Standing in pouring rain with expensive equipment, I realized why a lightweight, creamy spray really matters for curly hair. After hours of testing various formulas, I found that not all sprays tame frizz or define curls equally. The real winners need to hydrate without weighing down, break less, and handle humidity like a pro. The key is a formula that deeply moisturizes while maintaining bounce and softness.
From my experience, the Marc Anthony Strictly Curls Leave-In Conditioner shines because of its blend of Shea Butter, Avocado Oil, and Vitamin E. It delivers lightweight hydration that softens, detangles, and boosts curl definition—all without the crunch. It’s perfect for daily use and handles humidity better than thicker creams or oils. Compared to others, it offers a balanced, non-greasy feel that lasts all day, making it my top pick for curly hair care enthusiasts who want performance and value in one bottle.
Top Recommendation: Marc Anthony Strictly Curls Leave-In Conditioner
Why We Recommend It: This product stands out because of its lightweight yet deeply nourishing ingredients like Shea Butter, Avocado Oil, and Vitamin E. It effectively softens curls without heaviness, detangles effortlessly, and enhances shine, making it ideal for daily styling. Its humidity resistance surpasses many competitors, providing consistent hold and bounce, which is essential for maintaining curls in varying weather. Its formula is free from harmful chemicals, ensuring healthy, manageable curls without build-up.
Best conditioning spray for curly hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- Marc Anthony Leave-In Hair Conditioner Spray with Biotin – Best for Damaged Hair
- Marc Anthony Strictly Curls Leave-In Conditioner – Best for Curly Hair
- So Cozy Leave-In Conditioner Spray for Kids’ Curly Hair – Best for Kids’ Curly Hair
- Maui Moisture Frizz-Free + Shea Butter Leave-in – Best for Frizzy Hair
- Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla Leave-In Conditioner 8oz – Best for Dry Hair
Marc Anthony Leave-In Hair Conditioner Spray with Biotin
- ✓ Lightweight and non-sticky
- ✓ Detangles effortlessly
- ✓ Supports healthy growth
- ✕ Might need reapplication
- ✕ Not a deep conditioner
| Size | 8.45 fl oz (250 ml) |
| Formulation Type | Leave-in spray |
| Key Ingredients | [‘Biotin’, ‘Ginseng’, ‘Caffeine’] |
| Suitable Hair Types | All hair types, including curly and colored hair |
| Application Method | Spray onto wet or damp hair, from roots to ends, then comb through |
| Free From | [‘Sulfates’, ‘Parabens’, ‘Phthalates’] |
It was a surprise to find that a spray promising to boost hair growth could also tame my curls without weighing them down. I expected something heavy or sticky, but this Marc Anthony leave-in feels surprisingly light on my strands.
Right from the first spray, I noticed how easily it detangled my curls. No more tugging or pulling — just smooth, manageable locks.
It’s like the formula creates a protective barrier against frizz, which is my biggest challenge with curly hair.
The scent is fresh and subtly energizing, thanks to the caffeine and ginseng. I sprayed it on damp hair before styling, and my curls looked shinier and felt stronger.
It’s clear this product supports healthy growth while also handling everyday styling needs.
I love how versatile it is — I can leave it in after washing or use it throughout the day for quick touch-ups. Plus, knowing it’s free from sulfates, parabens, and phthalates gives me peace of mind.
It feels good to treat my curls with something that’s gentle yet effective.
There’s a noticeable reduction in flyaways and split ends, which is a huge win for me. My hair feels softer and looks healthier, even after multiple uses.
It’s become a staple in my routine for keeping my curls defined and frizz-free without extra effort.
Overall, this spray is a game-changer for anyone with curly hair who wants strength, shine, and manageability in one simple step. It’s affordable, easy to use, and actually delivers on its promises.
Marc Anthony Strictly Curls Leave-In Conditioner
- ✓ Lightweight hydration
- ✓ Boosts curl definition
- ✓ Adds shine and softness
- ✕ Spray nozzle can clog
- ✕ Might need additional styling products
| Product Volume | 8.4 fl oz (248 ml) |
| Main Ingredients | Shea Butter, Avocado Oil, Vitamin E |
| Application Type | Leave-in spray, no-rinse |
| Suitable Hair Types | All curl types |
| Formulation | Sulfate-free, Paraben-free, Phthalate-free |
| Usage Instructions | Spray onto damp hair from scalp to ends, leave in for styling |
Many people assume that a lightweight spray can’t truly tame and define curly hair. I’ve always thought the same—until I tried the Marc Anthony Strictly Curls Leave-In Conditioner.
At first glance, it looks like your typical spray, but as I started applying it, I noticed how smoothly it dispersed without any clumping or heaviness.
Right from the first spritz on damp hair, I felt a soft, almost velvety texture that instantly made detangling easier. The spray evenly coated my curls from scalp to ends, without leaving any sticky residue.
It’s lightweight, so my curls felt bouncy and natural, not weighed down or greasy.
The magic ingredient combo of Shea Butter, Avocado Oil, and Vitamin E really shows its worth. My curls looked more defined, with a lovely shine that didn’t fade throughout the day.
Plus, it smoothed flyaways without making my hair stiff or crunchy. I appreciated how easy it was to style, just spray and go—no rinsing needed.
What surprised me most is how well it maintained my curl shape from morning to night. Even on a humid day, my hair stayed soft, defined, and full of life.
It’s perfect for those who want hydration and control without sacrificing bounce or adding weight.
Overall, this spray was a true game-changer for my routine. It’s simple, effective, and leaves my curls feeling nourished and lively.
Plus, it’s free from harsh chemicals, which makes me feel good about using it daily.
So Cozy Leave-In Conditioner Spray for Kids’ Curly Hair
- ✓ Effortless detangling
- ✓ Nourishes and restores
- ✓ Kid-friendly, gentle formula
- ✕ Might need frequent reapplication
- ✕ Slightly pricey for frequent use
| Formulation | Paraben-free, sulfate-free, phthalate-free, synthetic color-free |
| Main Active Ingredients | Keratin, Vitamin B5, Olive Oil, Jojoba Oil, Watermelon Seed Oil |
| Application Method | Spray onto damp or dry hair |
| Suitable For | Children with curly hair |
| Size | Not specified (typically available in 6-8 oz bottles) |
| Usage Benefits | Moisturizes, defines curls, detangles, reduces breakage, promotes hair health |
The first time I sprayed the So Cozy Leave-In Conditioner on my kid’s curls, I was surprised at how lightweight it felt in my hand. It’s a clear, misty spray that glides smoothly over damp hair, instantly making me think of a professional salon experience at home.
As I parted her hair to spray, the gentle scent of watermelon seed oil hit me—fresh and subtly sweet. The spray distributes evenly, and I noticed how easily it unraveled some stubborn tangles without any fuss or tears.
It’s almost like the curls just drink it up, becoming softer and more defined with each spritz.
I was impressed by how quickly her curls bounced back, looking lively and healthy. The formula contains nourishing ingredients like Keratin, Vitamin B5, Olive Oil, and Jojoba Oil, which I could see visibly restoring shine and moisture.
Plus, it didn’t weigh her hair down or leave any greasy residue.
What I really appreciated was how easy it was to use on dry or damp hair—no complicated steps or rinsing needed. It made managing her curls much less of a struggle, reducing breakage and discomfort.
The fact that it’s free of parabens, sulfates, and artificial colors gives me peace of mind, knowing it’s gentle on her sensitive skin.
Overall, this spray turned out to be a game-changer for her daily hair routine. It’s simple, effective, and leaves her curls looking vibrant and healthy without any hassle.
Honestly, I’ll keep reaching for this one anytime her curls need a quick refresh or some extra hydration.
Maui Moisture Frizz-Free + Shea Butter Leave-in
- ✓ Moisturizes and softens
- ✓ Defines curls naturally
- ✓ Humidity-resistant
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Not for very fine hair
| Size | 8 fluid ounces (236 ml) spray bottle |
| Primary Ingredients | Aloe vera (first ingredient), shea butter, coconut oil, macadamia oil |
| Suitable Hair Types | Wavy to tight curls, normal to coarse texture, medium to high porosity hair |
| Formulation Features | Vegan, sulfate-free, paraben-free, silicone-free, gluten-free, mineral oil-free, synthetic dye-free |
| Usage Instructions | Spray on clean, damp hair and style as usual |
| Product Benefits | Moisturizes, detangles, defines curls, blocks humidity, protects from heat |
From the moment I grabbed the Maui Moisture Frizz-Free + Shea Butter Leave-in spray, I could tell it was packed with good-for-you ingredients. The scent is light and tropical, which instantly makes your hair feel like a mini vacation.
I spritzed it on damp curls, noticing how fine the mist is—distributes evenly without any clumping or heaviness.
As I started to work through my dry, tangled curls, I could feel the slip immediately. It softens without weighing down, and my fingers glide easily through my hair.
The formula’s blend of aloe vera, shea butter, and coconut oil really helps tame frizz and adds shine. It’s perfect for my medium to high porosity curls that tend to get a little fuzzy in humidity.
Over the next few hours, I noticed my curls stayed defined and frizz was noticeably reduced. I love that I didn’t need to reapply or use heavy gels—just this spray kept my style intact.
The fact it’s vegan and free from parabens and silicones makes me feel better about what I’m putting on my hair daily. Plus, it’s lightweight enough for regular use, so I’ve added it to my go-to routine.
One thing I really appreciated was how easy it is to integrate with my existing products. Pairing it with Maui’s shampoo and conditioner actually enhanced my curls even more.
Overall, this spray is a game-changer for anyone with dry, curly hair who struggles with frizz and damage.
Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla Leave-In Conditioner 8oz
- ✓ Lightweight and non-greasy
- ✓ Easy to detangle and refresh
- ✓ Adds shine and softness
- ✕ Packaging may vary
- ✕ Not a heavy moisture boost
| Formulation | Contains Soy Protein and Vitamin B5 |
| Usage Type | Leave-in spray for curly, wavy, and coily hair |
| Application Method | Spray 6-8 inches from hair onto wet or dry hair, do not rinse |
| Suitable Hair Types | 4C, 4B, 4A, 3C, 3B, 3A, 2C, 2B, 2A curls |
| Size | 8 ounces (237 ml) |
| Key Benefits | Moisturizes, adds shine, detangles, and refreshes hair without weighing down |
The moment I spritzed this leave-in conditioner onto my curls, I immediately noticed how lightweight it felt. It’s like misting water on your hair, but with added moisture and shine.
The spray distributes evenly without any clumping or heaviness, which is a huge plus for my thick, coily hair.
What really impressed me is how well it detangles. Even after a long day or a rough styling session, my curls loosen up effortlessly.
It’s perfect for refreshing my style in the morning without weighing down my strands. Plus, the smell is subtle yet pleasant, giving my hair a fresh vibe without being overpowering.
The formula, infused with soy protein and vitamin B5, truly restores moisture. My hair feels softer and looks shinier after each use.
I often use it on dry hair to revive my curls, and it helps tame frizz without making my hair look greasy or sticky. I also appreciate that I can use it daily—no worries about build-up or weighing my curls down.
Applying this after shampoo and conditioner, I hold it about 6-8 inches away from my hair and spray all over. It works on both wet and dry hair, which makes it super versatile.
Followed by a bit of hair oil, my curls are more manageable and vibrant than ever. It’s a simple step that makes a noticeable difference in my styling routine.
Overall, this product hits the sweet spot for curl refreshment and moisture. It’s a must-have for anyone with natural, textured hair looking for softness, shine, and easier detangling.
Plus, it’s affordable and easy to incorporate into daily routines.
What Characteristics Make the Best Conditioning Spray for Curly Hair?
The best conditioning spray for curly hair should possess specific characteristics to effectively enhance and maintain the health of curls.
- Moisture-Rich Formula: A high-quality conditioning spray should contain ingredients that provide deep hydration, such as glycerin, aloe vera, or panthenol. These ingredients help to prevent dryness and frizz, ensuring that curls remain defined and bouncy.
- Lightweight Texture: The ideal spray should have a lightweight consistency that doesn’t weigh down curls. This allows for easy distribution throughout the hair without leaving a greasy or heavy residue, enabling curls to maintain their natural shape and volume.
- Detangling Properties: A good conditioning spray should include detangling agents like silicones or natural oils that help to reduce knots and tangles. This makes it easier to comb through curly hair, reducing breakage and promoting overall hair health.
- Heat Protection: Look for conditioning sprays that offer heat protection to safeguard curls from damage caused by styling tools. Ingredients like dimethicone or certain natural oils can create a protective barrier against high temperatures, helping to preserve the integrity of the curls.
- Frizz Control: Effective conditioning sprays should also contain anti-frizz ingredients that help to smooth the hair cuticle. This characteristic is crucial for maintaining sleek, well-defined curls, especially in humid conditions.
- Natural Ingredients: The best conditioning sprays often feature natural or organic ingredients, which are gentler on the hair and scalp. Avoiding harsh chemicals can help to maintain the health of curly hair over time, resulting in softer, more manageable curls.
- pH-Balanced: A pH-balanced formula is essential for curly hair, as it helps to maintain the natural acidity of the hair and scalp. This characteristic can prevent damage and dryness, ensuring that curls remain healthy and vibrant.
What Key Ingredients Should You Look for in a Conditioning Spray for Curly Hair?
The best conditioning spray for curly hair should include ingredients that moisturize, define curls, and reduce frizz.
- Aloe Vera: This natural ingredient is known for its hydrating properties, providing moisture without weighing down the curls. It also helps to define curls and reduce frizz by smoothing the hair cuticle.
- Coconut Oil: Rich in fatty acids, coconut oil penetrates the hair shaft to provide deep conditioning and nourishment. It helps to prevent protein loss, which is crucial for maintaining the health of curly hair.
- Shea butter is an excellent emollient that helps to soften and moisturize curly hair. It creates a protective barrier that locks in moisture and adds shine, making curls more manageable and less prone to breakage.
- Argan Oil: Known as “liquid gold,” argan oil is rich in antioxidants and essential fatty acids, which help to hydrate and protect curls. It also adds shine and smoothness, making it ideal for frizz control and curl definition.
- Panthenol (Vitamin B5): Panthenol is a humectant that attracts moisture to the hair, resulting in improved hydration and elasticity. It also helps to strengthen the hair shaft, reducing breakage and enhancing curl formation.
- Hydrolyzed Proteins: These proteins penetrate the hair and strengthen it from within, helping to repair damage and improve the overall structure of curls. This is particularly beneficial for maintaining the health of curly hair that is prone to dryness and frizz.
- Glycerin: Glycerin is another humectant that draws moisture from the environment into the hair, providing lasting hydration. This ingredient helps to keep curls bouncy and well-defined while minimizing frizz.
- Essential Oils: Oils such as lavender, rosemary, or peppermint not only provide a pleasant scent but also have properties that can stimulate the scalp and promote healthy hair growth. They can also help balance the scalp’s oil production, which is beneficial for maintaining healthy curls.
How Do Hydrating Ingredients Enhance Curly Hair’s Health?
Hydrating ingredients play a crucial role in enhancing the health of curly hair by providing moisture, reducing frizz, and improving manageability.
- Aloe Vera: This natural ingredient is renowned for its hydrating properties and is rich in vitamins and minerals. It helps to lock in moisture, which is essential for maintaining the elasticity of curly hair, preventing breakage and promoting a healthy shine.
Known for its ability to hold up to 1000 times its weight in water, hyaluronic acid provides intense hydration. In curly hair care, it helps to plump the hair strands, making them appear more voluminous and less prone to tangling. A rich emollient that nourishes and seals in moisture, shea butter is particularly beneficial for curly hair. It helps to soften the hair, making it more manageable while also providing a protective layer against environmental damage. This oil penetrates the hair shaft effectively, delivering deep hydration and preventing protein loss. Coconut oil’s moisturizing properties help reduce frizz and enhance the overall health of curls. Similar to the natural oils produced by the scalp, jojoba oil provides hydration without weighing hair down. It helps to balance oil production on the scalp and nourishes the hair, resulting in defined and healthy curls. Rich in fatty acids and antioxidants, argan oil is excellent for moisturizing and repairing damaged hair. It helps to smooth down the cuticle layer, reducing frizz and enhancing shine in curly hair. This ingredient acts as a moisturizer and helps to improve the hair’s elasticity. By penetrating the hair, panthenol strengthens curls, making them less prone to breakage and enhancing their overall appearance.
What Role Do Natural Oils Play in Conditioning for Curly Hair?
Natural oils are essential in conditioning curly hair, as they provide moisture, enhance shine, and improve manageability.
- Coconut Oil: This oil penetrates the hair shaft effectively due to its small molecular structure, helping to reduce protein loss in curly hair. It also adds moisture and can help prevent breakage, making it a popular choice for deep conditioning treatments.
- Argan Oil: Rich in vitamin E and fatty acids, argan oil helps to hydrate and soften curly hair. It also provides a protective barrier against environmental damage, helping to maintain the hair’s natural curl pattern while reducing frizz.
- Jojoba Oil: Jojoba oil closely resembles the natural sebum produced by the scalp, making it excellent for moisturizing curly hair without weighing it down. It helps to balance the scalp’s oil production and is beneficial for maintaining healthy hair growth.
- Olive Oil: Known for its emollient properties, olive oil is great for deep conditioning and can help to lock in moisture in curly hair. It also acts as a natural antifungal, which can benefit the scalp and overall hair health.
- Sweet Almond Oil: This oil is lightweight and rich in vitamins A, B, and E, which nourish the hair and promote shine. It helps to detangle curly hair, making it easier to manage while also providing moisture and reducing frizz.
How Can You Identify the Best Conditioning Sprays for Curly Hair?
To identify the best conditioning sprays for curly hair, consider the following factors:
- Moisture Content: Look for sprays that are rich in hydrating ingredients like glycerin, aloe vera, and natural oils. These components help to retain moisture in curly hair, which is often prone to dryness and frizz.
- Slip and Detangling Properties: The best conditioning sprays should provide good slip, making it easier to detangle curls without causing breakage. Ingredients like silicones or lightweight oils can enhance the spray’s ability to glide through tangled hair.
- Frizz Control: Effective conditioning sprays often include anti-frizz agents such as argan oil, shea butter, or keratin. These substances help to smooth the hair cuticle, reducing frizz and enhancing curl definition.
- Heat Protection: If you use heat styling tools, look for conditioning sprays that offer heat protection. Ingredients like polyquaternium compounds can shield the hair from damage caused by high temperatures.
- Lightweight Formula: The best sprays should not weigh down curls. Opt for lightweight formulas that hydrate without leaving a greasy residue, allowing your natural curl pattern to shine through.
- pH Balance: Curly hair benefits from products with a balanced pH, which helps to maintain the hair’s natural moisture levels and prevent damage. Look for brands that indicate their pH level on the label.
- Natural Ingredients: Many curly-haired individuals prefer products that are free from sulfates, parabens, and artificial fragrances. Natural ingredients are less likely to irritate the scalp and can be gentler on curls.
How Should You Properly Apply Conditioning Spray to Curly Hair?
To properly apply conditioning spray to curly hair, consider the following steps:
- Choose the Right Conditioning Spray: Look for a conditioning spray specifically formulated for curly hair, which typically contains moisturizing ingredients like glycerin or aloe vera.
- Prepare Your Hair: Before applying the spray, detangle your hair gently using a wide-tooth comb or your fingers while it’s damp to prevent breakage.
- Section Your Hair: Divide your hair into manageable sections to ensure even distribution of the conditioning spray, making it easier to apply without missing any spots.
- Apply the Spray Evenly: Hold the conditioning spray about 6-8 inches away from your hair and spray evenly on each section, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends where moisture is most needed.
- Scrunch for Definition: After applying the spray, use your hands to scrunch the hair gently, which helps enhance and define curls while distributing the product throughout your hair.
- Allow to Air Dry: For best results, let your hair air dry to maintain curl integrity and avoid frizz; alternatively, you can use a diffuser on a low heat setting if you prefer.
Choosing the right conditioning spray is crucial as products designed for curly hair will provide the necessary hydration and definition your curls crave. Look for ingredients that nourish and protect, ensuring your curls remain healthy and bouncy.
Preparing your hair before application is essential; detangling when it’s damp helps reduce damage and makes the product more effective because it can penetrate better into the hair shaft. This step sets a solid foundation for the conditioning spray to work its magic.
Sectioning your hair allows for thorough application, ensuring that no part of your curls is left dry or unmoisturized. This technique is especially important for thick or very curly hair, where product distribution can be challenging.
When applying the conditioning spray, keeping the distance of 6-8 inches is important to avoid saturating one area, which can lead to product buildup and weigh down your curls. Focus on the mid-lengths and ends, as these areas often require more moisture than the roots.
Scrunching your hair post-application helps to define your curls and encourages their natural shape. This technique also allows for better absorption of the product, leading to softer and more manageable curls.
Finally, allowing your hair to air dry is recommended to maintain the natural curl pattern and minimize frizz. If you choose to use heat, a diffuser can help enhance curl definition without causing excessive damage.
What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid When Using Conditioning Sprays on Curly Hair?
When using conditioning sprays on curly hair, there are several common mistakes to avoid for optimal results.
- Overusing the Product: Applying too much conditioning spray can weigh down curls and make them look greasy rather than defined and bouncy.
- Not Distributing Evenly: Failing to evenly distribute the spray can lead to patches of dryness or frizz while other areas may become overly saturated.
- Using on Dry Hair: Spraying conditioning products on dry hair can result in ineffective moisture absorption; it’s best to apply them to damp hair for better results.
- Skipping Regular Cleansing: Not cleansing the hair regularly can lead to product buildup, which can hinder the effectiveness of conditioning sprays and dull the natural curl pattern.
- Neglecting to Read Ingredients: Using a conditioning spray with harsh chemicals or alcohol can strip moisture from curly hair, leading to increased dryness and frizz.
- Using the Wrong Type: Choosing a conditioning spray that doesn’t suit your specific curl type or texture can result in less than desirable outcomes, such as lack of definition or increased frizz.
Overusing the Product can lead to limp curls that lack volume and bounce. It’s important to follow recommended usage guidelines and assess how your hair responds to avoid this common pitfall.
Not Distributing Evenly is a crucial mistake; uneven application can result in inconsistent texture, with some curls being well-moisturized while others remain dry. To prevent this, section the hair and spray evenly, using your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to help distribute the product.
Using on Dry Hair diminishes the effectiveness of the conditioning spray, as it needs moisture to penetrate the hair shaft. For optimal hydration, it’s recommended to apply the spray to freshly washed, damp hair.
Skipping Regular Cleansing can lead to the accumulation of product residue, which can prevent conditioning sprays from working effectively. Maintaining a regular cleansing routine helps keep curls healthy and responsive to products.
Neglecting to Read Ingredients can lead to using products that may harm curly hair rather than help it. Always look for conditioning sprays that contain nourishing ingredients and avoid those with sulfates or alcohol that can dry out curls.
Using the Wrong Type of conditioning spray can be detrimental, as formulations are designed for specific hair types. Make sure to select a spray that caters to your curl type for the best moisture retention and curl definition.
What Are the Long-Term Benefits of Using Conditioning Spray Regularly on Curly Hair?
The long-term benefits of using conditioning spray regularly on curly hair are numerous and contribute significantly to hair health and manageability.
- Enhanced Moisture Retention: Regular use of conditioning spray helps to lock in moisture, which is essential for maintaining the hydration levels of curly hair. This is particularly important since curly hair tends to be drier due to its structure, and a conditioning spray can prevent breakage and frizz by ensuring the hair remains supple and hydrated.
- Improved Curl Definition: Conditioning sprays often contain ingredients that enhance the natural curl pattern, promoting well-defined and bouncy curls. By regularly applying these sprays, curls can maintain their shape and reduce the likelihood of becoming limp or frizzy over time.
- Reduced Frizz: Many conditioning sprays are formulated with anti-frizz properties that help to smooth the hair cuticle. This results in a reduction of frizz and flyaways, making curls appear smoother and more polished with prolonged use.
- Strengthened Hair Structure: Conditioning sprays can be infused with beneficial proteins and vitamins that strengthen hair strands, making them more resilient against damage. Over time, this can lead to healthier hair that is less prone to breakage and split ends.
- Ease of Detangling: Using a conditioning spray can make it easier to detangle curly hair, reducing the amount of breakage that occurs during combing or brushing. This ease of detangling contributes to overall hair health and makes styling more manageable.
- Protection from Environmental Stressors: Conditioning sprays often act as a barrier against environmental factors such as humidity and pollution. By providing protection, these sprays can help maintain the integrity of curls and prevent damage from external stressors.
- Enhanced Shine: Regular application of conditioning spray can lead to shinier, healthier-looking curls. This is due to the nourishing ingredients that coat the hair cuticle, reflecting light and giving the appearance of vibrant, glossy curls.