Every Drugstore Hair Care Product You Need To Try

Ever been in a chemist (or yes, a drugstore) and wanted to explore the beauty aisles? Of course you have, we’re not necessarily getting hyped to go to the chemist to buy our vitamins, as valuable as they can be. But the hair care world can be completely daunting when you don’t know where to start, especially if you don’t know the category you need to be looking in either.

So, we’ve rounded up everything from hair oils to scrunchies and even blow-dryers to give you the best drugstore hair products.

Best Drugstore Hair Products

SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore Leave-In Conditioner

We say: Is there anything better than a leave-in conditioner? All of the silky softness, none of the shower slip hazard (well and the time factor too). This reparative conditioner softens strands and helps with the mess that is detangling. Its formulation fights off frizz and even increases elasticity for reduced breakage and split ends. And it even has scalp-stimulating peppermint extract to invigorate the experience. 

Want to read more? Read SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore Leave-In Conditioner Reviews here…

$28.88 at iHerb

Goldwell StyleSign Hardliner

We say: Regular styling gels, pomades and sprays no match for your strands but indestructible hold is the look you’re after? Create anything from sleek Sofia Richie-inspired buns to enviable mermaid waves and everything in between. Bonus: FlexPROtec complex means your strands will be protected from UV rays and colour fading. 

Want to read more? Read Goldwell StyleSign Hardliner Reviews here…

$14.99 at Chemist Warehouse

Schwarzkopf got2b Hydrating Beach Waves Spray

We Say: Want to feel like you’ve just stepped out of the ocean, with stunning sea tousled waves? But the sand (and the sun) are all a bit much for the sake of a hair style? Lucky for you, Schwarzkopf has managed to bottle the beachy tousled look. But with added moisture, your strands will be left hydrated (unlike after a real swim), so embrace your waves and curls with this easy spritz. 

You Say: “I love this product so much it helped make my hair curly or wavy and perfect for the beach.” – Emery_Hood02

Want to read more? Read Schwarzkopf got2b Hydrating Beach Waves Spray Reviews here…

$9.99 at Chemist Warehouse

Organic Formulation Sensitive Fragrance Free Shampoo

We Say: If your skin leans toward the sensitive side, finding a shampoo can be totally tricky. So many brands promise gentle formulations but don’t always deliver. Organic Formulation is not one of those. With a commitment to organic natural ingredients, their sensitive formulation is created to ensure your scalp and strands are not only cleansed but also nourished (thanks to sweet almond and jojoba oil). 

Want to read more? Read Organic Formulation Sensitive Fragrance Free Shampoo Reviews here…

$9 at Chemist Warehouse

Organic Formulation Sensitive Fragrance Free Conditioner

We Say: Can’t have a shampoo without the matching conditioner! Much like the sensitive shampoo, the fragrance-free conditioner is created to deeply enrich and moisturise your mane. It’s a nasties-free, vegan formula enriched with organic avocado oil and aloe vera for your most revitalised locks yet. 

Want to read more? Read Organic Formulation Sensitive Fragrance Free Conditioner Reviews here… 

$9 at Chemist Warehouse

Napro Pallete

We Say: Want a permanent hair dye that’s easy to buy but also cares for your hair? Of course you do. And with Napro’s range of colours there will be a shade to suit your strands, cover those greys and touch up your salon style. Formulated with super nourishing lightweight oils (such as marula) that infiltrate the strands (while impressively adding colour to them), this option will ensure your locks come out silky soft and colour-refreshed. 

You Say: “I love using this hair dye. I use the blue black shade every month or so to touch up my roots and give myself a colour refresh. I find that the colour doesn’t fun or fade very much in between dye jobs. It’s very easy to apply myself and the smell doesn’t bother me as much as other dyes do.” – Beccaduncan23

Want to read more? Read Napro Pallette Reviews here… 

$6.99 at Chemist Warehouse

Schwarzkopf Extra Care Keratin Volume Foam

We Say: You know you’re a caffeine addict when it even starts to infiltrate your beauty routine. But with the combination of caffeine and (four times as much) keratin, your strands will be bouncy and volumized. Long-lasting natural waves from an Aussie made foam? It’s a yes from us!

Want to read more? Read Schwarzkopf Extra Care Keratin Volume Foam Reviews here…

$12.99 at Chemist Warehouse

VS Sassoon Frizz Defense AC Salon Dryer

We Say: We’re always on the hunt for a salon-worthy blowout but in the comfort of our own  home. So, let us introduce you to VS Sassoon’s Frizz Defence Dryer. This ion infused blow-dryer allows frizz (and static) to be banished. And that all sounds great right? But where do you find the time for such a laborious task? Lucky for us, this dryer is powered by 2300 watts for that super-fast, high-velocity hair drying we’re all after. Sleeker styles that stay around for longer? Add to cart, immediately.

You Say: “I have very high standards when it comes to hair tools. This hairdryer is every bit as good as more expensive brands. It dries hair at an exceptional rate, helps fight the frizzies and has multiple settings for heat and air strength. It also comes with two sizes of targeted heat attachments and a diffuser for curling. I cannot recommend this hair dryer highly enough- it exceeded all my expectations for the price” – montielil

Want to read more? Read VS Sassoon Frizz Defense AC Salon Dryer Reviews here…$89.99 at Priceline

Lady Jayne Hair Scrunchie

We Say: A scrunchie, you ask, why is that on the list? And while scrunchies are totally that retro throw-back hair accessory everyone has been loving of late, did you know they actually have hair benefits? Yup that’s right! You know when you’ve chucked your hair up in a messy bun and fallen asleep (standard nighttime routine, right?) but you wake up and there’s those annoying kinks left in your otherwise perfect locks. This scrunchie is the perfect combo of ‘loose enough to not leave kinks while keeping your hair up and out of your eyes’. Win win in our eyes and it looks cute while it does it!

You Say: “Whenever I style my hair I use the large black scrunchie to put my hair back when I go to bed at night. Because I worked so hard to make my hair look nice the last thing I want is to wake up with my hair all over the place with frizz and the style all undone. The scrunchie is stretchy and gentle on the hair so it has a firm hold without it being too tight, it doesn’t create kinks or dents in my hair which happens fairly often if the elastic band is too tight. Even during the night the scrunchie stays on perfectly without hair coming out of the band.” – Miss19

Want to read more? Read Lady Jayne Hair Scrunchie Reviews here…

$7.99 at Chemist Warehouse

Urbane Mess Styling Fibre

We Say: This pliable, matte-finish styling fibre not only smells incredible (tropical vacay-coconut vibes) but is able to create a natural hold for your hairstyle. While it may have originally been formulated as a mens product, there’s nothing gendered about this styling fibre. You can use it to slick down flyaways and even as a cheaper alternative for fluffing up your brows. 

You Say: “This smells really nice – like coconut. It leaves my hair shiny and natural looking – not stiff but gives my hair style and hold without looking and feeling like there is any product actually in my hair. Quite a miraculous and unexpected feat! I can even put this in at my roots without them going greasy. It’s easy to use – just apply where you want your hair to feel like it’s got extra hold and style. And wow, a bargain price to buy again too when the first pot runs out but it could be a while because so little is needed each time.” – Clearcyrstalwater 

Want to read more? Read Urbane Mess Styling Fiber Reviews here…

$6.26 at Priceline

Nioxin System 1 Trial Kit

We Say: While it mightn’t be the chicest of topics, hair thinning is definitely an issue many deal with (especially if you’re an avid hair colour-er). The Nioxin System option is designed for natural hair experiencing early stages of thinning (don’t worry there are other hair type options available). This system is formulated to be professional grade, working to remove follicle-clogging oils and build-up while also strengthening your strands to reduce damage. Long story short, a volume inducing wonder-worker. 

Want to read more? Read Nioxin System 1 Trial Kit Reviews here…

$66.99 at Priceline

De Lorenzo Essential Treatments Oil Balance

We Say: This pre-shampoo treatment oil sets out to deeply nourish and replenish dry and damaged hair, creating a natural protective barrier for your hair that will help to improve your hair’s manageability. Formulated with natural ingredients, your hair will be left soft and nourished. 

You Say: “This spray is amazing! I was recommended it by my hairdresser. It replenishes the natural oils in your hair. I spray it in my hair starting from my ends to my mid lengths, then I leave it on overnight. I feel like I will be buying this forever, I haven’t found another product like it. If you have damaged hair this is for you.”

Want to read more? Read De Lorenzo Essential Treatments Oil Balance Reviews here…

$22.99 at Chemist Warehouse

Rodan + Fields Smooth+ Regiment

We Say: While this set isn’t actuuually a drugstore find, we just had to include it. Because, Rodan + Fields have finally released a new hair care line (thank goodness!) and we think it’s a must-try, even for a bit more budget. Our choice is the frizz-reducing, shine-inducing, colour-protecting Smooth+ regiment. With humidity resistance control packed in, you’ve got total peace of mind that your hair isn’t going to end up like Hagrid’s.

Want to read more? Read Rodan + Fields Reviews here…

$166 at Rodan and Fields

Garnier Fructis Hair Food Shampoo Bar – Aloe Vera

We Say: Garnier has entered the environmentally-friendly market with shampoo bars (packaged in recyclable cardboard). These impactful bars replace a 500ml bottle of regular liquid shampoo with the amount of nourishing, hydrating washes it can give you. Not to mention the reduction in plastic bottles! Another added environmental bonus: the vegan formula is created with 94 per cent plant-based origins. 

You Say: “I have curly, thick and dry hair so I was sceptical in the beginning of using a Shampoo bar on my already so knotted hair. But I think this product will be the reason I move onto soap bars for my hair. I could easily get a lot of soap on my hair to scrub it in, and I also use a lot of hair creams and products on my hair so I felt this shampoo bar actually cleansed my hair nicely, my hair would feel so nice and clean after the shower, ready for applying hair cream and oils. Most importantly my hair smells lovely after the shower, it has a beautiful fragrance which I really enjoyed. I also love the fact it’s so good for the environment and it barely took up space on my bathroom shelf.” – Duaa2202

Want to know more? Read Garnier Fructis Hair Food Shampoo Bar – Aloe Vera Reviews here…$

11.69 at Chemist Warehouse

TONI&GUY Hair Care Purple Hair Mask

We Say: Brassy, yellow tones taking over your salon fresh blonde? It’s honestly one of the saddest salon tales told. This purple mask is enriched with violet dye that works to enhance not only blonde hair but also grey and silver strands. The pearl extract-powered formula looks to boost hydration, shine and is even able to extend your salon colour!

You Say: “I have never used a hair mask before, and after using this one I’m so obsessed. Even after the first wash I could tell that it had reversed a lot of damage done to my hair during the dyeing process. I’m a very relaxed type of person so I don’t generally use products on my hair so after dyeing it I was a bit worried about its condition. Enter this superhero of a product and my hair is back to its pre-dyeing condition. I’ve continued to use it and not only does it keep my hair supple and bouncy, it has given my hair that elusive desired natural blonde look I really wanted!” – mustangsachy 

Want to know more? Read Toni & Guy Hair Care Purple Hair Mask Reviews here…

$14.99 at Chemist Warehouse

John Frieda Beach Blonde Ocean Waves Sea-Salt Spray

We Say: Beach waves are such a dreamy hair style. And while playing mermaids in the ocean is fun, the sand and sun, not so much. Fake your beach days with this sea-salt spray. If the intoxicating coconut scent isn’t enough for you to spritz like mad, the matte, piece-y finish and non-drying formula will have you rocking tousled waves on the daily. 

You Say: “Okay so my hair is thick, and boofy. The only time it isn’t even like that is during the summer after I let it dry naturally after I go to the beach. This product literally makes my hair look similar to that, and I’m in looooove! The texture is so nice and the natural waves in my hair actually show because that awful frizz disappears. It’s affordable and easy to use as well.” – adriana99

Want to know more? Read John Frieda Beach Blonde Ocean Waves Sea-Salt Spray Reviews here…

$20.99 at Priceline

Colourless Max Effect

We say: So, you’ve decided to give the latest and greatest hair colour trend a go; the only problem is, it just doesn’t suit you. Instead of paying the big bucks to get it colour-corrected in a salon, simply pick up this colour-stripping, yet still ultra-nourishing treatment. Not only will you say goodbye to that disastrous colour, you’ll be saying hello to soft, supple and nourished strands. If the miracle of removing the colour isn’t enough for you, it even works to remove product build-up!

You say: “I’d tried many hair colour strippers before, most leaving my hair dry and the same colour. This is the first product to actually get my hair back to its natural colour as possible. I went from black hair to a nice darkish brown and I was so surprised how well it worked. A bonus is that it didn’t dry my scalp or ruin my fine hair like almost all the other drugstore ones had done in the past. I highly suggest giving this one a chance, as the product not only worked as it was said to but my hair felt quite nourished after it. This was a total game changer for me.” – PigeonOf

Want to read more? Read Colourless Max Effect Reviews here…

$26.99 at Priceline

Batiste Overnight Deep Cleanse Dry Shampoo

We say: So, we’ve all turned to a can of dry shampoo from time to time when our strands have looked, well, lacking. With a seriously powerful spritz from a can you can quickly turn your tresses from a borderline grease factory, to completely refreshed. But the thing with dry shampoo is that come the end of the day, it always ends up just as greasy (if not worse) than it started. That was until… Batiste released their Overnight Deep Cleanse Dry Shampoo. This can is seriously like a full hair wash routine from just a convenient few spritzes. Spray on at night and set your alarm for good hair day o’clock because the powerful formula works to neutralise the grease and even gives your hair a hit of volume. Big wins all round.

You say: “This stuff is chef’s kiss, I’ve used it several times on my dirty hair days and I just spray it in and leave it until I wake up and my hair looks great! The trick is to spray it into your hair at your roots about 2-3 inches from your head and don’t even touch it, just go to sleep! When you wake up in the morning your hair will look freshly washed. It even adds a little bit of volume at the roots!” -matcha_b0ng

Want to read more? Read Batiste Overnight Deep Cleanse Dry Shampoo Reviews here…

$17.10 at Priceline

Herbal Essences bio:renew Pure Argan & Aloe Hair Oil Blend

We say: If a hair oil is one of those steps that just seems too arduous to add to your hair care routine, we’ve got to introduce you to one that’ll change your mind. Say hello to Herbal Essences bio:renew Pure Argan & Aloe Hair Oil Blend, a nourishing dual-blend of oil that melds the worlds of healthy hair and natural ingredients. The vegan formula comes housed in a recyclable bottle and teams the powerful (hydrating) antioxidant properties of argan oil with the nourishing (vitamin-infused) properties found in strand-smoothing aloe vera. Simply spritz away and enjoy the shining shimmer that comes next.

Want to read more? Read Herbal Essences bio:renew Pure Argan & Aloe Hair Oil Blend Reviews here…

$19.99 at Chemist Warehouse

Head & Shoulders Supreme Moisture & Smooth Shampoo

We say: When it comes to ridding your scalp of those pesky white flakes, who else are you going to turn to but Head & Shoulders? Not only will this shampoo work to soothe your scalp of the itchy irritants contributing to the issue, but it even aims to add a hit of helping hydration into your strands. The nourishing formula is perfect for dry hair in need of a frizz-fighting hand, all while saying ‘see you later’ to frustrating flakes. 

You say: “This shampoo comes in the usual thick, glossy white consistency of all other Head & Shoulders shampoos. It creates a great lather on application and usually one generous dollop is enough for my thick, shoulder length hair. The fragrance of the shampoo is divine and leaves hair smelling fresh. Most importantly, it helps to reduce my dandruff and also stops my scalp from being itchy or irritated. A really positive side-effect of this shampoo is how it helps to reduce the overall frizziness of my hair.” – Joanna981

Want to read more? Read Head & Shoulders Supreme Moisture & Smooth Shampoo Reviews here… 

$19.99 at Priceline

Scott Cornwall Decolour Stripper

We say: Ever immediately regretted your dye job? We’ve all been there, whether it’s a permanent colour or a washout, you want it gone. And you want it gone now. That’s where this de-colour stripper comes into play. Working with ultra-low levels of peroxide, this safe and gentle pigment-remover ensures that your strands aren’t damaged in the process. And you’re even able to dye it the colour you were actually hoping for immediately after use. 

You say: “I have used this product two times and I have been so impressed by the results, it is the only hair colour remover on the market that I have found that doesn’t leave your hair smelling bad afterward. As per the instructions I washed my hair twice before application (no conditioner). I applied this to my hair as per the instructions and this first thing that I noticed and loved was that there was no smell. After application I wrapped my hair in glad wrap and put a towel over the top. Not sure if this helps but it’s what I have done with other brands in the past. As my hair was a dark brown colour as opposed to my natural light red I left it to develop for 40 minutes. After completing the rest of the process my hair was back to its natural light red colour and was left feeling nice and soft. I will definitely be using this again when required.” – Princess228

Want to read more? Read Scott Cornwall Decolour Stripper Reviews here…

$24.99 at Priceline

Plantur 39 Phyto-Caffeine Tonic 

We say: Are you ready for your strands to sip on a good espresso? Okay, well not quite. Enriched with a phyto-caffeine, active-packed complex, this tonic feeds your strands a revitalising hit of strand-strengthening caffeine. And there’s no need to even wash your hair with this daily tonic! A quick sip and your tresses will be transformed.

Want to read more? Read Plantur 39 Phyto-Caffeine Tonic Reviews here…

$21.95 at Priceline

Main Image Credit: Getty

Do you buy your hair care at a chemist? What’s your best budget hair care pick?