15 Best-smelling Shampoos for Men to Elevate Their Grooming Game

Written by Alvira Dsouza, Hair Expert
Updated on Apr 23, 2024
Best-smelling Shampoo for Men
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Delve into the world of sensory satisfaction with the best-smelling shampoos for men. These products aren't just about delivering a thorough clean to keep your hair and scalp healthy but also soothe your olfactory senses with their aroma. 

Based on our observations, an intoxicating aroma can enhance your daily shower routine, turning a mundane task into an invigorating experience. It's a detail that elevates a standard personal care product into a moment of luxury. 

Whether you prefer a deep, musky scent that's quintessentially masculine or something fresh and vibrant to wake you up in the morning, there's a scented shampoo out there for every preference. Join us as we take a sniff test of some of the best and great-smelling shampoos for men in the market today.

15 Best-smelling Shampoos for Men That Leave a Lasting Impression All Day Long

American Crew's 3-in-1 Tea Tree Shampoo, Conditioner, and Body Wash is an innovative all-in-one grooming solution that efficiently cleanses, conditions, and revitalizes both your hair and skin. Its powerful formula effectively washes away oil, resulting in hair that feels clean, well-conditioned, shiny, and soft while simultaneously leaving your skin feeling smooth, refreshed, and invigorated. 

Ideal for the modern man, it's as simple as applying it to wet skin, rinsing thoroughly, and experiencing the ultimate grooming transformation from a renowned leader in men's styling products. With this product, you can easily simplify your grooming routine.

Key Ingredients: Tea tree leaf oil, salicylic acid, sage leaf extract, and hops flower extract

Pros
  • Effective on hair and scalp
  • Clarifies oily hair
  • Promotes a healthy scalp
  • Great value for the size
  • Pleasing mild scent
  • Leaves hair feeling soft
Cons
  • Inconvenient packaging
  • Best for All Hair Types

    Rocky Mountain Barber Company Men's Shampoo

    Rocky Mountain Barber Company Men's Shampoo
  • Experience the refreshing feel of this best-smelling men’s shampoo, crafted with simple ingredients that ensure the health of your hair. This product does not contain any artificial fragrances; instead, it uses essential oils for a natural, pleasant scent. The shampoo is ideal for daily use and lathers quickly and easily, ensuring thorough cleansing and nourishment. 

    Its unique forest mint scent is a signature blend of peppermint oil, tea tree oil, and eucalyptus oil that gives your hair a clean, refreshing smell. Each batch is made in small quantities, ensuring a fresh shampoo made from the freshest ingredients to provide the best care for your hair and make your hair healthy. 

    Key Ingredients: Eucalyptus oil, peppermint oil, and tea tree oil

    Pros
    • Comfortable on the scalp
    • Leaves hair refreshed
    • Promotes hair health
    • Effective cleaning
    • Lasting comfort
    Cons
    • Small-sized bottle
  • Best Long-lasting Fragrance

    Cremo Bourbon & Oak Barber Grade 2-in-1 Shampoo & Conditioner

    Cremo Bourbon & Oak Barber Grade 2-in-1 Shampoo & Conditioner
  • The Cremo Bourbon & Oak 2-in-1 Shampoo & Conditioner is an exceptional formula designed to cleanse, moisturize, and revitalize your hair in one single step. It adds manageability to your hair while delivering the multi-layered essence of aromatic scents, evolving as you lather to reveal an exciting, olfactory experience. Presented in a stylish, handsome bottle that brings an elegant touch of class to any shower, this premium product offers a sophisticated hair care solution for the modern man.

    Key Ingredients: Water, cocamidopropyl betaine, and citric acid

    Pros
    • Long-lasting scent
    • Beautiful bottle
    • Moisturizes dry hair
    • Deeply cleanses
    • Multi-purpose
    Cons
    • Overpriced
  • Best Cruelty-free

    Every Man Jack 2-in-1 Daily Shampoo + Conditioner

    Every Man Jack 2-in-1 Daily Shampoo + Conditioner
  • This shampoo and conditioner set will make you smell like fresh-cut timber with an enticing blend of sandalwood and amber, further grounded with an earthy undertone of vetiver, mimicking the raw aura of the Pacific Northwest. A single-use promises a thorough clean, hydrating, and strengthening experience, due to the inclusion of naturally derived ingredients such as coconut-derived surfactants, glycerin for intense moisturizing, and wheat protein for strengthening

    With its origins at the base of Mt. Tam, CA, this best-scented shampoo is made in the US and is B Corp Certified. Already trusted by a million men globally, this single-bottle solution saves the need to switch between separate shampoos and conditioners. 

    Key Ingredients: Glycerin and wheat protein

    Pros
    • Amazing scent
    • Vegan
    • Value for money
    • Perfect for daily use
    Cons
    • Might have a burning sensation
  • Best Deep Cleansing

    Paul Mitchell MITCH Heavy Hitter Daily Deep Cleansing Shampoo

    Paul Mitchell MITCH Heavy Hitter Daily Deep Cleansing Shampoo
  • Experience an invigorating and powerful clean with MITCH Heavy Hitter shampoo. This daily deep cleansing shampoo, designed specifically for men, effectively removes dirt and product buildup, while preserving the scalp's natural oils. Ideal for all hair types, Heavy Hitter® leaves hair smelling incredible with its infused energizing citrus agave scent. Indulge in a deep cleanse without compromising on the natural vibrance of your hair. It’s sure to leave you wanting more!

    Key Ingredients: Aqua, sisal extract, panthenol, and glycerin

    Pros
    • Pleasant signature scent
    • Color-safe formula
    • Suitable for oily hair
    • Paraben-free
    • Vegan
    • Gluten-free
    Cons
    • Bottle may leak

    Quick Tip:

    Take a dollop of this shampoo and lather into wet hair. Rinse thoroughly with cool water.

  • Best Lather

    Pete & Pedro Bold & Cowboy Hair Care Daily Shampoo & Conditioner Set

    Pete & Pedro Bold & Cowboy Hair Care Daily Shampoo & Conditioner Set
  • This manly scented hair care set features the Bold Shampoo and Cowboy Conditioner. Bold offers a rich bourbon-scented shampoo for an intense cleanse, complemented by Cowboy, a nourishing Tobacco Cream conditioner for incredible hydration. This set boasts a uniquely masculine scent that caters to all hair types and is perfect for daily use. 

    Both Bold and Cowboy come with key nutrients. Bold contains ivy extract and panthenol for a potent clean, eliminating oil and grime while invigorating dry and dull hair. Meanwhile, Cowboy comes packed with sunflower seed oil, kiwi fruit extract, and keratin to naturally moisturize, protect, and fortify your hair. All this without any parabens, offering a wholesome and healthy experience. 

    Key Ingredients: Rice protein, panthenol, sunflower seed oil, and ivy extract

    Pros
    • Refreshing
    • Gentle cleansing
    • Works well
    • Great for all hair types
    Cons
    • Might not help with dandruff
  • Best Sandalwood Scent

    Every Man Jack Daily Shampoo+Conditioner

    Every Man Jack Daily Shampoo+Conditioner
  • The Every Man Jack Daily Sandalwood Shampoo is designed to deeply cleanse your hair and scalp from excess oil and buildup, offering exceptional performance using only naturally derived ingredients. This strong-smelling shampoo features coconut-derived surfactants that deep clean your hair follicles, lengths, and tips, whilst the inclusion of glycerin soothes and moisturizes. When we used the product, we found that it is topped with a light, refreshing fragrance and is ideal for daily use. It is guaranteed to be free from harmful phthalates, promoting healthy and vibrant hair.

    Key Ingredients: Sodium coco-sulfate, glycerin, and hydrolyzed wheat protein

    Pros
    • Fresh scent
    • Quality assurance
    • Paraben-free
    • Gentle on sensitive scalp
    • Doesn’t contain harsh chemicals
    • Value for money
    Cons
    • Some found the scent unpleasant
  • Best Sulfate-free

    Art of Sport Men’s Shampoo and Conditioner

    Art of Sport Men’s Shampoo and Conditioner
  • Art of Sport Men’s Shampoo and Conditioner features an energizing citrus-inspired scent that offers a refreshing and long-lasting aroma. Designed to make you the hair MVP, this deep-cleansing solution ensures your hair always feels fresh, clean, and ready to take center stage. 

    It's not just about cleansing; it fights dry scalp and revitalizes your hair with a formula specifically created for athletes and active people, keeping your hair feeling clean even after intense training and sweating. Its all-natural composition includes intensely hydrating coconut oil and witch hazel, known for its deep cleansing and strengthening properties. 

    Key Ingredients: Coconut oil and witch hazel

    Pros
    • Cruelty-free
    • Phthalate-free
    • Smells amazing
    • Perfect for excessively sweaty scalp
    • Keeps you refreshed daily
    Cons
    • Doesn’t treat dandruff
  • Most Affordable

    TIGI Bed Head Men Clean Up Shampoo

    TIGI Bed Head Men Clean Up Shampoo
  • TIGI Bed Head Men Clean Up Shampoo in a generous 25.36-ounce package offers a robust cleansing solution for men's hair. It revitalizes both the hair and scalp with its potent ingredients and easy application. By lathering up and massaging it into the scalp, it promotes healthy hair growth, encouraging a rejuvenated appearance. The formula incorporates natural extracts such as sunflower seed and lemongrass, alongside a touch of menthol for a refreshing after-feel. These components collaborate to promote hair health, resulting in stronger, fresher, and more vibrant hair.

    Key Ingredients: Sunflower seed oil, camel grass extracts, and Serenoa fruit extracts

    Pros
    • High quality
    • Pleasant smell
    • Great value
    • Moisturizing
    Cons
    • Difficult to wash off
  • Best Hydrating

    V76 by Vaughn Hydrating Shampoo Formula for Men

    V76 by Vaughn Hydrating Shampoo Formula for Men
  • Designed specifically for men with thick and overworked hair, this good-smelling shampoo is a thirst-quencher, providing essential hydration and comfort to a dry scalp and hair. This formulation boasts of almond butter, known to restore elasticity and hydrate the scalp, sage leaf extract for strengthening the hair and nourishing the scalp, chamomile that soothes scalp irritation and stimulates it, and vitamin E, an antioxidant-rich ingredient that lends strength and luster to the hair. This vegan and cruelty-free shampoo is formulated without the use of parabens, sulfates, mineral oil, petroleum, and gluten, offering a gentle yet effective clean.

    Key Ingredients: Almond butter, sage leaf extracts, chamomile, and vitamin E

    Pros
    • Soothing scent
    • Promotes hair health
    • Effective hydration
    • Invigorates the scalp
    Cons
    • Pricey
  • Floyd's 99 Classic Shampoo

    Floyd's 99 Classic Shampoo
  • Floyd's 99 Classic Shampoo is an efficient solution for a healthy hair care routine, offering 33 ounces of potent product designed to thoroughly clean the hair, removing any unwanted buildup and grime. Not just that, this formula provides optimal moisture to both hair and scalp, maintaining a balanced and vitalized state. This is the perfect shampoo that won’t strip your hair of its natural oils, ensuring softness and luster. Its clean, thoughtful formula is free from harmful additives such as DEA, sulfate, and parabens. Ideal for those with colored hair, Floyd's 99 Classic Shampoo ensures color preservation, allowing you to confidently nourish and cleanse without the fear of color degradation.

    Key Ingredients: Moringa oil, jojoba oil, and vitamin complex

    Pros
    • Pleasant scent
    • Effective cleanliness
    • Refreshing effect
    • Leaves hair clean and fresh
    • Lightweight formula
    Cons
    • Inconvenient packaging
  • Blackwood For Men Hydroblast Moisturizing Shampoo

    Blackwood For Men Hydroblast Moisturizing Shampoo
  • The Blackwood For Men Shampoo is your go-to solution for effective cleansing and scalp repair. With its natural blend of ginger root and aloe vera, it effortlessly rids your hair of buildup and flakes while soothing inflammation for a healthier scalp. Perfect for wavy and curly hair, it's fortified with shea butter and pro-vitamin B5 to deeply hydrate roots, and soften and fortify hair, while providing comprehensive support against split ends, breakage, and hair loss. 

    Infused with botanical boosts from Japan like green tea and clove flower, it balances excess oil, nourishes the scalp, and promotes hair growth, giving your hair a fuller and more voluminous appearance. Moreover, it offers full protection with its potent blend of antioxidants, including vitamin C and arginine, shielding your hair from breakage, color loss, and damage from free radicals, pollutants, and UV rays.

    Key Ingredients: Ginseng, green tea, tsubaki oil, clove flower, ginger root, shea butter, and aloe vera

    Pros
    • Nourishing formula
    • Protects hair against UV rays
    • Pleasant scent
    • Great for dry hair
    • Hydrates the scalp
    • Non-musky fragrance
    Cons
    • The pump doesn’t work
  • Ballsy Goodhead Shampoo

    Ballsy Goodhead Shampoo
  • Ballsy Goodhead shampoo offers top-tier quality hair care, designed to foster thick, strong, and manageable hair that stands the test of time. Enjoy a fresh, invigorating scent that embodies the mature, robust fragrance other men's shampoos strive for. Developed specifically for promoting thickness and strength, this unique formulation also offers moisturizing, cleaning, and protective benefits, giving you smooth, healthy-looking hair. 

    Produced in the USA, this premium nice-smelling shampoo ensures cruelty-free manufacturing and is free from sulfates and parabens. The brand creates products with unique active ingredients designed to keep you feeling fresh, invigorated, and confident, encouraging you to live life out.

    Key Ingredients: Blue-green algae extract, tea tree oil, and green tea

    Pros
    • Pleasant fragrance
    • Talc-free
    • Doesn’t contain aluminum
    • Suitable for thin hair
    Cons
    • None
  • TRIUMPH & DISASTER Shampoo

    TRIUMPH & DISASTER Shampoo
  • This TRIUMPH & DISASTER Shampoo is meticulously formulated to eliminate excess oil and product build-up, optimizing volume and structure, making it perfect for men aiming for damaged hair recovery. Its hydrolyzed keratin-rich formula, blended with argan oil, not only hydrates but also strengthens dry, damaged hair, giving it the much-needed tensile strength and flexibility. Tazman pepper is a vital ingredient, soothing sensitive scalps and hair while its peppermint and mint enhancements deliver a thorough cleanse. 

    Key Ingredients: Hydrolyzed keratin, Tasman pepper, acacia conica, desert date, gypsophila root extract, and argan oil

    Pros
    • Great for sensitive scalps
    • Natural ingredients
    • Hydrating
    • Moisturizing
    • Creamy texture
    Cons
    • None
  • Bossman Hair Shampoo for Men

    Bossman Hair Shampoo for Men
  • Bossman Men’s Shampoo is designed to not just cleanse but care for your hair, delivering freshness and shine to elevate your look. Suitable for all hair types, including dry, damaged, over-processed, and color-treated hair, this shampoo enhances texture, volume, and strength for softer, smoother, and healthier hair.

    Emphasizing natural, quality ingredients, this fresh-smelling shampoo rejects harmful additives like parabens and sulfates and adheres to an animal cruelty-free testing policy. For optimal results, combine with the Bossman Hair Conditioner for truly Boss-level locks. Its aromatic stagecoach scent — a potent mix of rugged leather, sweet tobacco, and aged bourbon — conjures up the charm and elegance of an Old West gentleman, taking your grooming to a whole new level. 

    Key Ingredients: Aloe leaf juice, hydrolyzed keratin, and chamomile extract

    Pros
    • Unisex scent
    • Gentle cleansing
    • Luxurious lather
    • Long-lasting fragrance
    • Hydrating feel
    • Household favorite
    • Versatile gift
    Cons
    • May not be appealing to everyone

    Let’s now understand how to select the best-smelling shampoos for men that hydrate, clean, and leave you feeling refreshed throughout the day.

    How to Choose the Best-smelling Shampoos for Men?

    It can be overwhelming to select a scented shampoo due to the wide array of options available in the market. Not to mention, smell is subjective – what may be pleasant to one person may not be the same for another. Below are a few tips to help you select the best-smelling shampoo for men:

    1. Consider the Fragrance Type

    Not all men prefer the same type of fragrance. Some might like fresh, clean scents like mint or ocean breeze, while others might prefer earthier, musky scents like sandalwood or cedar. Evaluate what fragrance profile suits your taste before making a decision. 

    2. Analyze the Ingredients

    Look for shampoos that contain natural ingredients, such as essential oils. These are likely to give a rich, natural fragrance and are also beneficial for scalp health. Avoid shampoos with harsh chemicals, as they might give off an artificial smell and may even harm your hair in the long run.

    3. Examine the Strength of the Fragrance

    Remember, you're choosing shampoo, not perfume. The fragrance should not be overpowering. It should be pleasant and last through the day, but not strong enough to become a nuisance or overpower any other fragrance you might wear.

    4. Consult Product Reviews

    It’s often helpful to read reviews from other consumers to get a real idea about the fragrance of the shampoo. Look for shampoos that have positive reviews, particularly in regards to their smell.

    5. Do a Sniff Test

    If possible, visit a store and test the fragrance yourself. Online descriptions can give you an idea, but nothing beats your own nose when it comes to choosing a fragrance. Make sure to let the fragrance settle for a moment as the initial burst might not truly represent the base notes.

    How to Properly Use And Maximize Fragrance of the Best-smelling Shampoos for Men?

    Your grooming routine matters and part of that routine includes the shampoo you use. The best-smelling shampoos for men do more than just cleanse your hair. They infuse your locks with an alluring scent that can make a great impression. But, just buying the best fragrance-filled shampoo isn't enough, you need to know how to properly use it to maximize its scent potential. Let's guide you through the process of using these shampoos the right way.

    1. Choose the Right Scent

    Scent preference is subjective, so choosing the right fragrance for you is an essential first step. A man's scent often defines him and subtly communicates his personality, and that should be the same for the shampoo you choose. Fruity, musky, woodsy, or fresh – select the fragrance that matches your personality. If possible, do a sniff test before purchasing or go through customer reviews online.

    2. Proper Application

    Shampooing seems straightforward, but most men tend to use too much product or don’t shampoo long enough to let the scent adhere. Start with a dime-sized amount and add more, if necessary. As you shampoo, the real trick is to massage the product deeply into your scalp. Not only does this cleanse thoroughly but it also gives the scent a chance to absorb into your hair and skin. Rinse your hair thoroughly to get rid of excess product which can sometimes mute the fragrance. 

    3. Rinse And Repeat

    Yes, it’s not just a cliché written on the back of shampoo bottles. This old trick works especially for those who want to make the most out of their scented shampoos. Washing your hair once will cleanse it, but washing it twice will make sure the fragrance stays with you throughout the day.

    4. Extend the Fragrance

    If you want the scent to last longer, complement your shampoo with the same fragrant conditioner and body wash. This won't only layer the fragrance but will also provide a longer-lasting scent. After all, a cohesive smell from head to toe creates a stronger impression. 

    Knowing how to use your shampoo effectively, and combining it with complementary products, can enhance your overall fragrance and personal allure. So choose wisely, use the right amount, and scrub effectively for a shampoo routine that doesn’t just cleanse but also leaves you smelling irresistible all day.

    Conclusion

    Finding the best-smelling shampoo for men can significantly enhance your grooming routine. The right scent can uplift your mood, increase your confidence, and make you feel more attractive. However, the 'best' scent can vary from person to person. It's always recommended to choose a scent that you love and one that suits your personality. Additionally, ensure the shampoo contains nourishing ingredients that are good for your hair's health. Our top recommendations such as American Crew Shampoo, Conditioner & Body Wash for Men, 3-in-1, and Rocky Mountain Barber Company Men's Shampoo are sure to please.

    FAQ's

    Are fragrance notes consistent across all men's shampoos?
    No, fragrance notes vary among different men's shampoos.
    Are there shampoos designed for specific hair types that also offer a pleasant scent?
    Yes, there are shampoos tailored for specific hair types that come with appealing fragrances.
    Can men with sensitive skin safely use fragranced shampoos?
    It depends on the individual, but some men with sensitive skin may prefer fragrance-free shampoos to avoid potential irritation.
    How long does the fragrance of a pleasantly scented shampoo typically last?
    The duration of fragrance varies, but it often lasts throughout the day.
    Can I use a fragranced shampoo in combination with cologne or other grooming products?
    Yes, it's generally fine to use fragranced shampoo along with cologne or other grooming products, but be mindful of potential scent clashes.
    Do natural or organic shampoos have pleasant scents?
    Natural or organic shampoos can have pleasant scents, often derived from botanical ingredients.
    Can the fragrance of a shampoo influence my mood?
    Yes, the fragrance of shampoo can impact mood, as certain scents may evoke feelings of relaxation, invigoration, or other emotional responses.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    When it comes to selecting the perfect hair care product, especially shampoo, trust Alvira, our in-house hair care expert to lead the way. Why?  Her commitment to excellence goes beyond marketing claims; she painstakingly tests and evaluates every ingredient, ensuring that only the finest components make their way into our product suggestions and also hacks to choose one. For this article, she considered parameters like smell, ingredients, and protection claims to round off the best-smelling shampoos for men!

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!

    Author BIO
    reviewer
    Alvira Dsouza
    Hair Expert

    With a keen eye for detail and a passion for hairstyling, Alvira is a certified Hair Expert who brings the latest tre More