Experts Weigh In on Whether Expensive Shampoos Are Worth the Cost

Dermatologists advise evaluating ingredients, hair type, and entire routine when choosing shampoo and conditioner

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Experts say affordable shampoos and conditioners found in grocery stores and pharmacies can be just as effective as pricier premium brands. They advise consumers to evaluate the ingredients, their own hair and scalp needs, and their entire hair care routine when choosing products, and to consult a dermatologist if they have persistent issues. While expensive shampoos may contain more refined conditioning agents, simpler formulas are often better tolerated by those with sensitive skin.

Why it matters

With the rise of luxury haircare brands and influencer marketing, consumers are often left wondering if they should invest in expensive shampoos and conditioners. This story provides guidance from dermatologists on how to choose the right products for your hair type and needs, without overspending.

The details

Dermatologists say affordable drugstore shampoos and conditioners can perform just as well as premium brands, as long as you focus on the ingredients and your hair's specific needs. They advise avoiding shampoos with sodium lauryl sulfate for damage-prone hair, and washing less frequently. For oily, straight hair, daily washing is fine. Expensive products may have more refined conditioning agents, but simpler formulas are often better for sensitive scalps. Factors like company size and investment in sustainable ingredients also influence price.

  • The article was published on February 25, 2026.

The players

Dr. Crystal Aguh

A dermatologist and director of the Ethnic Skin Program at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine.

Dr. Joe Tung

A dermatologist at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.

Monique Mason

The owner of MOKO Organic Beauty Studio in Philadelphia, which sells organic shampoos and conditioners.

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What they’re saying

“Instead of spending hundreds of dollars thinking, 'If I just find the right shampoo, right conditioner, all of my troubles will go away,' you also have to just look at what your process looks like … because that will often do the trick.”

— Dr. Crystal Aguh, Dermatologist and director of the Ethnic Skin Program at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine (texomashomepage.com)

“Hair itself is biologically inactive once it grows out, but underneath the surface of the skin on the scalp is a full ecosystem with stem cells, immune cells, oil glands, nerve endings. When that ecosystem is balanced, the scalp feels comfortable and hair grows optimally; when it is disrupted, people can experience itching, flaking, excess oil, or hair loss.”

— Dr. Joe Tung, Dermatologist at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (texomashomepage.com)

“I get to know them, whether they're family-owned, how they farm, how they source their ingredients.”

— Monique Mason, Owner of MOKO Organic Beauty Studio (texomashomepage.com)

The takeaway

When choosing shampoo and conditioner, it's important to focus on the specific needs of your hair and scalp, rather than being swayed by expensive branding and marketing. Affordable drugstore products can be just as effective as premium brands, as long as you select formulas with the right ingredients for your hair type and concerns.