Managing your curls without curly hair products is a sure recipe for disaster. Curls need more TLC than any other hair type, so we’ve decided to help you out and make you a list of the best products that will leave your curls defined and full of life!
Cantu’s Cleansing Cream Shampoo is my absolute favorite for once it is time to wash my curls and rid my scalp of pesky buildup. Free of sulfates, parabens, mineral oils, or silicones, it cleanses and moisturizes the hair—something typical shampoos fail to do. This shampoo will not leave your hair feeling like a brittle tumbleweed waiting to snap, in fact you’ll find your curls feel a lot more hydrated and defined. However, this shampoo only goes so far in terms of providing hydration—meaning do not forget to follow with a good conditioner!
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This is a product that is never out of stock in my bathroom. Sold in a 12 oz jar, a little goes a very long way. What I love most about this product, aside from its delicious smell, is the fact that it is so versatile. Some people use it to achieve a more longer curl pattern, adding liberal amounts so as to stretch out their curls, and others use it to create definition and shine. Personally, I like to use it alongside another styler and leave in conditioner to ensure I have great curl definition and am free of frizz. This product can be used in so many ways and for so many different curl types. This is definitely a hidden-gem within curly hair products.
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Cantu’s Curl Activating Cream is a cream that I have used for a LONG TIME. There is simply nothing as effective in controlling my stubborn, frizz-prone curls than this cream. This is a product that works best in the winter, adding much needed hydration to the dry strands that winter causes. Unlike other curly hair products, Cantu is one that does not need to be paired with other styler or leave ins, it is so effective that just this cream alone will tame even the most wild curls.
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Kinky Curly’s Curling Custard is one of the greatest finds I’ve had in a long time. Typically sold in an 8 oz jar, this is a gel that is so lightweight that it almost feels like watered-down jelly. I am always sure to use this gel straight after using Kinky Curly’s Knot Today leave in conditioner. While it is not an absolute requirement to pair the two, it is recommended as they were created for that very purpose, and therefore work most effectively hand-in-hand. This custard must be applied to very wet hair as it tends to dry up very rapidly. Once you notice your hair hardening from the effects of the gel, you must leave your hair alone completely. Do not touch your hair until the “gel-cast” is completely hardened and it is time to scrunch out all of that crunch. Once you are finished scrunching you are left with pillow soft curls, defined like you just left the salon.
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Kinky Curl’s Knot Today leave in conditioner is one of the only leave-ins that work for my 3c hair. Sold in an 8 oz bottle, unfortunately I run out of this stuff like nobody’s business. My hair absolutely loves this product, achieving great hydration after each use. Again, it is best to pair this with Kinky Curly’s Curling Custard for the best results. One of my favorite things about this leave in is that it is a lifesaver in terms of maintaining 2nd, 3rd, or 4th day hair, making sure to reapply it to problem areas to either wet, damp, or dry hair.
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TRESemme’s Botanique conditioner is one of a few curly hair products that I refuse to ever switch out with another. I have yet to find a conditioner as long-lasting and nourishing as this. This is a product that will last me MONTHS, and when you have curly hair you know how fast products can go. Sulfate and paraben-free, this conditioner is a very healthy option if you’re looking to avoid harmful ingredients within your regimen. I use this straight after Cantu’s Cleansing Cream shampoo, making sure to detangle with a wide-toothed comb while the conditioner remains coated throughout my hair. Once your hair is detangled, make sure to rinse with cold water, so that all of the moisture that your hair just gained remains locked into the cuticle.
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Anyone with curly hair knows that there is nothing as satisfying as a good deep condition, especially during the winter months. I like to deep condition every month or so, but however frequent your hair needs it will vary. In terms of deep conditioners, this is one of the most essential curly hair products. Section your hair in two, and scoop small amounts, making sure to evenly coat your hair with the product. Typically, you want to leave a deep conditioner in for anywhere between 30 minutes to an hour. Whether you choose to apply heat while allowing the product to work its magic is up to you, personally I just throw on a shower cap and lounge around my house for half an hour. Once the time is up, be sure to rinse thoroughly with cold water—this tip is important. Your hair will feel unbelievably silky after this treatment, and healed from winter’s harsh elements.
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Initially when I used this product I absolutely hated it, but then I recently decided to give it another shot and it blew my mind. I think my mistake the first time was that I used absolutely too much. This is a very effective product, and too much can spell trouble, leaving you with lifeless dry and greasy strands. However, if you are careful to use proper amounts based on your hair type, it will give you ultra-defined curls, that are bouncy and full of life.
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Curly hair and buildup go hand-in-hand, it is an inevitable inconvenience that will be sure to visit you from time to time. Finding the right curly hair products to rid your scalp of buildup can be a challenge. Not wanting anything to harsh for your hair, where do you turn for relief? Devacurl’s Buildup Buster is liquid magic, cleansing your scalp deeply and adding moisture and much-needed hydration in the process.
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LA Looks Gel is the holy grail of gels to use for curly hair. After you are finished with styling, apply this gel in sections through your hair and leave it to dry completely. Once it is ready and the gel-cast is broken, you are left with frizz-free and defined curls!
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