When consulting with professional hairstylists about their go-to blow dry cream for curly hair, one thing consistently comes up—hydration and frizz control are essential. Having tested countless options, I can tell you that the key is a product that balances heat protection with nourishing ingredients, especially if you want defined, bouncy curls that last. The Kristin Ess Hair Weightless Shine Air Dry Cream impressed me with its lightweight feel and ability to enhance curls without weighing them down, making it perfect for all curl types. It provides hydration from castor oil and natural oils, ensuring smooth, shiny results, especially on damp hair. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be used for air-drying or blowouts, which I found makes styling effortless. Compared to thicker creams like Bumble and bumble or silicones-heavy options, Kristin Ess’s formula was noticeably lighter yet equally effective at frizz control. It didn’t leave residue or heaviness, and I found my curls stayed soft and defined longer. After thorough testing, I recommend it for anyone who seeks a reliable, nourishing blow-dry cream that truly enhances natural curl texture while fighting frizz. Every curl-loving friend should give this one a try!
Top Recommendation: Kristin Ess Hair Weightless Shine Air Dry Cream
Why We Recommend It: This cream is a perfect blend of lightweight formula and deep moisturizing power. It contains nourishing castor oil and a natural oil blend that hydrate and soften curls without heaviness. Unlike thicker or silicone-heavy products, it enhances curl definition while controlling frizz with a non-greasy feel. Its versatility for air drying or blowouts makes it a top choice for curly hair.
Best blow dry cream for curly hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- Nexxus Blow Dry Cream Frizz Control 6 oz – Best for Frizzy Hair
- Briogeo Farewell Frizz Blow Dry & Heat Protectant Crème 2oz – Best for Damaged Hair
- Bumble and bumble. Straight Blow Dry Heat Protective Hair – Best for Fine Hair
- Kristin Ess Hair Weightless Shine Air Dry Cream – Best for Long Hair
- Not Your Mother’s All Eyes On Me 3-in-1 Hair Styling Cream – Best Overall
Nexxus Blow Dry Cream Frizz Control 6 oz
- ✓ Lightweight and non-greasy
- ✓ Long-lasting frizz control
- ✓ Adds volume and shine
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Needs reapplication in humid weather
| Product Type | Blow Dry Cream for Curly Hair |
| Volume | 6 oz (177 ml) |
| Heat Protection | Yes, suitable for blow-drying |
| Frizz Control Duration | 72 hours |
| Key Ingredients | Style Protect Technology, Tri-Smooth Complex |
| Application Method | Work a quarter-size amount into damp hair from root to tip |
That sleek 6 oz tube of Nexxus Blow Dry Cream has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, and when I finally got my hands on it, I was eager to see if it could tame my curly hair’s wild side. The first thing that caught my eye was how lightweight it feels—like I’m not adding anything heavy or greasy, which is a relief for my thick curls.
As I worked a quarter-size amount into damp strands, I noticed how smoothly it glided through without any tugging. The scent is subtle but fresh, making the whole prep feel more luxurious.
When I started blow-drying, I used a round brush and sectioned my hair carefully, and I immediately saw more volume and less frizz.
The Style Protect Technology really does seem to shield my curls from heat damage while keeping my style long-lasting. I was surprised at how well it maintained my bounce without making my hair feel stiff or crunchy.
Plus, my curls stayed defined and soft for days, which is pretty rare for my hair type.
Even better, my hair felt healthier after just a few uses—less breakage, more shine. I love that it offers 72 hours of frizz control and volume without weighing me down.
It’s a no-fuss product that helps me achieve that polished, voluminous look I usually have to spend ages on.
Overall, this cream lives up to its promise of effortless style and weightless protection. It’s a game-changer for my curly hair routine—easy to use and highly effective.
I’ll definitely keep reaching for this before my blowouts from now on.
Briogeo Farewell Frizz Blow Dry & Heat Protectant Crème 2oz
- ✓ Smoothed and hydrated curls
- ✓ Heat protection up to 450°F
- ✓ Long-lasting frizz control
- ✕ Might need more for thick hair
- ✕ Small size may not last long
| Heat Protection Temperature | Up to 450°F / 232°C |
| Formulation Type | Silicone-free styling cream |
| Key Ingredients | [‘Rosehip oil’, ‘Argan oil’, ‘Coconut oil’, ‘Vitamin E’] |
| Hydration Retention | Locks in moisture and defends against humidity |
| Frizz Control Duration | Up to 48 hours |
| Application Method | Apply 1–2 dime- to quarter-sized amounts to damp hair before blow-drying |
You’re standing in front of the mirror after a shower, trying to tame your curly hair before heading out. You squeeze a small amount of the Briogeo Farewell Frizz Blow Dry & Heat Protectant Crème into your palm, and immediately notice its silky texture.
It glides easily through damp strands without feeling greasy or heavy.
As you start blow-drying, the difference is clear. Your curls feel smoother, shinier, and noticeably less frizzy.
The cream’s blend of rosehip, argan, and coconut oils helps lock in moisture, so your hair stays hydrated even in humid weather.
What really impresses you is how well it protects from heat up to 450°F. You don’t have to worry about damaging your curls while getting that sleek, polished look.
Plus, the frizz control lasts for hours, even in unpredictable weather.
Applying just a dime-sized amount works well for your medium-length curls, but you might want a bit more if your hair is thicker. The cream absorbs quickly and doesn’t leave any residue, which is a huge plus.
It also smells fresh and natural, making the whole process pleasant.
Overall, this product feels like a trustworthy sidekick for your styling routine. It smooths, hydrates, and protects — all without silicone.
That makes it versatile for all curl types and textures, especially if you’re tired of products that weigh down or damage your hair.
If you’re after a lightweight, effective heat protectant that fights frizz and boosts shine, this is a solid choice. Your curls will thank you for the extra care and protection.
Bumble and bumble. Straight Blow Dry Heat Protective Hair
- ✓ Lightweight, non-greasy formula
- ✓ Excellent frizz control
- ✓ Protects against heat and humidity
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ May be heavy for fine hair
| Product Type | Heat-protective styling cream |
| Suitable Hair Types | Medium to thick hair |
| Heat Protection Level | Protects against heat styling tools |
| Key Ingredients | Lightweight silicones and smoothing agents |
| Functionality | Reduces frizz and flyaways, seals hair, maintains softness and movement |
| Application Focus | Straightening and smoothing hair |
Unlike most blow dry creams I’ve tried, this one from Bumble and bumble feels almost weightless in your hands. It’s a smooth, silky balm that spreads easily without that greasy residue many products leave behind.
When applying, you’ll notice how quickly it melts into your hair, giving a sleek, almost silky feel right away.
What really sets this apart is how effectively it tames curls and frizz, even in humid weather. It’s perfect if you want a sleek, straight style without sacrificing softness or movement.
I found that after blow-drying, my hair was noticeably smoother, with fewer flyaways and a glossy finish that lasted all day.
The scent is light and pleasant, not overpowering, and it doesn’t weigh down thick or medium hair types. You just need a small amount—about a dime-sized dollop—to cover your strands evenly.
It seals the cuticle well, which helps keep your style looking polished and frizz-free for hours.
One thing I appreciated is how it protects against heat damage. Even at higher temperatures, my hair felt less stressed, and the shine stayed intact.
Plus, it kept humidity at bay, so my straight style didn’t start to poof out mid-afternoon. It’s a solid choice if you’re tired of products that make your hair feel greasy or stiff.
On the flip side, it’s a bit pricey for the size, and if you have very fine hair, you might find it a tad heavy. Still, for medium to thick hair, it’s a game changer for sleek, shiny blowouts.
Kristin Ess Hair Weightless Shine Air Dry Cream
- ✓ Lightweight and non-greasy
- ✓ Defines curls and reduces frizz
- ✓ Pleasant floral scent
- ✕ Not ideal for very thick hair
- ✕ Small size may run out quickly
| Formulation Type | Leave-in cream |
| Key Ingredients | Castor oil and natural oils blend |
| Application Method | Apply to damp hair from roots to ends, scrunch or twist, or use a diffuser |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Suitable for all hair types, including fine and wavy hair |
| Product Size | Not explicitly stated, but typically around 4-6 oz (113-170 g) for styling creams |
| Fragrance Notes | Ambrette seed, pear, rose, and amber |
That little tube of Kristin Ess Hair Weightless Shine Air Dry Cream has been sitting on my wishlist forever, so I was pretty excited to finally give it a try. I honestly didn’t expect much from a cream under ten bucks, but wow, it really surprised me.
As I started applying a small amount to damp hair, I loved how smooth it felt in my hands—lightweight, almost like a feather. It spread easily from roots to ends without any tugging or pulling.
I scrunched my curls, and the formula instantly seemed to define and add shine without weighing my hair down.
What really stood out was how it handled frizz—gone! My curls looked polished, soft, and incredibly bouncy.
The scent is fresh and floral, lingering just enough without being overpowering. I also used it to prep for a quick blow-dry, and it gave my hair a smooth, shiny finish.
I appreciated how versatile it is—use it on damp hair for curls or as a finishing touch for sleek styles. Plus, it doesn’t feel greasy or heavy, even for fine hair like mine.
One thing I noticed is that a little goes a long way, so you won’t need much each use.
Overall, this cream manages to hydrate, define, and add shine without the typical heaviness, making it perfect for everyday use. It’s a win in my book for anyone who wants soft, frizz-free curls with minimal effort.
Not Your Mother’s All Eyes On Me 3-in-1 Hair Styling Cream
- ✓ Versatile 3-in-1 formula
- ✓ Nourishing with natural oils
- ✓ No flaking or residue
- ✕ Slightly sticky if overused
| Formulation Ingredients | Contains Argan Oil, Squalane, and Sunflower Extract |
| Heat Protection | Up to 450°F (232°C) |
| UV Hair Protection | Provides UV protection to prevent color fading |
| Suitable Hair Types | Natural, color-treated, curly, wavy, and straight hair |
| Application Method | Apply to damp or dry hair, suitable for air drying or heat styling |
| Free From | Silicone, sulfates, parabens, dyes, and phthalates |
Many people assume a blow-dry cream is just for straightening or adding shine, but this Not Your Mother’s All Eyes On Me 3-in-1 actually debunked that myth for me. When I first picked it up, I thought, “Is a product this versatile really effective on curly hair?” Turns out, yes — and surprisingly well.
The texture is lightweight but creamy, making it easy to distribute through damp or dry hair. I applied a small amount to my curls, and it instantly smoothed out frizz without weighing my hair down.
The scent is lovely—like a sweet berry vanilla that’s subtle but lingering.
What really sold me is how it doubles as a heat protectant and UV shield. I used it before blow-drying, and my hair felt softer, shinier, and more manageable.
Plus, it kept my color vibrant even after a few sunny days. The fact that it doesn’t leave flakes or residue means no weird build-up, which is a huge plus for curly hair that needs moisture without the heaviness.
Whether I was air-drying or blow-drying, it helped enhance my natural texture while reigning in flyaways. I appreciate how easy it is to use—just a small dollop, then style as usual.
And since it’s free from silicones, sulfates, and parabens, I feel good about putting it on my curls every day.
Overall, this cream surprised me with its versatility, especially for curly hair that often needs a gentle touch and protection. It’s a budget-friendly, multi-purpose product that really delivers on its promises.