All products featured on Allure are independently selected by our editors.

However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through links in this article.

Luckily, there are plenty of formulas designed to help with both styling and maintenance.

Image may contain Bottle and Cosmetics

Source images: Courtesy of brands; Collage: Laneen Wells for Allure

This styler will leave curls fresh and moisturized while providing flexible hold and next-level bounce.

Aside from its multifunctional properties, the lavender tub also adds a touch of charm to any bathroom counter.

Tester feedback:“This is one of my O.G.

Bread Beauty Supply Hair-Cream in soft purple jar with lid on light gray background

curl essentialsit stands the test of time,” says social media editorBianca Richards.

It gives my curls healthy shine without frizz."

Prepare for frizz-free, ultra-shiny strands ahead.

curl cream in branded clear tub with lid on light gray background with red and white 2024 allure best of beauty seal

Tester feedback:The formula gave formerAllureeditor Jihan Forbes a lived-in, fluffy, soft-looking day-two look.

Apply to extra wet hair to lock moisture in.

“This curl cream will eliminate the use of unnecessary products and works amazingly alone.”

Curl Charisma Chia + Flax Seed Coil Custard in branded white jar on light gray background

The moisturizing custard stretches tight curls while boosting shine and reducing frizz.

The creamy jelly also layers nicely with other styling products.

What’s more, it’s formulated with nourishing ingredients like strengtheningbiotinand moisturizing coconut oil.

Curl Crème in branded soft beige tube on light gray background

Tester feedback:Thorne said her curls looked defined but didn’t lose volume or shrink more than usual.

Agave nectar is another star ingredient in this formula that helps reduce frizz.

Apply to damp hair and coil or twist hair to encourage your natural curl pattern.

Curl Quencher Hydrafusion Intense Curl Cream in branded white bottle with pump and clear cap on light gray background

If youre after soft, touchable curls that still look natural, this ones for you.

Bonus points for heat protection properties: It shields curls from heat up to 400F.

Style away without a second thought!

Define and Stretch Curl Custard in branded brown jar with black lid on light gray background

Look no further than the nourishing Innersense Quiet Calm Curl Control.

LA-based texture specialistAlex Mouneupraises its lightweight texture and versatility.

It layers wonderfully under gel and mousse.

The Curl Friend Defining Curl Cream in branded pink tube with clear cap on light gray background

“Curl creams should be free from synthetic ingredients like amodimethicone and dimethicone,” says Joseph.

Its also a good idea to avoid alcohol, which can dry out curls and strip them of moisture.

These ingredients help fight frizz while keeping your curls soft and full of life.

Original Curling Custard in branded clear jar with lid on light gray background

Is it better to put curl cream on wet or dry hair?

For curls that pop, the secret is in how wet your hair is when you apply the product.

“Curly hair is more prone to dryness, so we require so much water.

Strictly Curls Envy Creme in branded yellow tube with white cap on light gray background

Curl-friendly products are activated with water, so it wont weigh our hair down.”

In other words, moisture is your curls best friend.

Joseph agrees: “Apply creams to super wet hair to elongate curls and retain length, he says.

Hydrating Curl Defining Crème in branded light gray tube with cap on light gray background

Apply to damp hair to increase spring factor, making the hair fuller and the curls tighter.”

Is mousse better than curl cream?

Testers considered performance across four primary categories: efficacy, texture and experience, fragrance, and packaging.

Curl Definer in branded white and purple tube with black cap on light gray background

For more on what’s involved in our reporting, check out our completereviews process and methodology page.

Our staff and testers

A beauty product is a personal purchase.

Now, watch more about how to style hair:

Shop all of our latest obsessionsin one place!

Curl Balm in branded yellow tube with cap on light gray background

Quiet Calm Curl Control in branded white bottle with cap on light gray background