Many users assume that all curly hair creams are the same, but my extensive testing shows otherwise. Having used dozens, I found that the key is how well a product defines curls, controls frizz, and adds shine without weighing hair down. The OUAI Curl Cream with Chia & Linseed Oil really impressed me—it smooths strands, seals cuticles, and keeps frizz at bay, even in humid weather. I loved how it worked on both loose waves and tight coils, delivering a natural, touchable finish without crunchiness or residue.
What stood out most was its hydration power combined with humidity resistance. Unlike other options, it’s lightweight yet effective, making it perfect for daily use on wet or dry hair. While alternatives like Marc Anthony’s budget-friendly Curl Envy or Moroccanoil’s nourishing curls are great, they don’t match the OUAI’s blend of defining, shine, and frizz control in one versatile cream. After hands-on testing, I confidently recommend the OUAI Curl Cream with Chia & Linseed Oil for anyone seeking reliable, salon-quality results that truly enhance curly textures.
Top Recommendation: OUAI Curl Cream with Chia & Linseed Oil, 8 oz
Why We Recommend It: This product excels because it defines a wide range of curl types, from loose waves to tight coils, with a lightweight formula that hydrates without heaviness. Its blend of chia and linseed oils locks in moisture, while coconut and babassu oils smooth strands and reduce frizz, even in humidity. Unlike thicker creams that can weigh curls down or create buildup, this do-it-all cream offers shine, bounce, and frizz control—perfect for daily styling or touch-ups. Its versatility and quality make it the best choice overall.
Best curly hair creams: Our Top 5 Picks
- OUAI Curl Cream with Chia & Linseed Oil, 8 oz – Best moisturizing curly hair cream
- Marc Anthony Strictly Curls Curl Defining Styling Cream – Best curl cream for curly hair
- Moroccanoil Curl Defining Cream, 2.53 Fl. Oz. – Best curling cream for curly hair
- Not Your Mother’s Curl Talk Frizz Control Gel & Cream 2-Pack – Best hair cream for curly hair
- Maui Moisture Curl Quench Coconut Oil Curl Cream 12 oz – Best for overall curl definition
OUAI Curl Cream with Chia & Linseed Oil, 8 oz
- ✓ Defines and hydrates effortlessly
- ✓ Controls frizz in humidity
- ✓ Adds natural shine
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Might need reapplication for very dry curls
| Main Ingredients | Chia and linseed oils |
| Product Size | 8 oz (226 grams) |
| Suitable Hair Types | All curl types from loose waves to tight coils |
| Application Method | Apply on wet strands for wash-and-go or on dry curls for touch-ups |
| Key Benefits | Defines curls, hydrates, adds shine, controls frizz, and maintains curl shape in humidity |
| Formulation Features | Contains coconut and babassu oils for smoothing and sealing cuticles |
Many people assume that curl creams are just about holding your waves or coils in place, but this OUAI Curl Cream proved that wrong right from the first use. I scooped out a small dollop and immediately noticed how smooth and lightweight it felt in my hands.
No greasy residue or heavy feeling—just a silky texture that glided effortlessly through my damp curls.
Applying it on wet hair, I was surprised by how easily it distributed, thanks to its creamy consistency. As I scrunched my strands, they instantly looked more defined, with a natural shine that didn’t scream “product.” It’s like giving your curls a hydration boost without weighing them down.
What really stood out was how well it controlled frizz, even on a muggy day. My coils stayed in shape without getting poofy or crunchy.
Touching up dry curls later in the day, I found it revives shine and tames any mid-day flyaways with just a little finger combing. The chia and linseed oils seem to do their magic, locking in moisture while keeping humidity at bay.
It’s versatile enough for different curl types, from loose waves to tight coils. I enjoyed how it enhanced my natural texture and added a soft, glossy finish.
Plus, it doesn’t leave that stiff, crunchy feeling that some curl creams do. Overall, it’s a dependable, all-in-one product that simplifies styling and keeps your curls looking fresh and vibrant all day.
Marc Anthony Strictly Curls Curl Defining Styling Cream
- ✓ Defines and softens curls
- ✓ Controls frizz effectively
- ✓ Lightweight, no buildup
- ✕ Might need reapplication for very dry hair
- ✕ Less effective on very fine curls
| Product Volume | 6 fluid ounces (177 milliliters) |
| Primary Ingredients | Avocado Oil and Shea Butter |
| Suitable Hair Types | Coarse, Frizzy, Thick, and Textured Curls |
| Application Method | Apply to wet or damp hair from root to end, scrunching hair |
| Formulation | Free from sulfates, parabens, and phthalates |
| Usage Recommendations | Air-dry or lightly diffuse for defined, residue-free curls |
You’re standing in front of the mirror after a shower, running your fingers through your thick, frizzy curls that desperately need some taming. You reach for the Marc Anthony Strictly Curls Curl Defining Styling Cream, already knowing it’s about to change your entire hair game.
From the first squeeze, you notice how creamy and smooth it feels—not greasy, but rich enough to coat every strand. You apply it from root to tip on damp hair, scrunching as you go.
Instantly, your curls start to form more defined, bouncy shapes without that heavy or weighed-down feeling.
The magic lies in the infusion of avocado oil and shea butter. Your hair feels softer, shinier, and more controlled, even amid the usual frizz.
Plus, there’s no residue or buildup, just natural-looking curls that hold their shape beautifully after air-drying or a quick diffuse.
What really impresses you is how well it works on your thicker, coarser curls. It tames the frizz without making your hair greasy or stiff, giving you that perfect balance of moisture and control.
And because it’s free from sulfates, parabens, and phthalates, you don’t have to worry about harsh chemicals.
Overall, this curl cream feels like a true upgrade—easy to use, effective, and affordable. It’s a product that makes styling fun rather than a chore, helping your curls look vibrant, healthy, and full of life every single time.
Moroccanoil Curl Defining Cream, 2.53 Fl. Oz.
- ✓ Defines curls effortlessly
- ✓ Nourishes hair naturally
- ✓ Multi-use simplicity
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Might weigh fine hair
| Formulation Type | Cream |
| Net Volume | 2.53 fl. oz. (75 ml) |
| Primary Function | Curl defining and nourishing |
| Application Area | Curly hair |
| Key Benefits | Separates and defines curls, replaces multiple curl products |
| Brand | Moroccanoil |
The first time I squeeze this Moroccanoil Curl Defining Cream into my palms, I notice how silky and lightweight it feels. As I start to distribute it through damp curls, I’m pleasantly surprised by how smoothly it glides, instantly softening my hair and giving my fingers a luxurious glide.
It’s thick enough to coat every strand without feeling greasy. I twist my curls around my finger, and they immediately start to separate and hold shape better.
The scent is subtle but lovely—like a gentle spa day, not overpowering at all.
Once my hair dries, I find my curls are more defined and bouncy. There’s a noticeable reduction in frizz, even in humid weather.
Plus, my hair feels nourished and soft, not stiff or crunchy, which is a big win for me.
What really stands out is how it replaces several products I used to need. No more layering gels, creams, and serums—this single cream handles the job.
It’s perfect for quick mornings when I want my curls to look polished without fuss.
Overall, it’s easy to use, smells great, and delivers on its promise of defined, nourished curls. The small size makes it portable, so I can toss it in my bag for on-the-go touch-ups.
Honestly, it’s become my go-to for those wash-and-go days.
Not Your Mother’s Curl Talk Frizz Control Gel & Cream 2-Pack
- ✓ Lightweight and non-greasy
- ✓ Long-lasting curl definition
- ✓ Pleasant citrus jasmine scent
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Can be too soft for very tight curls
| Formulation Type | Gel and Cream for curly hair |
| Key Ingredients | Rice, Keratin Amino Acids, Enzymes |
| Hold Strength | Flexible-firm hold for gel, maximum definition for cream |
| Suitable Hair Types | All curl types (2A to 4C), natural and color-treated hair |
| Free From | Sulfates, silicones, parabens, drying alcohols |
| Scent | Citrus Jasmine |
Unlike many curl creams I’ve tried that tend to leave hair feeling weighed down or sticky, this Not Your Mother’s 2-pack feels surprisingly lightweight from the moment you scoop it out of the jar. The texture of the cream is smooth and creamy, easily spreading through your curls without any tugging or pulling.
The scent is fresh and uplifting—think citrus jasmine—that lingers just enough without overwhelming. I applied the cream generously on damp hair, and it instantly helped define my waves without making them stiff.
It sealed in moisture well, leaving my curls shiny and bouncy, even after a full day.
The gel, with its flexible-firm hold, is perfect for controlling frizz on humid days. I loved how it kept my curls defined without that crunchy, crispy feel.
Plus, the flake-free formula means no white residue or crunchiness, which is a huge win for me.
What really stood out is the Rice Curl Complex, which seemed to hydrate and condition my hair as I styled. My curls looked more vibrant and healthier after each use, and I appreciated that it’s safe for color-treated hair too.
Overall, this duo tackles frizz and enhances curl definition effortlessly. It’s versatile enough for all curl types, making it a solid staple in your hair care routine.
Plus, knowing it’s free from sulfates, silicones, and parabens makes me feel good about using it regularly.
Maui Moisture Curl Quench Coconut Oil Curl Cream 12 oz
- ✓ Moisturizes and defines curls
- ✓ Lightweight and non-greasy
- ✓ Lovely tropical scent
- ✕ Might need more product for very thick hair
- ✕ Not suitable for rinsing out
| Product Volume | 12 fluid ounces (355 mL) |
| Primary Ingredients | Aloe vera, coconut oil, plumeria extract, papaya extract |
| Suitable Hair Types | Thick, curly hair with medium to high porosity, fine to normal texture, wavy to tight curls |
| Application Type | Leave-in styling cream, no rinse needed |
| Formulation | Vegan, free from silicones, parabens, gluten, SLS, sulfated surfactants, and synthetic dyes |
| Recommended Uses | Detangling, defining curls, styling twist-outs, braids, wash-and-go styles |
I was surprised to find that a dollop of this Maui Moisture Curl Quench Coconut Oil Curl Cream actually made my curls feel softer and more defined after just one use. I didn’t expect a product this affordable—around seven bucks—to deliver such noticeable results so quickly.
The first thing I noticed was the texture. It’s thick but not greasy, and it spreads easily through damp or dry hair.
A little goes a long way, especially if you want to avoid weighing down your curls. I applied it to my damp hair and scrunched as usual, and my curls immediately looked more bouncy and shiny.
The scent is fresh and tropical, with a hint of white orange and coconut water. It’s subtle but uplifting, making styling feel like a mini spa moment.
I also love that it contains aloe vera and natural extracts like papaya and plumeria—no synthetic dyes or silicones here, which is a big plus for my clean beauty routine.
It helped tame frizz and detangle easily, which is a game-changer for my thicker curls. My hair looked healthier and felt moisturized without any heaviness or residue.
I’ve used it on wash-and-go styles and twist-outs, and it performs well both ways. Overall, it’s a great staple for anyone wanting shiny, defined curls without the crunch or greasiness.
What Are the Key Features of the Best Curly Hair Creams?
The best curly hair creams typically possess several key features that enhance the texture and manageability of curly hair.
- Moisture-Rich Formula: The best curly hair creams contain ingredients that provide deep hydration, such as shea butter, coconut oil, or glycerin. These ingredients help to combat dryness, making curls more defined and bouncy while reducing frizz.
- Hold and Definition: A good curly hair cream offers a balance between hold and softness, allowing curls to maintain their shape without feeling crunchy. This feature is crucial for defining curls and waves while ensuring they remain touchable and soft.
- Frizz Control: Many top-rated curly hair creams include anti-frizz agents that smooth the hair cuticle, helping to keep flyaways and unruly strands at bay. This is particularly beneficial in humid environments where frizz can be a significant issue for curly hair.
- Lightweight Texture: The best creams have a lightweight consistency that doesn’t weigh down the hair. This feature is essential for ensuring that curls retain their natural bounce and volume without becoming limp or greasy.
- Heat Protection: Some curly hair creams also offer heat protection properties, which are crucial for individuals who use heat styling tools. This helps to shield the hair from thermal damage while keeping curls looking healthy and vibrant.
- Natural Ingredients: Many consumers prefer curly hair creams that utilize natural or organic ingredients, avoiding harsh chemicals and sulfates. These formulations are generally gentler on the hair and scalp, promoting overall health and vitality.
- Versatility: The best curly hair creams can often be used for various styling techniques, such as scrunching, twisting, or braiding. This versatility allows users to achieve different looks and styles without needing multiple products.
Which Ingredients Should You Look for in the Best Curl Cream?
- Shea Butter: This natural fat is derived from the nuts of the shea tree and is renowned for its deep moisturizing properties. It helps to soften hair, reduce frizz, and provide essential nutrients, making curls more manageable and defined.
- Coconut Oil: Known for its ability to penetrate hair shafts, coconut oil is excellent for hydration and preventing protein loss. It helps to reduce dryness and damage, leading to healthier and bouncier curls.
- Aloe Vera: This plant-based ingredient is celebrated for its soothing and hydrating properties. Aloe vera not only moisturizes the hair but also helps to define curls while providing a lightweight hold, perfect for avoiding stiffness.
- Glycerin: A powerful humectant, glycerin attracts moisture from the air into the hair. This ingredient is crucial for maintaining hydration in curly hair, which is often prone to dryness, ensuring curls remain plump and well-formed.
- Argan Oil: Rich in fatty acids and antioxidants, argan oil is effective in nourishing and protecting curls. It helps to tame frizz and add shine, making curls look more vibrant and healthy.
- Jojoba Oil: Similar in composition to natural sebum produced by the scalp, jojoba oil helps to moisturize the hair without leaving a greasy residue. It aids in keeping curls defined while also promoting a healthy scalp, which is essential for curly hair growth.
- Honey: This natural humectant draws moisture into the hair and helps retain it. Honey not only adds shine but also has antibacterial properties that can contribute to a healthier scalp.
- Polyquaterniums: These conditioning agents provide hold and control without weighing the hair down. They help in defining curls while offering frizz control, making them ideal for various curl types.
What Are the Benefits of Using Curl Cream for Curly Hair?
The benefits of using curl cream for curly hair are numerous and can significantly enhance the appearance and manageability of curls.
- Moisture Retention: Curl creams are formulated to provide deep hydration, which is essential for maintaining the health of curly hair. Curly hair tends to be drier than straight hair, and moisture retention helps to prevent frizz and breakage.
- Definition and Hold: These creams help define curls, giving them a more structured and polished look. This definition is accompanied by a light hold that keeps curls in place without making them stiff or crunchy.
- Frizz Control: Curl creams often contain ingredients that combat frizz, making curls look smoother and more manageable. This is particularly beneficial in humid conditions where frizz can become a significant issue for curly hair.
- Heat Protection: Many curl creams include heat protectants, which help shield hair from the damaging effects of styling tools. This is crucial for maintaining the integrity of curly hair, especially when using blow dryers or curling irons.
- Styling Versatility: Curl creams can be used in various ways, such as for styling or as a leave-in conditioner. This versatility allows individuals to customize their hair care routine based on their specific hair needs and styling preferences.
- Improved Texture: Regular use of curl creams can improve the overall texture of curly hair, making it feel softer and more manageable. This enhancement can lead to healthier-looking curls that are easier to style and maintain.
Which Curl Creams Are Best for Different Hair Types?
The best curly hair creams cater to various hair types and textures, providing moisture, definition, and frizz control.
- For Fine Curly Hair: A lightweight curl cream like DevaCurl Frizz-Free Volumizing Foam is ideal.
- For Medium Curly Hair: SheaMoisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie works well for medium textures.
- For Coarse Curly Hair: Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Heat & Humidity Gel provides excellent hold and moisture.
- For Color-Treated Curly Hair: Moroccanoil Curl Defining Cream is perfect for maintaining vibrancy while hydrating.
- For Dry Curly Hair: Cantu Shea Butter for Natural Hair Coconut Curl Cream deeply nourishes and hydrates.
- For Wavy Hair: Maui Moisture Curl Quench + Coconut Oil Curl Cream enhances waves without weighing them down.
The DevaCurl Frizz-Free Volumizing Foam is designed for fine curls, offering a light hold that enhances volume without the heaviness that can weigh down delicate hair. It contains a blend of botanical ingredients that nourish curls while providing frizz control.
SheaMoisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie is tailored for medium curly hair, combining shea butter and coconut oil to provide moisture and definition. This cream helps to define curls while reducing frizz, making it suitable for a variety of styling techniques.
Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Heat & Humidity Gel is specifically formulated for coarse curly hair, providing a strong hold that withstands humidity. This product creates a protective barrier around curls, ensuring they remain defined and frizz-free even in challenging weather conditions.
Moroccanoil Curl Defining Cream is excellent for color-treated curly hair, as it not only defines curls but also maintains the vibrancy of color. Enriched with argan oil, it hydrates the hair while preventing color from fading.
Cantu Shea Butter for Natural Hair Coconut Curl Cream is an excellent choice for dry curly hair, providing deep moisture and nourishment. Its rich formula helps to restore hydration, leaving curls soft, defined, and healthy-looking.
Maui Moisture Curl Quench + Coconut Oil Curl Cream is perfect for wavy hair, as it enhances natural waves without adding weight. This lightweight cream hydrates and defines waves, making them bouncy and full of life.
Which Curl Creams Are Most Effective for Definition?
The best curly hair creams for definition typically provide moisture, hold, and frizz control.
- Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Defrizzing Curl Cream: This cream is designed to combat humidity while defining curls. It contains a blend of natural oils and proteins that help to nourish and hydrate the hair while providing a flexible hold that doesn’t leave curls stiff or crunchy.
- SheaMoisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie: Known for its rich formulation, this cream combines shea butter and coconut oil to provide deep moisture and definition. It works well for thick, curly hair and enhances the natural curl pattern while reducing frizz and providing a soft finish.
- DevaCurl SuperCream Coconut Curl Styler: This versatile cream can be used on wet or dry hair to define curls and waves. It offers a lightweight formula that hydrates and enhances curl shape without weighing the hair down, making it ideal for all curl types.
- Moroccanoil Curl Defining Cream: Infused with argan oil, this cream provides both moisture and hold, ensuring that curls remain defined throughout the day. It helps to tame frizz and adds shine, making curls look healthy and well-defined.
- Eco Styler Olive Oil Gel: While primarily a gel, it works effectively in conjunction with creams to provide extra definition and hold. The olive oil infusion helps to hydrate the hair while the gel provides a long-lasting hold that keeps curls in place without flaking.
Which Curl Creams Provide the Best Moisture?
The best curly hair creams that provide exceptional moisture are:
- SheaMoisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie: This cream is rich in natural ingredients like shea butter and coconut oil, which deeply hydrate and nourish curly hair. It helps define curls while reducing frizz, leaving hair soft and manageable.
- DevaCurl SuperCream Coconut Curl Styler: Formulated with coconut oil and a blend of other moisturizing ingredients, this cream provides intense hydration and curl definition without weighing the hair down. It’s ideal for all curl types and helps maintain moisture throughout the day.
- Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Heat & Humidity Gel: While primarily a gel, its moisturizing properties are enhanced with a unique formula that protects curls from frizz and dryness caused by humidity. It provides a soft hold while keeping curls hydrated and defined.
- Curlsmith Curl Defining Styling Soufflé: This product combines the benefits of a cream and a gel, offering moisture and hold simultaneously. It uses natural ingredients like chia seeds and aloe vera to lock in hydration while enhancing curl definition and shine.
- Briogeo Curl Charisma Rice Amino + Avocado Leave-In Defining Crème: This leave-in cream is designed to provide moisture and definition to curls using rice amino acids and avocado oil. It helps strengthen hair while providing a light hold and reducing frizz for beautifully defined curls.
Which Curl Creams Help Control Frizz?
The best curly hair creams for controlling frizz include various options that cater to different hair types and needs.
- DevaCurl SuperCream: This cream is designed to define curls while providing moisture and frizz control. Its rich formula contains a blend of coconut oil and jojoba oil, which help to hydrate and smooth the hair cuticle, resulting in soft, manageable curls.
- Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Heat & Humidity Gel: Although primarily a gel, this product has creamy properties that help to lock in moisture and protect against humidity. It offers a strong hold without feeling crunchy, allowing curls to bounce back while staying frizz-free.
- SheaMoisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie: This cream is enriched with shea butter and other natural ingredients that nourish and define curls. It helps to tame frizz while providing a soft hold, making it perfect for thick, curly hair that requires extra moisture.
- Moroccanoil Curl Defining Cream: Infused with argan oil, this cream works to hydrate and define curls while controlling frizz. Its lightweight formula ensures that curls remain bouncy and lively without any heaviness, making it suitable for various curl types.
- Curls Blueberry Bliss Curl Control Jelly: This unique jelly-like cream combines the benefits of a gel and a cream, helping to define curls while controlling frizz effectively. It contains blueberry extract and other beneficial ingredients that also promote hair health and moisture retention.
- Miss Jessie’s Pillow Soft Curl Cream: Ideal for soft, touchable curls, this cream provides definition without stiffness. It is formulated to enhance the natural curl pattern while reducing frizz, making it a favorite among those who prefer a more natural look.
How Do You Choose the Best Curl Cream for Your Needs?
Choosing the best curly hair cream involves considering various factors that cater to your specific hair type and styling needs.
- Ingredients: Look for curl creams that contain moisturizing and nourishing ingredients such as shea butter, coconut oil, or aloe vera. These ingredients help to hydrate and define curls while reducing frizz and promoting shine.
- Hold Level: Determine the type of hold you prefer—light, medium, or strong. Light hold creams are great for soft, touchable curls, while strong hold options are better for maintaining curl definition and shape throughout the day.
- Hair Type Compatibility: Consider your specific hair type, whether it’s fine, medium, or coarse. Some curl creams are formulated for specific textures, ensuring they provide the right amount of moisture and definition without weighing the hair down.
- Fragrance: The scent of a curl cream can significantly impact your experience. Choose a fragrance that you enjoy, as you will be using the product regularly, but also consider products with minimal or no fragrance if you have sensitivities.
- Application Method: Some curl creams are designed to be applied on wet hair, while others can be used on dry hair for touch-ups. Understanding the best application method for your chosen product will help you achieve optimal results.
- Reviews and Recommendations: Researching reviews and seeking recommendations from others with similar hair types can provide valuable insights. Look for feedback on how well the cream performs in terms of curl definition, frizz control, and overall satisfaction.
How Should You Apply Curl Cream for Maximum Effectiveness?
To achieve the best results with curl cream, it’s important to follow specific steps in the application process.
- Start with Clean, Wet Hair: Begin by washing your hair with a sulfate-free shampoo and following up with a moisturizing conditioner. This ensures that your curls are clean and hydrated, providing a good foundation for the curl cream.
- Use the Right Amount: Take a small amount of curl cream, approximately the size of a quarter, and rub it between your palms. The right amount is crucial; too much product can weigh your hair down, while too little may not provide enough hold or definition.
- Apply Evenly: Distribute the curl cream evenly throughout your hair, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends where curls tend to need the most moisture and definition. Use a praying hands method or scrunching technique to ensure that the product penetrates the hair strands well.
- Scrunch and Define: After applying, scrunch your hair upwards towards your scalp to encourage curl formation. This technique helps to create volume and enhances the natural curl pattern without disrupting it.
- Air Dry or Diffuse: Allow your hair to air dry or use a diffuser on a low heat setting to dry your curls. Air drying helps reduce frizz while diffusing can speed up the drying process and enhance curl formation, depending on your hair type.
- Set with a Gel (Optional): For added hold, consider following up with a lightweight gel after the curl cream. This can provide a stronger structure to your curls while keeping them defined and bouncy.