As someone who has spent nearly all of her twenty-something years trying to perfect a curly hair routine, I think I know a thing or two about products. I’ve tried innumerable combos, from oil-based serums to lightweight gels and even dry shampoo. I’ve shampooed, co-washed and conditioned before cleansing. Some of Hollywood’s smartest and most popular experts have given me advice.
My curl pattern also falls somewhere in the middle; it’s not super-kinky, but also not loose and wavy. This means I’ve been able to test drive a wide range of products that work for all types of curls; not just one specific texture. Over time, the only conclusion I’ve come to is that finding what actually works for you takes a lot of trial and error as well as an emphasis on keeping your hair healthy. I also realized that just because something is marketed toward a specific type of texture, doesn’t necessarily mean I should forgo it altogether.
Originally posted on StyleCaster.
For Soft, Defined Curls: DevaCurl B’Leave-In Miracle Curl Plumper
Google "best brands for curly hair," and this brand will be at the top of your results page. I've sworn by DC products since doing my big chop years ago, and this curl plumper (not a gel) is one of the few finds that actually turns my waves into spirals without leaving them crunchy. However, if you are looking for more definition, I recommend mixing a dab of this with the Ultra-Defining Gel.
B'Leave-In Miracle Curl Plumper, $40 at DevaCurl
For Soft Hold: OGX Beeswax Texture Spray
Finding a hair spray that won't turn my curls white and flaky has literally taken years to accomplish. In early 2018, I finally landed on this spritz, which not only smells like a dream but keeps my hair from poufing up in humid weather. Plus, beeswax is said to naturally stimulate hair growth.
OGX Beeswax Texture spray, $6.97 at Walmart
For Dry, Damaged Curls: Briogeo Super Moisture Shampoo
During those weeks when I don't have time to condition my hair every day or eliminate buildup with a scalp cleanser, this shampoo is a godsend for dirty and dry hair. The best part is that it doesn't leave you with the sticky buildup afterward, so if you only have a dime-size amount of conditioner to work with, no problem!
Super Moisture Shampoo, $36 at Briogeo
For Adding Volume: Cantu Apple Cider Vinegar Dry Co-Wash
Apple cider vinegar is the MVP of eliminating bacteria and buildup, so when my scalp has really been put through the ringer, I treat it to a few spritzes of this co-wash. My day-old curls also get a nice boost of shine.
Cantu Apple Cider Vinegar Dry Co-Wash, $4.99 at Sally Beauty
For Defining Wet Curls: DevaCurl Leave-In Decadence
When I have time to condition and style my hair, this is a must-have part of my routine. I think of it as a styling security blanket because on those days when I've run out of my curl plumper, this leave-in does a great job of adding definition on its own. Plus, it smells amazing.
Leave-In Decadence, $26 at DevaCurl
For Wash-&-Go Days: Living Proof In-Shower Styler
If you're rocking super-short curls and don't want to weigh your hair down with product, this shower styler adds definition to wet curls and holds them in place, even after they've dried down. Perfect for those lazy days when you have very little time to get ready.
In-Shower Styler, $25 at Living Proof
For Adding Sheen: Oyin Handmade Juices and Berries
I keep a bottle of this at my desk for when my hair just needs to be revived in the middle of the day. It adds moisture without making my curls look completely wet.
In-Shower Styler, $13.99 at Oyin Handmade
For Shiny Curls: Sexy Hair Curling Crème
If you're less concerned with definition and more concerned about adding shine, this lightweight styler checks off both boxes. Combine with the brand's anti-humidity spray to lock in your look for the day.
Sexy Hair Curling Crème, $17.95 at Ulta
For Wash-&-Go Definition: SheaMoisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie
I tried this styler after seeing countless positive reviews within the natural hair blogosphere… and it more than lived up to the hype. For those who are opposed to gels, this is a great alternative.
Curl Enhancing Smoothie, $13.99 at SheaMoisture
For Curl With a Little Crunch: Uncle Funky’s Daughter Curly Magic
We're constantly talking about products that don't leave your hair with that crunchy feel, but if you're part of the minority that actually enjoys that type of hold, this heavy-duty gel is a must-try; especially for tighter curl patterns.
Uncle Funky's Daughter Curly Magic, $15.99 at Target
For Drying Wet Curls: Aquis Lisse Luxe Hair Turban
This towel dries wet curls with the same speed of an oft-recommended microfiber towel without completely disturbing the curl pattern.
Lisse luxe hair turban, $30 at Aquis
For Lightweight Shine and Sheen: Kérastase Huile Sublime Oil
On top of giving my curls a healthy-looking shine, they also feel moisturized and easier to manipulate.
Huile Sublime oil, $50 at Kérastase
For Nourishing Color-Treated Curls: L’Oréal Everpure Conditioner
When I experimented with lavender and blond hair, this was the only cost-effective option that kept my curls intact, even after hours upon hours of bleaching to lighten the shade.
Everpure Conditioner, $7.99 at Ulta
For an Itchy Scalp: Mielle Organics Mint Almond Oil
When your scalp is feeling irritated beyond belief, this is the best post-cleansing treatment for sweet, sweet relief. The mint delivers a cooling sensation, while the almond nourishes your hair without weighing it down.
Mint Almond Oil, $13.99 at Mielle Organics
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