This content is written for informational purposes only. All opinions are my own. This blog may contain affiliate links; if you purchase through my affiliate link, I will receive a commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. View our full disclaimer policy.
Searching for a shampoo with cleaner ingredients can be really discouraging and overwhelming.
Despite popular shampoo brands’ claims of including “cleaner” ingredients, you truly never know if they are telling the truth unless you have an understanding of the ingredients.
This often results in returning to your usual bottle of shampoo.
Luckily, with the Yuka app, you can feel more confident in your shampoo choice. We’ll be taking a closer look at some Yuka approved shampoos, exploring their benefits, and understanding why they’re worth considering for your hair care routine.
| Shampoo | Yuka App Rating |
| Rahua Classic Hair Shampoo | 100/100* |
| Evereden Baby Shampoo and Body Wash | 100/100* |
| Vanicream Shampoo | 93/100* |
| Nécessaire The Shampoo Fragrance-Free | 93/100* |
| The Honest Company 2-in-1 Cleansing Shampoo + Body Wash | 93/100* |
| Acure Ultra Hydrating Shampoo | 72/100* |
| Briogeo Superfoods Mango + Cherry Oil Control & Balancing Shampoo | 72/100* |
What Makes a Shampoo Yuka Approved?
Yuka is a mobile app that rates the ingredients of cosmetics, skincare, and food products including shampoos.
To be considered Yuka approved, a shampoo’s ingredients must meet certain criteria, such as being free of potentially harmful ingredients like sulfates, parabens, and phthalates.
Unfortunately, when it comes to shampoo, these potentially harmful ingredients seem to pop up in a lot of popular brands. That’s why it is becoming more and more important to become aware of the ingredients of the products you are using daily.
We are here to help provide you with a starting point for your research or to help you find your next clean shampoo!
Are Yuka Approved Shampoos Actually Worth It?
Yuka approved shampoos can be a great starting point if you are trying to choose cleaner hair care products and avoid certain ingredients like sulfates, parabens, or synthetic additives. The app makes it easy to quickly scan products and compare options, which is especially helpful if you are just getting into clean beauty.
That said, a high Yuka score does not always mean a shampoo will work better for your hair. From reviewing ingredient lists and testing different formulas, it is important to still find the best shampoo for your hair type, whether you have thick, oily, thin, or color-treated hair.
It is also important to remember that Yuka evaluates ingredients individually, not how they function as a complete product. This can sometimes make certain shampoos seem better or worse than they actually are in real use.
Overall, Yuka approved shampoos are worth trying if you want cleaner ingredients, but the best results come from choosing a formula that fits your specific hair type and routine. Using Yuka as a guide, rather than the final decision, tends to lead to better long-term results.
Disclaimer: Cowgirly Mood is not associated with Yuka or the Yuka App. We have found the Yuka app to be a great way to incorporate cleaner ingredients into your skincare routine. However, it is not always 100% accurate, so if you are ever hesitant about using a Yuka approved product, we highly recommend reaching out to a professional for guidance and doing your own research. The information provided is not intended as professional or medical advice and cannot be guaranteed to be up-to-date or free of errors. New Yuka app updates and product reformulations can also affect rating changes.
The Yuka App ratings on our website were last checked on the date with the asterisk* below the product box. We cannot guarantee that the product has not been reformulated or that the Yuka App has made any updates to its rating scale past that date.
If any product ratings change during our review process, we will try our best to mark the product on our website with what has changed with the product’s ingredients. After 1 month, if the product is still no longer Yuka approved, it will be removed from our website. It is always recommended for you to do your own research as well.
*These products are in no particular order. New products will be added periodically if found during our research.
Yuka App Ratings:
- Excellent: 75-100
- Good: 50-74
- Poor: 26-49
- Bad: 0-25
Check out my full Yuka, the clean beauty app, review.
This plant-powered, color-safe shampoo claims to nourish hair using ingredients sustainably sourced from the Amazon Rainforest.
With Rahua oil, aloe vera, and quinoa as the key ingredients, it's said to leave hair soft, silky, and balanced while providing a light, sulfate-free lather.
Rahua promotes clean beauty and states that every bottle sold helps preserve one acre of the Amazon Rainforest.
Nécessaire The Shampoo Fragrance-Free
Nécessaire The Shampoo is a gentle, fragrance-free formula that claims to cleanse without disrupting your scalp’s natural balance.
It’s made with hyaluronic acid, vitamins B3 and B5, and 10% aloe vera, which are said to hydrate, strengthen, and protect hair from environmental stressors.
The formula is free from sulfates, parabens, silicones, phthalates, and synthetic fragrance.
It’s also hypoallergenic, dermatologist-tested, and claims to be safe for all hair types, including color-treated.
Gentle pH-balanced shampoo with a mild formula that claims to work great for all hair types including sensitive scalps. It is fragrance-free and does not include any parabens.
A non-toxic, fragrance-Free, plant-based, and organic ingredients formulated shampoo and body wash.
Always check with a professional before using products, especially on babies and children.
The Honest Company 2-in-1 Cleansing Shampoo + Body Wash
A 2-in-1 cleansing shampoo and body wash that is fragrance-free and formulated with naturally derived ingredients. It is also tear-free and hypoallergenic.
Acure Ultra Hydrating Shampoo
If you're looking for a more budget-friendly hydrating shampoo, Acure Ultra Hydrating Shampoo is a great option. It claims to deeply nourish dry, damaged hair while helping reduce frizz, boost shine, and improve elasticity.
It’s also said to promote healthy hair growth, thanks to key ingredients like organic argan oil and pumpkin seed oil.
This shampoo is certified cruelty-free and vegan, and it’s free from sulfates, parabens, and phthalates.
Argan oil is known for moisturizing and protecting hair, while pumpkin seed oil delivers essential fatty acids and antioxidants to nourish and strengthen.
Briogeo Superfoods Mango + Cherry Oil Control & Balancing Shampoo
Briogeo Superfoods Mango + Cherry Oil Control & Balancing Shampoo is designed to cleanse and balance oily hair using papaya enzymes. The shampoo contains more 93% natural ingredients such as mango and cherry extracts that help to control excess oil production while soothing the scalp. It is also formulated with biotin, which helps strengthen hair and prevent breakage. In addition to its oil-control and strengthening properties, it is also free from sulfates, silicones, and parabens, making it a great choice for those who prefer more natural and clean beauty products. The formula claims to be gentle and non-stripping, leaving hair feeling clean, refreshed, and balanced.
Overall, Briogeo Superfoods Mango + Cherry Oil Control & Balancing Shampoo is a great choice if you tend to have oily hair. With its natural ingredients and sulfate-free formula, it claims to be a safe and effective option for all hair types.
Frequently Asked Questions About Yuka Approved Shampoos
What shampoo has a 100 out of 100 Yuka score?
Some shampoos receive a 100 out of 100 Yuka score because they contain a very small number of ingredients and no additives flagged by the app. In many cases, these formulas are simple and focus on basic cleansing. From reviewing ingredient lists, I have found that a perfect score does not always mean better performance, especially for dry or damaged hair. A 100 rating is helpful, but it should not be the only factor when choosing a shampoo.
Are Yuka approved shampoos actually better for your hair?
Yuka approved shampoos can be a good option if you are trying to avoid ingredients like sulfates or parabens. However, in my experience testing clean beauty products, a higher Yuka score does not always lead to better results. Some formulas with slightly lower scores perform better depending on hair type and scalp condition. The best shampoo is one that balances clean ingredients with how your hair actually responds.
Is the Yuka app reliable for evaluating shampoo?
The Yuka app is a helpful tool for quickly scanning ingredients and identifying potential concerns. However, it does not evaluate how ingredients work together in a full formula. From what I have seen, this can sometimes make certain shampoos seem worse or better than they actually are. It is best to use Yuka as a guide alongside real-world performance and reviews.
What ingredients does Yuka flag in shampoo?
Yuka commonly flags ingredients such as sulfates, parabens, silicones, and certain preservatives based on potential health concerns. These ratings are based on individual ingredient data rather than the full formulation. In practice, some of these ingredients are still considered safe in regulated amounts. This means a lower score does not automatically make a shampoo harmful.
Be careful, Yuka only marks artifical “fragrance” as low risk ingredients, so if you are trying to stay away from fragrance ingredient, double check the Yuka app rating before deciding.
Are sulfate-free shampoos better for your hair?
Sulfate-free shampoos are often gentler and can help maintain moisture, especially for dry, curly, or color-treated hair. However, they do not always cleanse as deeply as traditional shampoos. In my experience, people with oily hair may find sulfate-free formulas less effective over time. The right choice depends on your hair type and how often you wash.
Can clean shampoos cause buildup?
Yes, some clean shampoos can lead to buildup, especially if they use milder cleansing agents. This can leave hair feeling heavy or less clean after multiple washes. From testing different formulas, I have found that rotating in a clarifying shampoo occasionally can help prevent this. Even clean products need balance to maintain healthy hair.
What is the best Yuka approved shampoo for dry hair?
The best Yuka approved shampoos for dry hair typically include hydrating ingredients like aloe, glycerin, or natural oils. These help restore moisture without stripping the hair. In my experience reviewing products, formulas focused on hydration tend to perform better than ultra-minimal ingredient shampoos. Choosing based on moisture needs is more important than just the Yuka score.
What is the best Yuka approved shampoo for oily hair?
For oily hair, the best Yuka approved shampoos are lightweight and able to cleanse effectively without over-drying the scalp. Look for formulas that balance oil rather than completely strip it. From what I have seen, some clean shampoos are too gentle for oily hair types. A slightly stronger formula often gives better long-term results.
Are Yuka approved shampoos safe for color-treated hair?
Many Yuka approved shampoos are sulfate-free, which can help preserve hair color and reduce fading. However, not all clean shampoos are specifically formulated for color-treated hair. In my experience, it is still important to look for labels that mention color safety. A high Yuka score alone does not guarantee color protection.
Why do some Yuka approved shampoos not work for me?
Even with a high Yuka score, a shampoo may not work well for your specific hair type or routine. Factors like water quality, scalp condition, and product buildup all play a role. From testing different options, I have found that results can vary widely from person to person. The best approach is to use Yuka as a starting point, not a final decision.
Find Your Next Clean Shampoo
I hope that this list of clean shampoos will be helpful in your journey towards a healthier and more conscious hair care routine.
If you are interested in more of our Yuka approved products series, check out these other blogs:
This content is written for informational purposes only. All opinions are my own. This blog may contain affiliate links; if you purchase through my affiliate link, I will receive a commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. View our full disclaimer policy.
Searching for a shampoo with cleaner ingredients can be really discouraging and overwhelming.
Despite popular shampoo brands’ claims of including “cleaner” ingredients, you truly never know if they are telling the truth unless you have an understanding of the ingredients.
This often results in returning to your usual bottle of shampoo.
Luckily, with the Yuka app, you can feel more confident in your shampoo choice. We’ll be taking a closer look at some Yuka approved shampoos, exploring their benefits, and understanding why they’re worth considering for your hair care routine.
| Shampoo | Yuka App Rating |
| Rahua Classic Hair Shampoo | 100/100* |
| Evereden Baby Shampoo and Body Wash | 100/100* |
| Vanicream Shampoo | 93/100* |
| Nécessaire The Shampoo Fragrance-Free | 93/100* |
| The Honest Company 2-in-1 Cleansing Shampoo + Body Wash | 93/100* |
| Acure Ultra Hydrating Shampoo | 72/100* |
| Briogeo Superfoods Mango + Cherry Oil Control & Balancing Shampoo | 72/100* |
What Makes a Shampoo Yuka Approved?
Yuka is a mobile app that rates the ingredients of cosmetics, skincare, and food products including shampoos.
To be considered Yuka approved, a shampoo’s ingredients must meet certain criteria, such as being free of potentially harmful ingredients like sulfates, parabens, and phthalates.
Unfortunately, when it comes to shampoo, these potentially harmful ingredients seem to pop up in a lot of popular brands. That’s why it is becoming more and more important to become aware of the ingredients of the products you are using daily.
We are here to help provide you with a starting point for your research or to help you find your next clean shampoo!
Are Yuka Approved Shampoos Actually Worth It?
Yuka approved shampoos can be a great starting point if you are trying to choose cleaner hair care products and avoid certain ingredients like sulfates, parabens, or synthetic additives. The app makes it easy to quickly scan products and compare options, which is especially helpful if you are just getting into clean beauty.
That said, a high Yuka score does not always mean a shampoo will work better for your hair. From reviewing ingredient lists and testing different formulas, it is important to still find the best shampoo for your hair type, whether you have thick, oily, thin, or color-treated hair.
It is also important to remember that Yuka evaluates ingredients individually, not how they function as a complete product. This can sometimes make certain shampoos seem better or worse than they actually are in real use.
Overall, Yuka approved shampoos are worth trying if you want cleaner ingredients, but the best results come from choosing a formula that fits your specific hair type and routine. Using Yuka as a guide, rather than the final decision, tends to lead to better long-term results.
Disclaimer: Cowgirly Mood is not associated with Yuka or the Yuka App. We have found the Yuka app to be a great way to incorporate cleaner ingredients into your skincare routine. However, it is not always 100% accurate, so if you are ever hesitant about using a Yuka approved product, we highly recommend reaching out to a professional for guidance and doing your own research. The information provided is not intended as professional or medical advice and cannot be guaranteed to be up-to-date or free of errors. New Yuka app updates and product reformulations can also affect rating changes.
The Yuka App ratings on our website were last checked on the date with the asterisk* below the product box. We cannot guarantee that the product has not been reformulated or that the Yuka App has made any updates to its rating scale past that date.
If any product ratings change during our review process, we will try our best to mark the product on our website with what has changed with the product’s ingredients. After 1 month, if the product is still no longer Yuka approved, it will be removed from our website. It is always recommended for you to do your own research as well.
*These products are in no particular order. New products will be added periodically if found during our research.
Yuka App Ratings:
- Excellent: 75-100
- Good: 50-74
- Poor: 26-49
- Bad: 0-25
Check out my full Yuka, the clean beauty app, review.
This plant-powered, color-safe shampoo claims to nourish hair using ingredients sustainably sourced from the Amazon Rainforest.
With Rahua oil, aloe vera, and quinoa as the key ingredients, it's said to leave hair soft, silky, and balanced while providing a light, sulfate-free lather.
Rahua promotes clean beauty and states that every bottle sold helps preserve one acre of the Amazon Rainforest.
Nécessaire The Shampoo Fragrance-Free
Nécessaire The Shampoo is a gentle, fragrance-free formula that claims to cleanse without disrupting your scalp’s natural balance.
It’s made with hyaluronic acid, vitamins B3 and B5, and 10% aloe vera, which are said to hydrate, strengthen, and protect hair from environmental stressors.
The formula is free from sulfates, parabens, silicones, phthalates, and synthetic fragrance.
It’s also hypoallergenic, dermatologist-tested, and claims to be safe for all hair types, including color-treated.
Gentle pH-balanced shampoo with a mild formula that claims to work great for all hair types including sensitive scalps. It is fragrance-free and does not include any parabens.
A non-toxic, fragrance-Free, plant-based, and organic ingredients formulated shampoo and body wash.
Always check with a professional before using products, especially on babies and children.
The Honest Company 2-in-1 Cleansing Shampoo + Body Wash
A 2-in-1 cleansing shampoo and body wash that is fragrance-free and formulated with naturally derived ingredients. It is also tear-free and hypoallergenic.
Acure Ultra Hydrating Shampoo
If you're looking for a more budget-friendly hydrating shampoo, Acure Ultra Hydrating Shampoo is a great option. It claims to deeply nourish dry, damaged hair while helping reduce frizz, boost shine, and improve elasticity.
It’s also said to promote healthy hair growth, thanks to key ingredients like organic argan oil and pumpkin seed oil.
This shampoo is certified cruelty-free and vegan, and it’s free from sulfates, parabens, and phthalates.
Argan oil is known for moisturizing and protecting hair, while pumpkin seed oil delivers essential fatty acids and antioxidants to nourish and strengthen.
Briogeo Superfoods Mango + Cherry Oil Control & Balancing Shampoo
Briogeo Superfoods Mango + Cherry Oil Control & Balancing Shampoo is designed to cleanse and balance oily hair using papaya enzymes. The shampoo contains more 93% natural ingredients such as mango and cherry extracts that help to control excess oil production while soothing the scalp. It is also formulated with biotin, which helps strengthen hair and prevent breakage. In addition to its oil-control and strengthening properties, it is also free from sulfates, silicones, and parabens, making it a great choice for those who prefer more natural and clean beauty products. The formula claims to be gentle and non-stripping, leaving hair feeling clean, refreshed, and balanced.
Overall, Briogeo Superfoods Mango + Cherry Oil Control & Balancing Shampoo is a great choice if you tend to have oily hair. With its natural ingredients and sulfate-free formula, it claims to be a safe and effective option for all hair types.
Frequently Asked Questions About Yuka Approved Shampoos
What shampoo has a 100 out of 100 Yuka score?
Some shampoos receive a 100 out of 100 Yuka score because they contain a very small number of ingredients and no additives flagged by the app. In many cases, these formulas are simple and focus on basic cleansing. From reviewing ingredient lists, I have found that a perfect score does not always mean better performance, especially for dry or damaged hair. A 100 rating is helpful, but it should not be the only factor when choosing a shampoo.
Are Yuka approved shampoos actually better for your hair?
Yuka approved shampoos can be a good option if you are trying to avoid ingredients like sulfates or parabens. However, in my experience testing clean beauty products, a higher Yuka score does not always lead to better results. Some formulas with slightly lower scores perform better depending on hair type and scalp condition. The best shampoo is one that balances clean ingredients with how your hair actually responds.
Is the Yuka app reliable for evaluating shampoo?
The Yuka app is a helpful tool for quickly scanning ingredients and identifying potential concerns. However, it does not evaluate how ingredients work together in a full formula. From what I have seen, this can sometimes make certain shampoos seem worse or better than they actually are. It is best to use Yuka as a guide alongside real-world performance and reviews.
What ingredients does Yuka flag in shampoo?
Yuka commonly flags ingredients such as sulfates, parabens, silicones, and certain preservatives based on potential health concerns. These ratings are based on individual ingredient data rather than the full formulation. In practice, some of these ingredients are still considered safe in regulated amounts. This means a lower score does not automatically make a shampoo harmful.
Be careful, Yuka only marks artifical “fragrance” as low risk ingredients, so if you are trying to stay away from fragrance ingredient, double check the Yuka app rating before deciding.
Are sulfate-free shampoos better for your hair?
Sulfate-free shampoos are often gentler and can help maintain moisture, especially for dry, curly, or color-treated hair. However, they do not always cleanse as deeply as traditional shampoos. In my experience, people with oily hair may find sulfate-free formulas less effective over time. The right choice depends on your hair type and how often you wash.
Can clean shampoos cause buildup?
Yes, some clean shampoos can lead to buildup, especially if they use milder cleansing agents. This can leave hair feeling heavy or less clean after multiple washes. From testing different formulas, I have found that rotating in a clarifying shampoo occasionally can help prevent this. Even clean products need balance to maintain healthy hair.
What is the best Yuka approved shampoo for dry hair?
The best Yuka approved shampoos for dry hair typically include hydrating ingredients like aloe, glycerin, or natural oils. These help restore moisture without stripping the hair. In my experience reviewing products, formulas focused on hydration tend to perform better than ultra-minimal ingredient shampoos. Choosing based on moisture needs is more important than just the Yuka score.
What is the best Yuka approved shampoo for oily hair?
For oily hair, the best Yuka approved shampoos are lightweight and able to cleanse effectively without over-drying the scalp. Look for formulas that balance oil rather than completely strip it. From what I have seen, some clean shampoos are too gentle for oily hair types. A slightly stronger formula often gives better long-term results.
Are Yuka approved shampoos safe for color-treated hair?
Many Yuka approved shampoos are sulfate-free, which can help preserve hair color and reduce fading. However, not all clean shampoos are specifically formulated for color-treated hair. In my experience, it is still important to look for labels that mention color safety. A high Yuka score alone does not guarantee color protection.
Why do some Yuka approved shampoos not work for me?
Even with a high Yuka score, a shampoo may not work well for your specific hair type or routine. Factors like water quality, scalp condition, and product buildup all play a role. From testing different options, I have found that results can vary widely from person to person. The best approach is to use Yuka as a starting point, not a final decision.
Find Your Next Clean Shampoo
I hope that this list of clean shampoos will be helpful in your journey towards a healthier and more conscious hair care routine.
If you are interested in more of our Yuka approved products series, check out these other blogs: