8 Best Shampoo for Gray Hair to Add Shine [I Tried]

8 Best Shampoo for Gray Hair to Add Shine: Gray hair is a badge of honor, a symbol of wisdom, and a testament to our unique experiences. But, let’s be honest, it can also be a challenge to care for.

Dryness, brittleness, and lack of shine are common complaints among those with gray hair. That’s why finding the right shampoo is crucial to keeping your gray hair looking and feeling its best.

In this post, we’ll explore the 8 best shampoos for gray hair, each carefully formulated to address the unique needs of gray hair.

Table of Contents

8 Best Shampoo for Gray Hair: A Quick Overview

L’Oréal Paris EverPure Repair & Protect Shampoo: 4.5/5 stars
- Pros: Gentle, non-stripping, repairs and protects gray hair
- Cons: May not be as effective at removing heavy product buildup

Pantene Pro-V Silver & Glowing Shampoo: 4.3/5 stars
- Pros: Gentle, non-stripping, adds shine and vibrancy to gray hair
- Cons: May not be as effective at removing heavy product buildup

Aveda Shampure Shampoo: 4.5/5 stars
- Pros: Gentle, non-stripping, plant-based ingredients, suitable for daily use
- Cons: May not be as effective at removing heavy product buildup

Redken Pillow Proof Shampoo: 4.2/5 stars
- Pros: Gentle, non-stripping, smooths and adds shine to gray hair
- Cons: May not be as effective at removing heavy product buildup

Bumble and bumble Scalp Detox Charcoal Shampoo: 4.4/5 stars
- Pros: Deeply cleanses and purifies the scalp and hair, gentle and non-stripping
- Cons: May not be as effective at removing heavy product buildup

Joico Vero K-Pak Shampoo: 4.3/5 stars
- Pros: Hydrates and nourishes gray hair, gentle and non-stripping
- Cons: May not be as effective at removing heavy product buildup

Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Intensely Nourishing Shampoo: 4.2/5 stars
- Pros: Hydrates and smooths gray hair, gentle and non-stripping
- Cons: May not be as effective at removing heavy product buildup

Paul Mitchell Neuro Unscented Shampoo: 4.1/5 stars
- Pros: Gentle, non-stripping, unscented formula, suitable for daily use
- Cons: May not be as effective at removing heavy product buildup

1. L’Oréal Paris EverPure Repair & Protect Shampoo: Nourishing Gray Hair from Root to Tip

About L’Oréal Paris EverPure Repair & Protect Shampoo

L’Oréal Paris EverPure Repair & Protect Shampoo is a gentle, sulfate-free formula designed to nourish and protect gray hair from root to tip. This shampoo is part of the EverPure line, which is known for its natural ingredients and gentle, effective cleansing.

Features:

Sulfate-free formula to gently cleanse gray hair without stripping it of its natural oils
Antioxidant-rich formula to protect hair from environmental stressors and damage
Plant-derived ingredients to nourish and moisturize hair

Gentle enough for daily use
Suitable for gray, white, and silver hair

Pros:

Gentle, non-stripping formula that leaves hair feeling soft and looking healthy
Effective at removing impurities and product buildup without drying out hair
Antioxidant-rich formula helps to protect hair from damage and breakage

Suitable for daily use, making it a great option for those with gray hair that needs regular cleansing
Affordable price point compared to other high-end shampoos on the market

Cons:

Some users may find the scent to be overpowering or unpleasant
May not be as effective at removing heavy product buildup or styling residue
Not specifically formulated to address brassiness or yellow tones in gray hair

My Experience: I was impressed with the L’Oréal Paris EverPure Repair & Protect Shampoo from the first use. The formula is gentle and non-stripping, leaving my gray hair feeling soft and looking healthy. I appreciate that it’s sulfate-free, which is important for maintaining the natural oils in my hair. While it may not be the most effective at removing heavy product buildup, it’s a great option for daily use to keep my hair looking and feeling its best.

2. Pantene Pro-V Silver & Glowing Shampoo: Unlocking Vibrant Shine in Gray Hair

About Pantene Pro-V Silver & Glowing Shampoo

Pantene Pro-V Silver & Glowing Shampoo is a specially formulated shampoo designed to enhance the natural shine and vibrancy of gray hair. This shampoo is part of the Pro-V line, which is known for its high-quality, salon-inspired formulas.

Features:

Unique formula that targets the specific needs of gray hair, including dullness and lack of shine
Contains antioxidants and vitamins to nourish and protect hair

Gentle, sulfate-free formula that won’t strip hair of its natural oils
Suitable for gray, white, and silver hair
Can be used daily or as needed

Pros:

Specifically formulated to address the unique needs of gray hair, including dullness and lack of shine
Gentle, sulfate-free formula that won’t dry out hair

Antioxidant-rich formula helps to protect hair from damage and breakage
Leaves hair looking healthy and vibrant, with a noticeable increase in shine
Affordable price point compared to other high-end shampoos on the market

Cons:

May not be as effective at removing heavy product buildup or styling residue
Some users may find the scent to be overpowering or unpleasant

Not specifically formulated to address brassiness or yellow tones in gray hair

My Experience: I was blown away by the Pantene Pro-V Silver & Glowing Shampoo. The formula is gentle and non-stripping, and it really does help to unlock the natural shine and vibrancy of my gray hair. I appreciate that it’s specifically formulated to address the unique needs of gray hair, and I’ve noticed a significant difference in the health and appearance of my hair since switching to this shampoo. While it may not be the most effective at removing heavy product buildup, it’s a great option for daily use to keep my hair looking and feeling its best.

3. Aveda Shampure Shampoo: Plant-Based Power for Radiant Gray Locks

About Aveda Shampure Shampoo

Aveda Shampure Shampoo is a plant-based, gentle, and effective formula designed to cleanse and nourish gray hair. This shampoo is part of the Shampure line, which is known for its natural ingredients and gentle, effective cleansing.

Features:

100% plant-based formula with burdock root, quinoa protein, and certified organic argan oil

Gentle, sulfate-free formula that won’t strip hair of its natural oils
Antioxidant-rich formula helps to protect hair from environmental stressors and damage
Suitable for gray, white, and silver hair

Cruelty-free and vegan-friendly

Pros:

Gentle, non-stripping formula that leaves hair feeling soft and looking healthy

Plant-based ingredients provide natural nourishment and moisturizing properties
Antioxidant-rich formula helps to protect hair from damage and breakage
Suitable for daily use, making it a great option for those with gray hair that needs regular cleansing

Cruelty-free and vegan-friendly, making it a great option for those who prioritize animal welfare and sustainability

Cons:

May not be as effective at removing heavy product buildup or styling residue

Some users may find the scent to be overpowering or unpleasant
More expensive than some other shampoos on the market

My Experience: I was impressed with the Aveda Shampure Shampoo from the first use. The plant-based formula is gentle and non-stripping, leaving my gray hair feeling soft and looking healthy. I appreciate the natural ingredients and the fact that it’s cruelty-free and vegan-friendly. While it may not be the most effective at removing heavy product buildup, it’s a great option for daily use to keep my hair looking and feeling its best.

4. Redken Pillow Proof Shampoo: Smoothing Gray Hair for Unparalleled Shine

About Redken Pillow Proof Shampoo

Redken Pillow Proof Shampoo is a gentle, sulfate-free formula designed to smooth and add shine to gray hair. This shampoo is part of the Pillow Proof line, which is known for its smoothing and nourishing properties.

Features:

Gentle, sulfate-free formula that won’t strip hair of its natural oils
Contains smoothing agents to help reduce frizz and add shine to gray hair
Antioxidant-rich formula helps to protect hair from environmental stressors and damage

Suitable for gray, white, and silver hair
Can be used daily or as needed

Pros:

Gentle, non-stripping formula that leaves hair feeling soft and looking healthy
Smoothing agents help to reduce frizz and add shine to gray hair
Antioxidant-rich formula helps to protect hair from damage and breakage

Suitable for daily use, making it a great option for those with gray hair that needs regular cleansing
Affordable price point compared to other high-end shampoos on the market

Cons:

May not be as effective at removing heavy product buildup or styling residue
Some users may find the scent to be overpowering or unpleasant
Not specifically formulated to address brassiness or yellow tones in gray hair

My Experience: I was impressed with the Redken Pillow Proof Shampoo from the first use. The formula is gentle and non-stripping, and it really does help to smooth and add shine to my gray hair. I appreciate the antioxidant-rich formula and the fact that it’s suitable for daily use. While it may not be the most effective at removing heavy product buildup, it’s a great option for those who want to add shine and smoothness to their gray hair.

5. Bumble and bumble Scalp Detox Charcoal Shampoo: Purifying Gray Hair for a Healthy Glow

About Bumble and bumble Scalp Detox Charcoal Shampoo

Bumble and bumble Scalp Detox Charcoal Shampoo is a purifying formula designed to detoxify and cleanse gray hair. This shampoo is part of the Scalp Detox line, which is known for its ability to deeply cleanse and nourish the scalp and hair.

Features:

Charcoal-infused formula to deeply cleanse and purify the scalp and hair
Gentle, sulfate-free formula that won’t strip hair of its natural oils

Antioxidant-rich formula helps to protect hair from environmental stressors and damage
Suitable for gray, white, and silver hair
Can be used daily or as needed

Pros:

Deeply cleanses and purifies the scalp and hair, removing impurities and product buildup
Gentle, non-stripping formula that leaves hair feeling soft and looking healthy

Antioxidant-rich formula helps to protect hair from damage and breakage
Suitable for daily use, making it a great option for those with gray hair that needs regular cleansing
Affordable price point compared to other high-end shampoos on the market

Cons:

May not be as effective at removing heavy product buildup or styling residue
Some users may find the scent to be overpowering or unpleasant

Not specifically formulated to address brassiness or yellow tones in gray hair

My Experience: I was impressed with the Bumble and bumble Scalp Detox Charcoal Shampoo from the first use. The charcoal-infused formula really does help to deeply cleanse and purify my gray hair, leaving it feeling soft and looking healthy. I appreciate the gentle, non-stripping formula and the fact that it’s suitable for daily use. While it may not be the most effective at removing heavy product buildup, it’s a great option for those who want to purify and cleanse their gray hair.

6. Joico Vero K-Pak Shampoo: Hydrating Gray Hair for Unbeatable Shine and Softness

About Joico Vero K-Pak Shampoo

Joico Vero K-Pak Shampoo is a hydrating formula designed to nourish and moisturize gray hair. This shampoo is part of the Vero K-Pak line, which is known for its ability to repair and restore damaged hair.

Features:

Hydrating formula that deeply nourishes and moisturizes gray hair

Gentle, sulfate-free formula that won’t strip hair of its natural oils
Antioxidant-rich formula helps to protect hair from environmental stressors and damage
Suitable for gray, white, and silver hair

Can be used daily or as needed

Pros:

Deeply hydrates and moisturizes gray hair, leaving it feeling soft and looking healthy

Gentle, non-stripping formula that won’t dry out hair
Antioxidant-rich formula helps to protect hair from damage and breakage
Suitable for daily use, making it a great option for those with gray hair that needs regular hydration

Affordable price point compared to other high-end shampoos on the market

Cons:

May not be as effective at removing heavy product buildup or styling residue

Some users may find the scent to be overpowering or unpleasant
Not specifically formulated to address brassiness or yellow tones in gray hair

My Experience: I was impressed with the Joico Vero K-Pak Shampoo from the first use. The hydrating formula really does help to nourish and moisturize my gray hair, leaving it feeling soft and looking healthy. I appreciate the gentle, non-stripping formula and the fact that it’s suitable for daily use. While it may not be the most effective at removing heavy product buildup, it’s a great option for those who want to hydrate and moisturize their gray hair.

7. Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Intensely Nourishing Shampoo: Taming Frizz in Gray Hair

About Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Intensely Nourishing Shampoo

Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Intensely Nourishing Shampoo is a hydrating formula designed to tame frizz and add shine to gray hair. This shampoo is part of the Sleek & Shine line, which is known for its ability to smooth and nourish hair.

Features:

Intensely nourishing formula that hydrates and smooths gray hair
Contains argan oil and camellia oil to deeply moisturize and protect hair
Gentle, sulfate-free formula that won’t strip hair of its natural oils

Suitable for gray, white, and silver hair
Can be used daily or as needed

Pros:

Deeply hydrates and nourishes gray hair, leaving it feeling soft and looking healthy
Helps to tame frizz and add shine to gray hair
Gentle, non-stripping formula that won’t dry out hair

Suitable for daily use, making it a great option for those with gray hair that needs regular hydration
Affordable price point compared to other high-end shampoos on the market

Cons:

May not be as effective at removing heavy product buildup or styling residue
Some users may find the scent to be overpowering or unpleasant
Not specifically formulated to address brassiness or yellow tones in gray hair

My Experience: I was impressed with the Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Intensely Nourishing Shampoo from the first use. The formula really does help to hydrate and smooth my gray hair, leaving it feeling soft and looking healthy. I appreciate the gentle, non-stripping formula and the fact that it’s suitable for daily use. While it may not be the most effective at removing heavy product buildup, it’s a great option for those who want to tame frizz and add shine to their gray hair.

8. Paul Mitchell Neuro Unscented Shampoo: Gentle, Effective Care for Gray Hair with a Healthy Shine

About Paul Mitchell Neuro Unscented Shampoo

Paul Mitchell Neuro Unscented Shampoo is a gentle, effective formula designed to care for gray hair. This shampoo is part of the Neuro line, which is known for its ability to nourish and protect hair.

Features:

Gentle, sulfate-free formula that won’t strip hair of its natural oils
Contains antioxidants and plant extracts to nourish and protect hair
Unscented formula that’s gentle on the scalp and hair
Suitable for gray, white, and silver hair
Can be used daily or as needed

Pros:

Gentle, non-stripping formula that won’t dry out hair
Nourishes and protects hair with antioxidants and plant extracts
Unscented formula that’s gentle on the scalp and hair
Suitable for daily use, making it a great option for those with gray hair that needs regular care
Affordable price point compared to other high-end shampoos on the market

Cons:

May not be as effective at removing heavy product buildup or styling residue
Some users may find the formula to be too gentle and not effective enough
Not specifically formulated to address brassiness or yellow tones in gray hair

My Experience: I was impressed with the Paul Mitchell Neuro Unscented Shampoo from the first use. The formula is gentle and non-stripping, and it really does help to nourish and protect my gray hair. I appreciate the unscented formula and the fact that it’s suitable for daily use. While it may not be the most effective at removing heavy product buildup, it’s a great option for those who want a gentle, effective shampoo for their gray hair.

Conclusion

After reviewing the 8 best shampoos for gray hair, it’s clear that each product has its own unique strengths and weaknesses. However, if I had to choose one shampoo that stands out from the rest, it would be the L’Oréal Paris EverPure Repair & Protect Shampoo. This shampoo is a great all-around option that provides gentle, non-stripping cleansing while also repairing and protecting gray hair.

That being said, the best shampoo for gray hair will ultimately depend on individual preferences and hair types. If you’re looking for a shampoo that specifically addresses brassiness or yellow tones, the Joico Vero K-Pak Shampoo may be a better option. If you’re looking for a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo that’s suitable for daily use, the Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Intensely Nourishing Shampoo may be the way to go.

FAQs

Q: What is the best shampoo for gray hair?

A: The best shampoo for gray hair will depend on individual preferences and hair types. However, the L’Oréal Paris EverPure Repair & Protect Shampoo is a great all-around option that provides gentle, non-stripping cleansing while also repairing and protecting gray hair.

Q: How do I choose the right shampoo for my gray hair?

A: When choosing a shampoo for gray hair, consider your hair type, desired level of moisture, and any specific concerns you may have (such as brassiness or yellow tones). Look for shampoos that are specifically formulated for gray hair and contain ingredients that address your specific concerns.

Q: Can I use a regular shampoo on my gray hair?

A: While it’s technically possible to use a regular shampoo on gray hair, it’s not recommended. Gray hair has unique needs that require specialized care. Using a regular shampoo on gray hair can lead to dryness, brittleness, and other damage.

Q: How often should I wash my gray hair?

A: The frequency of washing gray hair will depend on individual hair types and lifestyles. However, as a general rule, it’s recommended to wash gray hair 2-3 times per week to maintain moisture and prevent dryness.

Q: Can I use a shampoo for colored hair on my gray hair?

A: While shampoos for colored hair can be used on gray hair, they may not be the best option. Gray hair has unique needs that require specialized care. Using a shampoo specifically formulated for gray hair can help to address specific concerns such as dryness, brittleness, and brassiness.