79 Best Products To Use When Transitioning to Natural Hair

Explore this article to choose the best products for you when transitioning to natural hair

These 79 product recommendations include shampoos, deep conditioners, leave-in conditioners, oils, and stylers. 

This is the next article in the transitioning to natural hair series where I share the best tips and tricks for preserving your hair on your transitioning journey.

If you’re new to transitioning to natural hair, you should start from the beginning of the series here to get the best results. 

70-Plus-Best-Products-To-Use-When-Transitioning-to-Natural-Hair-Shampoos-Deep-Conditioners-Leave-in-conditioners-stylers-and-more

What Products Should I Use When Transitioning to Natural Hair?

These 79 best products are some of the best assortment to use on transitioning hair – that tricky stage on your healthy hair journey when you have two very different textures on your head.

Before you start reading, you may also want to check the Healthy Hair Care Series, a collection of resources for natural hair care and growth.

If you’re transitioning, 365 Days of Moisture for Dry & Parched Hair will be very beneficial.

Best Shampoos for Transitioning to Natural Hair

When I was transitioning, I avoided shampooing and co-washed about 75% of the time but I still had to clarify at some point so I had 1 – 2 shampoos in rotation. 

When choosing a shampoo for transitioning to natural hair, you should opt for a shampoo with no sulfates or parabens.

The shampoo should also contain strengthening oils like castor oil, softening ingredients like natural butters and amino acids, plus some protein.

The shampoo can also contain strengthening herbs and spices like cloves and amla.

Remember, you’re trying to keep your line of demarcation strong to prevent breakage. 

With that in mind, here are the top 12 shampoos I would recommend for transitioning hair:-

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Giovanni Cosmetics Eco Chic Smooth as Silk Shampoo Deep Moisture for Damaged Hair, 8.5 Ounce
Giovanni Cosmetics Eco Chic Smooth as Silk Shampoo Deep Moisture for Damaged Hair, 8.5 Ounce
GIOVANNI COSMETICS- Smooth As Silk Deep Moisture Shampoo for Damaged Hair (8.5 Fl. Ounce); Luxurious Lather Soothes Dry, Chemically Processed Hair
$11.93
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I Am Cleansing Pudding, 8 Oz
I Am Cleansing Pudding, 8 Oz
Cleanses hair of residue and product buildup.; Natural ingredients.; Environmental impurities and Shedding scalp debris.
$14.77
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Mielle Organics Sea Moss Anti-Shedding Shampoo
Mielle Organics Sea Moss Anti-Shedding Shampoo
Rich lather hydrates as it cleanses; Seals in moisture; Packed with nutrients
$11.97
MHcare Melanin African Black Soap Reviving Shampoo 16 Oz. Mineral Rich, Natural, & Clarifying. Promotes Hair Growth. All Hair Types. Vegan. (1 Pack)
MHcare Melanin African Black Soap Reviving Shampoo 16 Oz. Mineral Rich, Natural, & Clarifying. Promotes Hair Growth. All Hair Types. Vegan. (1 Pack)
Natural, clarifying shampoo with an instant lather, helps to soothe and calm the scalp.; Infused with mineral-rich, nourishing and anti-inflammatory oils and butters.
$25.00
PATTERN Beauty Hydration Shampoo 9.8 Fl. Oz! Blend Of Aloe Vera Leaf Juice, Coconut Oil & Honey! Creamy And Luxurious Shampoo For Curlies, Coilies & Tight Textures! Gently Cleanses & Hydrates Hair!
PATTERN Beauty Hydration Shampoo 9.8 Fl. Oz! Blend Of Aloe Vera Leaf Juice, Coconut Oil & Honey! Creamy And Luxurious Shampoo For Curlies, Coilies & Tight Textures! Gently Cleanses & Hydrates Hair!
Contains Aloe Vera Leaf Juice, Coconut Oil & Honey for healthy & hydrated hair; Cleanses your hair & scalp to remove build-up & dirt without stripping away moisture
$20.00
Olaplex No.4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo, 8.5 Fl Oz
Olaplex No.4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo, 8.5 Fl Oz
It is formulated with olaplex bond building chemistry; It is recommended for all hair types
$30.00

There are many more shampoos available but the list above is a good place to start from. My favorite shampoos from this section include:-

RELATED CONTENT

Best Co-wash Conditioners for Transitioning to Natural Hair

Co-wash conditioners are going to be your hair’s best friend when it comes to transitioning to natural hair. 

Co-washing provides much-needed moisture to keep the line of demarcation going and nourish the relaxed ends. 

Co-washing products also double as effective cleansers. For more on co-washing, head over to Is Co-washing Good for Natural Hair?

Living proof Curl Conditioning Wash, 11.5 Fl Oz
Living proof Curl Conditioning Wash, 11.5 Fl Oz
Cleans and conditions in one step; Gently cleans hair of dirt, oil and build-up
Oribe Cleansing Crème for Moisture & Control , 8.5 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Oribe Cleansing Crème for Moisture & Control , 8.5 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Non-foaming formula gently removes dirt, oil and buildup; Detangles, moisturizes and smoothes hair while protecting from color fading
$49.00
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Aveda Be Curly CoWash Shampoo, 8.5 Fl Oz
Aveda Be Curly CoWash Shampoo, 8.5 Fl Oz
Gently cleanses your scalp; Moisturizes curls for up to 3 days; Reduces frizz, leaving curls soft and defined
$24.87
Grow Gorgeous Curl Cleansing Conditioner 400ml
Grow Gorgeous Curl Cleansing Conditioner 400ml
Cruelty free, vegan and gluten-free formulation; Free of Parabens, Sulfates, Silicones, Phthalates or Mineral Oil
$30.00
Unwash Llc Unwash Bio-cleansing Conditioner Hair Cleanser, Co-wash Cleansing & Conditioning 13.5 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Unwash Llc Unwash Bio-cleansing Conditioner Hair Cleanser, Co-wash Cleansing & Conditioning 13.5 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
CHOOSE A SIZE: Conditioners are available in 2.5 oz, 13.5 oz, and 33.8 oz bottles
$34.56
Ojon Rare Blend Moisture-Rich Cleansing Conditioner (For Dry or Breakage Prone Hair) 240ml/8.1oz
Ojon Rare Blend Moisture-Rich Cleansing Conditioner (For Dry or Breakage Prone Hair) 240ml/8.1oz
Ojon’s most incredible innovation for curly or wavy dry hair.; In one simple step, hair is cleansed, conditioned, detangled and much more.
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Argan Oil Hair Conditioner by Creme of Nature, Creamy Hydration Co-Wash Cleansing Conditioner, 12 Fl Oz
Argan Oil Hair Conditioner by Creme of Nature, Creamy Hydration Co-Wash Cleansing Conditioner, 12 Fl Oz
Gently cleanses and removes.; Product build up with exotic shine.; Hydrating your tresses to deliver unstoppable frizz-free curls, waves, kinks and coils.
$12.04

My favorite co-wash conditioners for transitioning to natural hair from this section include:-

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Best Deep Conditioners for Transitioning to Natural Hair

An amazing deep conditioner should moisturize, nourish, soften, strengthen, and revitalize hair. 

With transitioning to natural hair, you want the right balance of moisture and protein. Here’s why this is important.

PATTERN Beauty Transition Mask for Curlies, Coilies and Tight Textures, 11 Fl Oz
PATTERN Beauty Transition Mask for Curlies, Coilies and Tight Textures, 11 Fl Oz
Prevents breakage and fights hair fall; Maintains moisture balance; Nourishes hair in transition from protective styles or chemical treatments
$25.00
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AVEDA Damage Remedy Intensive Restructuring Treatment, 5.0 Fluid Ounce
AVEDA Damage Remedy Intensive Restructuring Treatment, 5.0 Fluid Ounce
Deeply penetrates to hair shaft to work from inside; Heals hair weakened by chemical processes, heat styling and external exposure
$36.00
Briogeo Curl Charisma Rice Amino + Avocado Hydrating & Defining Mask | Hair Mask for Wavy, Curly, and Coily Hair | Vegan, Phalate & Paraben-Free | 8 Ounce
Briogeo Curl Charisma Rice Amino + Avocado Hydrating & Defining Mask | Hair Mask for Wavy, Curly, and Coily Hair | Vegan, Phalate & Paraben-Free | 8 Ounce
WHO IT’S FOR: For those with wavy, curly and coily hair texture types – 2A to 4C.; SAFE FOR: Color treated, keratin treated, chemically-treated, and relaxed hair.
$39.00
OBIA Naturals Babassu Oil Deep Conditioner - Moisturizing Protein-Free - Repairs Dry Hair, Damaged Hair, Textured Hair, Curly Hair, Natural Hair, Sulfate-Free, Vegan
OBIA Naturals Babassu Oil Deep Conditioner – Moisturizing Protein-Free – Repairs Dry Hair, Damaged Hair, Textured Hair, Curly Hair, Natural Hair, Sulfate-Free, Vegan
Enriched with Babassu oil, Avocado oil, and Pro-Vitamin B5.; Restore your hair’s natural moisture balance.
$14.99
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Kinky Curly Knot Today Conditioner - 8 oz - 2 pk
Kinky Curly Knot Today Conditioner – 8 oz – 2 pk
Kinky Curly Knot Today Detangler and Conditioner – 8 oz (Pack of 2); Organic curl care conditioner
$28.40
Pacifica Beauty Vegan Silk Shampoo + Conditioner Set, Vanilla, Almond Oil, Shea Butter, Vitamin B for Dry and Damaged Hair, Hydration, Shine, Silky Smooth, Clean Hair Care, 20 Oz
Pacifica Beauty Vegan Silk Shampoo + Conditioner Set, Vanilla, Almond Oil, Shea Butter, Vitamin B for Dry and Damaged Hair, Hydration, Shine, Silky Smooth, Clean Hair Care, 20 Oz
INGREDIENTS WE LOVE vegan silk, vitamin B, vitamin E, shea butter, sweet almond oil; 100% VEGAN AND CRUELTY-FREE safe for the planet, animals, and you!
$19.00
Trader Joe's Tea Tree Tingle Conditioner with Peppermint and Eucalyptus - Cruelty Free (16 oz)
Trader Joe’s Tea Tree Tingle Conditioner with Peppermint and Eucalyptus – Cruelty Free (16 oz)
Contains No Laurel/Laureth Sulfates; Suitable for All Hair Types; Cruelty Free – Never Tested on Animals
$13.90

My favorite deep conditioners for transitioning hair from this section include:-

Best Leave-in Conditioners for Transitioning to Natural Hair

Leave-in conditioners provide added moisture and prevent transitioning hair from drying out between full regimen days. 

You can use either creamy leave-in conditioners or liquid leave-in conditioners based on your hair’s needs. I’ve provided a combination of both below:- 

Oyin Handmade Hair Dew Daily Quenching Hair Lotion with Castor Oil and Olive Squalane , 8 oz
Oyin Handmade Hair Dew Daily Quenching Hair Lotion with Castor Oil and Olive Squalane , 8 oz
GREAT SCENT: Light sugary vanilla scent.; STOPS BREAKAGE: Stop breakage in its tracks by keeping hair moist and refreshed
$13.99
Oyin Handmade Juices & Berries Herbal Leave-In Hair Tonic, 250ml
Oyin Handmade Juices & Berries Herbal Leave-In Hair Tonic, 250ml
Stimulate the scalp, thus encouraging hair growth; Vegetable ingredients for detangling, moisture and suppleness
$13.99
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OBIA Naturals Curl Hydration Spray - Refreshing, Moisturizing, Nourishing Hydrator for Dry Hair and Curls, 8 ounce.
OBIA Naturals Curl Hydration Spray – Refreshing, Moisturizing, Nourishing Hydrator for Dry Hair and Curls, 8 ounce.
DAILY REFRESHING SPRAY: Can be used daily to hydrate hair without buildup.; MOISTURIZE HAIR & SCALP: Light, easily absorbed oils nourish your hair and scalp.
$8.25
SoCozy, Curl Spray LeaveIn Conditioner For Kids Hair Detangles and Restores Curls No Parabens Sulfates Synthetic Colors or Dyes, Jojoba Oil,Olive Oil & Vitamin B5, Sweet-Pea, 8 Fl Oz
SoCozy, Curl Spray LeaveIn Conditioner For Kids Hair Detangles and Restores Curls No Parabens Sulfates Synthetic Colors or Dyes, Jojoba Oil,Olive Oil & Vitamin B5, Sweet-Pea, 8 Fl Oz
KEY INGREDIENTS: Keratin, Plum Seed Oil, Olive Oil; SALON FORMULA: SoCozy has over 20 years of experience and expertise about kid’s hair.
$9.69
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Curls Blueberry Bliss Reparative Leave In Conditioner - Repair Damage and Prevent Breakage - Encourage Hair Growth - For All Types 8 oz
Curls Blueberry Bliss Reparative Leave In Conditioner – Repair Damage and Prevent Breakage – Encourage Hair Growth – For All Types 8 oz
Formulated certified organic blueberry extract, coconut oil.; Infused with grapeseed oil and mango butter.
$10.49
Aunt Jackie's Curls and Coils Quench Moisture Intensive Leave-In Hair Conditioner for Natural Curls, Coils and Waves, Enriched with shea Butter, 16 oz
Aunt Jackie’s Curls and Coils Quench Moisture Intensive Leave-In Hair Conditioner for Natural Curls, Coils and Waves, Enriched with shea Butter, 16 oz
16 fl oz of Aunt Jackie’s Quench Moisture Intensive Leave-In Conditioner; Gives great slip and just enough moisture to keep the thristiest hair refreshed
$11.98
Living Proof No Frizz Leave-In Conditioner
Living Proof No Frizz Leave-In Conditioner
Ceramide helps strengthen hair as vitamin e and uv filter help protecit puretone artistry; It is recommended for all hair types
Earth’s Nectar Nourish Leave-in Conditioner
Earth’s Nectar Nourish Leave-in Conditioner
A lightweight, non-greasy, milky texture that deeply conditions and detangles; Formulated with aloe and vitamin E to strengthen and repair brittle hair from root to tip
EDEN BodyWorks Coconut Shea Leave-In Conditioner | 8 oz | Moisturize, Define Curls, Add Shine - Packaging May Vary
EDEN BodyWorks Coconut Shea Leave-In Conditioner | 8 oz | Moisturize, Define Curls, Add Shine – Packaging May Vary
ADD SHINE: Coconut Oil + Shea Butter combine to increase the hair’s sheen
$9.99
As I Am CocoShea Spray - 4 Ounce - Concentrated Nano Blend of Coconut Oil and African Shea Butter - Nourishes, Softens and Boosts Shine - Hydrates the Hair Shaft - Moisturizes Hair and Scalp
As I Am CocoShea Spray – 4 Ounce – Concentrated Nano Blend of Coconut Oil and African Shea Butter – Nourishes, Softens and Boosts Shine – Hydrates the Hair Shaft – Moisturizes Hair and Scalp
Nano Blend of Coconut Oil and African Shea Butter. Unique Spray Formula.; Nourishes, Softens and Boosts Shine. Hydrates the Hair Shaft.
$16.40
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Uncle Funky's Daughter Midnite Train Leave-In Conditioner
Uncle Funky’s Daughter Midnite Train Leave-In Conditioner
Lightweight, herbal conditioning mist; Strengthens dry, weak strands; Adds softness and pliability for comb-out
$21.98
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OUIDAD Moisture Lock Leave-in Conditioner, 8.5 Fl Oz
OUIDAD Moisture Lock Leave-in Conditioner, 8.5 Fl Oz
It creates a “moisture foundation” b
$20.80
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OBIA Naturals Curl Moisture Cream, Light-Weight Leave-In Conditioner, 8oz
OBIA Naturals Curl Moisture Cream, Light-Weight Leave-In Conditioner, 8oz
Infused with argan oil, lavender oil, grape seed oil, vitamin E, and burdock root; Adds moisture and hydration to the hair
$11.17

My favorite leave-in conditioners for transitioning to natural hair include:-

Best Styling Creams for Transitioning to Natural Hair

Styling creams help with definition and control frizz.

They are also great for braid outs, twists outs, and other hairstyles that will help mask the two textures while transitioning.

curl corps defining cream, 200ml | amika
curl corps defining cream, 200ml | amika
Controls Curls; A Smoothing Curl Control Cream That Adds Bounce And Definition To Hair.; Fights Frizz, Anyone With Natural Curls, Coils, And Waves!
$28.00
As I Am Twist Defining Cream - 8 Ounce - with Castor oil and Phytosterols
As I Am Twist Defining Cream – 8 Ounce – with Castor oil and Phytosterols
Increase in Hair Moisture by 23%.; with Sunflower Oil, Castor Oil, Amla, Sugar Beet Root and Phytosterols
$12.95
Curls Blueberry Bliss Twist-N-Shout Cream- For The Prefect Twists and Braid Outs - All Types - Adds Sheen, Moisture, and Definition - 8 Ounces
Curls Blueberry Bliss Twist-N-Shout Cream- For The Prefect Twists and Braid Outs – All Types – Adds Sheen, Moisture, and Definition – 8 Ounces
Looking for the perfect product for the perfect twist/braid out? Look no further.; Adds the sheen, moisture and definition you crave.
$12.23
Camille Rose Almond Jai Twisting Butter, 8 fl oz
Camille Rose Almond Jai Twisting Butter, 8 fl oz
Aloe Vera aids in moisture retention while promoting hair growth; Sweet honey droplets transform into a natural hair softener and smoother
$15.28
OBIA Naturals - Twist Whip Butter Hair Moisturizer, Leave-In Conditioning Styler, 8oz
OBIA Naturals – Twist Whip Butter Hair Moisturizer, Leave-In Conditioning Styler, 8oz
Twist Whip Butter is a blend of unrefined Shea butter, Tucuma butter, and Mango butter.; Moisturizes, soothes, and adds shine to your tresses.
$17.99
Curly Magic
Curly Magic
Aloe-based formula; natural fragrance; Firm hold provides lasting curl definition; Delivers unmatched frizz fighting ability
$24.99
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Mielle Organics Pomegranate & Honey Twisting Soufflé, Sulfate and Paraben Free, 12 Ounces
Mielle Organics Pomegranate & Honey Twisting Soufflé, Sulfate and Paraben Free, 12 Ounces
Conditions and protects every strand; Smells good and feels great; Provides semi-deep definition
$14.97
pattern Beauty Styling Cream for Curlies, Coilies and Tight Textures, 3 Fl Oz
pattern Beauty Styling Cream for Curlies, Coilies and Tight Textures, 3 Fl Oz
superior moisture; Great for twist-outs; Shea butter, cacay oil; sweet almond oil
$9.00
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OUIDAD Advanced Climate Control Featherlight Styling Cream, 5.7 Fl Oz
OUIDAD Advanced Climate Control Featherlight Styling Cream, 5.7 Fl Oz
Defines curls with ultra-light, pillow-soft hold – won’t weigh hair down; Locks out humidity and helps protect curls from heat and UV damage
$20.80
Living proof No Frizz Nourishing Styling Cream, 8 Fl Oz
Living proof No Frizz Nourishing Styling Cream, 8 Fl Oz
Developed with patented OFPMA, an anti-frizz technology to effectively block humidity; Conditions and regulates frizzy, unmanageable hair without overloading it

My favorites from this section include:-

Curlsmith also has an all-in-one transition kit that includes everything required to cleanse, define and hydrate your curls on your journey from relaxed to natural hair.

The products include in the transition kit are co-wash, deep conditioner, leave-in Cream, and styling gel. Learn more here.

Other Hair Care Essentials

Here are some other hair care essentials that should be in your stash when transitioning to natural hair.

You should avoid heat appliances when transitioning but if you absolutely must, I highly recommend the Dyson Airwrap. It’s a game-changer!

If you’re overwhelmed with the list, you can utilize this free hair planner to help coordinate and keep track of your products. 

Final Thoughts

As you commence your healthy hair journey, you should keep in mind everyone’s hair is different.

What works for one person may not work for you and you may have to experiment with several products before you find the perfect blend for your hair.

This post may contain affiliate links which means we will make a small commission if you purchase through those links. Read full disclosure HERE.

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