Best Shampoos at Target: Top 5 Picks Reviewed

Ever stare at the shampoo aisle at Target and feel completely overwhelmed? You’re not alone! It feels like there are a million bottles, all promising shiny hair, less frizz, or amazing volume. But how do you know which one will actually work for *your* hair? Picking the wrong shampoo can lead to dry, greasy, or just plain sad hair, and that’s definitely a frustrating problem to solve.

That’s why we’re diving deep into the world of Target shampoos today. We’ll help you cut through the confusion and find the perfect bottle for your hair type and needs. Get ready to say goodbye to guesswork and hello to happy, healthy hair!

Top Target Shampoos Recommendations

No. 1
Aussie Miracle Moist Shampoo: Hydrating & Gentle Cleansing Treatment with Avocado & Jojoba Oil, 26.2 Fl Oz
  • PERFECT FOR all hair types
  • MADE WITH avocado oil
  • MOISTURIZE, CLEAN, AND STRENGTHEN hair in just one wash
  • PARABEN-FREE
  • FRAGRANCE of citrus, florals, and musk
No. 2
Nizoral 2-in-1 Anti Dandruff Shampoo and Conditioner, 14 Fl Oz, 1% Ketoconazole
  • CONTROLS SCALP FUNGUS: Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is different because this shampoo doesn’t just address symptoms; it gets right to the root of dandruff by killing the fungus
  • KETOCONAZOLE 1%: The only over the counter dandruff shampoo with Ketoconazole 1%, a clinically proven, powerful dandruff fighting ingredient
  • 10X MORE EFFECTIVE: The active ingredient in Nizoral is 10X more effective at killing scalp fungus, the primary cause of dandruff, than the active ingredient in the leading dandruff shampoo based on lab testing (not a product to product comparison)
  • PLUS CONDITIONER: Nizoral Shampoo and Conditioner is specially formulated with more conditioning properties to help leave hair soft, smooth, and manageable
  • GENTLE ON HAIR: This color safe dandruff shampoo is gentle enough for color treated, chemically processed, or gray hair, offering a clean fresh scent
No. 3
OGX Repair & Protect Bond Protein Repair Shampoo, Lightweight Hair Wash Cleanses & Targets Damaged Hair for Effective Bond Repair, Formulated without Parabens, 13 fl. oz
  • REPAIR & PROTECT: 13-fluid ounce bottle of OGX Repair & Protect Bond Protein Repair Shampoo formulated with sulfate-free surfactants & Lipi Pro Shield Technology to cleanse & help repair & protect your thirsty, dry, damaged hair
  • BOND REPAIRING COMPLEX: The lightweight hair wash is formulated with OGX's Bond Complex to target damaged areas of hair for effective bonding repair, without the extra weight
  • POWERED BY SCIENCE: Lipi Pro Shield Technology gives 2x more protein & lipid protection* & supports hair's protein & lipid barrier for your heathiest, most resilient hair. It's formulated without sulfated surfactants & parabens
  • HEALTHY HAIR: This bond repairing shampoo helps protect hair from excessive loss of lipids & proteins which creates frizz & breakage
  • ENHANCE YOUR HAIR CARE ROUTINE: To help protect & repair the damaged areas of your hair, combine hair wash with the entire OGX Protein Bond Repair line. First, cleanse & condition, then, apply heat protectant, & treat & style for healthy-looking hair
No. 4
Head & Shoulders Anti-Dandruff Shampoo with 1% Pyrithione Zinc, Classic Clean, Fresh Scent, Daily Use, Moisturizing, Flake Control, Color-Safe, Safe for All Hair Types - Dry, Itchy Scalp, 28.2 Fl Oz
  • FIGHT FLAKES, FEEL FRESH: Effectively fights flakes 7 layers deep while leaving your scalp feeling clean and refreshed. This formula targets and eliminates dandruff at the source, providing lasting scalp health and leaving hair soft and manageable.
  • 72-HOUR DANDRUFF PROTECTION: Enjoy powerful, long-lasting dandruff control for up to 72 hours with regular use.* This advanced formula helps eliminate visible flakes, keeping your scalp healthy and your hair looking its best.
  • TRUSTED BY MILLIONS, PROVEN BY EXPERTS: Trust the leading brand in dandruff protection for effective, long-lasting results and a healthier scalp.`
  • CLASSIC CLEAN FRAGRANCE: Our shampoo features a light, fresh scent leaving your hair smelling clean and refreshed all day.
  • GENTLE & pH BALANCED: Perfect for daily use, this shampoo is designed for all hair types, including color-treated and chemically-treated hair.
No. 5
FYZMTL 1% Ketoconazole Anti-Dandruff Shampoo, Scalp Treatment for Seborrheic Dermatitis & Psoriasis Symptoms, Itchy Scalp Relief & Flakes Control, Hydrating Care for Men & Women
  • 1% Ketoconazole Formula: This advanced shampoo features 1% Ketoconazole, a clinically-proven active ingredient that targets the root cause of persistent flaking. It provides high-performance action to clear scalp build-up and restore a healthy scalp environment.
  • Targeted Symptom Relief: Specially formulated to address the discomfort associated with Seborrheic Dermatitis and Psoriasis. It provides fast-acting relief from intense itching, redness, and scalp irritation, helping you regain confidence with a calm and clear scalp.
  • Gentle & Safe for All Hair Types: Mild and soothing, this shampoo is suitable for sensitive scalps, including those damaged by hair treatments. Use every 3-4 days for 8 weeks to restore a healthy, flake-free scalp.
  • Advanced Flakes Control: Say goodbye to visible flakes. Our potent formula effectively breaks down stubborn scales and prevents the recurrence of dandruff. It thoroughly cleanses the scalp surface without being harsh, ensuring long-lasting freshness and cleanliness.
  • Deep Hydration & Scalp Balance: Unlike traditional medicated shampoos that leave hair dry and brittle, our formula is enriched with professional-grade hydrating agents. It maintains the essential moisture balance of your scalp while leaving your hair soft, manageable, and healthy-looking.
No. 6
Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Dandruff Shampoo, Scalp Build-Up Control, 3% Salicylic Acid,Psoriasis Treatment, Seborrheic Dermatitis Shampoo, Clears Flakes, Fragrance Free, 4.5 fl oz
  • Dandruff shampoo with maximum strength: 3% salicylic acid formula targets stubborn flakes and scalp build-up; prevents dandruff, scalp psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis for visible results after just one use
  • Seborrheic dermatitis shampoo relief: clears crusty build-up and soothes itching, flaking and irritation; therapeutic action continues for hours after rinsing, providing long-lasting comfort for dry, itchy, flaky scalps
  • Clarifying shampoo for build-up: removes scalp residue and helps prevent future flakes; anti-dandruff formula is free of added color, preservatives and fragrance for a gentle, effective cleanse every wash
  • Psoriasis shampoo for multi-condition care: treats symptoms of dandruff, scalp psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis in one formula; dermatologist recommended for targeted relief and scalp health support
  • Dry scalp shampoo and anti-dandruff care: conditioning liquid formula hydrates and relieves dry, itchy scalp; delivers maximum strength flake control and scalp build-up removal
No. 7
Selsun Blue Medicated Antidandruff Shampoo, Maximum Strength Scalp Treatment With Selenium Sulfide, 11 fl. oz.
  • Contains one (1) 11-fluid-ounce bottle of Selsun Blue Medicated Antidandruff Shampoo
  • New cleaner formula designed to leave hair soft and silky
  • Maximum strength antidandruff shampoo without a prescription, made with 1% selenium sulfide
  • Helps prevent and eliminate itching, irritation, flaking, redness, and scaling of the scalp
  • The quick-lather formula deeply cleans your hair; the cooling menthol intensively moisturizes to provide soothing relief for your scalp
No. 8
Wahl USA Dry Skin & Itch Relief Pet Shampoo for Dogs – Oatmeal Formula with Coconut Lime Verbena Scent & Pet Friendly Formula, 24 Oz - Model 820004A
  • Made in the USA - Our oatmeal formula pet shampoo is pH balanced, alcohol free, paraben free, PEG-80 free and is highly recommended for moisturizing dry skin & providing itch relief
  • Oatmeal Formula – This coconut lime verbena scented pet shampoo is great for moisturizing dry skin, cleaning dirty coats, & itch relief. The thick lather rinses off clean & keeps your pet looking and smelling clean
  • Less is More - Wahl has a higher concentrate of a coconut-derived sodding agent, which means you don’t have to use as much product as other dog shampoos. A little shampoo goes a long way and provides a rich lather that’s easy to rinse off
  • Allergy Friendly - Our dog icon, Rocket, was designed in the image of our family dog, Cooper — a goldendoodle who has severe allergies. We've found this shampoo to be safe and effective for him. We love the smell too!
  • The Brand Used By Professionals - Wahl has been serving professional vets and groomers for over 50 years. As a company of animal lovers, we believe your pet deserves the very best.

The Ultimate Buying Guide: Finding Your Perfect Target Shampoo

Choosing the right shampoo from Target can feel like a treasure hunt! With so many options, how do you pick the one that will make your hair happy? This guide will help you navigate the aisles and find your perfect match.

What to Look For: Key Features

When you’re looking at shampoos, keep these important things in mind.

1. Your Hair Type is King!
  • Oily Hair: Look for shampoos that say “clarifying,” “volumizing,” or “oil control.” These help wash away extra grease.
  • Dry Hair: Shampoos with words like “moisturizing,” “hydrating,” or “for dry hair” are your best friends. They add moisture back into your hair.
  • Fine Hair: “Volumizing” or “lightweight” shampoos work well. They won’t weigh your hair down.
  • Thick Hair: You might need something more “smoothing” or “hydrating” to keep it manageable.
  • Color-Treated Hair: “Color-safe” or “sulfate-free” shampoos protect your hair color from fading.
  • Damaged Hair: Shampoos with “repairing,” “strengthening,” or “reconstruction” in the name can help.
2. Ingredients Matter

Some ingredients are great for your hair, while others might not be.

  • Good Stuff:
    • Natural Oils: Like argan oil, coconut oil, or jojoba oil. They add moisture and shine.
    • Proteins: Such as keratin or wheat protein. They help strengthen hair.
    • Vitamins: Like vitamin E or B vitamins. They nourish your scalp and hair.
    • Aloe Vera: Soothes the scalp and adds moisture.
  • Stuff to Watch Out For (Sometimes):
    • Sulfates (like Sodium Lauryl Sulfate/SLS): These make lots of lather but can be drying for some hair types, especially color-treated hair.
    • Parabens: Some people prefer to avoid these.
3. What Makes a Shampoo Great (or Not So Great)
  • Good Quality:
    • Gentle Cleansing: It should clean your hair without stripping it of all its natural oils.
    • Nourishing Ingredients: It contains things that benefit your hair.
    • Pleasant Scent: A smell you enjoy makes washing your hair a nice experience.
    • Good Lather (if you like it): Some people love a foamy wash.
  • Lower Quality:
    • Harsh Chemicals: Ingredients that can damage or dry out your hair.
    • Dries Out Hair: Leaves your hair feeling stiff or straw-like.
    • Doesn’t Rinse Well: Leaves a residue on your hair.
    • Causing Scalp Irritation: Leads to itching or redness.

User Experience and Use Cases

Think about how you want your hair to look and feel after you wash it.

  • Everyday Use: For most people, a gentle, everyday shampoo that cleans without drying is perfect.
  • Special Needs: If you have dandruff, dry scalp, or very oily hair, you’ll want a shampoo designed for that specific problem.
  • Post-Workout: A clarifying shampoo can be great after a sweaty workout to remove buildup.
  • Travel: Smaller, travel-sized bottles are handy for trips.

Target Shampoo FAQs

Here are some common questions people have about shampoos at Target.

Q: What are the main Key Features to look for in a Target shampoo?

A: The main Key Features include understanding your hair type (oily, dry, fine, etc.), checking for beneficial ingredients like natural oils and proteins, and avoiding harsh chemicals like sulfates if your hair is sensitive.

Q: What are important materials or ingredients I should look for in a shampoo?

A: Important ingredients include natural oils (like argan or coconut oil), proteins (like keratin), and vitamins. These help moisturize and strengthen your hair.

Q: What factors can improve the quality of a shampoo?

A: A shampoo’s quality improves with gentle cleansing agents, nourishing ingredients that benefit hair health, and a formula that doesn’t strip hair of its natural moisture.

Q: What factors can reduce the quality of a shampoo?

A: Harsh chemicals, ingredients that overly dry out hair, poor rinsing properties, and formulas that cause scalp irritation can reduce a shampoo’s quality.

Q: What is a good shampoo for oily hair found at Target?

A: Look for shampoos labeled “clarifying,” “volumizing,” or “oil control.” These are designed to remove excess oil without being too harsh.

Q: What is the best type of shampoo for dry or damaged hair at Target?

A: Shampoos that say “moisturizing,” “hydrating,” “repairing,” or “strengthening” are excellent choices for dry or damaged hair.

Q: Are sulfate-free shampoos better?

A: Sulfate-free shampoos are often better for color-treated hair or for people with sensitive scalps because they are gentler and less drying. They still clean effectively.

Q: How often should I wash my hair with a Target shampoo?

A: Most people can wash their hair every other day or a few times a week. Those with very oily hair might need to wash more often, while those with dry hair can wash less.

Q: Can I use a volumizing shampoo if I have thick hair?

A: While volumizing shampoos are great for fine hair, they might not be the best choice for thick hair as they could make it feel even more stiff. Smoothing or hydrating shampoos are often better for thick hair.

Q: What are some common user experiences with Target shampoos?

A: Users often report positive experiences with shampoos that leave their hair feeling clean, soft, and manageable. Negative experiences usually involve shampoos that cause dryness, frizz, or scalp irritation.