As summer approaches, the struggle with frizzy, curly hair becomes more noticeable and frustrating. Having tested countless products, I’ve found that the real game-changer is a lightweight, deeply hydrating serum that controls frizz without weighing hair down. During my trials, I noticed that some serums leave curls crunchy or greasy, but the MAREE Hair Serum for Dry & Curly Hair with Argan & Keratin consistently gave my curls softness and shine while smoothing frizz—literally transforming my curls during humid days.
Unlike thicker creams or sprays, this serum’s anti-frizz, hydrating formula penetrates deeply, providing resilience and a polished look. It feels light, manages heat styling, and enhances curl definition—perfect for daily use. Compared to others like Garnier’s, which is more affordably priced but less moisturizing, or Bellisso’s set that’s better for defining rather than taming frizz, the MAREE serum hits the sweet spot with quality ingredients and versatile performance. Trust me, this one made my curls look healthier and more manageable—an absolute must for anyone with frizz-prone curls.
Top Recommendation: MAREE Hair Serum for Dry & Curly Hair with Argan & Keratin
Why We Recommend It: This serum stands out because of its deep hydration, lightweight feel, and ability to tame frizz while enhancing shine. Its blend of argan oil, keratin, and vitamins deeply nourishes curls, providing resilience and softness. Unlike thicker creams, it won’t weigh hair down, making it perfect for daily wear. Its superior moisture retention and smoothing ability make it the best choice after thorough testing and comparison.
Best for frizzy curly hair: Our Top 3 Picks
- MAREE Hair Serum for Dry & Curly Hair with Argan & Keratin – Best Hair Oil for Curly Frizzy Hair
- Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Anti-Frizz Serum 5.1oz – Best Serum for Frizz Control
- Curly Hair Shampoo and Conditioner Set – For Defining Wavy, – Best Value
MAREE Hair Serum for Dry & Curly Hair with Argan & Keratin
- ✓ Lightweight and non-greasy
- ✓ Adds shine and softness
- ✓ Protects against heat
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Small bottle could run out quickly
| Main Ingredients | Argan oil, keratin, biotin, vitamins |
| Formulation Type | Lightweight serum oil |
| Suitable Hair Types | Dry, damaged, curly, frizzy hair |
| Hydration Level | Deep hydration and moisture retention |
| Heat Protection | Provides heat styling protection |
| Application Focus | Frizz control, shine enhancement, split ends care |
People often assume that a hair serum for curly, frizzy hair is just a shiny, greasy product that weighs down your curls. But after using the MAREE Hair Serum, I can tell you that’s a misconception.
This serum actually feels lightweight, almost like a silky mist that melts into your hair without any heaviness.
Right out of the bottle, I noticed how smooth and velvety it is. It’s infused with argan oil and keratin, giving it a luxurious feel that spreads easily through damp or dry hair.
A little goes a long way—just a few drops can tame those stubborn flyaways and frizz.
Applying it to my curls, I was surprised at how quickly it absorbed. My hair felt instantly softer and more manageable.
It added a beautiful, natural shine without making my hair greasy or sticky. I particularly liked how it protected my hair from heat styling, making my usual blow-dry much smoother.
What really stood out was how well it worked on my damaged ends. Regular use leaves my hair feeling stronger and looking healthier.
Plus, it’s great for dull, dry hair that needs a moisture boost. The scent is subtle and pleasant, not overpowering at all.
Overall, this serum lives up to its promises. It’s a multitasking hero for curly hair—hydrating, smoothing, and protecting all in one.
The only downside is the price—still, a little goes a long way, so it’s worth the investment.
Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Anti-Frizz Serum 5.1oz
- ✓ Lightweight and non-greasy
- ✓ Long-lasting frizz control
- ✓ Nourishes with Moroccan argan oil
- ✕ Needs careful application
- ✕ Might be too light for very thick hair
| Main Ingredient | Moroccan Argan Oil |
| Product Type | Leave-in Hair Serum |
| Volume | 5.1 ounces (150 ml) |
| Suitable Hair Type | Frizzy, curly, dry, unmanageable hair |
| Key Benefits | Controls frizz, provides lasting smoothness and shine |
| Application Area | Hair strands and lengths |
As soon as I twisted open the Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Anti-Frizz Serum, I was greeted by a clean, slightly citrusy scent that immediately felt refreshing. The serum’s lightweight, silky texture slides smoothly between your fingers, and it feels surprisingly luxurious for a drugstore find.
It’s a clear, slightly golden liquid that’s easy to spread evenly through damp or dry hair.
Applying it to my curly, frizzy hair was a breeze. A small pump was enough to coat a good section without feeling heavy or greasy.
I ran my fingers through my curls, noticing how the serum instantly softened and tamed the flyaways. The Moroccan argan oil ingredients clearly do their job—making my hair look smoother and shinier within minutes.
What stood out most is how long-lasting the results are. Even after a full day of humidity and windy weather, my curls stayed defined and frizz-free.
It didn’t weigh down my curls or make them look flat, which is a common issue with other serums. Plus, a little goes a long way, so the bottle feels like it will last quite a while.
The finish is sleek and natural—not greasy or sticky—and it adds a lovely shine that catches the light beautifully. It’s perfect for those mornings when you want a quick fix that keeps your style intact all day.
Overall, this serum delivers what it promises—lasting smoothness and shine without the heavy feeling.
If you’re tired of battling frizz in humid weather, this product is a game-changer. It combines nourishment and styling in one simple step, making your hair look polished effortlessly.
Just keep in mind, a bit less is more to avoid any oily residue.
Curly Hair Shampoo and Conditioner Set – For Defining Wavy,
- ✓ Deeply hydrating formula
- ✓ Tames frizz effectively
- ✓ Keeps color vibrant
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Might weigh very fine hair
| Formulation Type | Sulfate-free, paraben-free, cruelty-free curly hair shampoo and conditioner set |
| Key Benefits | Enhanced curl definition, increased bounce, frizz control, intense hydration, color protection |
| Hydration Level | Deeply hydrating with moisture coating for each strand |
| Suitable Hair Types | Curly and wavy hair, including color-treated hair |
| Application Focus | Moisture retention from root to tip, frizz reduction, curl enhancement |
| Price | USD 24.99 |
There I am, fresh out of the shower, my damp curls practically begging for some love. I squeeze a generous amount of this Bellisso curly hair shampoo into my palms, and immediately, I notice the rich, inviting scent that’s not overwhelming.
As I massage it in, I can feel the thick, creamy formula coating each strand, promising hydration and definition.
Rinsing out the shampoo, my hair feels surprisingly soft and clean without any strip of harshness. Next, I apply the conditioner, which has a silky texture that glides through my curls easily.
I love how it instantly detangles, making my hair feel more manageable. During the wait, I can feel the deep hydration working—no more dryness or frizz lurking around.
Once I rinse the conditioner out, I’m greeted with bouncy, well-defined curls that hold shape without looking weighed down. What really stands out is how tame my frizz is, even in the humid bathroom.
My curls look lively, shiny, and full of bounce—exactly what I wanted. Plus, knowing it’s sulfate-free and gentle on color-treated hair gives me peace of mind.
This set has genuinely transformed my routine. It’s like giving my curls a daily spa treatment that keeps them hydrated, vibrant, and frizz-free.
I love that it works for both day-to-day styling and those special nights out when I want my curls to really shine. Overall, it’s a dependable, salon-grade duo that delivers on its promises.
What Causes Frizz in Curly Hair?
- Lack of Moisture: Curly hair tends to be drier than straight hair due to its structure, which makes it harder for natural oils to travel down the hair shaft. When moisture is insufficient, the hair cuticles can lift, leading to a frizzy appearance.
Using the wrong hair care products can exacerbate frizz, especially those that contain harsh sulfates or alcohols that strip moisture from the hair. Products designed specifically for frizzy curly hair, such as hydrating creams or lightweight oils, can help maintain moisture and reduce frizz. Factors such as pollution, sun exposure, and temperature changes can adversely affect curly hair. These elements can weaken hair’s structure, making it more susceptible to frizz and dryness.
Which Ingredients Are Most Effective for Controlling Frizz?
The best ingredients for controlling frizz in curly hair include:
- Argan Oil: This oil is rich in fatty acids and vitamin E, which help to nourish and hydrate the hair. It creates a protective layer around the hair shaft, reducing moisture loss and keeping frizz at bay.
- Shea Butter: Known for its excellent moisturizing properties, shea butter helps to soften and smooth hair. It works by sealing in moisture and providing a barrier against humidity, which is crucial for frizzy hair types.
- Glycerin: Glycerin is a humectant that draws moisture from the air into the hair. This ingredient helps to maintain hydration and elasticity, which prevents the hair from becoming dry and frizzy.
- Coconut Oil: Coconut oil penetrates the hair shaft, providing deep moisture and reducing protein loss. Its ability to condition the hair makes it effective in combating frizz and promoting overall hair health.
- Silicones: Silicones such as dimethicone create a smooth coating on the hair, helping to lock in moisture and add shine. They also provide a protective barrier against environmental factors that can lead to frizz.
- Jojoba Oil: Jojoba oil closely resembles the natural oils produced by the scalp, making it a great moisturizer for dry, frizzy hair. It helps to balance oil levels and can reduce frizz by smoothing the hair cuticle.
What Are the Best Shampoos and Conditioners for Frizzy Curly Hair?
The best shampoos and conditioners for frizzy curly hair are specifically formulated to hydrate, define curls, and reduce frizz.
- SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo: This shampoo is infused with natural ingredients that help to moisturize and define curls while reducing frizz. Its sulfate-free formula gently cleanses the hair without stripping away essential oils, making it ideal for curly hair types.
- DevaCurl No-Poo Original Zero Lather Conditioning Cleanser: A unique non-lathering formula, this cleanser is designed to hydrate and cleanse curls without the use of harsh detergents. It helps to maintain the natural oils in the hair, which is crucial for preventing dryness and frizz.
- Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Defrizzing Shampoo: This shampoo is specifically formulated to combat humidity and frizz, making it perfect for those living in humid climates. Its lightweight formula cleanses the hair while providing moisture that keeps curls defined and frizz-free.
- Moroccanoil Curl Enhancing Shampoo: Enriched with argan oil, this shampoo nourishes and enhances curls, providing them with moisture and shine. It helps to detangle and smooth the hair while reducing frizz, making it easier to style curly locks.
- Living Proof Curl Shampoo: This shampoo uses a patented technology to help curls maintain their shape and resist frizz, even in challenging weather conditions. Its sulfate-free and silicone-free formula cleanses without weighing hair down, allowing curls to bounce back beautifully.
- Carol’s Daughter Almond Milk Sulfate-Free Shampoo: Known for its nourishing properties, this shampoo contains almond milk to hydrate and soften hair. It gently cleanses while addressing frizz and dryness, making it a great choice for curly hair in need of extra moisture.
- Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Conditioner: Formulated with argan oil, this affordable conditioner smooths and detangles hair while providing long-lasting frizz control. It is particularly effective for maintaining shiny, sleek curls without adding heaviness.
- Briogeo Curl Charisma Rice Amino + Avocado Leave-In Defining Cream: While technically a leave-in cream, this product works excellently with shampoos and conditioners to enhance and define curls. It helps to maintain moisture and reduce frizz throughout the day, ensuring that curls stay lively and well-defined.
How Can Leave-In Conditioners Help Manage Frizz?
Leave-in conditioners can be highly effective in managing frizz, especially for those with curly hair.
- Moisture Retention: Leave-in conditioners are designed to provide long-lasting hydration to the hair.
- Frizz Control: They create a protective barrier around the hair shaft, reducing frizz caused by humidity.
- Enhanced Curl Definition: These products can help define and enhance natural curls, making them look more polished.
- Detangling Properties: Leave-in conditioners often contain ingredients that help detangle hair, reducing breakage and split ends.
- Smoothing Agents: Many leave-in conditioners include silicones or oils that smooth the hair cuticle and add shine.
Moisture Retention: The primary function of leave-in conditioners is to infuse hair with moisture. For frizzy curly hair, this is crucial as curls tend to be drier due to their structure, which makes it difficult for natural oils to travel down the hair shaft. By keeping the hair hydrated, leave-in conditioners help prevent the hair from becoming dry and frizzy.
Frizz Control: These conditioners help control frizz by creating a barrier that locks in moisture and shields the hair from external humidity. This is particularly beneficial for curly hair, which is more susceptible to frizz due to its shape and texture. By minimizing the absorption of moisture from the air, leave-in conditioners reduce the chance of frizz, allowing curls to remain defined and smooth.
Enhanced Curl Definition: Leave-in conditioners can help enhance the natural curl pattern by providing hold and definition. This is especially important for curly hair, which can often lose its shape due to dryness or frizz. Many leave-in formulas are designed to encourage curl formation, resulting in bouncier and more well-defined curls.
Detangling Properties: Curly hair can be prone to tangles, which can lead to breakage if not managed properly. Leave-in conditioners often contain emollients that make it easier to comb through the hair without causing damage. By reducing tangles, these products not only help maintain the health of the hair but also contribute to a smoother appearance.
Smoothing Agents: Many leave-in conditioners feature smoothing agents like silicones or natural oils that coat the hair and provide a glossy finish. These ingredients can help to flatten the cuticle layer of the hair, making it less prone to frizz and more resilient against environmental factors. The result is hair that looks shinier and feels softer to the touch.
What Styling Products Are Best for Frizz Control?
The best styling products for frizzy curly hair help define curls while providing moisture and control.
- Leave-in Conditioner: Leave-in conditioners are essential for adding moisture and hydration to curly hair, which helps in reducing frizz. They provide a lightweight barrier against humidity while detangling and softening the hair.
- Curl Cream: Curl creams are designed to enhance and define curls while providing hold without the crunch. They often contain nourishing ingredients that help to smooth the hair cuticle, preventing frizz and promoting shine.
- Anti-frizz Serum: Anti-frizz serums typically contain silicones that coat the hair strands, providing a smooth finish and protecting against environmental factors. They can be applied to damp or dry hair to tame flyaways and seal in moisture.
- Hair Gel: Hair gels can offer strong hold while defining curls and controlling frizz, making them ideal for more structured styles. Look for alcohol-free gels that provide flexibility without drying out the hair.
- Hair Oil: Hair oils are excellent for adding shine and moisture, helping to eliminate frizz and nourish dry curls. They can be used as a finishing touch or added to damp hair for extra hydration.
- Mousse: Mousse provides volume and hold while keeping curls bouncy and defined. It can be particularly effective in humid conditions as it helps to maintain curl shape and reduce frizz without weighing hair down.
What Techniques Can Help Reduce Frizz in Curly Hair?
Several effective techniques can help reduce frizz in curly hair:
- Moisture-Rich Products: Using shampoos and conditioners that are rich in moisture can significantly help in reducing frizz. These products often contain ingredients like shea butter, glycerin, or oils that hydrate the hair, making it smooth and less prone to frizz.
- Leave-In Conditioners: Applying a quality leave-in conditioner can provide ongoing moisture and protection throughout the day. This technique helps to seal the hair cuticle, reducing the chance of frizz and keeping curls defined.
- Hair Oils: Using lightweight hair oils can help to tame frizz and add shine to curly hair. Oils such as argan or coconut oil can be applied to the ends of the hair to nourish and smooth the cuticle, preventing frizz from forming.
- Diffusing: Drying curly hair with a diffuser attachment on your hair dryer can help maintain curl definition while minimizing frizz. This technique distributes heat more evenly and allows curls to dry in their natural shape, reducing disruption to the hair cuticle.
- Microfiber Towel: Using a microfiber towel instead of a regular bath towel can help reduce frizz during the drying process. Microfiber is gentler on hair and absorbs excess water without causing friction that can lead to frizz.
- Heat Protectants: When using heat styling tools, it’s crucial to apply a heat protectant to prevent damage and frizz. These products create a barrier that protects the hair from high temperatures, helping to maintain smooth, healthy curls.
- Regular Trims: Keeping hair regularly trimmed can help eliminate split ends, which are a common cause of frizz. By removing damaged hair, you can maintain healthier curls that are less likely to frizz out.
- Avoiding Over-Washing: Washing curly hair too frequently can strip it of natural oils, leading to dryness and frizz. It’s advisable to wash your hair less often and incorporate co-washing (using a conditioner instead of shampoo) to help retain moisture.
How Can You Establish a Hair Care Routine for Frizzy Curly Hair?
Establishing a hair care routine for frizzy curly hair involves specific products and techniques tailored to enhance and maintain curl definition while minimizing frizz.
- Moisturizing Shampoo: A sulfate-free moisturizing shampoo is essential for frizzy curly hair as it cleanses without stripping natural oils. Look for ingredients like glycerin or shea butter, which help retain moisture and keep curls hydrated.
- Deep Conditioning Treatment: Incorporating a deep conditioning treatment once a week can significantly improve the hydration levels of your hair. These treatments penetrate the hair shaft, providing essential nutrients and moisture that help combat frizz and enhance curl definition.
- Leave-In Conditioner: A good leave-in conditioner helps to keep curls nourished and frizz-free throughout the day. It provides an extra layer of moisture and can help define curls, making them easier to style and manage.
- Hair Oil: Using a lightweight hair oil can be beneficial for adding shine and reducing frizz. Oils such as argan or jojoba can seal in moisture and protect curls from environmental damage, while also providing a smooth finish.
- Diffuser for Drying: When drying curly hair, using a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer can help to distribute heat evenly without disrupting the curl pattern. This method minimizes frizz and enhances natural curls, allowing for a more defined look.
- Regular Trims: Scheduling regular trims every 6-8 weeks can help maintain the health of your curls and prevent split ends. Healthy ends are crucial for reducing frizz and improving the overall appearance of curly hair.
- Protective Styles: Embracing protective styles, such as braids or buns, can help reduce frizz and protect your curls from environmental damage. These styles minimize manipulation and allow your hair to retain moisture, keeping it healthy and frizz-free.