling properties to make rough hair a lot more manageable. For those who are rightfully wary of chemicals, the formula is sulfate-free, phosphate-free, protein-free, and gluten-free. The best budget conditioner rinses effortlessly without leaving behind any added residue to alleviate the scalp, leaving hair feeling refreshed and conditioned. As if the fragrance wasn’t enough, this conditioner goes the extra mile and is also completely devoid of dyes, masking fragrance, lanolin, and formaldehyde releasers - making it a truly natural formula.
Hair Type: All
Product Dimensions: Not mentioned
Weight: 12 ounces
Key Ingredients: Not mentioned
Pros
- Natural formula
- Detangles easily
- Good for all hair types
- Fragrance-free
- Paraben-free
Cons
- Does not contain added protein
6
Best Scented
Andalou Naturals Conditioner
A naturally innovative conditioner, the Andalou Naturals Conditioner is 98% nature-derived, non-GMO, cruelty-free, gluten-free, and vegetarian with a large vegan offering. The rich, creamy formula expertly smooths split ends, hydrates the dry, frizzy hair follicles, and defines your hair’s natural curls - leaving hair looking soft and healthy looking without making it appear flat. It contains argan oil which nourishes and conditions hair, shea butter which supports elasticity, strength, and manageability, and aloe vera which facilitates lightweight hydration without excess buildup. The drugstore conditioner deeply penetrates each strand, gently repairing and restoring hair’s natural moisture levels. It also contains sweet orange that revitalizes the hair follicles and promotes healthy circulation.
Hair Type: Curly and dry
Product Dimensions: 1.05 x 0.9 x 1.25 inches
Weight: 11.5 ounces
Key Ingredients: Argan oil and shea
Pros
- Elasticity
- Moisturizing
- Lightweight
- Contains argan oil
- Contains shea butter
7
Best Drugstore Conditioner
Dove Ultra Care Conditioner Intensive Repair for Damaged Hair
The Dove Ultra Care Conditioner Intensive Repair for Damaged Hair is made to nourish and rectify poorly treated hair and revitalize it back to its natural glory. With every single wash, the damage visibly fades away. The formula can repair any degree of damage while also stopping up to 98% of future hair damage caused by external factors such as pollution and poor hair health. The conditioner is formulated with Dove’s classic Bio-Restore Complex blend of ingredients which moisturizes hair strands from the root to the tip for soft, smooth, and manageable hair. All you need to do is leave it in your hair for about a minute and then rinse it thoroughly. The formula is good for all hair types, especially color-treated hair.
Hair Type: Dry and damaged
Product Dimensions: 4 x 5 x 6 inches
Weight: 12 ounces
Key Ingredients: Keratin
Pros
- Value for money
- Moisturizing
- Repairs damage
- Good for all hair types
- Minimum effort required
Cons
- Can be too drying for some hair
8
Best Leave-In Conditioner
L'Oreal Paris Elvive Dream Lengths Curls
We don’t need to tell you that L'Oreal is awesome, you already know that. Living up to its reputation, the L'Oreal Paris Elvive Dream Lengths Curls is a leave-in conditioner that moisturizes and defines your hair with each use. This drugstore conditioner is completely free of added parabens and formulated with hyaluronic acid and castor oil that helps lock in long-lasting moisture across each and every single strand of hair. The conditioner also contains a sweet candy fragrance with hints of pomegranate, caramel orchid, and milk sorbet, making your gorgeous hair a treat to be taken a whiff of.
Hair Type: Curly
Product Dimensions: 2.53 x 2.53 x 5.59 inches
Weight: 10.2 ounces
Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid and castor oil
Pros
- Great for curly or wavy hair
- Leave in formula
- Hyaluronic acid
- Great smell
- Paraben-free
Cons
- Contains added fragrances
Quick Tip
After applying this product, scrunch your hair to promote natural curl formation, This will give your curls a better shape and texture.
9
Best For Natural Or Color Treated Red Hair
John Frieda Radiant Red Red Boosting Conditioner
The John Frieda Radiant Red Red Boosting Conditioner infuses and replenishes red tones within the hair while also locking in hydration and the hair’s natural moisture. The conditioner is one of the best cheap conditioner for brunettes, redheads, and red color-treated hair for which products are usually extremely expensive. The drugstore conditioner is formulated with pomegranate extract and vitamin E to gently boost softness and shine and contribute to the rich ruby-toned hues of red hair. Pro tip: For optimal color preservation if you have color-treated hair, first wash your hair with a color-safe shampoo and rinse thoroughly, and only then use the conditioner through hair from root tips and rinse well.
Hair Type: Color-treated
Product Dimensions: 1.87 x 3 x 8.22 inches
Weight: 8.30 ounces
Key Ingredients: Pomegranate extract and vitamin E
Pros
- Best shampoo for color-treated hair
- Best shampoo for redheads
- Color safe
- Vitamin E
- Natural ingredients
Cons
- Not suitable for other hair types
10
Best Conditioner For Scalp Healing
Maria Nila Head & Hair Heal
The Maria Nila Head & Hair Heal is a soothing and hair growth-stimulating conditioner. Its rich formula is made with natural ingredients like aloe vera extract and piroctone olamine extract that are known to prevent dandruff and treat problems associated with the scalp. Not only that, but aloe vera has soothing and healing properties and also moisturizes hair, rejuvenating it back to its old glory. The conditioner is also formulated with an allergen-free perfume, developed specifically for an extra sensitive scalp, and has a breezy, gently floral scent of white jasmine, galbanum, and linden flower making your hair smell delicious.
Hair Type: Normal
Product Dimensions: 1.45 x 1.45 x 4.52 inches
Weight: 3.4 ounces
Key Ingredients: Aloe vera
Pros
- Soothing
- Floral scent
- Prevents dandruff
- Good for oily hair
- Moisturizing
Cons
- Contains added fragrances
11
Acure Curiously Clarifying Conditioner
A good, cheap conditioner is everyone’s favorite. The Acure Curiously Clarifying Conditioner is great for oily hair and gently washes away buildup without stripping your hair of its natural oils. Its innovative formula also treats the hair strands to a much-needed dose of beneficial oils, strategically infused with lemongrass for a luscious scent. The conditioner is gentle enough for everyday use so your hair never looks greasy again. The conditioner is vegan and certified cruelty-free while also being paraben-free, sulfate-free, mineral oil-free, petrolatum free, and formaldehyde free.
Hair Type: Normal
Product Dimensions: 2 x 3 x 8 inches
Weight: 8 ounces
Key Ingredients: Lemongrass and argan
Pros
- Nourishing
- Mineral oil free
- Great for oily hair
- Lemon scented
- Gentle
Cons
- Not great for dry hair
We hope you liked our list of products! Now you must be wondering, how to choose the best drugstore conditioner for your hair. Here’s a detailed guide.
How to Choose a Drugstore Conditioner
To achieve the best results, it does not have to be an expensive conditioner. For it to perform wonders on your hair, first and foremost it needs to be tailored to your hair type. It is important that before purchasing you identify your hair type.
Dry Hair
Dry hair is coarse and is more likely to face hair breakage. For those with a dry hair type, opt for a thicker or volumizing conditioner loaded with nourishing ingredients. The thickness tames the frizz in your hair, the appearance of split ends, and makes it appear healthy.
Neutral hair
If your hair neither falls on the spectrum of dry or oily, you need a standard conditioner. Standard conditioners hydrate and moisturize without weighing the hair down and making it appear oily. You only need to apply a little bit of conditioner and you’re good to go.
Oily hair
If you tend to have buildup around your scalp, the excess oil is weighing your hair down making it look limp and greasy. Avoid products labeled hydrating or moisturizing and instead opt for products labeled volumizing or balancing as they won’t contribute to the excess buildup on your scalp. It is also important you rinse the conditioner thoroughly off your mane. Do not use leave-in conditioners.
Damaged hair
If your hair is damaged due to chemicals or color treatment, go for formulas that have added benefits like repair and frizz control. Ingredients like argan oil or coconut oil can help strengthen your strand and bring it back to health as well.
How to Use a Drugstore Conditioner
Here are some easy steps on how you can efficiently use a drugstore conditioner:
1. Firstly, pick out a conditioner that caters to your specific hair type and its needs.
2. Wash your hair with a shampoo and thoroughly rinse it out.
3. Gently squeeze your hair to rid it of any excess water. It should be damp, not wet.
4. Add a decent amount of conditioner to your palm, rub it between your hands, and spread it over the lengths of your hair. While doing so, stay clear of your roots.
5. Use a wide-tooth comb to detangle your hair. You can also run your fingers through it to do the same.
6. Let the conditioner sit for a while – check the recommended duration that's mentioned on the bottle.
7. Using lukewarm water, rinse your hair well until the conditioner is completely gone. Once done, you can do another rinse with cool water for enhanced shine.
8. Gently dry your hair with a towel – use patting motions and avoid rubbing. Go ahead and style your hair according to your preference.
Contributor: Board-Certified Dermatologist, Dr. Jenny Liu
FAQ's
How is drugstore conditioner different from high-end conditioner?
The only difference between high-end and drugstore conditioners is that more expensive products tend to include extra ingredients and conditioning agents. At the end of the day, there is nothing wrong with choosing drugstore shampoos and conditioners over higher-end ones. After all, shampoo is shampoo and conditioner is conditioner. Opt for those with higher-grade ingredients with fewer fillers and chemicals.
Can drugstore conditioners work effectively on all hair types?
Conditioners can be beneficial for all types of hair, from fine and straight to super curly and coily.
Can drugstore conditioners help repair damaged hair?
Yes! Drugstore hair conditioners can repair damaged hair, improving the look, feel, and overall health of hair.
Are there any good color-safe conditioners?
Yes, there are several color-safe conditioners available in the market. They work to protect and preserve the vibrancy of colored hair.
Are drugstore conditioners cruelty-free?
No, not all drugstore conditioners are cruelty-free. However, there are cruelty-free options available and you can choose from them if required.
Can drugstore conditioners work as well as salon brands?
Some of them may while some of them may not. It all depends on the formulation of the conditioner and the benefits that it provides.
Can drugstore conditioners help with hair damage and breakage?
Yes, some drugstore conditioners are specially formulated to address damaged hair and breakage. They offer nourishment and help repair and strengthen the hair shaft.
How often should I use a drugstore conditioner?
The frequency totally depends on your hair type, texture, and needs. However, we typically recommend that one uses it 2-3 times a week.
Are there drugstore conditioners for specific concerns like dandruff or scalp health?
Yes, there are some conditioners that are formulated to address scalp concerns such as dandruff. They usually contain active ingredients that target these issues.
Why Trust Pinkvilla
Alvira, our hair expert and beauty writer believes that not everyone needs a high-end deep conditioner to smooth out their tresses. For most, a sublime drugstore conditioner goes a long way too, given that it’s from a trusted brand and consists of a nourishing formula devoid of nasties. Hence, when researching the best affordable conditioners, she first ruled out the ones that contained harmful ingredients such as phthalates, mineral oil, harsh surfactants, triclosan, etc. Then, she checked for products with nourishing botanical ingredients, tested most of them, and evaluated customer reviews to get to the final verdict.
Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!
Author BIO
With a keen eye for detail and a passion for hairstyling, Alvira is a certified Hair Expert who brings the latest tre More
