15 Best Cosmetologist-Approved Japanese Shampoos Of 2024
The first step towards a good hair care routine for long, luscious locks.
Lindsay LooCosmetologist 
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
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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 in your hair care routine! These hair care products from Japan can strengthen your hair and make them look super healthy and shiny. So, instead of using regular shampoos or spending tons on expensive salon treatments, 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!
In This Article
Important Factors To Consider When Buying Shampoo
Before we get to the 15 best Japanese shampoo brands, 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. For instance, if you have a black dye job, pick a shampoo formulated for black hair that can extend the life of your black hair color. For a sensitive scalp, opt for dermatologically approved and expert-recommended products.
- Scent: The fragrance plays a significant part in the shampoo you choose. As Japanese shampoos are mostly formulated with natural ingredients, they usually have floral or fruity fragrances. 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 and nourishing ingredients. These are sure to be gentle and beneficial for your hair. You can also keep your allergies in mind while looking at the ingredients. Avoid shampoos with dye pigments if you are allergic to chemical hair dyes.
Now, let’s take a look at the 15 best Japanese shampoos that have garnered numerous positive reviews and will work wonders for your hair.
Top 15 Japanese Shampoos To Get Gorgeous Hair
1. Best Overall: Ichikami Smooth And Sleek Shampoo
The Ichikami Smooth And Sleek Shampoo prevents and restores 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. This Japanese shampoo is for all hair types. Several reviewers love its flowery fresh scent of cherry blossoms that will keep your hair smelling good all day. Regular use of this moisturizing shampoo will protect your hair against damage and add bright luster to your locks.
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
"The floral scent of this shampoo is very pleasing to the senses. Every time I use the product, it offers a refreshing experience. It cleans and smoothens the hair without the grease. It lathers well so a little goes a long way with this one."
2. Best For Dandruff:Kaminomoto Medicated Shampoo
The Kaminomoto Medicated Shampoo suitable for color-treated hair is an effective remedy for dandruff and itchy scalp. It cleanses the hair and sensitive scalp thoroughly with its germicidal formula that contains excellent anti-dandruff ingredients. 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 by getting rid of dirt.
Also Recommended By: Weheartthis has also listed Kaminomoto Medicated Shampoo in their top 10.[1] 14 Best Japanese Shampoos For Hair Loss In 2024.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 Tip3. Best 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 that has potent cleansing properties. It is gentle for your hair and scalp, as well as the environment. Seaweed extract is the primary ingredient in this shampoo. This Japanese shampoo for damaged hair effectively gets rid of dirt while adding a bright luster to your locks, and 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
"This shampoo cleanses the hair without causing any breakage. It is gentle and does not strip the hair of its natural moitsure. It doesn't weigh my hair down or leave it greasy."
Ichikami Smooth And Sleek Shampoo Best Overall | Kaminomoto Medicated Shampoo Best For Dandruff | Lebel Cosmetics Natural Hair Soap With Seaweed Best For All Hair Types | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hair Type | - | All | Chemically Treated, Damaged |
| Dimensions | - | 1.93 x 1.93 x 8.19 inches | 2.52 x 3.35 x 9.53 inches |
| Weight | - | 12.17 Ounces | 1.81 Pounds |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | - | 61 | 53 |
| Price | $16.2 | $19.49 | $36.99 |
4. 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 hair breakage, thinning hair, and damaged 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
Trivia5. Best Natural Formula:Tamanohada 004 Gardenia Shampoo
This natural shampoois made using plant-based cleansing ingredients that help get rid of 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 that helps in preventing dandruff. This anti-dandruff Japanese shampoo is perfect for treating dry and damaged hair. The fragrance is a sensual blend of gardenia, lemon oil, and ylang-ylang. Many reviewers recommend this product for its no-residue formula that gives your hair a boost of volume.
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.
6. 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. A personal blogger from Berries In The Show is using the shampoo for quite some time. They love how soft and shiny their hair becomes after using the product. They write, “I only need one to two pumps of the shampoo. When I still had my shorter hair, one pump was enough. It creates nice and quite some foam while lathering it in your hair (i).”
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.
7. 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 hair quality and the overall appearance of thin and fine hair and sakura extract prevents the fading of hair dye to preserve and maintain 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 animal testing, 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 2024.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
"This shampoo has been working so well for my fine, thin hair. It adds that much-needed volume boost. It gently cleans the hair and does not leave any residue. It leaves my hair clean and soft."
8. 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. This Japanese shampoo for oily hairleaves 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
"I love using shampoo everyday to refresh my hair. It has a zesty grapefruit scent that lingers on the hair for some time. When I use this shampoo on my oily hair, it adds enough hydration that I don't need to use a conditioner."
9. 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 of this organic Japanese shampoo leaves your hair feeling healthy and incredibly soft. The presence of plant extracts and olive cleansing oil makes the shampoo gentle for sensitive skin. Nur Hidayah, a personal blogger, likes how a small amount of the product is enough to spread on her entire hair. She says, “You can feel how it moisturizes your hair right after you rinse it. My hair is dry, and this one emphasizes dry, damaged, and frizzy hair. For those who have the same problem as mine, I think this will be the best type of shampoo you need to try [sic.] (ii).” Take a look at this video detailing a tester’s experience 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.
"This shampoo makes the hair feel clean and refreshed. It is a lightweight formula that adds moisture to the hair. It has a fresh scent that is quite unique. My hair feels clean without being weighed down. It helps tame frizz too."
10. 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, and dehydrated hair into soft, smooth tresses. This Japanese shampoo for hair growth has a silicone-free formula that 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
11. Best Volumizing 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. This moisturizing Japanese shampoo has many natural antioxidants from rice bran, seaweed, ginseng, and other active 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 Japanese shampoo is 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
"Every time I use this shampoo and conditioner duo, I notice less hair shedding. The shampoo cleans my scalp and the conditoner adds softness and moisture to the hair. I can stretch longer between washes without sacrificing freshness."
12. 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. This Japanese shampoo with a natural 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 healthy hair growth
- Lathers well
- Pleasant fragrance
- Non-drying
Cons
- Contains sulfates
- Contains parabens
13. 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 damaged hair and restore shine. The powerful formula contains the goodness of honey and other nutritious ingredients, such as royal jelly, and argan oil. It contains three types of honey – manuka honey from New Zealand, raw honey from Japan, and Hungarian acacia honey. The natural and nourishing ingredients cleanse your hair and scalp of dirt and impurities and prevent hair from drying out. This video showcasing a reviewer’s experience 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.
"This shampoo adds shine and softness to my hair. It leaves a delightful scent that lingers for a good amount of time. It is extremely nourishing. It tackles everything, from dryness to damage."
14. Best For Sleek Look:MyKirei By Kao Nourishing Shampoo
The MyKirei By Kao Nourishing Shampoo features a balanced and gentle 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
- No animal testing
Cons
- Expensive
- Strong fragrance
15. 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. Daily use of this shampoo will help correct the oil and moisture balance in your hair and leave you with manageable tresses.
Pros
- Silicone-free
- Colorant-free
- No mineral oil
- Lightweight
- Long-lasting
Cons
- Watery consistency
"This shampoo not only cleans but also smoothens my hair. It has been great for restoring the lost softness to my hair. It adds a subtle shine and makes my colored-hair easy to manage."
Infographic: Japanese Shampoos: Application Tips & Key Ingredients
Japanese shampoos are infused with potent and nourishing 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
The Bottom Line
Extreme climatic conditions can make your hair dry, dull, and brittle. Using traditional chemical hair products can worsen the damage and lead to itchy scalp. However, the right shampoo can offer restorative care, making 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. The Ichikami Smooth and Sleek Shampoo is perfect for fine and thin hair, while the Tamanohada 004 Gardenia Shampoo offers a luxurious fragrance and helps treat dandruff. But if you are looking for something to revive dull hair, try the Shiseido Sea Breeze Rinse-In Shampoo. 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. Also, remember to conduct a patch test to check for skin irritation.
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. These contain nourishing ingredients that moisturize dyed hair. Additionally, a shampoo that is free from parabens, sulfates, and other chemicals does not strip the color from your hair while preserving its natural moisture. You can also find Japanese shampoos that leave a little color on your hair to enhance it further.
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 and nourishing 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.
References
Articles on StyleCraze are backed by verified information from peer-reviewed and academic research papers, reputed organizations, research institutions, and medical associations to ensure accuracy and relevance. Read our editorial policy to learn more.
(i) Berries In The Snow
https://berriesinthesnow.com/review-shiseido-tsubakig-shampoo-conditioner/
(ii) nur hidayah
https://hidayxh.blogspot.com/2019/02/review-moist-diane-botanical-moist.html
