15 Best Japanese Shampoos To Get Gorgeous Hair – 2023
The first step towards a good hair care routine for long, luscious locks.
Lindsay LooCosmetologist
Expertise: Coloring
Experience: 10 years
Lindsay Loo is a cosmetologist who has spent 10 years behind the chair in a storied salon in Chelsea. She is a certified Wella Master Color Expert and also has experience backstage at New York Fashion Week. She has a private studio and love... more
Expertise: Product Reviews
Experience: 5 years
Sakshi Bahal has a Masters degree in English Literature from Calcutta University. She was a part of the editorial team of her school magazine. Her love for writing inspired her to take up literature a... more
Image: StyleCraze Design Team
Rich in natural ingredients, such as rice water and camellia oil, Japanese shampoos are perfect for your hair. To this end, we have prepared a list of the 15 best Japanese shampoos that you should have right now! These shampoos can strengthen your hair and make them look super healthy and shiny. So, instead of worrying about which is the best, you can just go ahead, check this list and pick your right fit. With these shampoos in place, your days of flaunting gorgeous hair are not far away!
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Best For Shine And Elasticity Shiseido Tsubaki Extra Moist Shampoo $37.94 ON AMAZON Read More › $37.94 ON AMAZON - 7
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Best For Intense Hydration Kumano Yushi Horse Oil Rinse In Shampoo $37.61 ON AMAZON Read More › $37.61 ON AMAZON
In This Article
Important Factors To Consider When Buying Shampoo
Before we get to the 15 best Japanese shampoos, here are a few pointers to keep in mind when shopping for hair care products like shampoos.
- Hair Type: Keep your hair and skin type in mind. Shampoo for oily hair and scalp can cause damage to someone with a dry scalp. Also, if you have colored hair, choose a color-safe product that extends the life of your color treatment.
- Scent: The fragrance plays a significant part in the shampoo you choose. As Japanese shampoos are mostly formulated with natural ingredients, their aromas are usually fruity or floral. Pick one according to your taste.
- Ingredients: Simply put, harsh chemicals are not good for your hair. Try to steer clear of parabens, silicones, and sulfates, and opt for formulas with natural ingredients. These are sure to be gentle and beneficial for your hair.
Now, let’s take a look at the 15 best Japanese shampoos that will work wonders for your hair.
Top 15 Japanese Shampoos
Best Overall:Ichikami Smooth And Sleek Shampoo
The Ichikami Smooth And Sleek Shampoo prevent and restore hair damage, resulting in stronger locks with each usage. It contains superior Japanese botanicals that help repair and preserve hair from the roots, making them resistant to damage. The formula is enriched with plant-derived amino acid compounds, including premium Japanese grass extract, that nourish thin and soft hair, strengthen cuticles, smoothe the hair surface, and hydrate hair and scalp to prevent dryness that can cause split ends. It has a flowery fresh scent of cherry blossoms that will keep your hair smelling good all day.
Pros- Suitable for all hair types
- Keeps hair hydrated
- Makes hair soft and shiny
- Non-drying
- Damages repair
- Non-silicone
- Sulfate-free
- Pleasant fragrance
- Moisturizes thin, soft hair
- Uses plant-derived ingredients
Cons
None
Best For Dandruff:Kaminomoto Medicated Shampoo
The Kaminomoto Medicated Shampoo is an effective remedy for dandruff and itchy scalp. It cleanses the hair and scalp thoroughly with its germicidal formula. The medicated shampoo suppresses inflammation of the scalp and preserves hair and scalp health. The sterilizing properties of the shampoo also inhibit the growth of harmful germs that cause itching and dandruff. With regular use, this shampoo encourages the growth of healthy hair.
Also Recommended By: Weheartthis has also listed Kaminomoto Medicated Shampoo in their top 10.[1] 14 Best Japanese Shampoos For Hair Loss In 2023.Weheartthis https://weheartthis.com/best-japanese-shampoos-for-hair-loss/
Pros- Suitable for normal to oily hair
- Regulates sebum secretion
- Soothes itchy scalp
- Prevents dandruff
- Promotes hair growth
- Safe for color-treated hair
- Makes hair soft and smooth
- Non-greasy
Cons
None
Pro TipBest For All Hair Types:Lebel Cosmetics Natural Hair Soap With Seaweed
The Lebel Cosmetics Natural Hair Soap With Seaweed comes with an acidic soap surfactant base. It is gentle for your hair and scalp, as well as the environment. Seaweed extract is the primary ingredient in this shampoo. It nourishes damaged hair and adds a bright luster to your locks. The refreshing fragrance lingers and keeps your hair smelling fresh all day.
Pros- Suitable for all hair types
- Keeps hair hydrated
- Makes hair soft and shiny
- Non-drying
- Lathers well
- Nourishes damaged hair
- Value for money
- Pleasant fragrance
Cons
- Contains parabens
Best Silicone-Free Option:Shiseido The Hair Care Adenovital Shampoo
The Shiseido Adenovital Shampoo cleanses your hair and scalp without being harsh. This shampoo may help if you are struggling with scalp dryness. It preserves the moisture in your hair and does not strip the scalp’s natural oils. The Adenovital Shampoo is also suitable for treating thinning hair. It prevents hair loss and encourages healthy, thick, and voluminous growth of hair.
Pros- Suitable for thinning hair
- Prevents hair loss
- Moisturizes dry scalp
- Suitable for daily use
- Silicone-free
- Pleasant fragrance
- Paraben-free
Cons
- Contains sulfates
TriviaBest Natural Formula:Tamanohada 004 Gardenia Shampoo
This natural shampoo is made using plant-based cleansing ingredients that remove dirt and impurities from your hair without stripping its natural oils. The silicone-free formula thoroughly washes your hair and scalp with enough foam to preserve hair health. Gardenia is an excellent anti-dandruff ingredient, making this shampoo perfect for treating dry and damaged hair. The fragrance is a sensual blend of gardenia, lemon oil, and ylang-ylang.
Pros- Almost natural formula
- Non-drying
- Suitable for all hair types
- Removes dandruff
- Silicone-free
- Pleasant fragrance
- Can be used daily
Cons
- Contains sulfates
- Difficult to use without a dispenser.
Best For Shine And Elasticity:Shiseido Tsubaki Extra Moist Shampoo
The Shiseido Tsubaki Extra Moist Shampoo is formulated with oil extracts from camellia flowers. Camellia flowers are known as Tsubaki in Japanese, and they are rich in linoleic and oleic acids. Both ingredients are easily absorbed, making them ideal for nourishing your skin and hair. The Tsubaki Extra Moist Shampoo helps add a rich texture to your hair, making it smooth and soft. It moisturizes dehydrated hair and rejuvenates flat, lifeless hair, restoring shine and elasticity.
Pros
- Suitable for dry and flat hair
- Makes hair silky smooth
- Non-drying
- Pleasant fragrance
- Pump dispenser
- Lathers well
Cons
- May irritate a sensitive scalp.
Best Botanical Formula:NatureLab. TOKYO Perfect Volume Shampoo
The NatureLab. TOKYO Perfect Volume Shampoo is a unique blend of advanced botanical technology and protein-rich plant actives. Apple extract maintains a healthy and balanced scalp and reduces premature hair loss. Rice protein provides volume and improves the overall appearance of thin and fine hair and sakura extract preserves your hair color. Soy protein reduces breakage to restore and strengthen the natural thickness of your hair, making it appear fuller. This plant-based shampoo takes care of your scalp and hair and is free of parabens, sulfates, and phthalates.
Also Recommended By: Byrdie has also listed NatureLab. TOKYO Perfect Volume Shampoo in their top 10.[1] The 20 Best Sulfate-Free Shampoos of 2023.Byrdie https://www.byrdie.com/sulfate-free-shampoo
Pros- Builds volume
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Phthalate-free
- Cruelty-free
- Gluten-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Environment-friendly
Cons
- Might not lather much
- Strong smell
Best For Oily Hair:Shiseido Sea Breeze Rinse-In Shampoo
The Shiseido Sea Breeze Rinse-In Shampoo thoroughly cleanses your hair and scalp, getting rid of dirt, sweat, and excess grease. It leaves your hair feeling light and smooth to the touch. The formula is a nourishing blend of crystal amino powder, plant-derived ingredients rich in repairing amino acids, and refreshing ingredients that help revitalize dull, damaged hair. The aquatic citrus aroma recharges your senses and keeps your hair smelling fresh all day.
Pros- Suitable for oily hair
- Repairs sun-damaged hair
- Removes dirt and grease from the scalp
- Leaves behind no residue
- Paraben-free
- Pleasant fragrance
Cons
- May dry out hair.
- Contains SLES
Best For Sensitive Skin:Moist Diane Botanical Refresh and Moist Shampoo
The Moist Diane Botanical Refresh and Moist Shampoo is formulated with a blend of more than 90% naturally-derived ingredients. The oil-cleansing elements effectively cleanse dirt and oil buildup on the scalp. Organic argan oil helps restore moisture to the scalp and keeps your hair hydrated. The nourishing formula leaves your hair feeling healthy and incredibly soft. The presence of plant extracts and olive cleansing oil makes the shampoo gentle for sensitive skin. Take a look at this video to get more information on the product.
Pros- Gentle on sensitive skin
- Contains 90% naturally derived ingredients
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- No synthetic dyes
- Pleasant fragrance
Cons
- May make hair feel greasy.
- Does not lather well.
Best For Intense Hydration:Kumano Yushi Horse Oil Rinse In Shampoo
The Kumano Yushi Horse Oil Rinse In Shampoo is enriched with horse oil extracts that are very nourishing for damaged hair. It helps repair and moisturizes weak and damaged hair. The shampoo promotes strong and healthy hair. It transforms coarse, dry hair into soft, smooth tresses. The silicone-free formula helps encourage hair growth and preserve hair and scalp health.
Pros
- Repairs damaged hair
- Provides intense hydration
- Leaves hair soft and smooth
- Refreshing menthol fragrance
- Silicone-free
Cons
- Contains parabens
- Contains sulfates
Best Voluminizing Shampoo:Komenuka Bijin Moisturizing Hair Shampoo
The Komenuka Bijin Moisturizing Hair Shampoo nourishes and revitalizes the hair and scalp while improving thickness and volume. It keeps split ends and dandruff at bay while hydrating and rejuvenating damaged hair. It has many natural antioxidants from rice bran, seaweed, ginseng, and other ingredients, which help stop hair loss and enhance texture, gloss, and strength. Even a small amount of the shampoo contributes to healthy, lustrous hair by thoroughly cleaning the scalp and removing debris. This shampoo is suitable for all hair types, including color-treated hair.
Pros- Non-drying
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Adds thickness and volume to hair
- Adds brilliant shine to hair
- Safe for color-treated hair
- Keeps hair hydrated
- Makes hair soft and shiny
- Stimulates follicle strength
Cons
None
Best For Fine Hair:Elence Premium 2001 Twin Scalp Shampoo EX-2
The Elence Premium 2001 Twin Scalp Shampoo EX-2 is suitable for applying on fine and weak hair. If you are dealing with hair breakage and thinning hair, this shampoo is meant for you. It boosts hair volume in a short period, making your hair look healthy, long, and full with every use. The formula is enriched with 30 herbal extracts that moisturize dehydrated hair and replenish your scalp and hair with revitalizing nutrients.
Pros
- Suitable for fine hair
- Prevents hair loss
- Promotes hair growth
- Lathers well
- Pleasant fragrance
- Non-drying
Cons
- Contains sulfates
- Contains parabens
Best For Dry, Brittle Hair:& Honey Deep Moist Shampoo
The Deep Moist Shampoo from &Honey provides intense hydration to dry, brittle hair. It nourishes the hair from the roots to the tips, working on individual strands to repair damage and restore shine. The powerful formula contains nutritious ingredients, such as royal jelly, argan oil, organic Moroccan oil, and three types of honey – manuka honey from New Zealand, raw honey from Japan, and Hungarian acacia honey. The natural ingredients cleanse your hair and scalp of dirt and impurities without drying it out. This video offers a more detailed explanation of the product.
Pros
- No irritating chemicals
- No preservatives
- Non-drying
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Pleasant fragrance
Cons
- Expensive
- May not work well on all hair types.
Best For Sleek Look:MyKirei By Kao Nourishing Shampoo
The MyKirei By Kao Nourishing Shampoo features a gentle, balanced formula. The shampoo is enriched with rice water and the intensely hydrating Japanese Tsubaki extract. It provides deep nourishment and balance to all hair types. Japanese Tsubaki is rich in proteins, oleic acid, and glycerides. Rice water is rich in vitamins and has long been revered as the secret behind sleek, shiny, and healthy hair.
Pros- Suitable for all hair types
- Vegan-friendly
- Non-drying
- Sustainable packaging
- Paraben-free
Cons
- Expensive
- Strong fragrance
Best Moisturizing:Oshima Tsubaki Camellia Premium Shampoo
The Oshima Tsubaki Camellia Premium Shampoo contains camellia oil, camellia flower extract, camellia ceramide, and camellia leaf extract. Camellia oil acts as a protective barrier that moisturizes and softens the hair, camellia ceramide works as a hair repair component, and camellia flower and leaf extract nourish the hair. This shampoo gently cleanses the scalp with fine and fluffy foam to make your hair shiny, soft, and smooth.
Pros- Silicone-free
- Colorant-free
- No mineral oil
- Lightweight
- Long-lasting
Cons
- Watery consistency
Infographic: Japanese Shampoos: Application Tips & Key Ingredients
Japanese shampoos are infused with potent ingredients that strengthen the hair follicles, add shine to the tresses, and promote healthy hair growth. If you wish to learn more about them, check out the infographic below. It also takes you through the right steps of washing your hair with a Japanese shampoo to achieve clean and healthy-looking tresses. Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
Save the high-quality PDF version on your device now.
Download Infographic
Extreme climatic conditions can make your hair dry, dull, and brittle. Using traditional chemical hair products can worsen the damage. However, the right shampoos can make your hair healthy and flowing. Cosmetologist Lindsay Loo says, “Japanese shampoos offer a luxe experience with hydration and sleekness. Since some of the moisture-rich ingredients might be heavy for some, make sure you research which option is best for you and your hair needs.”These best Japanese shampoos are formulated with rice water that contains nutrients that penetrate deep into your hair shafts and strengthen your hair follicles. In addition, these shampoos are gentle, paraben-free, and non-drying. However, some products may not work on all hair types. Read the product reviews to pick the best Japanese shampoos that suit your hair type and condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Japanese Sakura shampoo effective?
Yes, Japanese Sakura shampoos are very effective. They contain Japanese sakura blossoms and raspberry extracts, which bring out your hair’s natural shine and leave it dazzling.
Can I use Japanese shampoo for colored hair?
Yes, you can use some Japanese shampoo for colored hair. A shampoo which is free from parabens, sulfates, and other chemicals does not strip the color from your hair while preserving its natural moisture.
Is it okay to use regular conditioner after using Japanese shampoo?
Yes, you can use a regular conditioner after using Japanese shampoo. However, many Japanese shampoos provide enough nourishment and shine to the hair, making hair conditioning unnecessary.
What Japanese shampoo do I use for hair loss?
The Shiseido Tsubaki Premium Repair Shampoo is the best Japanese shampoo for hair loss. This shampoo uses salon technology to prevent toxins from entering the hair core while cleaning the scalp of all impurities, nourishing and moisturizing hair and preventing breakage and split ends.
How often should you use a Japanese shampoo?
You can use Japanese shampoo every day only if needed. A shampoo containing natural ingredients like persimmon, seaweed, and camellia works excellent for our hair. However, shampooing your hair 2-3 times a week is usually sufficient to keep your hair clean and healthy.
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