15 Best Products For Curly-Haired Women, As Per A Cosmetologist – 2024
Get your curls in great shape and health with these handpicked products.
Lindsay Loo is a cosmetologist who has spent 10 years behind the chair in a storied salon in Chelsea. She is a certified Wella Master Color Expert and also has experience backstage at New York Fashion Week. She has a private studio and loves to make her clients feel amazing and welcomed.
Read full bio of Lindsay Loo
Experience: 2 yearsPooja is a Mass Communications and Psychology graduate from St. Francis College for Women, Hyderabad, and has two years of experience as a content writer. Her education has helped her develop the perfect balance between what the reader wants to know and what the reader has to know.
Read full bio of Pooja Karkala
Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Experience: 7 yearsAnjali is an associate editor at StyleCraze. She specializes in hairstyles and hair and skin care and has written over 200 articles in these domains. She has 7 years of experience, and her philosophy about hair and skin care is simple: if you love and care for it, it will be healthy.
Read full bio of Anjali Sayee
Image: Shutterstock
Curly hair is not just a type; it’s an attitude, and only the best products for curly-haired women have made it to our haircare range. Women with curls can pull off any look, whether ethnic, boho, fun, or formal. Maintaining curls may get tiresome, but we aren’t trading them for anything! However, it’s undeniable that we have a love-hate relationship with the mane that refuses to be tamed. Well, instead of taming them, embrace them for the way they are, and pamper them with the help of our go-to guide for all your curly hair issues.
In This Article
15 Best Products For Curly Haired Women
1. Best Hair Mask For Curly Hair:Sheamoisture Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil Intensive Hydration Hair Masque
If you have extreme dry curls, pamper them with this intense conditioning hair mask. It contains organic shea butter, honey, mafura and baobab oils blended with the goodness of antioxidant-rich African rock fig. These nourishing ingredients restore and seal in moisture for silky, soft, stronger, and healthier hair. Also, the product is cruelty-free, meaning it is not tested on animals. You may check out a tester’s experience and learn more about this product in this video.
- Reduces frizz
- Conditions dry ends
- Adds shine
- Hydrates your scalp
- Makes your hair feel fresh and rejuvenated
- None
"Let me tell you, this product is like a thick, creamy hug for your locks. Seriously, it's SO dense and moisturizing, my hair feels like buttery silk after I use it. Forget oil, this stuff is on another level. It tames frizz and adds shine like never before. Bonus points for making detangling a breeze – seriously, knots don't stand a chance."
Trivia
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
A whopping 1,162 reviews on Amazon make it obvious that users genuinely love this product.
2. Best Product For Frizzy Curls:Curl Keeper Original Total Control For Frizzy Hair
Do you wake up with frizzy curls? Do you find it challenging to maintain your out-of-control dry hair? Then, try this defrizzing product. Curl Keeper Original curbs dryness like a pro and provides effective frizz control with its premium quality conditioning ingredients. It tames wild hair and provides perfect curl definition in all weather conditions. Since it is a water-based formula, it doesn’t weigh your hair down or leave any sticky residue behind. Also, this formula reactivates when applied on damp hair. Check out this video to watch the reviewer’s experience and learn more about the product.
- Ideal for styling unruly hair
- Free of harsh chemicals
- Cruelty-free
- Gentle for daily use
- No product build-up
- None
"I swapped my extensive hair care routine for this product. On application, my curls look wet and feel crunchy but as the day progresses, they maintain a nice shape without frizz. Remember, it's more liquid than gel, so handle with care to avoid waste."
3. Best Styling Gel For Curly Hair:Kinky-Curly Curling Custard Natural Styling Gel
Get crisp and defined curls with this moisture-rich styling gel. It moisturizes your hair while adding brilliant shine. It simplifies the styling process by providing good hold and a natural finish to your hair. It reduces the bulky wild look and elongates each strand to bring out its natural curl or wave pattern. The breakthrough formula underwent no animal testing and contains natural ingredients that nourish, condition, and strengthen your hair. Watch this video featuring the tester’s experience for more information about the product.
- Contains organic nectar
- Removes frizz
- Provides long-lasting hold
- Imparts shine
- Does not weigh your hair down
- Non-greasy formula
- None
"Being someone with 3a/3b curl type, I am pleased with this hair gel. It helps define my curls and lock in moisture without weighing them down or making them rough. For my daughter whose hair is curlier, it works just as well. This gel leaves my hair touchably soft without any sticky residue. Simply put, it tames my frizz and enhances my curl definition. Loved it!"
Pro TipSheamoisture Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil Intensive Hydration Hair Masque Best Hair Mask For Curly Hair | Curl Keeper Original Total Control For Frizzy Hair Best Product For Frizzy Curls | Kinky-Curly Curling Custard Natural Styling Gel Best Styling Gel For Curly Hair | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hair Type | Curly | Kinky-Curly-Wavy | Kinky-Curly-Wavy |
| Dimensions | 3.65 x 3.65 x 2.75 inches | 1.8 x 1.8 x 7.5 inches | 1 x 1 x 1 inches |
| Weight | 11.5 Ounces | 8 Ounces | 8.01 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 1,162 | 814 | 844 |
| Price | $11.49 | $18 | $18.49 |
4. Best Curl Defining Cream:Arvazallia Ultra Curl Defining Cream With Argan Oil
If you have dry, stiff, uneven, and lack-luster curls, try this hydrating curl defining cream. It is formulated using organic argan oil. This curl cream deeply penetrates and conditions each strand to restore its natural definition. It activates the curls and eliminates frizz. This curl defining cream provides restorative care to your curls and a perfect hold while leaving your hair soft and silky.
- Gives you bouncy curls
- Does not weigh your hair down
- Suitable for thick and long hair
- Affordable
- Strong fragrance
"Tthis cream curls my hair without the frizz or hardness. It's become a daily necessity for me. Although it doesn't straighten curls or waves, it enhances them beautifully when used on dry hair. It also has a delightful smell while holding the texture well."
Pro Tip5. Best Leave-In Conditioner For Dry Curls:Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla Leave-In Conditioner
If you have dry, brittle, and dull hair, try this leave-in conditioner. It contains wheat protein and pro-vitamin B5 that fortify your hair by restoring strength to each strand. This conditioner is made with natural moisturizers, and it hydrates your hair without weighing it down. It reduces breakage and split ends to give you silky, soft, and bouncy curls that resemble the results of protein treatments. Try the plopping technique, especially with microfiber towels, or scrunching for best results with this product.
- Makes your hair more manageable and soft
- Adds shine to your hair
- Eliminates tangles
- Free of harsh chemicals
- Pleasant fragrance
- None
"Contrary to my past experiences with Carol's Daughter products, this kit impressed me. The leave-in conditioner worked effectively on my natural hair. It feels light and fragrant and has reduced the styling time."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 930 reviews claiming its efficacy.
6. Best Detangling Product For Curly Hair:R+Co Pinstripe Intense Detangling Spray
Hydrate and shine the most unmanageable hair with the R+Co Pinstripe Intense Detangling Spray. The acerola fruit extract infused in the detangling spray shines your hair and neutralizes hard water. The pro-vitamin B5 adds volume to the hair and conditions it. Additionally, the abyssinica seed oil assists in detangling your hair while locking the moisture. Moreover, the ginger root extract tightens hair cuticles and provides shine.
- Lightweight
- Cruelty-free
- Ideal for all hair types
- Pleasant smell
- Paraben-free
- Gluten-free
- May not go well for thick hair
"The detangling spray proved great for my thin, fine hair. While it doesn't provide shine or hydration like a leave-in conditioner, it detangles masterfully without feeling greasy or leaving residue. If you struggle with knots, you'll appreciate how easily it brushes through. All in all, a worthy repeat purchase."
7. Best Chemical-Free Product:Maui Moisture Curl Quench + Coconut Oil Shampoo
This curl-defining shampoo is ideal for frizzy hair. It deeply cleanses hair, removes frizz, and detangles curls gently. It is enriched with coconut oil and pure aloe juice that hydrates and protects the hair, leaving it smooth and incredibly soft. It adds definition to the natural curl pattern while enhancing its shine and bounce. This shampoo is free from animal testing, silicones, parabens, sulfates and is ideal for tight curls and color-treated hair.
- Paraben-free
- Silicone-free
- Sulfate-free
- Vegan
- Safe for color-treated hair
- Ideal for tight curls
None
"The conditioner left my thick hair feeling soft, alive, and manageable. It reduced my styling time significantly. It even softened my curls from the first use. I’ve been using it for around six months and it does an excellent job. The pleasant scent is a bonus. I highly recommend it for all CG methods."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has received 401 reviews from customers on Amazon, indicating its popularity and reliability.
8. Best Hairspray For Curly Hair:Moroccanoil Curl Re-Energizing Spray
Are you looking for a hairspray that refreshes dull tresses? Try Moroccanoil Curl Re-Energizing Spray. This weightless mist is designed to bring limp and lifeless curls back to life. It is ideal for refreshing end-of-day curls. This revitalizing formula is infused with nourishing ingredients like argan oil, green tea, and aloe leaf juice for restoring moisture and shine into your curls.
- Hydrates your curls
- Long-lasting effect
- Nourishes dry hair
- Smoothes your curls
- Acts as a moisture primer
- Pungent smell
"Taming my unruly half-straight, half-wavy hair has always been a feat. But this product does wonders, turning it into gorgeous waves. It does not make my fine hair stiff or heavy and allows natural curls. Love it!"
9. Best Shine Serum For Curly Hair:Redken Curvaceous Full Swirl Sculpting & Shine Cream Serum
This exclusive frizz-fighting and shine enhancing serum is ideal for dry and dull hair. It is a 2-in-1 curly and wavy hair cream serum that fights frizz seals in moisture and eliminates humidity. With this product, you can instantly get full-bodied curls with elongated strands. The product claims to reduce 97% frizz.
- Protects hair against heat damage
- Defines your curls
- Smoothes dry hair
- Strengthens your hair
- None
"This product tamed my unruly curly hair, curbing its frizz effectively. I found it worked better on my shorter curls. The best part? No 'crunchy' feeling after using it, unlike other products. All in all, I feel it's a worthy investment for those battling with frizzy curls."
10. Best Organic Formula:Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Detangling Heat Spray
Want to prime your curls to resist frizz? This detangling heat spray by Ouidad is an ideal choice, as it seals every strand, fights tangles, and makes your curls more manageable. It’s packed with high-performance Anti-Frizz Nanotechnology that uses a protein derived from silk to keep most of the moisture locked in and humidity locked out. Natural oils like grapeseed, argan, safflower, coconut, and Macadamia Nut combine their benefits to nourish and hydrate your curls, making them soft and manageable and keeping you looking and feeling your best all day long.
- Controls frizz in any climate
- Keeps moisture sealed in
- Sulfate- and paraben-free
- Defends against heat and UV
- Makes curls more manageable
- Might feel slightly sticky
"I was pleasantly surprised by this detangling spray. It gave improved control, shine, and healthier looking hair. It is suitable for all hair textures and amazingly detangles and re-energizes my curls. I used it to style my hair post a cut from the salon and the result was fantastic. This is truly essential for every curly-haired girl out there."
11. Best Oil For Curly Hair:Pantene Intense Hydrating Oil
This luxurious hydrating oil treatment is ideal for chronically dry curls. It is developed by scientists and perfected by stylists. This intense oil is absorbed into hair quickly to provide restorative care and strengthen the follicles to reduce damage and breakage. It is an argan-oil infused hydrating formula that helps repair fragile and damaged strands.
- Boosts shine
- Reduces split ends
- Improves hair health
- Eliminates tangles
- None
"This hair oil is simply amazing! It leaves my hair soft, shiny, and bouncing all week - a rarity, especially in ruthless humidity. Not only does it get me compliments but also keeps my hair healthy."
12. Best Co-Wash For Curly Hair:Pantene Deep Hydrating Co-Wash
Cleanse your hair with this gentle yet effective co-wash. It is an ultra-rich nutrient-potent formula that works best between regular washes. It restores strength and softness. The best part about this gentle cleansing product is that it cleanses your hair and scalp without stripping away its natural essential oils. It also protects your hair against damage and breakage and is a must-have in a curly hair routine for healthy curls. According to reviews, the product does not leave any residue and has a pleasant scent.
- Ideal for fragile hair
- Imparts moisture to dry hair
- A little product goes a long way
- Gentle for daily use
- Clammy texture
"I've been using this product for years and it's excellent for the summer season. Unlike traditional shampoos, it helps retain moisture in the hair - perfect after a swim or a workout. It also works well with other products. Ideal for bleached hair, this product keeps my ends healthy and my hair soft, especially in between regular washes. A trusted product in my opinion."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has made it to our top favorite list with more than 457 rave reviews on Amazon.
13. Best Product For Type 4 Curls:Not Your Mother’s Kinky Moves Curl Defining Hair Cream
For all those women with type 4 hair, this is the product for you! NYM’s Kinky Moves Curl Defining Cream encourages volume in natural curls by bringing out their curl pattern. This formula is infused with grape seed and jasmine extracts that help add extra bounce to your hair. Besides defining curls, this product eliminates frizz and tames flyaways while being free of animal testing.
- Does not weigh your hair down
- Ideal for dry and coarse hair
- Nice fragrance
- Moisturizes your curls
- Slightly sticky
"It defines my curls without making them greasy or stiff. It adds shine and bounce without weighing it down. Post-chemo, thin, curly hair like mine has responded beautifully to this product, unlike with other products. The lovely scent and soft, frizz-free curls make it worth trying!"
14. Best Product For Coils:Redken Curvaceous Ringlet Shape-Perfecting Lotion
This product is ideal for coily hair. It is an anti-frizz lotion that adds a touchably soft and shiny finish to your curls. It defines your coils and helps them achieve a perfect shape for styling. This weightless formula is an excellent base for product layering. It creates long-lasting curls with noticeable bounce.
- Adds additional definition
- Elongates your coils
- Makes your hair more manageable
- Deeply nourishes your hair
- None
"While this product worked well on my naturally wavy hair enhancing my curls without weighing it down, the scent was strong, which may not be for everyone. However, it did indeed give my hair softness and volume without that dreaded 'crunchy' feeling. I do see myself buying it again."
15. Best Mousse For Curly Hair:Design Essentials Natural Almond & Avocado Curl Enhancing Mousse
Scrunch your curls quickly with this mouse and get fresh and perfectly shaped locks. This mousse defines curls, reduces frizz, and softens dry ends. It is infused with olive oil and vitamin B complex that add luminous shine and long-lasting moisture to your hair. It strengthens every strand and increases its elasticity. Reviewers have noticed that the product hydrates the curls and dries without a crunch.
- Promotes hair growth
- A little product goes a long way
- Hydrates your hair
- Free of harsh chemicals
- None
"This product works great for both my natural hair and the wigs. It applies well and has a good hold that gets me many compliments. My curls look glossy and hydrated even in high-humidity weather. The product's lightweight nature doesn't weigh down my hair and the formula does not affect the hair color either."
"This product works great for both my natural hair and the wigs. It applies well and has a good hold that gets me many compliments. My curls look glossy and hydrated even in high-humidity weather. The product's lightweight nature doesn't weigh down my hair and the formula does not affect the hair color either."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received over 1,045 rave reviews on Amazon, proving it is a mass favorite.
Only you know what it takes to tame those rebellious curls. Despite including an array of products in your curly hair care routine, you may sometimes fail to receive the desired results. To dial down the annoyance of this regular struggle, we have come up with a suitable buying guide for the best products for curly haired women. Check it out!
How To Find The Best Products For Curly Haired Women
- Curl Type
Consider your curl type before purchasing any product. A hair mask with intense hydrating properties is great for frizzy curls as it hydrates the scalp and adds shine to the curly locks. Taming kinky curls can be a real challenge, and that’s when you need a perfect gel-based nourishing product to detangle your locks.
- Ingredients
Always look out for the ingredient list for any potential allergen or chemicals that may trigger hair fall, itching, or any other hair and skin issues. In addition, avoid ingredients like silicones and sulfates, which initially offer a smooth, and ‘so-clean’ feel but eventually end up with build up on the hair cuticle and damage the hair.
- Hair Porosity
High porosity curls absorb moisture easily but do not retain it for long. On the other hand, low porosity hair/curls absorb moisture with slight difficulty and retain it for a good while. For low porosity hair, invest in products containing flaxseed gel, panthenol, jojoba oil, grapeseed oil, aloe vera, or almond oil.
- Formulation
Besides eliminating frizz and tangles, adding sheen to the curly strands is important. Organic argan oil-based formula would be ideal for lackluster curls. If hair breakage and split ends infuriate you, then opt for a formula of wheat protein and pro-vitamin B5 to avoid such problems. On the other hand, a weightless mist with revitalizing formulation, including argan oil, green tea, and aloe leaf juice can do wonders to dull and lifeless curls.
Cosmetologist Lindsay Loo says, “When adding to your curl goals, keep in mind whether the products are water- or oil-based. Both are correct to use based on your personalised hair care needs.”
Infographic: Quick Tips To Take Care Of Curly Hair
The secret to voluminous and lustrous curls lies in a disciplined hair care routine that includes everything between proper washing techniques and gentle styling tips. If you are curly-haired and find your strands dull and limp, check out the infographic below for tips to revive them and regain their lost bounce. Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Curly hair looks extraordinarily beautiful. This hairstyle goes well with all sorts of attires: traditional wear, formals, or casuals. But maintaining those curls all day may be challenging. But you can pamper your hair so that you can help preserve the definition of the curls and stay frizz-free. If you have dry and damaged hair, opt for the Sheamoisture Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil Intensive Hydration Hair Masque to improve elasticity and reduce frizz. The Kinky-Curly Curling Custard Natural Styling Gel defines and holds your curls in place all day without feeling crunchy, while the Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla Leave-In Conditioner is ideal for detangling curly hair and improving its manageability. Invest in hair care products that minimize the static, add shine, and provide perfect nourishment. But, stay away from products that turn your hair sticky and make it look greasy.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Pooja Karkala, is a hair care enthusiast who enjoys trying out new products, tools, and formulations. She has an in-depth knowledge of what product would benefit which kind of hair. She has done her share of research and reviewed several customer feedback before curating this list of the best products for curly-haired women! These are moisturizing, gentle on your hair, and help you style your hair into beautiful curls while keeping the frizz in control.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should you wash your curly hair?
Curly hair generally requires fewer washes than straight hair. It is best to only wash curly hair not more than twice a week. It is also advised to use only wide-tooth combs or curl-friendly brushes after hair wash to detangle to minimize hair damage. In addition, using silk or satin pillowcases instead of cotton aids in hair protection.
Is it okay to wet curly hair everyday?
Yes. You can wet your natural hair every day to maintain its moisture level. However, wetting your hair does not imply washing it. Instead, spray water on your hair or rinse it while bathing.
Should you condition curly hair every day?
Yes. The ends of curly hair are often dry and coarse. Therefore, apply leave-in creams or conditioners to your hair daily or thrice weekly to keep it healthy and nourished. You can also try co-washing with nourishing conditioners.
Is it better to shower in the morning or at night for curly hair?
For ample drying time, people with curly hair prefer washing it in the morning. Another perk of washing the hair in the morning is achieving great day 1 curls.
Is gel or mousse better for curly hair?
Both are outstanding for unique reasons. Hair mousse is lightweight and adds volume, while hair gels layer well and help combat frizz.
What products should not be used for curly hair?
Curly hair should steer clear of products that dry out the strands and steal moisture. Avoid using products with silicones, harsh sulfates, and opt for products that are toxic chemical- and alcohol-free.
Do you put hairspray on before or after brushing out curls?
Always spritz your hair with a hairspray before gently brushing your curls.
What is a good hair care routine for curly hair?
A good curly hair care routine includes a clarifying shampoo to clean the scalp, a conditioner to replenish moisture, and leave-in treatments to protect the curls.
Read full bio of Lindsay Loo
Read full bio of Pooja Karkala
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
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