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From leave-in creams to lightweight gels.
Byrdie / Kristin Kempa
We then combined our intel with industry expertise and advice from expert stylistsLeigh HardgesandLarry King.
Knowing your specificcurl patternis the first step in finding the products that help you have more good hair days.
Curls & Coils:Tighter curls and coils crave moisture-rich products like deep conditioners and rich styling creams.
PHOTO: Briogeo
Byrdie contributorBianca Lamberttook it for a spin and gave it a perfect five-star rating.
Needless to say, she was impressed.
oz |Cruelty-Free:Yes
Coconut oilis this leave-in conditioners secret ingredient, working to detangle and hydrate.
PHOTO: Byrdie / Bianca Lambert
Ideal for letting your hair air dry, its a major time saver.
Curls are left soft and swingy, protected from static and humidity.
The natural formula includes ethically-traded ingredients that are also sustainably produced.
“This is a tried and true styling product that never disappoints me.
Creamy styling milks always leave my curls ultra-hydrated and defined.
And this one does just that,” confirms Byrdie editorOlivia Hancock.
oz |Cruelty-Free:Yes
This shampoo formula checks all of the curly hair shampoo boxes.
Itssulfate-free, first and foremost, so you dont have to worry about it stripping away your natural moisture.
Plus, its a good option for wavy, curly, or very curly hair.
To use, apply a small amount to damp hair and dry it as usual.
Then, wait for the compliments to roll in.
oz |Cruelty-Free:No
A gel that defines your curls without leaving them dry and flaky?
PHOTO: Ulta
Its great when you want to wash-and-go or for styles, such as buns and ponies.
It works equally well on wavy, curly, and coily textures.
oz |Cruelty-Free:Yes
Think of this curl cream as nutrient-rich food for your curly hair.
PHOTO: Sephora
It’s ideal for tight curls, and it’s formulated withsweet almond oilto keep them nourished.
It coats every last coil with intense moisture to eliminate static and dryness.
Instead, your curls will look instantly defined and feel super soft.
PHOTO: Amazon
oz |Cruelty-Free:Yes
Having fine hairandcurls can be tough since many defining creams can weigh them down.
But not this gem from Moroccanoil.
It works its magic to bring on the bounce for all curl types, from waves to tight coils.
PHOTO: Byrdie / Bianca Lambert
Plus, it restores elasticity, making hair more manageable.
For instance, if you apply too much heat, you could contribute to a damaged, staticky result.
But now there’s an entire industry around maintaining healthy curls, resulting in products like this diffuser.
oz |Cruelty-Free:No
Another great way to tame coarse, flyaway hair is to use a relaxing balm.
You’ll love the lightweight consistency that won’t leave your hair feeling greasy.
(Oh, and its choice for combating static, too.)
Also nice: Leave it on for five to 10 minutes to reap those deep conditioning benefits.
Bonus points for the light, peach scent, which is naturally derived.
oz |Cruelty-Free:Yes
Actress Tracee Ellis Ross createdPatternspecifically to fulfill the unique needs of those with curly hair.
It hydrates, seals in moisture, and detangles while also helping to enhance curl definition.
Top tip: Apply it all over while hair is still soaking wet.
oz |Cruelty-Free:Yes
Make this fast-absorbing finishing oil the final step of your styling routine.
PHOTO: Amazon
Just a few drops help to smooth and fight static while also adding mirror-like shinefor all curl types.
Any other products are up to your individual needs.
She considered dozens of products for this roundup, researched peer-reviewed journals, and consulted our testing insights.
PHOTO: BYRDIE / BIANCA LAMBERT
Gavazzoni Dias MF.Hair cosmetics: An overview.Int J Trichol.
2015;7(1):2. doi: 10.4103/0974-7753.153450
PHOTO: BYRDIE / BIANCA LAMBERT
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PHOTO: Byrdie / Bianca Lambert
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