Curly-haired people are notorious for using specialty hair products — after all, beautiful bouncy curls do best when they are assisted with the right styling products. The best curly hair products add definition, provide hold, and intensely hydrate those curly locks. Everyone’s hair and preferences are different, which is why it is so difficult for curly-haired folks to find the right combination and products for a specific curl pattern.

The eternal search for that perfect balance is a struggle for many, not to mention expensive for most. We understand the struggle is real for highly textured hair, and these finicky manes need an extra level of maintenance. We have developed a list of the best curly hair products that will help you more efficiently cut through the difficult leg work and costs associated with this well-known battle. Our list will provide you with the down-low on the benefits and details of products including cremes, gels, sprays, diffusers, and brushes.

Kinky Curly Original Curling Custard is one product that you can ensure you will keep coming back to. It is very easy to use, simply apply to wet hair and it can be helpful to work for both thick, coarse curls and loose, wavy manes. It lasts forever, so this is a product that will last a few days after it's first application and still holds up beautiful-looking curly hair. The pH is approximately 4.5, which is perfect for those with highly porous hair. Ethnic hair, in specific, tends to do well with this formulation as the lower pH is much better towards keeping hair healthy and reducing breakage and damage.

After your initial application, simply mix some seltzer water with a bit of your preferred oil and spritz each day to give a quick refresh to your look. You will easily be able to stretch out each application which helps make this product much more easy to use, convenient, and long-lasting. Plenty of users report being able to keep this product in the hair for upwards of 5 days while still looking fresh, bouncy, and frizz-free. You can try a lot of gels, and there are certainly many to choose from on the market, but you will never go wrong with Kinky Curly Original Curling Custard. You can save yourself a ton of time by trying this one because certainly you will easily find yourself coming back to using it time and time again. It is one of the best products for curly hair in gel form for everyday use not only helping develop a beautiful look of your hair, but it also increases the strength and health of each cuticle. It's one of the best curly  hair products we could find, and a great one to have in your hair-care arsenal.

Key Features
  • Helps maintain healthy hair
  • Removes tangles
  • No change to natural hair texture
  • Tub of styling gel
Specifications
  • Package Size: 16 oz.
  • Effectiveness Time: Long-lasting hold
  • Product Type: Gel
  • Cruelty Free: Yes
  • Important Ingredients: Botanical Formula
  • Brand: Kinky Curly
Pros
  • Defines Curls
  • Controls Frizz
  • Pleasant smelling
  • Easy to use
Cons
  • May start to flake after a couple days
  • May feel crunchy after drying

Any hairstyle can benefit from Garnier Fructis Style Curl Shape Defining Spray Gel. It is one of the best products for all hair types because it easily provides definition and control to unruly hair that is thick, thin, naturally curly, or permed. Even those who have straight hair can use this product to change up their texture and it provides a moveable hold. This may not be the product for those that like an immoveable stiffer look, Pauly-D style, but for anyone who wants to control frayed ends and boost bounce and volume with the ability to have a natural flow to hair will get good use from this gel spray.

Garnier Fructis Style Curl Shape Defining Spray Gel is really nice as one of the best curly hair products because as long as you aren’t looking for the hard-as-a-rock look you will be able to adjust the amount of hold for the look you desire. A light spritz is easily applied to damp hair with a quick comb through gives light control, or you can add a bit more product and scrunch for a heavier hold. Some people will cut the formula with a bit of water for the very lightest hold and texture. The slightly sweet smell isn’t overwhelming either.

It is worth a try with virtually no downside because not only do these bottles come in multi-packs giving you plenty of product with backups, the price won’t be beat. It is a super affordable hair product that even one bottle will last you a decent amount of time. Just make sure to check the pump periodically. The gel can clog up its function making it sticky and difficult to push. A quick soak in some warm water clears it up stat!

Key Features
  • Made with moisture-rich shea butter
  • Boosts curls for permed and naturally curly hair
  • Controlled style while reducing frizz
Specifications
  • Package Size: 8.5 oz
  • Effectiveness Time: Yes
  • Product Type: Spray gel
  • Cruelty Free: No
  • Important Ingredients: Shea butter
Pros
  • Great hold without being stiff
  • Works for all hair types, thick, thin, natural or permed
  • Excellent for anti-frizz
  • Multifunctional, can be used in place of hairspray
Cons
  • Not suitable for those that want a stiff hold
  • Pump can get stuck with build-up and be difficult to spray

If your hair is extremely porous you know how hard it is to style because of the sheer amount of product that must be used. It is overwhelming at times, expensive, not to mention time-consuming. While OGX locking + coconut curls air dry cream can be used anytime with great results, the very best time for many difficult tresses is when the hair is warm and wet, right out of the shower. You may still need to seal the deal with some gel and/or your favorite oil but you will be good for days. This air-drying cream is super hydrating too, so not every hair type will need the extra oil added in. Not only is this product very low maintenance it is low-cost too, which is a double bonus for those short on time and cash.

It is a pleasantly creamy mouse that surprisingly, isn’t sticky. It provides plenty of hold while still maintaining a bouncy, soft appearance minus the crunch. It stays light on the hair, not adding any unwanted weight to your style. If your hair is very curly or just slightly wavy, you will adore using this whipped cream. It is a smooth mousse, that locks in a controlled bounce and defined curl without the stiff, stickiness.

Fine-haired folks have often much contempt for products because of how they build up and make strands look greasy and heavy fast. There is little to no residue left with this product, it is easily removed with a quick wash, and it can boost up the volume to those who have to deal with thin, and lifeless strands.

Key Features
  • Air dry formula
  • Creamy with coconut oil and shea butter
  • Heat-free styling
Specifications
  • Package Size: 6 oz
  • Effectiveness Time: Yes
  • Product Type: Styling cream
  • Cruelty Free: Yes
  • Important Ingredients: Shea butter and coconut oil
Pros
  • Very moisturizing
  • Not sticky
  • Terrific smell
  • Soft hold to curls with control
Cons
  • Can be difficult to wash out
  • Can initially have an alcohol smell when first applied

Curly hair take a lot of work. The Tancano Microfiber Hair Towel is one of the best curly hair products because it can help you reduce the time you need to take during your morning or evening hair care routine when you are fresh out of the shower. The soft and downy microfiber materials suck up wetness like a champ which will help you reduce the time you need using heat to dry your hair. This means less damage and less frizz ruining your days. Any hair type looks better and works better when it is healthy, so products you can use to improve hair strength and texture will always be a welcome plus to any hair care routine.

Those with very thick, long hair have an especially hard time drying hair. Using this towel, extra water will absorb quickly out of those strands helping you reduce styling time and you won’t have to worry about the towel becoming heavy with the weight. This towel will stay light and easily leave you with damp locks. Those with thick braids truly understand how hard it is to get hair dry, but within 30 minutes time, you can have your twists in good shape. Soggy, heavy braids are very uncomfortable, this curly hair product will be a heaven-send in your bathroom and in your overnight bag. While it doesn't come with a hair tie, it’s extra-large size makes it easy to wrap securely around your head. It also comes in a couple of pretty color options to choose from as well as a reusable pouch.

Key Features
  • Soft microfiber fabric
  • Cut down time drying hair
  • Perfect for long, thick hair and braids
Specifications
  • Package Size: 1 towel
  • Effectiveness Time: Yes
  • Product Type: Towel
  • Cruelty Free: N/A
  • Important Ingredients: Microfiber
Pros
  • Extra-large size
  • Keeps hair healthy and reduces frizz and split ends
  • Super absorbent material maintains light weight
  • Very comfortable, plush
Cons
  • Does not come with hair tie
  • Towel colors look darker in person than online

SoCozy curl leave-in conditioner is specially formulated for children who need extra care and attention with their hair care. Every parent understands that limited time and patience that children have for hygiene and hair mantinence. This is particularly true when hair maintenance is painful, and combing through your little one’s curly, twisted hair can be a means for intense pain and showdowns between parent and child.

Not going to happen with this leave-in spray conditioner. It smooths out the cuticles, keeps hair shiny and moisturized, improves health and elasticity, and leaves out all the junk you wouldn't want to even go near your child. Ther are so many natural and safe ingredients which make this formulation healthy and safe for your children. The vegetable protein is for hydration helping very porous hair and soothing split ends, the panthenol is a B5 vitamin that also helps keep in moisture and keep those curly cues defined, beeswax smoothes out frizz, and hydrolyzed jojoba esters nourish each strand and promotes healthy growth. The best part of the formulation is that you child’s hair won’t be weight down with build-up. There is little to no residue left after a wash and you can easily spritz the hair each time you need to comb out your child’s mane to a shiny controlled look with pretty much no ouch!

While their ingredients list is extensive, what you won’t find are parabens, or any synthetic colors and dyes, no hazardous formaldehyde or sulfates, no propylene glycol, DEA phthalates, mineral oil or petrolatum. The price point is also quite attractive and the slight fruity smell is good fun for little ones.

Key Features
  • Formulated for kids
  • Hydrolyzed Jojoba Esters mimic natural oil on the scalp
  • No parabens, synthetic colors or dyes, formaldehyde, sulfates
Specifications
  • Package Size: 8 oz
  • Effectiveness Time: Yes
  • Product Type: Spray conditioner
  • Cruelty Free: No
  • Important Ingredients: Beeswax, Vegetable proteins, Jojoba extract
Pros
  • High-quality natural ingredients
  • Moisturizing and smooths hair
  • Improves health and elasticity of strands
  • Company specializes in children's products
Cons
  • May cause eye irritation
  • Doesn't provide much bounce in certain hair textures

SEXYHAIR curly curling creme is a simple enough balm to use for your curly and wavy hair. Take a dab and rub it between your palms which will warm it up a bit. Use your fingers to run it through your strands for an even coating. You can either use a diffuser to dry your hair or let your hair air dry and have all the style and control without frizz you could want. It can be used right out of the shower for a fresh new look or to provide a revival to styles on their second or third day.

This creme is fast-drying so there is virtually no down-time to use, especially if you are in need of a quick fix when you are running out the door. An insider tip, it is a great addition to any beach or pool bag to keep your locks under control and perked up during a summertime bash. Everyone wants to look good in their favorite suite sunning beachside or poolside.

This product is particualry helpful for those who have fine hair which can easily be weighed down by product-use. Fine hair is often difficult to find the right products as so many can pull hair down keeping styles flat by the end of a full day, let alone any additional days after. SEXYHAIR curly curling creme will keep your curls light and bouncy without any crunch or greasiness. While it keeps moisture in, it stays light without looking oily. You won’t mind the pleasant smell either. It is a moderately priced balm, but since you only need but a pearl-sized drop, one tube will last you a long time.

Key Features
  • Great for fine hair
  • Can be used daily for new styles or to refresh hair
  • Time-saver, works well with air-drying
Specifications
  • Package Size: 5.1 oz
  • Effectiveness Time: Yes
  • Product Type: Styling creme
  • Cruelty Free: Yes
  • Important Ingredients: Sea algae and cacay oil
Pros
  • Won't make hair look oily or greasy
  • Not sticky
  • Pleasant scent and texture
  • A little goes a long way
Cons
  • Doesn't dampen frizz for some hair types
  • Light formula isn't the best on heavy, thick twists

A number one priority for any curly-haired individual is to condition and keep their hair moisturized. This helps sooth the strands which reduce tangles and breakage that curly-haired folks are so prone to have. Royal Lock’s deep conditioning hair mask and cap is the full kit for healing and restoring dry hair. In as little as 10 minutes, you can apply this soothing conditioner to your hair and let it soak into each strand. The cap helps seal in the treatment and use the heat of the shower to open up the hair shaft and suck up as much of that nourishing goodness as possible. It is as close to professional-grade treatment as you can get at home, for helping repair split ends and brittle hair.

Made of high-quality ingredients including bamboo, ginseng, and coconut oil for a winning combination of intense hydration this formulation does not have any parabens, glutens, and it is both vegan and cruelty-free. It is an excellent moisture-rich mask for frizzy curly hair but it also can help those with any texture hair who need extra love and care for damaged locks. It is highly advisable that everyone engage in a nourishing hair treatment from time to time, but curly hair, in particular, should have a solid mask that they either get done at the salon or at home to keep those curls in check. If visits to the salon on a regular basis are not in your budget or will not fit into your schedule, this makes an excellent alternative for a fiercely effective treatment option. In fact, we think it's one of the best curly hair products available right now.

Key Features
  • Professional grade deep conditioning curly hair treatment
  • 10 minute hair correction mask
  • Cap included helps increase hair conditioning in shower
Specifications
  • Package Size: 7 oz
  • Effectiveness Time: Yes
  • Product Type: Deep conditioning mask
  • Cruelty Free: Yes
  • Important Ingredients: Bamboo , ginseng and coconut oil
Pros
  • Quick results
  • Works well for all hair curly or straight
  • Revitalizes hair and smooths strands
  • Great customer service
Cons
  • Shipping issues
  • Smell is not for everyone

The beauty of the xtava black orchid large hair diffuser is that it will work to help you enhance the natural look of the shape of your hair. It has extensive airflow which helps evenly distribute drying throughout every inch of your twisty strands and that will accomplish two things. First, it helps to combat and reduce frize and the second is that it will dramatically reduce drying times. Those with heavy, thick, textured hair are always looking for ways to reduce their styling time, and a quality diffuser is an absolute necessity in the beauty box. It is not just the large size, the many drying vents that are incorporated into this design are what sets this diffuser apart.

The great thing about the xtava black orchid large hair diffuser which makes it one of the best products for curly hair is how versatile it is. Most hairdryers work well to fit this diffuser, but to ensure yours will work keep in mind the measurements. This diffuser has a 1.8-inch diameter. The design is smart and durable and it utilizes a seal band to make it’s fit secure so it won't wiggle or become dislodged during use. The other nice point about this product is the materials that are strong and can stand up to high temperatures upwards of 485 degrees Fahrenheit. The cup shape is also perfect for holding in curls tightly while effectively circulating air. It is not absolutely universal in fit, but it does work well for a wide number of blowdryers and that will save you cash. Give this one a try and you can skip out on making expensive purchases of blowdryers that need to have their own patented diffuser attachments.

Key Features
  • Large design
  • Effective airflow with multiple drying vents
  • Durable, can withstand very high temperatures
  • 360-degree airflow
Specifications
  • Package Size: 1 diffuser
  • Effectiveness Time: Yes
  • Product Type: Diffuser
  • Cruelty Free: N/A
  • Important Ingredients: Plastic and fiberglass
Pros
  • Design cuts down on drying time
  • Sturdy, and well-made
  • Fits many blow dryer brands
  • Builds intense volume for multi-day curls
Cons
  • Grooves may be too deep for some curls
  • Diffuser body can get very hot to the touch

Paul Mitchell is a solid brand for providing salon-quality products to the masses. This Paul Mitchell round trip liquid curl definer is no exception to their well-known, quality product line. It uses ingredients that come from cornstarch which provides excellent styling with little weight. Not only does it style and hold bouncy, light curls, but it works very well as a conditioner and strand protectant. It strengthens the hair which is an excellent feature that curly-haired individuals are always on the lookout for. Unlike many competitors in the curling gel category, it not only is functional as a styling agent and has plenty of nourishing ingredients, but it can also add value by reducing drying time so you can get on with your day.

The quality ingredients make this formulation optimal. There are no parabens, glutens, and it is vegan friendly. If you have colored-hair, an added bonus is this styling gel is gentle enough to use without affecting your hue. The price is fair for a bottle where you only need a tiny pump of gel which goes a long way. You will get many pumps out of one bottle stretching your dollars quite a bit. The formula doesn’t come off sticky, so buildup in the pump isn’t too much of a worry. If you have struggled to add volume to your hair and keep it healthy in the process, try Paul Mitchell round trip liquid curl definer. It will give you a nice look while conditioning your hair in the process.

Key Features
  • Protects hair
  • Flexible hold
  • Color-safe
Specifications
  • Package Size: 6.8 oz
  • Effectiveness Time: Yes
  • Product Type: Styling gel
  • Cruelty Free: Vegan
  • Important Ingredients: Cornstarch-derived
Pros
  • Very lightweight
  • Only need to use a tiny bit for optimal results
  • Provide great hold without the crunch
Cons
  • Packaging could be improved
  • Thinner consistency

Curly hair solutions flexy brush will have your scalp thanking you. Tangled, curly hair is extremely difficult to separate and work through. It hurts adults and children alike but most adults, unlike their younger counterparts, will actually sit still long enough to work them out. Children, on the other hand, will make brushing an even harder job than it has to be. Anything that can help you ease up on the pulling and stress to the head that can be so painful will be doing you a significant favor. This is a brush that the soft bristles can work through the twists and tangles without grabbing and painful pulling so much so that those who have very sensitive skin will be able to use it.

It will work itself right through medium density hair in little time. If you are one who has to separate your hair into sections, the larger size of this brush will take that extra step and time out of your beauty routine. A crucial element to helping increase ease and convenience while you are getting ready for your day, not to mention a brilliant time saver. This is particularly important for parents who are struggling with their kiddos in the morning before school, or at night right before bedtime. There is no time to waste on brushes that are made out of weak, cheap materials that will just break on you mid-comb. The sturdy design and body will sure hold up through each brushing section.

Because of the way that these flexible and smooth bristles massage the scalp they also work to separate strands very well at the base of the scalp. This action provides excess volume to hair. Curly hair solutions flexy brush is ideally designed as one of the best curly hair products, but it can help give a boost to dull lifeless hair textures as well.

Key Features
  • Silicone bristles
  • Helps detangle curly, difficult hair
  • Works on wet and dry hair
Specifications
  • Package Size: 1 brush
  • Effectiveness Time: Yes
  • Product Type: Brush
  • Cruelty Free: N/A
  • Important Ingredients: Flexible silicone
Pros
  • Detangles knots and curls while avoiding breakage
  • Strong materials hold up well while lightweight
  • Exfoliates scalp, great for sensitive skin
  • Messages scalp to increase blood flow
Cons
  • Hair products can build up on the back in the sides
  • Difficult to get water out of sides

There are marked differences between those with wavy and curly hair versus those with straighter hair which is why caring for each type of hairstyle is much different. In general, straight-haired individuals have an easier time caring for their locks while curly hair is tantamount to difficulties in maintenance. As such, it can be very time-consuming for those with curly hair to find the right products to keep their styles looking good, healthy, and nourished. It is also very costly researching and trying the many products on the market to find the right ones for your hair. Why are there such differences in hair care between textures?

The Science Of Hair Shape

The shaft and the follicle are the two components of our hair which determine how our hair will be shaped and how it will grow. The shaft is the visible part that we see in the form of our strands while the follicle is deep within our skin and it acts to hold the hair in place. Straight, wavy, or curly hair shape is a result of the follicle. Round follicles yield straight hair, oval follicles lead the way for levels of curly strands. Additionally, the angles at which the hair grows from your scalp can also contribute to your hair’s texture. Straight hair has a verticle growth pattern while curly hair comes out from an angle.

These angles or lack thereof concerning how our hair grows out of our scalp contributes to why those with curly and wavy hair can get away with washing less frequently than those who have very stick-straight hair. This is one of the many benefits of having bouncy ringlets. The trade-off, however, is that those with curly manes tend to have more scalp irritation. Curly-haired individuals need to ensure their haircare routine includes keeping their head and hair hydrated through a moisturizing shampoo followed by an equally moisturizing conditioner. These products should also be formulated to cleanse as well as exfoliate and ward off potential dandruff build-up that develops easily on curly-haired scalps. Once maintenance is taken care of then there are the styling needs that need to be accounted for which is why there are such extensive amounts of products that are geared specifically for curly hair.

Curly Hair Maintenance

Curly hair doesn’t have to be as tough to maintain as it seems. Looking for specifically formulated products that will address two main points will keep your hair looking beautiful. These two components of effective curly hair maintenance include reducing frizz and improving hydration.

Then there are the physical actions that curly-haired individuals need to keep in mind. Curly hair should be combed out with a wide-toothed comb as opposed to bristles to ward off tangles. Bristles lead to static which is going to cause more wild stands that can intertwine and make for major knotting and increased damage. Not a good look. Another way to work through separating strands would be to use your fingers along with a solid conditioner and rake through your curls. It is always recommended to squeeze, not rub for proper drying after your curly hair is wet from a shower or a dip in the pool. Rubbing makes for more knots and squeezing keeps curls healthy and defined. A microfiber towel is a good way to remove excess moisture most effectively. With a bit of extra attention and the right product line, you can keep your tresses looking their best which will in-turn make you feel your best.

Resources— Northwestern University, Smithsonian

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