If you’ve ever had a fringe (or “bangs,” as some like to call it), you’ll know one thing: it has a mind of its own. A perfectly styled fringe in the morning can turn greasy, flat, or frizzy by mid-day. That’s where the right shampoo and conditioner can make all the difference.
In this guide, I’ll share my top recommendations for shampoos and conditioners that help keep fringes fresh and bouncy, along with tips I’ve picked up over the years (after having gone through more fringe fails than I’d like to admit).
Why Does Your Fringe Get Greasy So Quickly?
Fringes usually get oily faster than the rest of your hair. Why? Because they sit right on your forehead, soaking up natural oils from your skin. Combine that with makeup, sweat, and pollution, and your fringe ends up being the first part of your hair that looks flat and greasy.
What Should You Look for in a Shampoo for Your Fringe?
Lightweight, clarifying, and non-stripping formulas are key. A heavy shampoo can weigh your fringe down, while one that’s too strong can make it dry and frizzy. Look for:
- Sulfate-free clarifying shampoos (gentle but effective)
- Oil-control or balancing shampoos if you’ve got an oily scalp
- Volumizing shampoos to prevent your fringe from lying flat
- Hydrating shampoos if your hair tends to look dry at the ends
Best Shampoos for Keeping Your Fringe Fresh
Here are my go-to shampoos that actually work for fringes (tested personally and recommended by hairstylists too).
1. Klorane Dry Shampoo with Oat Milk
Okay, technically not a “regular shampoo,” but hear me out. If your fringe only gets greasy, sometimes a spritz of dry shampoo in between washes can keep it looking freshly styled. Klorane’s formula doesn’t leave that chalky white residue.
2. Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Shampoo
A lightweight shampoo that balances oil without stripping. My fringe feels light and fluffy after using it.
3. Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal + Coconut Oil Shampoo
Perfect if your fringe gets weighed down by buildup. The charcoal detoxes your scalp while still being gentle.
4. L’Oréal Paris Ever Fresh Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
If you’re dealing with flakiness around your fringe, this one’s affordable and effective.
5. OUAI Detox Shampoo
This is like a reset button for your hair. I use it once a week to keep my fringe clean and free from styling-product buildup.
What About Conditioners?
Conditioner can be tricky with fringes. Too much, and your bangs look greasy within hours. Too little, and they frizz up. The trick is to condition only the mid-lengths and ends of your hair, keeping conditioner away from the roots and fringe.
Best Conditioners for Fringes
1. Davines DEDE Conditioner
Lightweight and hydrating. Doesn’t leave a residue, which is key for fringes.
2. Aveda Rosemary Mint Weightless Conditioner
Gives just enough hydration while keeping hair bouncy.
3. Olaplex No. 5 Bond Maintenance Conditioner
Great if your fringe has been through heat styling or coloring. A little goes a long way.
4. Herbal Essences Bio:Renew White Grapefruit & Mosa Mint Conditioner
Budget-friendly, light, and smells amazing.
5. Pureology Hydrate Sheer Conditioner
A silicone-free formula that hydrates without heaviness.
How Often Should You Wash Your Fringe?
Every 1–2 days works for most people. The truth is, fringes don’t last long without looking oily. But here’s a trick I learned: if you don’t want to wash your whole head, just shampoo your fringe in the sink. It takes 2 minutes and makes a world of difference.
Do You Need Different Products for a Fringe Than the Rest of Your Hair?
Not necessarily, but choosing lighter formulas helps. Heavy moisturizing shampoos or conditioners might be great for your ends but terrible for your fringe. That’s why I usually keep a lightweight shampoo just for my fringe and use a richer one for the rest of my hair.
Personal Tips That Actually Work
- Mini washes: Some mornings, I only wash my fringe and pull the rest of my hair into a ponytail. Quick and effective.
- Blow-dry trick: After washing, I blow-dry my fringe side-to-side to avoid cowlicks.
- Dry shampoo layering: Instead of waiting until my fringe looks greasy, I use dry shampoo right after styling—it acts as a preventative.
- Blotting paper hack: If you’re on the go, facial blotting papers work on fringes too (yes, really).
Suggested Image Prompts
- Before & After Fringe Wash → “A split-screen image showing a greasy fringe vs. freshly washed and styled fringe.”
- Best Products Flat Lay → “A flat lay of shampoos and conditioners recommended for fringes on a bathroom counter.”
- Quick Sink Wash Hack → “A woman washing only her fringe in the sink with tied-back hair.”
- Styling Routine → “Step-by-step collage of blow-drying a fringe side-to-side.”
- Dry Shampoo Use → “Close-up of someone spraying dry shampoo only on their bangs.”
FAQs
What type of shampoo is best for a fringe?
A lightweight, clarifying shampoo that balances oil without stripping is best for a fringe. Avoid heavy moisturizing shampoos near the forehead.
Should I condition my fringe?
You don’t need to apply conditioner directly to your fringe. Instead, condition only the mid-lengths and ends of your hair to avoid greasiness.
How can I stop my fringe from getting greasy so quickly?
Wash every 1–2 days, use dry shampoo, and avoid touching your fringe too much. Blotting papers can also help absorb excess oil.
Can I just wash my fringe without washing my whole head?
Yes! A quick fringe wash in the sink is a great hack when you’re short on time.
What’s the best way to style a fresh fringe?
Blow-dry it side-to-side after washing. This prevents it from separating or sticking to your forehead.
Final Thoughts
A fringe can completely change your look—but it also comes with maintenance. The right shampoo and conditioner keep it looking fresh, lightweight, and stylish instead of greasy or flat. If you experiment with lighter formulas and adopt quick fixes like sink-washing or dry shampooing, your fringe will look salon-fresh every day.
