6 Best Expert-Approved Moisturizers For Relaxed Hair – 2024

Not just your skin, but your hair, too, needs moisturizers to stay shiny, healthy, and bouncy!

Reviewed by Jill Turnbull, Hairstylist Jill Turnbull Jill TurnbullHairstylist facebook_iconinsta_icon
Written by , MA, Certified Skin Care Coach Oyendrila Kanjilal MA, Certified Skin Care Coach linkedin_icon Experience: 2 years
Edited by , MA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach Shiboli Chakraborti MA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach linkedin_icon Experience: 4 years
Fact-checked by , BTech Anjali Sayee BTech linkedin_icon Experience: 7 years
Last Updated on
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To get a hair treatment done, your natural hair goes through the damage caused by chemicals and heat. Hence, you can opt for the best moisturizers for relaxed hair to make them feel beautiful while protecting them from any damage such as breakage or dullness. Hair moisturizers are effective in keeping hair healthy and naturally bouncy as they nourish the hair, prevent dryness, and restore its natural shine. These also make your hair look smooth, soft, and silky. Take a look at the 6 best moisturizers for relaxed hair below.

Top Picks
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Best Anti-Frizz:cantu Shea Butter Daily Oil Moisturizer
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Best pH-Balance:head and shoulders Royal Oils Deep Moisture Masque
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Best Lightweight Formula:MIZANI True Textures Curl Define Pudding
Price on Amazon
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Best For Dry Hair:As I Am DoubleButter Cream
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Best Detangling Treatment:Luster's Pink Oil Moisturizer Hair Lotion
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Best Non-Sticky Formula:Carol's Daughter Mimosa Hair Honey Shine Pomade
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Price on Walmart

Best Moisturizers For Relaxed Hair You Should Try In 2024

1. Best Anti-Frizz: Cantu SheaButter Daily Oil Moisturizer

The Cantu Shea Butter Daily Oil Moisturizer comes with nourishing oils and plant butter that revitalize relaxed hair and scalp. It contains pure shea butter that restores moisture, prevents dryness, and nourishes the chemically treated follicles. This daily oil moisturizer maintains the natural shine while keeping your hair detangled and frizz-free. It is ideal for those with braided and natural hair. The lightweight formula coats the hair strands evenly without weighing them down and protects them from sun and heat damage.

Massage a generous amount of the moisturizer onto wet hair after shampooing and leave it on for 3-5 minutes before styling. You can also use it before and after heat-styling to form a protective thermal barrier around the hair fibers. This video will help you understand the product better as it details a tester’s experience of using it.

Key Ingredients: Shea butter, Canola oil, and Glycerin

Pros

  • Silicone-free
  • Controls frizz
  • Easily absorbed
  • Pleasant smell

Cons

  • Too greasy
  • Contains parabens

protip_icon Pro Tip
Do not apply the moisturizer on your scalp because it can make your hair look greasy and clog the hair follicles.

worth-buy-icon

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

This product has received 6,660 reviews from customers on Amazon, indicating its popularity and reliability.

2. Best pH-Balance: Head And Shoulders Royal Oils Deep Moisture Masque

star-ratingstar-ratingstar-ratingstar-ratingstar-rating
4.5
Head and Shoulders Deep Moisture Masque Conditioner Treatment, Anti Dandruff and Scalp Care, Royal Oils Collection with Coconut Oil, for Natural and Curly Hair, 7.6 fl oz Image: Head & Shoulders

The Head And Shoulders Royal Oils Deep Moisture Masque is an intensely moisturizing formula that balances and restores scalp health with regular use. This weightless and moisturizing styling treatment is enriched with nourishing coconut oil and pyrithione zinc, a potent anti-dandruff compound that also soothes scalp psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, and acne. It controls hair fall and frizz. This paraben-free, sulfate-free formula is designed for all hair types, including relaxed, braided, kinky, and coily hair. This masque provides hydration for chemically treated hair as well.

To give a boost of hydration, apply the masque to wet, shampooed hair. Gently massage it into the hair and scalp, including the roots and ends. Let it sit for a few minutes and rinse. Follow up with your hair routine. Use this masque twice a week or whenever your hair and scalp need deep conditioning. Check out the detailed review of the product in this video.

Key Ingredients: Coconut oil and Pyrithione zinc

Pros

  • Provides hair repair and hydration
  • pH-balanced
  • Paraben-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • No synthetic dyes
  • Refreshing scent

Cons

  • May dry out the hair
worth-buy-icon

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

The product has received 4,696 positive Amazon reviews from its users, stating its numerous benefits.

3. Best Lightweight Formula:MIZANI True Textures Curl Define Pudding

If you are on the lookout for a wax-free deep conditioning treatment, the MIZANI True Textures Curl Define Pudding is just what you need. This paraben-free styling soufflé is specially designed to address the needs of curly, coily, and relaxed hair. It is enriched with sustainably sourced coconut, marula, and olive oils that provide intense hydration and long-lasting elongation. This weightless pudding repairs split ends and damage, leaving your hair frizz-free, soft, and shiny. It also prevents dryness and dandruff while offering restorative care to your hair.

Massage a quarter-sized amount of the product into damp hair. Do not rinse out. Air dry for soft, voluminous hair. You can also use a small amount on blow dried hair to finish the styling. Watch this video detailing a tester’s experience of using the product for more information.

Key Ingredients: Glycerin, Olive oil, Marula seed oil, Coconut oil, and Citric acid

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Paraben-free
  • Imparts shine
  • Wax-free
  • Provides lasting elongation
  • Pleasant scent

Cons

  • Contains mineral oil
  • May dry out the hair

protip_icon Pro Tip
Use a wide-toothed comb or a detangling comb with your curl defining cream for an even application and to define the pattern of your curls.

Cantu SheaButter Daily Oil Moisturizer
Best Anti-Frizz
Head And Shoulders Royal Oils Deep Moisture Masque
Best pH-Balance
MIZANI True Textures Curl Define Pudding
Best Lightweight Formula
Hair Type Dry Natural and curly hair Curly, Coily, Wavy, Kinky
Dimensions 2.19 x 2.19 x 8.75 inches 3.32 x 3.32 x 2.81 inches3.25 x 3.25 x 2.91 inches
Weight 11.2 Ounces 8 Ounces-
Weight-- 9.98 Ounces
Rating
Reviews6,6604,6961,351
Price$4.97$22.98$22.0

4. Best For Dry Hair:As I Am DoubleButter Cream

The As I Am DoubleButter Cream is a rich hair moisturizer with natural emollients. It contains a nourishing blend of organic oil from coconut, castor seeds, sweet almonds, and jojoba seeds. Pure plant butter from cocoa seeds and shea nuts locks moisture in relaxed hair and prevents dryness. It also adds moisture and nourishment.

This smooth and sleek moisturizer also comes with anti-dandruff, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory ingredients like turmeric root powder, vitamin B5, beetroot powder, tangerine, and gooseberry extracts. These ingredients soothe and replenish nutrients in the hair and scalp. Wheat protein and vitamin E restore the natural sheen and definition of all hair types and make them soft, bouncy, and frizz-free. If you have extremely dry hair that needs intense moisturization, you can invest in it and test it.

Warm a suitable amount of the cream between your palms. Apply it gently to your hair and scrunch the ends. Use it to finish your hairstyle or as a daily hair and scalp moisturizer.

Key Ingredients: Shea butter, Cocoa seed butter, Coconut oil, Castor seed oil, Beetroot extract, and Turmeric root powder

Pros

  • Boosts shine
  • Lightweight
  • Nourishing ingredients
  • Rejuvenating fragrance
  • Unisex
  • Adds natural shine

Cons

  • Dries out hair
  • Not long-lasting

5. Best Detangling Treatment:Luster’s Pink Oil Moisturizer Hair Lotion

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4.4
Luster's Pink Oil Moisturizer Hair Lotion Image: Luster's

If you are dealing with lackluster hair and unmanageable locks, get your hands on Luster’s Pink Oil Moisturizer Hair Lotion for intense conditioning and nourishment. This non-greasy hair softener provides much-needed hydration without causing your hair to weigh down. It uses a blend of aloe vera and jojoba oil to revive your hair and make it softer, stronger, and shinier. This lotion can easily detangle your hair, reducing breakage and preserving hair length. This makes it an ideal everyday moisturizer for relaxed hair. It is recommended by multiple online reviewers especially for dry hair. So, don’t wait up! Test it yourself to see the results.

Apply a generous amount of the lotion from the roots to the ends. Do not miss the temple and nape areas. Do not rinse your hair; towel or blow dry your tresses and style them as usual.

Key Ingredients: Aloe vera, Jojoba oil

Pros

  • Non-greasy
  • Provides long-lasting moisture
  • Imparts shine
  • Provides hair nourishment

Cons

  • None

6. Best Non-Sticky Formula:Carol’s Daughter Mimosa Hair Honey Shine Pomade

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4.4
Shea Moisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore Conditioner Image: Carols Daughter

The Mimosa Hair Honey Shine Pomade by Carol’s Daughter is made for curly, kinky, and/or relaxed hair types. This citrus-scented shine pomade moisturizes the scalp, smooths hair ends, and controls frizz. It is enriched with natural emollients like shea butter, cocoa butter, and corn oil that nourish relaxed hair. The pomade also contains active ingredients from tomato extract, sage and nettle leaf extracts, annatto seed powder, rosemary, and clover extracts that strengthen hair without weighing it down. Check out the online reviews to know more about the product before purchasing.

Rub a small amount of product between your palms and apply it to damp hair and scalp. Style your hair as desired.

Key Ingredients: Shea butter, Cocoa butter, Annatto seed, Corn oil, Tomato fruit extract, Nettle leaf, and Sage leaf extract

Pros

  • Mineral oil-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Refreshing scent
  • Nourishing ingredients
  • Non-sticky
  • Sulfate-free
  • No artificial dyes

Cons

  • May leave a residue
  • Weighs the hair down
*The prices provided in this article are based on the latest available information. However, they may vary due to changes in pricing by the seller and/or promotional offers.

If you have relaxed hair, you know how important it is to keep it moisturized. Otherwise, it can become dry, brittle, and damaged. But with so many different moisturizers on the market, it can be hard to know which one is right for your hair.

That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to the best moisturizers for relaxed hair. We’ll help you choose a product that will hydrate your strands and keep them healthy.

Things To Look For In A Moisturizer For Relaxed Hair

    • Specific Needs: If your hair is very dry or damaged, you’ll want to look for a formula that is rich in moisture-replenishing ingredients. Look for products that contain hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or natural oils like jojoba oil or coconut oil. These ingredients will help keep your hair hydrated and looking healthy.

If your relaxer leaves your hair feeling stripped or brittle, look for a reparative moisture treatment that will help restore elasticity and moisture balance. And if you are looking for a daily moisturizer to help prevent damage and keep your strands healthy, choose one that’s lightweight and won’t weigh down your hair. You should also look for a moisturizer that provides UV protection, as this will help keep your hair healthy and prevent damage from the sun.

  • Ingredients: Relaxed hair is often sensitive to chemicals, so it is important to choose a moisturizer that contains natural and nourishing ingredients. Look for products that contain aloe vera, jojoba oil, or shea butter. Avoid products that contain sulfates, parabens, or phthalates.
  • Formula: Decide what type of moisturizer you need. There are three main types of moisturizers: oil-based, cream-based, and water-based. Oil-based moisturizers are good for sealing in moisture and preventing your hair from becoming dry. Cream-based moisturizers are good for adding shine and softness to your hair. Water-based moisturizers are good for refreshing your hair and making it easier to style.
  • Packaging: It’s also a good idea to choose a moisturizer that comes in a pump bottle or tube. This packaging will help prevent contamination and ensure that you get the most out of each product. Finally, make sure to read the labels on all of your products before using them. This will help you avoid any potential allergens or irritants.

These nourishing hair moisturizers work well on natural, relaxed, kinky, and curly hair types. They double up as styling gels/creams, so you can use them to finish or hold your hairstyle. Relaxed hair was once curly or coily and underwent a lot of chemical and heat styling. Hence, it needs more care and love. Here are a few simple tips on how to maintain relaxed hair to keep them healthy and happy.

Tips On How To Care For Relaxed Hair

  • Give your hair time. Let it heal from the treatment and go easy on heat styling.
  • Wash your hair with a gentle shampoo. Don’t forget the conditioner!
  • Introduce a moisturizer step after shampooing to soothe the scalp and hair.
  • Trim the ends regularly.
  • Protect your hair from overexposure to the sun, heat, and pollution. Wear your hair in a comfortable bun or wrap a scarf around it.
  • Deep condition your hair at regular intervals.
  • Follow a consistent relaxation schedule. Consult a stylist for guidance.
  • Keep yourself hydrated.
  • Eat fresh vegetables and fruits.

Infographic: Tips For Applying A Hair Moisturizer For Relaxed Hair

You can make your relaxed hair feel nice and healthy and prevent breakage by using good hair moisturizers. They are excellent products for maintaining the vivacity of your mane. Check out the infographic below to learn how you can apply these moisturizers to reap all their benefits.

Tips For Applying Hair Moisturizer For Relaxed Hair (infographic)

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

The Bottom Line

You can protect your hair from dullness, breakages, and split ends with the help of hair moisturizers. The Cantu Shea Butter Daily Oil Moisturizer works wonders in rejuvenating the scalp and protecting it from heat damage, while the As I Am DoubleButter Cream adds sheen as well as more definition to the tresses. The Carol’s Daughter Mimosa Hair Honey Shine Pomade smooths the hair and strengthens them from the roots. These moisturizers help in adding shine to your tresses while keeping them naturally bouncy and voluminous. These moisturizers can also keep your hair tangle-free and treat frizz. You can use these moisturizers for three to five minutes before styling. Some of these moisturizers help in forming a protective barrier over the locks. However, you should steer clear of products that cannot be easily absorbed by your hair strands or come with unpleasant fragrances.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do you need a hair moisturizer for relaxed hair?

Relaxed hair is more prone to dryness and breakage as compared to normal hair. So, you will need a hair moisturizer to deeply nourish your chemically straightened tresses and prevent them from falling out. Moisturizers also add natural shine to your hair and enhance its overall texture and feel. Additionally, moisturizing also promotes hair growth.

How do I moisturize my relaxed dry hair?

• Detangle your hair with a wide tooth comb.
• Section your hair and braid them.
• Apply the moisturizer to one section, especially on the ends of the strands.
• Seal the moisture with oil.
• Repeat the same on all other sections.

How often should I moisturize my relaxed hair?

Moisturize your relaxed hair once daily to prevent it from getting dry and brittle. However, if your hair gets greasy easily, use it twice a week. It is recommended to moisturize it at night to allow the hair to soak in all the moisture without any interruptions.

How often should you wash relaxed hair?

Wash your relaxed hair twice a week with a hydrating shampoo. This will keep your relaxed curls nourished and shiny.

Why Trust StyleCraze?

Oyendrila Kanjilal is a haircare enthusiast and a product writer who enjoys researching hair care products. She has created this list of the finest hair moisturizers for relaxed hair after reviewing several customer comments and consulting product listings and related websites. She has also included each product’s details, benefits, and drawbacks. In addition, this post offers some helpful recommendations on caring for relaxed hair to assist you in making the best decision.

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Jill Turnbull
Jill TurnbullHairstylist
Jill Turnbull is an internationally acclaimed freelance hairstylist, colorist, and makeup artist with over 47 years of experience. She founded her own beauty brand and her work has been featured in editorial magazines worldwide.

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Oyendrila Kanjilal
Oyendrila KanjilalCommerce Writer
Oyendrila holds a master's degree in English Literature from the University Of Calcutta, West Bengal, and is a certified skin care coach. As a beauty and lifestyle writer with two years of experience, she writes about everything that the modern woman needs to know about grooming and self-care.

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Shiboli Chakraborti
Shiboli ChakrabortiCommerce Editor
Shiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.

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Anjali Sayee
Anjali SayeeAssociate Editor
Anjali is an associate editor at StyleCraze. She specializes in hairstyles and hair and skin care and has written over 200 articles in these domains. She has 7 years of experience, and her philosophy about hair and skin care is simple: if you love and care for it, it will be healthy.

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