Recession Beauty: Good Shampoos Under $10… Because It Goes Down The Drain Anyway

Shampoo hangs out on your head for but a moment, then it goes swirling down the drain. Don't send your rent money down with it. Get one of these budget-friendly bottles instead. 

Best for everyone: Chemistry Salon Labs Daily Cleanse ($8) is gentle and moisturizing without being heavy (plus it's sulfite and paraben free). And can we just talk about the bottle? Aside from being really cute in the shape of a science lab beaker, the pump is fantastic, and the wide base means it doesn't topple over and slide around in your shower.

Best for color-treated hair: After my highlights, my colorist told me to get shampoo formulated for color-treated hair. I expected him to recommend a fancy-schmancy brand (and then sell it to me), but instead he said, “It really doesn't matter. Cheap is fine.” He was right. Suave Professionals Color Care Shampoo ($3) does the job, leaving my highlights light and my wallet heavy.

Best for women of color: SheFindsKristin gives Pantene Relaxed and Natural Intensive Moisturizing Shampoo ($5) high praise for adding moisture to the hair and scalp. Her hair is "noticably softer out of the shower and it stays that way."

Best for girls on the go: Even if you're buying cheap-o drugstore brands, travel-sized shampoos are a serious rip-off; the price per ounce is jacked up in exchange for that cute little bottle. Lush's Godiva Solid Shampoo ($9.25) delivers as many washes as a standard bottle, smells dreamy, and leaves hair super soft. And since it's solid, it neither spills nor bogarts the space in your FTA-approved Ziploc baggie.

Looking for more beauty bargains? Check out our picks for the best wallet-friendly mascaras out there.