Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore Shampoo (384ml) 1. Description

This shampoo is part of the Jamaican Black Castor Oil line from Shea Moisture, specifically designed for hair that has been damaged, chemically treated, relaxed, straightened or heat styled — as well as natural, curly or coily hair types.

Key claims: Sulfate-free cleansing, helps reduce breakage, strengthens brittle hair, removes product build-up, restores shine and resilience.

Core active botanicals: Jamaican black castor oil, fair-trade shea butter, peppermint oil (for scalp stimulation), apple cider vinegar (in some listings) for pH balance.

Positioning: “Whether you’re team natural or team relaxer” — aiming for versatility in textured hair types.

2. Format

Size: 384 ml (approx ~13 fl oz) is widely cited for this version.

Format: Shampoo (liquid) to be used in the shower: apply to wet hair, massage into scalp and hair, rinse, repeat if necessary.

Free from: At least marketed as free of sulfates, parabens, mineral oil, petrolatum. (Though “sulfate-free” is cited; some confusion in user reviews whether it truly contains no sulfates).

Suitable for many hair types but especially those needing strengthening and cleansing of build-up.

3. Sensory Profile

Look & Feel:

The product is described as a creamy lather shampoo.

Because of the botanical oils and butters (castor oil, shea butter) it may have a richer feel compared to very lightweight shampoos.

Scent/Fragrance:

Contains peppermint — so there may be a cool/tingly scalp sensation and minty fresh scent.

Some users note the smell can be strong or “old play-dough”-ish depending on their nose. > “I find … I LOATHE the smell. It smells like old play-dough to me and it lingers…”

Hair/Scalp Effect:

Cleansing: removes build-up from other products.

Strengthening: Intended to reduce breakage and fortify weakened hair. Example: “Use with … Conditioner for 3× less breakage …”

Condition of hair after use: many with natural/curly hair report good results such as better detangling, less shedding, smoother texture — though not universally.

“I picked … Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore Shampoo … I used the shampoo … and I loved the smell…”

Limitations/Special Notes:

Some users with finer hair or less damage feel it may be too heavy or “build-uppy”. For example:

“It’s pretty far down the list that it wouldn’t be like doing a pure ACV rinse.” (on whether clarifying)

Some ‘CG (Curly Girl) Method’ followers say it’s not CG-approved, perhaps due to some ingredients.

4. Wears & Suggestions (Usage)

When to use & who it suits:

Great for a wash-day shampoo especially if your hair is: chemically processed (relaxed, coloured), heat-styled, damaged, shedding, or has product build-up.

Also suitable for natural, curly/coily textures that need cleansing + strengthening.

If your hair is very fine, minimally styled, and not damaged, you might prefer a lighter shampoo — this one has some richness and strengthening focus.

How to integrate into your routine:

Wet hair thoroughly. Apply shampoo focusing on scalp and roots (where oil and build-up reside), massage gently, then bring lather to lengths. Rinse. If needed, repeat.

After this shampoo, follow with the matching Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore Conditioner (or another conditioner) to lock in moisture and reduce breakage.

Frequency: Depending on your hair condition and styling load, use maybe once a week or every wash if you style/heat/relax often.

Styling Tips:

For curly/coily hair: after shampoo + conditioner, apply leave-in + styling product to maintain moisture and definition.

For relaxed or heat-styled hair: pair with deep conditioner/treatment once in a while because the shampoo is cleansing + strengthening but may not deliver full repair.

In humid/warm climates (e.g., Lagos): ensure thorough rinse to avoid residue and weight; follow with lightweight styling products to avoid flattening.

5. Helpful Tips

Buying & Authenticity:

Make sure bottle size is as listed (384 ml) and packaging looks right (correct labeling of the line “Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore”).

Price in Nigeria: Jumia lists this shampoo (16 fl oz ~ 473 ml) at ~ ₦12,500 or more.

As with any popular brand, check for correct batch codes, sealed cap, and buy from reputable sellers to avoid counterfeit or older stock.

Usage & Maintenance Tips:

Because it’s more of a “treatment/strengthening” shampoo rather than ultra-mild daily cleanse, ensure you follow with good conditioner and possibly a weekly treatment if hair is especially damaged.

If your scalp is sensitive, patch test first; peppermint oil and active botanical ingredients may cause tingling — while many find that invigorating, some may find it irritating.

Rinse thoroughly. If product remains (whether shampoo or conditioner) it may cause build-up, weigh hair down or flatten curls.

If you use this as your regular cleanse but still style a lot (heat, relax, colour), integrate a clarifying shampoo every few washes.

Storage:

Store in a cool, dry place; keep the cap closed tightly; avoid exposure to direct sunlight or excessive heat to preserve the botanical oils’ integrity.

Potential Drawbacks/Considerations:

If your hair is fine and non-damaged, this might be more than you need — you might prefer a lighter shampoo to avoid weight.

Some users report smell not to their liking or lingering fragrance.

If you follow strict “no/low-poo” or “curly girl method” regimens, note that while this product is sulfate-free (marketing says) some users dispute or feel the ingredients list is not minimal. It may not fit every regimen.