The Best Shampoos

Washing Up

Which fragrant cleansers are all they’re soaped up to be? A shampoo review.

By Aja Mangum
Published May 21, 2005

Sisley, $58
Botanical extracts are mild enough to make this suitable for all hair types, and you can wash every day without overdrying. Pro: You need only a dab to work up a lather. Con: A subtle Vicks smell. (At Saks Fifth Avenue.)

Hamadi, $27
Already steep, the cost of this shampoo escalates further when you consider how much it takes to make a lather. Still, hair is shiny and bouncy after one use. (At Sephora stores; sephora.com.)

Kérastase, $24
Contains salicylic acid, an exfoliating agent used to treat acne, which helps make this L’Oréal product good for sensitive scalps and dry hair. Has a rich and creamy lather, too. (At Butterfly Studio, 149 Fifth Ave., nr. 21st St., 2nd fl.; 212-253-2100.)

Lancôme, $16.50
Designed to treat weakened, dull hair. The ceramide hydrates while the natural wax seals damaged ends. Lancôme’s gel-like texture leaves hair feeling light and squeaky-clean. (At Bloomingdale’s.)

Bumble and Bumble, $16
Recommended for chemically treated hair. It doesn’t make locks as shiny as some shampoos, but does leave you needing only a little conditioner for the ends. (At Barneys New York.)

Propoline, $14.50
This Greek shampoo uses honey—the extra wheat protein and vitamin E strengthens hair. After one use, a distinct glow is noticeable. (At C.O. Bigelow Apothecary, 414 Sixth Ave., nr. 9th St.; 212-533-2700.)

Davines Nou Nou, $14
The bottle is so thin, you can almost feel the shampoo texture. Highly moisturizing, it makes frizzy ends disappear. (At Armando Corral Salon, 12 Little W. 12th St., 3rd fl.; 212-206-7712.)

de-luxe, $5.95
The rosemary and mint give your scalp a soothing, tingly feeling, but post-wash detangling is cumbersome. The bottle scores extra chic points. (At Target stores; target.com.)

(Photo: Davies and Starr)

Alberto V05, $2.39
Made with lavender and chamomile, this conditioning shampoo “blooms” in hot water, releasing a fruity fragrance. (At Duane Reade stores; duanereade.com.)