17 Best Curl Creams That Are Guaranteed to Define Your Hair
Transform frizz into soft, bouncy ringlets!
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There's nothing worse than waking up in the morning to a poof of frizzy hair or tangled ringlets. Any0ne with curly hair knows that getting your locks that perfect, shiny, bouncy look requires some help, and a really good curl cream can make all the difference. Hairstyling products are not one-size-fits-all, though, which is why we've found options that each cater to all different hair types, from 2A to 4C.
Of course, hair health starts at the roots, and you'll first want to make sure you're using a soothing shampoo for scalp health that cleanses without over-drying. Curly hair types frequently have more porous hair, making it harder for the locks to maintain their moisture and shape. You won't want products that weigh down your curls, but consider adding hair masks or leave-in conditioners to your weekly routine to help with hydration (especially true if you have color-treated hair).
So, where does curl cream come in? Most brands recommend applying these creams right after rinsing out (or leaving in some) conditioner, while the hair is still a little wet. The purpose of these creams is to nourish your hair while defining its natural shape. Your curls will be bouncing for joy after you add these creams to your styling routine!
OUAI is an award-winning haircare brand and its curl cream does not disappoint. The cream is absolutely luxurious and fits most curl types, just be sure to use a dime-sized amount if you have fine, oily hair.
This primer smells so dang good! The aloe extract and shea butter make it ultra-moisturizing, but since it's water-based you don't need to worry about weighing down your curls.
If you aren't familiar with the Curly Girl Method yet, you should probably check it out. This CGM-approved cream is full of moisturizing oils and humectants which seal in moisture.
This tall bottle is for you if you have frizzy hair or flyaways. The pump makes it easy to get the right amount on your palm before running it through your curls.
OGX Argan Oil of Morocco Curling Perfection Cream
Argan oil is a saving grace for dry hair as it smooths and defines curls. Plus, this budget-friendly pick is super long-lasting, so you can keep your bouncy curls looking fresh all day long.
SheaMoisture Smoothie Curl Enhancing Cream
SheaMoisture is a beloved brand for curly girls. It features silk protein and neem seed oil which give you volume, while coconut oil prevents breakage.
Curl Charisma Rice Amino + Avocado Leave–In Defining Cream
This rich cream controls and strengthens curls while still leaving them plenty soft. The rice amino acids and avocado oil boost hydration, making it a go-to choice for dry hair.
If you have crunchy coily hair, we have found a solution for you! Cantu is deeply moisturizing with shea butter, aloe vera, and jojoba oil.
AG Hair Care Curl Fresh Definer
Some curls do mostly the right thing, but just need a touch of help. Enter: AG hair care. The plant-based essentials brand offers a lightweight formula that will give your curly or wavy hair that extra je ne sais quoi.
Oribe may be on the pricier side, but their products simply work. This lightweight cream smells fruity, nourishes hair, and leaves it ultra-smooth.
The Carol's Daughter brand comes from humble beginnings in its founder's kitchen and has since transformed into a go-to beauty brand. With coconut, mango, and murumuru, this cream help shape hair while moisturizing.
Fine, thin curls can always benefit from a little something extra, but it's hard to find creams that won't way them down. Amika is lightweight, non-greasy, and offers humidity resistance.
Adwoa Baomint Moisturizing Curl Defining Cream
Color-treated hair can accumulate a lot of damage over time. Adwoa baomint moisturizing cream includes plenty of natural oils that will repair your textured hair.
Low-Porosity hair tends to repel moisture making it even harder to style. Rahua control cream is an anti-frizz miracle worker that penetrates deep into the hair.
Design Essentials Natural Almond & Avocado Curling Creme
Design Essentials offers a fantastic budget-friendly option in with curl creme that holds throughout the day. Plus, the Almond and avocado oil ensures that your hair stays silky soft.
OUIDAD Advanced Climate Control Featherlight Styling Cream
OUIDAD uses a mixture of meadowfoam seed oil and arnica flower to ensure the hair stays moisturized over time, not matter the weather
Drugstore finds absolutely do not have to mean subpar quality! Curl Talk is great for high porosity hair, which can absorb moisture but has a hard time retaining it.
Micaela Bahn is a freelance editorial assistant and recent graduate from Carleton College, where she majored in English literature. She loves running, photography, and cooking the best new recipes.
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