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Get definition, shine, and hold with these hairstylist-approved picks.

A collage of three people showing different curl types

Byrdie / Kevin Liang

For something a little more lightweight, we love the whipped texture ofCurlsmiths Hold Me Softly Style Balm.

It also adds great definition and does not dry down with a crunchy feel.

Curl creams are often more moisturizing and contain conditioning properties to help curls be the best version of themselves.

Bumble & Bumble Curl Defining Cream

PHOTO: Amazon

We spent 396 hourstesting22 curl creams to find the best of the bunch.

The formula is nourishing, too.

It also seriously reduces frizz.

Photos of person’s hair before and after using Bumble & Bumble Curl Defining Cream

Byrdie

We were really impressed by how well this curl creamenhanced natural curlsand texture.

There isnt anything about the formula we would change.

Our only wish is for more fluid ounces per package.

Sephora Curlsmith Hold Me Softly Style Balm

PHOTO: Sephora

Michelle, tester with bang out 2B hair:My curls were more defined, tight, and curly.

I noticed an immediate difference after the first use.

My hair was not frizzy when using the curl cream.

Photos of person’s hair before and after using Curlsmith Hold Me Softly Style Balm

Byrdie

Our testers were blown away by its performance, especially how well it reduced and controlled frizz.

She also loved how moisturized and nourished her curls felt after using this product.

She also noticed that, after using this product consistently for six weeks her hair felt revitalized and refreshed.

DevaCurl SuperCream Coconut Curl Styler

PHOTO: DevaCurl

This curl cream does a great job of taming it and helping me get more defined curls.

It provides great frizz protection for my hair which is usually hard to do.

Curls looked shiny and defined after the first software.

Photos of person’s hair before and after using DevaCurl SuperCream Coconut Curl Styler

Byrdie

We appreciate how much hydration this curl cream provides.

The moisturizing ingredients in this curl cream made curls look healthy and extra bouncy.

Samantha, tester with pop in 3B hair:I noticed the difference in my curls immediately after applying.

Marc Anthony Strictly Curls Curl Cream, 6 fl oz

PHOTO: Rite Aid

This curl lotion is lightweight and makes my hair look shiny and defined.

After scrunching anddiffusingit, my curls definitely felt more bouncy."

This formula left our testers curls looking fantastic whether she used a diffuser or let themair-dry.

Photos of person’s hair before and after using Marc Anthony Strictly Curls Curl Envy Cream

Byrdie

The creamsargan oilalso kept her curls from frizzing out.

I love that I can let my hair air-dry and get a similar effect as when I diffuse it.

Its truly a heavenly blend for wavy hair.

Amika Curl Corps Defining Cream

PHOTO: Amazon

My curls looked amazing, with great definition and structure.

Our tester really enjoyed using this one and loved how well it defined her curls.

The formula contains ultra-hydrating babassu oil, which left her hair feeling oh-so-soft and reduced frizz.

A person before, during and after applying the Amika Curl Corps Defining Cream

Byrdie

It also has a lovely, floral scent.

We love how much our tester said her hair health improved with consistent use of this cream.

It helps reduce frizz and gives you shine while providing nice definition.

Mizani True Textures Curl Enhancing Lotion

PHOTO: Amazon

Also, throughout testing, our testers scalp never felt itchy, greasy, or affected in any way.

It also didn’t flake after drying, even when added with other products in my regimen.

Most formulas include nourishing ingredients that can help boost moisture or impart a shiny finish.

Photos of person’s hair before and after using Mizani True Textures Curl Enhancing Lotion

Byrdie

Start with clean, wet hair.

Use your hands to evenly distribute the product.

I rake through the curls and gently squeeze at the ends, she says.

Moroccanoil Curl Defining Cream

PHOTO: Amazon

Allow your hair to air-dry, or blow-dry using adiffuser attachmentto ensure the heat is evenly distributed.

Its best to start with a little bit of product and add more curl cream or water accordingly.

check that you allow each product to set in before applying the next.

Photos of person’s hair before and after using Moroccanoil Curl Defining Cream

Byrdie

She also tests products and services so she can stand behind her recommendations.

Sephora Oribe Curl Control Silkening Creme

PHOTO: Sephora

A person before and after using the Oribe Curl Control Silkening Creme

Byrdie

Sephora Ouai Curl Crème

PHOTO: Sephora

Photos of person’s hair before and after using Ouai Curl Crème

Byrdie

PATTERN Beauty by Tracee Ellis Ross Styling Cream

PHOTO: Amazon

A person before and after applying PATTERN Styling Cream to their hair

Byrdie

A person’s hair after being styled with Mielle Organics Pomegranate & Honey Coil Sculpting Custard

Byrdie