Curly girls, this one’s for you. 

Are you tired of battling unruly curls or relentless frizz? We feel you. It seems like every day is a new adventure in taming the mane, but fear not! We're here to shed some light on the wild world of curl products.

 

Curly hair is a unique blessing, with its natural beauty and individuality that sets it apart. But let's be real—it doesn't always have to be a curse when it comes to maintenance. If you're one of the lucky curly hair girlies, this one's for you.

 

We understand the importance of nourishing those locks to maintain their health and vibrancy. Your curls deserve to be celebrated and treated with care, and finding the right products is key to keeping them looking their best.

 

Get ready to dive deep into the world of curl products and uncover the secrets to beautifully defined curls. From creamy concoctions to lightweight gels, we've got the scoop on the must-have products that will leave your curls feeling nourished, defined, and full of life.

 

We're not just here to talk products, though. We're here to empower you to embrace your curls with confidence. Because let's face it, your curls are as unique as you are, and they deserve to be celebrated. So, get ready to unleash your inner curl goddess and say goodbye to bad hair days for good.

 

Understanding your curls

Curly hair is as diverse as the people who rock it. From loose waves to tight coils, each curl type has its own unique characteristics and needs. Understanding your curl pattern is like unlocking the secret code to your hair's potential. So, let's break it down for you…

 

Wavy hair

Ah, the effortless beachy waves that evoke images of sunkissed shores and salty air. Wavy hair falls somewhere between straight and curly, with gentle bends that add texture and volume. 

 

If you're blessed with waves, lightweight products like mousses, leave-in conditioners, and styling milks are your BFFs. They enhance definition without weighing down your locks, giving you that coveted "just stepped off the beach" look. And for an extra boost of volume and texture, reach for a texturizing spray infused with natural ingredients like sea salt. It's the secret weapon for achieving those tousled, carefree waves that scream surfer-babe vibes.

 

Curly and coily hair

Now, let's talk about the real MVPs of the curl world. Those tight coils and bouncy curls that defy gravity and demand attention. If you're rocking curls or coils, you know that moisture is your best friend. Hydration-rich products like deep conditioners and rich styling creams are your ticket to luscious, defined curls. 

 

Look for ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and hyaluronic acid. These hydration warriors lock in moisture and combat frizz like nobody's business. And don't forget about lightweight gels. They provide the hold and definition your dense curls crave without leaving them feeling crunchy or stiff. So, embrace your curls, baby! It's time to let them shine and learn everything there is to know about products. 

 

What's the purpose of a curl product?

You might be wondering, "Why exactly are curl products better for my hair compared to oils or mousses?" It's a fair question, and one that we're clued up with after years of taming curly girl styles (and battling it ourselves). 

 

Curl creams

Ah, curl creams—the unsung heroes of the curl world. These creamy concoctions are not just about curl control. They're about locking in moisture, enhancing definition, and adding that extra oomph to your locks. Unlike oils or mousses, curl creams are specifically formulated to nourish and hydrate your curls without weighing them down. They're like a tall glass of water for your thirsty strands, leaving them feeling soft, supple, and oh-so-smooth. Plus, they play well with others, so feel free to layer them under your favorite styling gel for maximum hold and definition. Trust us, your curls will thank you.

 

Gels

Just imagine—you're gearing up for the day ahead, and your curls are in need of some serious definition and hold. Enter styling gels. These trusty companions are here to save the day, providing structure, definition, and frizz control to your locks. Whether you're aiming for soft, beachy waves or tight, bouncy coils, a good gel can work wonders in enhancing your natural curl pattern and keeping your hair looking on point.

 

The magic of a gel lies in its ability to provide long-lasting hold without weighing down your curls or leaving them feeling crunchy or stiff. By applying gel to wet or damp hair and scrunching it in from ends to roots, you can get even product distribution and maximum curl definition. Plus, gels come in a variety of hold levels, so you can choose the perfect match for your curl type and desired style. Say hello to defined, frizz-free curls that last all day long.

 

Sprays

Let's talk about curl enhancing sprays—the secret weapon in your hair care arsenal for reviving tired curls and adding instant definition and shine. These lightweight mists are like a breath of fresh air for your locks, giving them new life and vitality with just a few spritzes. Whether you're midday or post-workout, a quick spritz of curl enhancing spray is all you need to banish frizz and refresh your curls in seconds.

 

The beauty of a curl spray lies in its versatility and convenience. Simply spritz onto dry hair and scrunch to reactivate your curls, or use it as a finishing touch to add shine and polish to your style. Plus, curl sprays often contain nourishing ingredients like botanical extracts and vitamins to keep your curls looking and feeling their best. Say goodbye to limp, lifeless curls and hello to bouncy, defined locks that shine from every angle.

 

Oils

Oh, the wonderful curl oil. The ultimate multitasker in your hair care routine. These luxurious elixirs are here to hydrate, nourish, and add shine to your curls, all while sealing in moisture and reducing frizz. Whether you're dealing with dry, brittle curls or just want to add some extra gloss to your locks, a good curl oil can work wonders in transforming your hair from dull to dazzling.

 

The magic of a curl oil lies in its lightweight formula and fast-absorbing properties. By applying a few drops to damp or dry hair, focusing on the ends where your curls need the most love, you can instantly boost hydration and lock out frizz for a picture-perfect finish. Plus, curl oils often contain natural ingredients like argan oil, coconut oil, and jojoba oil, which are rich in vitamins and antioxidants to promote healthy, happy curls. Say hello to soft, smooth locks that shine bright like a diamond.

 

What to look out for in curly hair products

Navigating the huge world of hair products can be stressful with a capital S, especially when it comes to finding the perfect match for your routine. But fear not, curl queens, we're here to break it down and help you make informed decisions when shopping for curly hair products. Here's what to look out for:

 

Curly hair-specific formulas

First and foremost, it's essential to choose products that are specifically formulated for curly hair. While it may seem obvious, using curl-specific products is paramount in addressing the unique needs of your curls. Look for labels that mention "curly hair," "curl-enhancing," or "for textured hair" to make sure you're getting the right formula for your locks. Using products designed for other hair types can often lead to lackluster results, so stick to formulas tailored to your curl type for the best outcome.

 

Moisturizing ingredients

Hydration is key when it comes to caring for curly hair, which is naturally more prone to dryness than straight hair. Look for products packed with moisturizing ingredients like glycerin, shea butter, and natural oils to keep your curls nourished and moisturized. These hydrating heroes work wonders in replenishing moisture and preventing dryness, leaving your curls feeling soft, smooth, and oh-so-hydrated. Say goodbye to frizz and hello to hydrated, healthy curls that shine from within.

 

Ingredients to avoid

While certain ingredients can work wonders for your curls, others can do more harm than good. When browsing hair products, steer clear of sulfates, alcohols, silicones, and artificial fragrances, which can strip away natural oils, dry out your hair, and irritate your scalp. Instead, opt for sulfate-free formulas that gently cleanse without stripping, alcohol-free products that won't cause dryness, and silicone-free options that won't weigh down your curls or cause buildup. Choosing products with natural essential oils for fragrance can also help minimize scalp irritation and sensitivity, guaranteeing a happy, healthy scalp and gorgeous curls.

 

By keeping these key factors in mind when shopping for curly hair products, you can ensure you're making the best choices for your locks. Whether you're looking for a hydrating shampoo, a nourishing conditioner, or a defining styling product, choosing curl-specific formulas with moisturizing ingredients and avoiding harsh chemicals is the secret to keeping your curls looking and feeling their best. So, go ahead and embrace your curls with confidence and treat them to the love and care they deserve.

 

Ready for our top picks?

 

The Lauren Ashtyn approved best products for curly hair girls

1) Briogeo Curl Charisma

Briogeo's Curl Charisma Rice Amino + Avocado Leave-In Defining Creme is a revelation for enhancing natural curls. This cream not only boosts hydration and minimizes frizz but also provides soft, flexible control for waves and curls. 

 

What we like: Adds shine, defines curl pattern, and minimizes frizz. 

What we don’t like: Doesn't provide heat protection, can make hair greasy if you use too much.

 

2) AG Care Curl Re:Coil Curl Activator

AG's Re:Coil curling cream is the superhero your curls have been waiting for. With its lightweight and lasting hold, it smooths frizz and defines curls without any crunchiness or stiffness. Packed with tomato ferment extract and keratin, it nourishes and clarifies curls while delivering plant-based moisture from root to tip. 

 

What we like: Lightweight and lasting hold, nourishing formula. 

What we don’t like: Can weigh down finer hair.

 

3) Ouidad Curl Quencher Cream

Ouidad's Curl Quencher HydraFusion Intense Curl Cream is the secret weapon for tighter curls. Designed to hydrate, soften, and define, this cream is a powerhouse of milk thistle extract and sweet almond oil, strengthening curls and banishing frizz all day long. 

 

What we like: Intensely moisturizes and strengthens curls, eliminates frizz. 

What we don’t like: Not strong enough to prevent curls from shrinking. 

 

4) Schwarzkopf Professional Hair and Scalp Care

Schwarzkopf Pro's curl cream is a thick, luxurious treat for coarser curls. Infused with nourishing jojoba seed oil, it improves curl definition and texture, leaving your strands feeling pampered and perfected. Part of the Mad About Curls range, it's the ideal companion for thicker strands seeking moisture and definition. 

 

What we like: Thick texture for moisturizing coarser curls. 

What we don’t like: Quite thick for finer hair. If you need something lighter then we recommend Mad About Curls Light Whipped Foam.

 

5) Cantu Shea Butter for Natural Hair Coconut Curling Cream

Cantu's Coconut Curling Cream is a tropical delight for coily hair types, and it’s under $10! With shea butter, coconut oil, and other natural oils, it replenishes moisture, provides slip for styling, and leaves your curls smelling divine. 

 

What we like: Remoisturizing quality, tropical scent. 

What we don’t like: May be too heavy for fine hair or looser curls.

 

6) Moroccanoil Curl Defining Cream

As if we didn’t love this brand enough, they’re our cult favorite! Moroccanoil's Curl Defining Cream is the lightweight champion of curls. With its blend of argan oil and elasticity-restoring magic, it defines curls, reduces static, and restores manageability without any greasy residue. 

 

What we like: Lightweight, defines curls, restores elasticity. 

What we don’t like: Nothing! It’s a match made in heaven. 

 

7) Living Proof Curl Moisturizing Shine Oil

Another celebrity favorite and a 10/10 from us! The Living Proof's Curl Moisturizing Shine Oil is the final touch of brilliance for your curls. With its fast-absorbing formula and silicone-free goodness, it adds mirror-like shine without any heaviness or buildup. 

 

What we like: Adds shine, fast-absorbing formula. 

What we don’t like: Can make your hair greasy if using too much.

 

How to use the best curl products

You've stocked up on all the essential curl products—gels, creams, and oils—but now what? Understanding how to use them of course, because it’s key to unlocking your curls' full potential and achieving your desired look. Fear not, curl goddesses, we're here to guide you through the ins and outs of curl care like the pros.

 

Curl gels

Let's start with the trusty styling gel. A staple in every curl enthusiast's arsenal! Gel provides the perfect balance of hold and definition for your curls, ensuring they stay in place all day long without feeling stiff or crunchy. To apply gel like a pro, start by washing and conditioning your hair as usual, then gently towel-dry until it's damp but not dripping wet.

Next, dispense a generous amount of gel into the palms of your hands and emulsify it by rubbing your hands together. Now, it's time to get hands-on with your curls! Lean your head to one side and scrunch the gel into your hair, starting from the ends and working your way up to the roots. Make sure to coat each curl evenly with gel to provide maximum hold and definition.

Once you've applied the gel, it's time to let your hair air dry or use a diffuser attachment on your hair dryer for added volume and bounce. Avoid touching your curls while they dry to prevent frizz, and voila! Gorgeous, defined curls that are ready to slay the day.

 

Curl creams

Next up, we have curl creams. The ultimate moisture must-have for thirsty locks. Curl creams are packed with nourishing ingredients like shea butter and coconut oil, making them perfect for moisturizing and defining your curls. To use curl cream like a pro, start by washing and conditioning your hair as usual, then gently towel-dry until it's damp.

 

Take a small amount of curl cream and rub it between your palms to emulsify, then smooth it onto your hair, focusing on the mid-lengths to the ends where your curls need the most love. Use your fingers to gently rake the cream through your curls, making sure each strand is coated evenly. Once applied, style your curls as you like, whether you prefer to air dry or use a diffuser for added volume and definition.

 

Curl oils

Last but not least, we have curl oils—the secret weapon for adding shine and moisture to your locks. Curl oils are lightweight and fast-absorbing, making them perfect for sealing in moisture and reducing frizz. To use curl oil like a pro, start by washing and conditioning your hair as usual, then gently towel-dry until it's damp or dry.

 

Dispense a few drops of curl oil into the palms of your hands and rub them together to warm up the oil. Then, gently smooth the oil onto your hair, focusing on the ends where your curls tend to be the driest. Avoid applying oil directly to your scalp to prevent greasiness, and remember—a little goes a long way with curl oil.

 

Once applied, style your curls as desired and admire the instant boost of shine and hydration. Whether you're rocking loose waves or tight coils, curl oil is sure to take your curls to the next level of gorgeousness.

 

Ready to embrace your inner curl queen?

It's time to unleash your curls and let them take center stage! With the right products and a sprinkle of confidence, you're ready to conquer the world—one fabulous curl at a time. So go ahead, channel your inner Zendaya, and swish those curls like the true curl princess you are. 

 

With every product you try and each style you choose, you'll be able to navigate the curl world better than the rest. Here's to celebrating the beauty of curls and embracing your natural texture with pride—because it’s what nature gave us, and it looks darn good! Curly girls rejoice. We’re all in this together!