Many consumers hold the persistent belief that drugstore beauty products are inherently inferior to their luxury counterparts, especially when it comes to hair care. However, this assumption is increasingly being challenged by industry experts who point to scientific advancements and ingredient transparency. Giovanni Vaccaro, a New York City-based hair expert and co-founder of Glamsquad, asserts that the efficacy of hair care products is determined by formulation and active ingredients, not merely by price tags.
Debunking Common Myths About Drugstore Hair Care
Vaccaro emphasizes that numerous drugstore brands incorporate the same high-quality active ingredients found in professional salon products. For instance, ceramides for strengthening hair, glycerin for moisture retention, and protective polymers for styling are commonly featured across both budget-friendly and premium lines. He argues that dismissing an entire aisle of products based on outdated assumptions about harsh chemicals is a mistake, as many drugstore options now offer sulfate-free, paraben-free, and silicone-free formulations.
"There are drugstore products today formulated without sulfates, parabens, or silicones for those who prefer gentler formulas," Vaccaro told HuffPost. "Ingredient safety and performance vary across all price points, and missing out on effective options due to preconceived notions means overlooking significant value."
Why Salon-Worthy Results Are Accessible at Home
Achieving professional-grade hair at home, according to Vaccaro, hinges more on selecting the right product for your specific hair type and using it correctly than on spending exorbitant amounts. He notes that drugstore brands have made substantial strides in formulation science over the past decade, making high-performance products more accessible than ever. This shift allows consumers to enjoy salon-worthy results without breaking the bank.
Top Drugstore Hair Product Recommendations from Experts
Below, Vaccaro and other hair professionals share their picks for the best drugstore hair products that rival salon brands. These recommendations cater to various needs, from curl care to scalp health, proving that expensive does not always mean better.
1. Native Curl Care Shampoo and Conditioner
Louise Rusk, a master colorist and founder of Jes + Lou Beauty, praises Native for its clean, all-natural ingredients and absence of silicones. "As a stylist and colorist, silicones are one of the worst things we can put in a shampoo formula. The molecules build up on the hair and scalp," Rusk explained. This set, specifically designed for curly hair, boasts nearly 11,000 ratings on Amazon with 4.5 stars, aiming to define and nourish curls without weighing them down.
2. L'Oréal Ever Pure Volumizing Shampoo and Conditioner
Tylor Johnson, a colorist and founder of Nous Haircare, recommends the L'Oréal Ever Pure line as a top choice for color-treated hair. "I tell anyone who wants to go the drugstore route to go for this line, as it has quality ingredients and is sulfate-free, so it will not strip your hair color!" she said. Infused with lotus flower extract, this formula restores volume to flat, lifeless hair, making it ideal for thin tresses.
3. Kristen Ess Signature Shampoo and Conditioner
Vaccaro personally endorses the Kristen Ess Signature set, noting its balanced cleansing and hydration suitable for most hair types. "I love the way the hair feels after using this shampoo and conditioner," he remarked. Free from sulfates and phthalates, this beautifully scented duo strengthens hair, smooths texture, and supports styling without fading color-treated hair.
4. Shea Moisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Hair Mask
For deep conditioning, Vaccaro highlights the Shea Moisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil mask. "This deep conditioning mask stands out in the drugstore space for seriously strengthening and restoring moisture," he said. Ideal for dry, damaged, or chemically stressed hair, this paraben-free blend includes shea butter, castor oil, and apple cider vinegar to promote shine and reduce buildup.
5. OGX Renewing Argan Oil of Morocco Hair Oil
To combat frizz and unruly hair, Vaccaro suggests the OGX Argan Oil. "As a stylist, my concern with oils is always, 'will it weigh the hair down?' This lightweight oil is a versatile styling and treatment product," he explained. Infused with water-based silk proteins and pure argan oil, it smooths frizz, boosts shine, and conditions without heaviness.
6. Nexxus Keraphix Conditioner
Stanley Nolan, a cosmetologist at Ogle School Stafford, recommends the Nexxus Keraphix conditioner for damaged hair. It uses keratin proteins and liquid crystal amino acids to reconstruct broken bonds. "[It] works really well on damaged hair and adds strength and smoothness to the hair shaft," she noted.
7. Nexxus Color Assure Shampoo and Conditioner
Professional stylist Kirsten Patterson previously suggested the Nexxus Color Assure line for color-treated hair. This sulfate-free duo features a protein blend to enhance vibrancy and protect hair fibers, earning high ratings for its effectiveness.
8. Aveeno Scalp-Soothing Clarify & Shine Shampoo
Nolan also recommends the Aveeno apple cider vinegar shampoo for all hair types. "It's good for all hair types and deep cleanses the hair without stripping it of its natural oils," she said. This pH-balanced, sulfate-free formula removes buildup and balances oil production.
9. Neutrogena Healthy Scalp Clarify & Shine Shampoo
Vaccaro advises using gentle clarifiers periodically, such as the Neutrogena Healthy Scalp shampoo. Infused with pink grapefruit extract, it uses gentle exfoliants to lift residue and balance oil, keeping hair lightweight and shiny. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Mona Foad endorsed it for oily and dandruff-prone scalps.
10. Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo
For scalp conditions like dandruff or psoriasis, the Neutrogena T/Sal shampoo uses salicylic acid as an exfoliator and anti-inflammatory. This fragrance-free formula soothes irritation and provides long-lasting comfort.
11. It's a 10 Miracle Leave-In Treatment
Vaccaro suggests looking for strengthening ingredients like keratin, while Nolan highlights the importance of heat protection. The It's a 10 leave-in spray combines both, featuring hydrolized keratin to strengthen hair and act as a heat protectant, making it a versatile drugstore staple.
The experts consulted for this story do not necessarily endorse the products listed unless otherwise noted.
