13 Best Vegan Curly Hair Products Of 2024
Get defined, hydrated, and nourished curls with these cruelty-free, plant-based products.
If you are a vegan, then there is no better time to be a curly head because of all the wonderful vegan hair care products in the market right now! You can now try the “Curly Girl Method” with vegan curly hair products that will hydrate and protect your hair for a long time. The key to getting frizz-free hair is to invest in silicone or paraben-free products, don’t have any alcohol or create any annoying buildup. Also, for vegan hair care products, you have to ensure that they don’t have ingredients like beeswax, honey, lanolin, gelatin, collagen, keratin, silk acids, or amino acids. Cruelty-free and vegan products will nourish your hair without any animal-derived ingredients; rather, your hair will be infused with plant-derived nutrients and oils.
Not many people are aware that there are vegan hair products for curl maintenance on the market. Lucky for you, we have curated a list of the 13 best vegan curly hair products that will not only give you defined and healthy curls but will keep your strands moisturized without weighing them down. Suppose you are a vegan or thinking about adopting the vegan lifestyle. In that case, these hair care products will help ease your transition without making you feel like you are missing out on anything. Also, all these products will provide you with the same (if not better) results as non-vegan hair care products. Don’t believe us? Well, then keep reading to know more!
In This Article
13 Best Vegan Curly Hair Products To Use For Moisturized And Defined Coils
1. Best Anti-Frizz:Cake Beauty The Curl Friend Totally-To-Die-For Defining Curl Cream
A curl-defining cream is essential if you want those perfect coils that are glossy and moisturized. Shampoos can dry out and frizz your strands; a cream will keep your hair together and keep the texture smooth as well. This Cake Beauty Hair Cream formula contains shea butter and plant-derived oils that result in a lightweight consistency, which will not weigh your hair down or make it look greasy. All you need to do is apply a coin-sized amount from mid-length to the tips of your hair and gently scrunch to activate the curls. Once the hair dries, you will notice soft and natural-looking curl strands that look lush and voluminous. This cream is recommended for 3C and 4A curls, and it allows for an easy softening and detangling experience. Go through this video review detailing a tester’s experience to gain more understanding of the product.
Pros
- Frizz-free
- Moisturizing
- Detangling
- Volumizing
- Lightweight formula
- Natural ingredients
- Cruelty-free
- Suitable for 3C and 4A curls
Cons
- The formula may be sticky on 2A curls or slightly wavy hair
2. Best Lightweight:Maui Moisture Hairstyling Lightweight Curl Refresher Mist
We recommend the Maui Lightweight Curl Refresher Mist for every curly head that wants vegan, cruelty-free products that won’t break the bank. This hair care product is perfect for second or third-day hair because it will hydrate your locks and make them look fresh as a daisy. The formula is super lightweight and made with nourishing ingredients like aloe vera, pure flaxseed oil, coconut water, and citrus oil that ensure each strand gets maximum moisture and nutrition. The product is easy to use, that to the spray nozzle; we suggest that you spray it on damp hair so that it absorbs quickly and freshens your curls instantly. Also, you don’t have to worry about any annoying buildup or greasy residue because the formula is free from parabens, silicons, synthetics, mineral oils, and gluten. Check out this video for a detailed review of the product.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Defining
- Easy to apply
- Paraben-free
- No synthetic dyes
- Hydrating natural ingredients
- Provides natural volume
Cons
- May not control frizz or flyaways
Apply this curl mist and other water-based styling products to wet hair to reduce frizz and improve curl structure.
3. Best Hydrating:Pacifica Pineapple Swirl Curl Defining Cream
If you want to smell fresh and summery, like a fruity cocktail, then add this curl-defining cream to your hair care routine ASAP! The ultra-hydrating formula contains coconut oils, pineapple extract, and hyaluronic acid, which hydrates and helps in curl retention, while keeping frizz at bay. The hair cream can be used on all curl types, whether light waves or tight coils; your hair will be left feeling nourished and looking glossy after every use. In addition, it won’t leave any greasy residue or irritate your scalp because the cream is free of silicons, parabens, sulfates, or mineral oils. Regular use of this hair cream will help you manage your curls and keep them bouncy. We recommend using this product if you have highly porous hair and live in a humid location, as it will keep frizz away.
Pros
- Fights free
- Curl-friendly
- Suitable for all curl types
- No greasy residue or buildup
- Paraben-free
- No mineral oils
- Easy to wash off
- Sulfate-free
Cons
- Some may find the fragrance overwhelmingly sweet
Cake Beauty The Curl Friend Totally-To-Die-For Defining Curl Cream Best Anti-Frizz | Maui Moisture Hairstyling Lightweight Curl Refresher Mist Best Lightweight | Pacifica Pineapple Swirl Curl Defining Cream Best Hydrating | |
---|---|---|---|
Hair Type | Curly | Curly | Curly |
Dimensions | 1.4 x 1.4 x 8.5 inches | 2.21 x 2.21 x 6.5 inches | 1.44 x 2.31 x 6.5 inches |
Weight | 6.24 Ounces. | 9.2 Ounces. | 4.96 Ounces. |
Rating | |||
Reviews | 792 | - | - |
Price | $7.99 | $10.79 | $12 |
4. Best For Medium Curly Hair:Verb Curl Cream
This Curl Cream is perfect for beginners to the curly hair game and are just starting to understand their hair. It is perfect for 2A and 2B curls or waves, and it provides a light hold and medium definition. The moisturizing formula contains nourishing ingredients like sunflower seed extract and glycerin, which is quite hydrating and coddles dead ends by giving them new life and enhancing the hair’s natural shine. The hair cream will definitely be your favorite addition if you decide to add it to your daily hair care routine. The consistency is thick enough to provide shape to your waves, and it reactivates lost curls that may lose their shape two or three days after a hair wash. In addition, it nourishes dry hair and gives it some much-needed hold and bounce with added softness. To get the best results, we suggest that you take a pea-sized amount and apply it all over damp hair. Take a look at this video detailing a tester’s experience of using this product to learn more about it.
Pros
- Anti-frizz
- Suitable for light and medium curly hair
- Reactivates curls
- Enhances hair’s shine
- Moisturizing
- Curl revival formula
- Revives dead ends
Cons
- May leave a greasy residue
5. Best For Curl Definition:True Curl Define & Smooth Coconut Curl Styler
This hydrating curl cream has the potential to be a solid part of your hair care routine for the next few months! The nourishing styling cream contains coconut oil, hops flower extract, jojoba protein, rosemary leaf extract, and other natural ingredients that result in healthy and bouncy curls. It also styles your hair while taming frizz and making your hair smell divine. This specialist-approved product is formulated to suit all hair types, from light waves to kinky coils. In addition, the consistency won’t dry out your hair because it is paraben and silicone-free. To get your curls refreshed and defined and your hair hydrated, it’s recommended that you shake the bottle and take a coin-sized amount in your palms. Then, apply it all over your strands in a scrunching manner; finish the process by twisting and rolling the strands to get the desired results. Reviewers love this product as it does not feel heavy and never weighs your hair down.
Pros
- Moisturizing
- Anti-frizz
- Suitable for all curl types
- Paraben-free
- Silicon-free
- Refreshing fragrance
Cons
- May not be suitable for sensitive scalps
6. Best For Tight Curls:Sun Bum Curls & Waves Styling Cream
Hair professionals from all over the world recommend this lightweight styling cream for medium to tight curls. The vegan formula contains nutrient-rich ingredients like seaweed protein, kukui nut oil, and monoi coconut oil, which primes each strand and defines the curl; this is essential because it keeps them from drying out and enhances their natural shine. The healthy and natural formula is the key behind bouncy and shiny locks. Also, since it is free from parabens and sulfates, you don’t have to worry about your hair getting frizzy or dull as the day goes on. Instead, we suggest that you use the product by taking a dime-sized amount in your palms and scrunching it in damp or dry hair. You can even scrunch the product further with the help of a microfiber towel or a cotton T-shirt. This process will allow the cream to penetrate deep into your strands and hydrate them to the tip. Many reviewers love this product for its lightweight feel and its amazing scent that invigorates their senses.
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Long-lasting
- Shine-enhancing
- Anti-free
- Heat protection
- Curl defining
- Moisturizing
Cons
- May not be suitable for color-treated curls
To avoid breakage and frizz, use a microfiber towel instead of a regular shower towel to dry your hair. You can also use a clean cotton t-shirt.
7. Best For Kinky Curls:Noughty Hey Curl Scrunching Jelly for Curly and Wavy Hair
This hair product is perfect for curls that thrive on lightweight and medium-hold gels. If you are looking for vegan hair products for curly hair that provide shine and good hold without making them feel crunchy, then definitely go for this one. The sulfate-free formula includes natural ingredients that are sustainably sourced and ethically derived. It’s perfect for unruly and undefined curls, and the refreshing scent makes the whole application process rather enjoyable. If you want to add a boost of moisture while keeping your hair in place, then we suggest that you scrunch this gel through your hair. It’s suitable for 3B and 3C curl types with low density and needs medium hold without being weighed down.
Pros
- Moisturizing
- Lightweight
- Anti-frizz
- Suitable for medium to kinky curls
- Natural and sustainably sourced ingredients
Cons
- May not be suitable for wavy hair
8. Best For Wavy Hair:Alfaparf Milano Semi Di Lino Curls Defining Cream For Wavy And Curly Hair
This hair cream by Alfaparf is quite the crowd favorite. The formula and fragrance are heavenly, and it delivers the desired results without drying your hair out. It’s perfect for people with curly hair, especially if they live in tropical areas that experience high humidity. The formula contains plant-derived ingredients like manketti oil, which has proven efficacy in protecting the hair from humidity and enhancing its shine. It deeply moisturizes each strand and improves the texture for a smooth feel and makes the curls bouncy. The hair cream is suitable for fine wavy hair because it adds a good boost of volume without making it look over-the-top.
Pros
- Suitable for use in humid weather
- Anti-frizz
- Enhances shine
- Volumizing
- Suitable for fine wavy hair
- Hydrates
- Protects from heat
Cons
- May not be suitable for detangling
9. Best For Dry Scalp:DermaChange Natural Hair Growth Shampoo And Conditioner Set
Taking care of your curls is so much more than leave-in conditioners, gels, and creams. It all starts with a good shampoo and conditioner. This set by DermaChange creates the perfect cleansing foundation for your curly hair routine. Both products are packed with nourishing ingredients like aloe vera, argan oil, coconut oil, and biotin that help repair damaged strands and promote hair growth. It also contains cassava root that is super nourishing to dry scalp and keeps dandruff at bay. In addition, the conditioner contains hydrating ingredients like humectant molecules, fatty acids, and vitamins B5 and E, which help the curls retain their moisture and prevent hair loss. Consistent use of the shampoo and conditioner will protect your strands and prevent any stripping of natural oils as well. Amazon reviews suggest that this leave-in conditioner works great for those experiencing hair loss and breakage.
Pros
- pH balanced formula
- Hydrating
- Prevents split ends
- Suitable for dry scalp
- Encourages healthy hair growth
- Reduces hair breakage and loss
Cons
- Some may find the shampoo’s consistency watery
Use a curl-friendly brush/comb with large teeth to ensure the conditioner is applied evenly throughout your hair.
10. Best For Smoothening Hair:Daily Dose Miracle Moisture Leave-In Conditioner
Whether you have fine, medium, coarse, or silky hair, this leave-in conditioner is suitable for all hair types and all curl types as well. It contains natural ingredients like aloe leaf juice and naturally derived citric acid, which gives your hair a beautiful sheen without drying it out. The leave-in conditioner is a great choice if you want a soft and healthy scalp and curls because the formula does not contain any parabens, sulfates, mineral oils, or palm oil. It is also suitable for sensitive scalps, especially if you are allergic to nuts because it does not contain any nut oils. Additionally, once you spray it into your hair, the formula settles and absorbs quickly. Finally, the lightweight and a non-greasy fine mist is great for all hair types because it won’t weigh your curls down and leaves the texture feeling soft.
Pros
- Anti-frizz
- Gentle formula
- Moisturizing
- Repairs damaged hair
- Paraben-free
- Gluten-free
Cons
- May not be long-lasting
11. Best For Color-Treated Hair:L’Oreal Paris EverCurl Curl Care System Shampoo And Conditioner Kit
Suppose you are looking for a drugstore vegan shampoo for curly hair that will provide desired results and won’t make you go over budget. In that case, this shampoo and conditioner set is a steal. The formula is gentle on your hair and scalp, and it contains coconut oil which nourishes your strands from root to tip. The conditioner ensures that your tresses are moisturized for 48 hours, and they are defined too. The creamy formula has a beautiful fragrance that makes the cleansing experience quite enjoyable. It won’t dry your hair or make it dull because the formula is free from parabens and sulfates. You can use it on thick or fine hair and color-treated hair as well.
Pros
- Anti-frizz
- Moisturizing
- Defines curls
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Repairs damaged and dry hair
Cons
- May not reduce hair fall
12. Best Hypoallergenic:ATTITUDE Natural Care Super Leaves Science Curl Amplifying Shampoo
If you love all things peach, then you will adore this beautifully scented shampoo. Its formula is loaded with the goodness of coconut oil, chamomile extract, and plant-based minerals, which deeply hydrate and nourish your curls without making them look frayed or dried. The shampoo is hypoallergenic and dermatologically tested. It is useful for people with sensitive or itchy scalps, as it won’t trigger any nasty reactions. It’s perfect for 2A, 2B, and 2C wavy hair because it prevents the curls from separating and gives them some much-needed definition. Additionally, the shampoo is a certified EWG-verified product that is best known for ranking low on how the chemical affects your body, thanks to the natural ingredients.
Pros
- Certified EWG verified
- Dermatologically tested
- Suitable for wavy or lightly curled hair
- Refreshing peach fragrance
- Deeply hydrating
- Hypoallergenic
- Contains plant-based minerals
Cons
- May not provide volume
13. Best For Hair Regrowth:Arencia Shampoo Bar
When looking for vegan hair care products for curly hair that are good for the planet, you have to try out this Shampoo Bar by Arencia. The artisanal soap is highly sustainable because it is made from natural, vegan-friendly ingredients like baobab, fig, and apricot oil, which help with damaged hair curl repair and encourage new, strong growth. These nourishing ingredients also coat your curls and hydrate them while providing a much-needed volume boost as well. The shampoo bar can be used for curly hair that is oily, damaged, or color-treated, and it will leave you with healthy strands after every wash. The soap has no harmful parabens or sulfates and is filled with good stuff catered for your precious locks.
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Sustainable
- Ethically sourced ingredients
- Repairs damage
- Encourages strong regrowth
- Plastic-free
Cons
- May cause stiffness on coarse-textured hair
Now that you are aware of the top vegan curly hair products available in the market, you must know about the factors that make a good vegan hair product. Keep reading our buying guide to know more.
Buying Guide To Choosing The Best Vegan Curly Hair Products
- Protection:
When looking for the best vegan hair products for curly hair, you have to look for factors that will protect it from future damage. This will encourage a healthy and shiny new growth that will help you start new and take better care of the new hair. Look for dermatologist-recommended products that keep your hair protected from sun damage and styling tools, as the heat can cause the texture to become dry, resulting in frayed curls.
- Hydrating:
Hydrating and moisturizing ingredients are crucial in vegan hair care products for curly hair because they bring life to dull, lifeless coils/waves. Look for products that have naturally derived oils because they go deep within the hair shafts and repair any damage done by aggressive heat styling or harmful chemicals.
- Formula:
To avoid any frustrating product buildup, you need to look for formulas that work with your hair and curl type. For instance, for processed dry and curly hair, you will need creamy and oil-based formulas because they will keep the strands moisturized. On the other hand, if you have fine and light wavy hair, along with an oily scalp, then look for lightweight formulas that are non-greasy but settle well on your strands and that get quickly absorbed too.
Infographic: How To Choose Vegan Curly Hair Products
Curly hair needs extra care, and the right products can help combat frizz and promote defined curls. However, for our vegan enthusiasts, it can be a little hard to choose the best product that meets all their hair needs. Worry not! Check out the infographic below for tips on choosing the best vegan curly hair products.
The Bottom Line
Finding the right vegan hair products for your uniquely textured hair is no longer a tough job, with so many brands cropping up in the market almost every day. Nowadays, you can easily try out the Curly Girl (CG) method with the best vegan hair products. These products will transform frizzy hair into manageable hair and enrich it with natural ingredients that intensely nourish it from within. These products have a lightweight formula that works for all curl types and do not leave a greasy residue on application. They also significantly reduce hair breakage and do not weigh down our hair. The Cake Beauty The Curl Friend Totally-To-Die-For Defining Curl Cream is a hair treatment that makes your hair look glossy and frizz-free, while the Maui Moisture Hairstyling Lightweight Curl Refresher Mist hydrates the curls and maintains its volume and shape. The Verb Curl Cream provides light hold and memory to all types of textured hair to add some bounce. Consider the formulation, check the ingredients, and ensure that the product is hydrating enough to repair the damage. With these products, you can elevate your curly hair care routine and ensure that you experience soft and bouncy hair. Additionally, applying a natural hair mask can also improve curl health in the long run! Alexandro Vasquez, an expert hairdresser says, “Vegan hair products are on the rise right now, and it is worth a try because they are free of chemicals and other materials like silicone etc. I recommend it and it is confirmed that these products have now a place in the market for a long term for sure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Vegan Curly Hair Products and Regular Curly Hair Products?
The main difference is that vegan hair care products and regular hair care products contain ingredients completely derived from plants and don’t have any animal by-products.
Are Vegan Curly Hair Products the best compared to normal products?
Yes, vegan hair care products are much better than normal products because they have all-natural and organic plant ingredients that are not harmful to your body or the planet.
What type of vegan curly hair products would you recommend (3a hair type)?
The Cake Beauty The Curl Friend Totally-To-Die-For Defining Curl Cream, the True Curl Define & Smooth Coconut Curl Styler, and the DermaChange Natural Hair Growth Shampoo And Conditioner Set are good for 3A curls. The cream and styler are moisturizing and curl-defining, while the shampoo and conditioner set gently cleanse the scalp and promote strong hair growth.
Are all vegan hair products cruelty-free?
Yes, all vegan products are also cruelty-free, as vegan products do not use any animal products or byproducts or test them on animals.
What ingredients should you avoid in curly hair products?
Some common ingredients to avoid in your curly hair products are parabens, sulfates, drying alcohols, formaldehyde, and silicones.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Kirtana Divakar, the author of this article, is a haircare enthusiast and loves to help her readers buy the right haircare products. To this end, she prepared a comprehensive list of the best vegan curly hair products with the help of extensive research. These items in the list will give you the required nourishment to your tresses without harming animals.
Read full bio of Alexandro Vasquez
Read full bio of Kirtana Divakar
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