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We rummaged through our vanities and found the best products for curly hair

 

From soft waves to tight curls, these editor-loved products suit all curl patterns.

Every curly girl knows the struggle of building a hairstyling routine. Sure, you've probably heard that statement before, but it's true: Managing curls and waves of all sorts can be a challenge. 

I had tight curls when I was younger (up until I was in my early teens). As I got older, I became envious of the girls with straight hair, so I did as many chemical treatments as I could to get my hair pin-straight. Years later, I’m dealing with the effects, and now my curls are much looser than they were before. 

If you've had similar experience and aren't sure how to care for your ever-changing curls, don't fret: Our curly- and wavy-haired editors have rummaged through their beauty closets to dig up their favorite products. Plus, we contacted beauty experts to get their suggestions for a curly hair routine, no matter the curl pattern.

Below are some of the best tried-and-true products for treating, styling and managing your curls, according to our editors.

What are the best products for curly and wavy hair? 

That all depends on your curl pattern and needs, but if you still don't know where to start, hairstylist and curly hair expert Jennifer Korab breaks it down: "For curly or wavy hair, key essentials include a sulfate-free shampoo and a hydrating conditioner to maintain moisture." Korab continues, "Incorporate a deep-conditioning mask weekly to prevent frizz and keep curls healthy."

Korab also recommends using a leave-in conditioner throughout the week (post-shower), followed by a "curl cream or gel for definition and frizz control.”

While it is optional, "a wide-tooth comb helps with gentle detangling, while a microfiber towel or cotton T-shirt reduces frizz [while air-drying]," she adds. "If blow-drying, a diffuser helps enhance curls, and a heat protectant is crucial if using heat styling tools."

You can also use your standard hair brush or a Denman brush to help with forming your curl pattern, or use your hands and/or towel/shirt to "scrunch" curls into shape.

How to determine your curl pattern

“To determine your curl pattern and hair type, start with clean, damp hair and let it air-dry naturally to reveal its true texture,” Korab says. “Observe the curl pattern, which ranges from straight (Type 1) to various types of waves (Type 2), curls (Type 3) and coils (Type 4).”

Each of these curl types dry differently, and according to hair stylist Shelly Aguirre. "Wavy hair tends to shrink about 10%, curly hair tends to shrink approximately 25% and coily hair can shrink from wet to dry as much as 50%." But her best piece of advice for those new to their curly hair journey is this:

"When in doubt, consult your professional stylist."

Editor-tested shampoos for curly hair

Best for thicker hair: OGX Quenching+ Coconut Curls Shampoo Curly Hair Shampoo

What we like

• Not heavy on curls
• Smells amazing

Something to note

• Not best for thin hair

Product type: Shampoo | Size: 13 oz. | Key ingredient(s): Coconut oil | Best for: All waves and curls; better for thicker hair

Just like your next tropical getaway, this wash from OGX is a true treat for your strands. Not only is it filled with coconut oil help to make your hair feel hydrated and smell delicious, but it also lives up to its expectations of improving the bounce and life of curls. It’s “never too heavy on my curls, and adds a lot of definition,” raves Shop TODAY intern Hamsini Sivakumar.

To reset your curls: Twist by Ouidad Hit Reset Light Clarifying Shampoo

What we like

• Helps hair feel lightweight, less oily
• Doesn't strip down hair

Something to note

• Those with thicker, type 3 curls didn't see much of an effect

Product type: Shampoo; cream | Size: 13 oz. | Key ingredient(s): Glycerin | Best for: All waves and curls

For when your curls need a refresh, this clarifying shampoo resets hair that has product, grime and oil build-up. According to the brand, curls should be rebooted back to life without stripping. Assistant partnerships editor Lauren Witonsky even adds that her curls “look more defined after styling it straight for most of the week" after using the wash.

When the humidity is high: Biolage Smooth Proof Shampoo

What we like

• Smooths hair up to 72 hours
• Controls frizz

Something to note

• Might be heavy for fine hair

Product type: Shampoo | Size: 13.5 oz. | Key ingredient(s): Glycerin | Best for: All waves and curls

Nearly every curly- and wavy-haired person knows that humidity is never their best friend. I love this wash because it seems to be a true champion against humidity. In essence, it leaves a layer of humidity protection to combat frizz. I personally enjoy using this on days where I am straightening my hair or putting it in a bun since these are two styles where I need some serious smoothing power. This shampoo has done wonders!

Plus, through Aug. 23, Biolage is offering two for $32 on all retail-size shampoos and conditioners available on Ulta, including their curly-hair friendly Hydra Source Shampoo + Conditioner and Strength Recovery Shampoo + Conditioner.

A shampoo that enhances your pattern: Moroccanoil Curl Enhancing Shampoo

What we like

• Enhances curl shape
• Assists with manageability

Something to note

• Small bottle

Product type: Shampoo | Size: 8.5 oz. | Key ingredient(s): Argan oil | Best for: All waves and curls

Our curls don't always work in our favor, shaping in various directions or just not at all. But that's where the Moroccanoil Curl Enhancing Shampoo enters the picture. This shampoo has assisted me on my wash days where I want to style my hair. I find that it has boosted the styling power of my styling products by enhancing my curl shape during and after the shower. It helps that it's meant to hydrate your curls, so the healthier my curls are, the better they shape!

Courtesy of Madison San Miguel, Shop TODAY Editorial Assistant

Best for frizz-prone hair: Redken Frizz Dismiss Shampoo

Winner: Best overall shampoo for frizz-prone hair

What we like

• Sulfate-free; lathers well
• Cleanses thorougly
• Great for fine waves/curls

Something to note

• Some still noticed frizz

Product type: Shampoo | Size: 10.1 oz. | Key ingredient(s): N/A | Best for: All waves and curls

Not only is this Redken shampoo a Shop TODAY Beauty Awards winner, but it's also an editor favorite. “I’ve been a fan of Redken hair products for years, and this shampoo did not disappoint,” praises commerce editor Amanda Fama. “I have very frizzy hair, but after using this shampoo and blow-drying, I experienced way less frizz. My hair was softer than usual, too, and it smells wonderful!"

Offers a tangle-free wash: ColorWow Curl Snag-Free Pre-Shampoo Detangler

What we like

• Hair feels squeaky clean
• Detangles hair during wash

Something to note

• Reviewer noted less hair loss

Product type: Shampoo | Size: 10 oz. | Key ingredient(s): Glycerin | Best for: Curly and coily

Before you shampoo, this ColorWow detangler is meant to prep your curls for your wash. If you're like us, you've might've experienced curls tangling in the shower right away. But to eliminate the struggle, this product adds slip to your hair so you can properly clean, remove build-up and prevent breakage.

"It literally gives such a satisfying clean, which is so necessary when you load curls up with pounds of product," raves editorial operations manager Jill Ortiz. "It lathers really nicely and has a nice scent, too."

Best shampoo for loose curls and waves: Ouidad Curl Shaper Double Duty Weightless Cleansing Conditioner

Product type: Shampoo; cream | Size: 16.09 oz. | Key ingredient(s): Rice bran oil and resurrection oil | Best for: Loose curls and waves

On her wash days, Ortiz loves incorporating Ouidad's cleansing conditioner in her routine. The four-in-one formula promises to gently cleanse, condition, detangle and nourish curls. Although Ortiz said in a previous Shop TODAY story that the product still felt similar to conditioner, it still provided enough cleansing power.

"I apply it in a scrunching motion to help form my curls while I’m in the shower," she noted. "Then, I brush the conditioner out with a wide-tooth comb and let it sit in my hair for a few minutes before rinsing. My hair is practically detangled by the time I step out of the shower, making it less of a pain to style."

Editor-tested leave-in conditioners for curly hair

Before you style: Not Your Mother’s Curl Talk Leave-In Conditioner

What we like

• Little goes a long way
• Great for detangling

Something to note

• Some had trouble with bottle

Product type: Spray | Size: 6 oz. | Key ingredient(s): Rice complez and superfood oils (avocado, buriti and marula) | Best for: All waves and curls

One product Sivakumar can’t live without is Not Your Mother’s leave-in conditioner. The spray is formulated with nourishing ingredients, such as a rice complex and superfood oils, to make curls softer and easier to comb through. Although only six ounces, Sivakumar doesn’t need much of the product to see its magic. “I only have to restock my leave-in conditioner every couple months,” she mentions.

For damaged curls: SheaMoisture Strengthen & Restore Leave-In Conditioner

What we like

• Improves texture and pattern
• Softens
• Great for detangling

Something to note

• Some do not like the scent

Product type: Cream | Size: 6 oz. | Key ingredient(s): Shea butter, apple cider vinegar, Jamaican black castor oil and peppermint oil | Best for: Medium to thick textures curls, kinky

After straightening her hair for a few months, Ortiz was looking for a product to revive her curls. She tried this leave-in from Shea Moisture and noticed her curl pattern return. "Because this product is packed with nourishing ingredients such as shea butter, apple cider vinegar and Jamaican black castor oil (JBC), it was able to effectively repair and smooth out my hair without leaving a greasy feeling afterward," she previous stated.

When your dyed curls need a touch-up: DpHUE Glossy Glaze

What we like

• Gives former color more life
• Improves hair softness
• Highly moisturizing

Something to note

• Might be heavy on fine hair

Product type: Gloss | Size: 4 oz. | Key ingredient(s): Lemon peel extract, castor seed oil | Best for: All waves and curls

Salon visits add up when you have dyed hair. But as a solution, this leave-in treatment from DpHUE might just be your new hero for all things color. "I didn't think it'd make much of a difference but I took before and after photos, and my hair looks so much better!," Associate editor Kamari Stewart remarks. "It's meant to be used in place of conditioner, and still left my hair feeling soft and moisturized, just with more blended color."

Stewart used the shade Golden Blonde to touch up her highlights, but if you still want to enjoy the results, the brand sells a clear gloss, too.

Courtesy of Kamari Stewart, Shop TODAY Associate Editor

A product that's custom to you: Prose Custom Leave-In Conditioner

What we like

• Unique to you
• Great value for the experience
• Alchohol-free

Something to note

• You'll need to take a quiz
• Can be a bit slippery

Product type: Cream | Size: 5.1 oz. | Key ingredient(s): Depends on personalization | Best for: All waves and curls

It's no secret that not every product is a one-size fits all. But it can, at least, but one-size fits you! Prose offers a service where you can customize your skin and hair care on their site. For this product, which is a favorite of Stewart's, it's meant to be a hydrating and detangling formula that preps your hair for styling, including with heat. But, the key ingredients that are in the leave-in are dependent on your answers. That way, it will meet your hair needs and goals.

“I was pleasantly surprised by how soft and hydrated this leave-in conditioner left my hair feeling," Stewart says. "It’s pretty easy to apply with the spritz pump (though can be a little slippery after you’ve been applying product), and I opted for a light mango scent which is perfectly to my liking.”

While you do have to take a quiz to customize your product, Stewart says it is very detailed. "It asks about my hair washing and styling habits, concerns, day-to-day habits just in life, sleep habits, stress, etc... all things that effect your hair."

Courtesy of Kamari Stewart, Shop TODAY Associate Editor

Tackles multiple styling concerns: Virtue Curl Leave-In Butter Hair Treatment

What we like

• Reduces frizz
• Improves hair health

Something to note

• Can be heavy depending on use

Product type: Mask; cream/butter | Size: 5 oz. | Key ingredient(s): Alpha Keratin, proteins and shea butter | Best for: All waves and curls

The New York humidity has continuously emphasized my frizz, but Virtue’s Leave-In Butter Hair Treatment has helped combat it. Since it is meant to be used as a leave-in, I use it as my last step after I shower before my other styling products. I’ve noticed as I rake it through my locks, the treatment gently detangles any knots I might have. But most notably, the creamy texture of the treatment (which is truly like butter) smooths my hair right away, so once dry, my frizz is tamed without weighing down my curls.

Editor-tested curl creams and gels

Best cream for type 3 and 4 curls: Cantu Natural Hair Coconut Curling Cream with Shea Butter

Winner: Best budget curling cream

What we like

• Comes in a big tub
• Defines and moisturizes curls

Something to note

• Can be flaky

Product type: Cream | Size: 12 oz. | Key ingredient(s): Coconut oil, shea butter and essential oils | Best for: Type 3 and 4 curls

Stewart was skeptical about this cream at the start of her curl journey until she realized a little goes a long way. She began by dividing her hair into sections, then distributed the product equally for best results. "I also liked this cream because I was able to wet my hair on days two, three and four and just generally apply a bit everywhere to manage some frizz and give my curls some moisture/pump up their definition," she notes. "With how much comes in the bottle, it’s definitely worth it.”

A budget-friendly gel: Garnier Whole Blend Hair Honey Jelly

What we like

• Holds curls
• Doesn't leave a crunch

Something to note

• Can be drying for thin hair

Product type: Gel | Size: 13.5 oz. | Key ingredient(s): Acacia honey | Best for: All waves and curls

It probably isn't a routine I recommend, but I am guilty of showering and styling my hair at night. I can't help it — I love waking up to styled hair! According to the brand, this hair jelly defines hair without the crunch, but just so happens to be pillow-proof too. So far, I've noticed zero transfer and flakes, so both my bed and curls are happy.

A Shop TODAY curl cream favorite: Rizos Curls Curl Defining Cream

Winner: Best overall curl cream

What we like

• Defines and holds curls
• Doesn't weigh hair down
• Non-greasy

Something to note

• Some do not enjoy the scent

Product type: Cream | Size: 10 oz. | Key ingredient(s): Aloe vera, coconut oil and shea butter | Best for: All waves and curls

Rizos Curls Curl Defining Cream earned a spot in our annual Beauty Awards for the best overall curl cream. After testing the product, social media editorial assistant Annie Shigo noticed the cream added more volume to her roots and enhanced her curl pattern "without leaving it looking greasy.”

Courtesy of Annie Shigo, Shop TODAY Social Editorial Assistant

When you're styling with heat: Aquage Straightening Ultragel

What we like

• A little goes a long way
• Lasts, even in humidity

Something to note

• None to note at this time

Product type: Gel | Size: 6 oz. | Key ingredient(s): None | Best for: All waves and curls

For when you need curls to stay in put as you style with heat, this product might do the trick. “My hair stylist turned me on to it and uses it on me when she blows out my hair during appointments,” says associate editor Shannon Garlin. “Not only does it smell divine, but it makes my wavy and frizzy hair ultra smooth; it allows me (along with my Dyson) to recreate a salon-worthy blowout.”

Best gel for waves: Ouidad Curl Shaper Out Of Thin (H)air Volumizing Jelly

What we like

• Defines and softens curls
• Smells great

Something to note

• Some found it sticky

Product type: Gel | Size: 8.5 oz. | Key ingredient(s): Red aloe extract | Best for: Loose curls and waves

Ortiz also loves this "hair jelly" from Ouidad to shape her hair without the crunch. "The formula is lightweight, and even when I fear I’ve used too much, my hair says otherwise," she previously noted. "Even after it dries, my hair still feels like hair, not straw. It also helps give my curls some volume — even though it is meant for finer hair — and I like using it on second-day hair to help tame frizz."

A conditioning curl cream: Amika Curl Corps Defining Cream

What we like

• Crisp scent
• Suitable for most curls
• Color-safe

Something to note

• Thick formula

Product type: Cream | Size: 6.7 oz | Key ingredient(s): Sea buckthorn berry | Best for: All waves and curls

This 2023 Beauty Awards winner earned high remarks for its hold and manageability. Expect it to define your curl pattern without the crunch, especially because the brand says it lightly conditions (a plus for dry and/or thirsty curls!).

"I can’t imagine my curly days without it," claims Ortiz. "It smells AMAZING, delivers hold, doesn’t feel crunchy and a little bit goes such a long way. I’ve had the same bottle for over a year now."

Keeps curls hydrated all day: Aveda Be Curly Advanced Curl Enhancer Cream

What we like

• Increases shine
• Reduces frizz

Something to note

• Takes a while to air dry after

Product Type: Curl cream | Size: 1.4 and 6.7 oz. options available | Key Ingredients: Kokum seed butter and amino acids | Best for: All waves and curls

Designed to instantly reduce frizz, Aveda’s Be Curly Advanced Curl Enhancer Cream promises to leave curls smooth and hydrated up to 72 hours. And that is with the claims that it can combat frizz even in humidity, too. “After applying the cream and letting my curls dry (or using a diffuser), my curls are less frizzy and feel moisturized,” notes Fama.

For the best results, Fama sprays Aveda's curling primer into her hair before adding the curl-enhancing cream.

Courtesy of Amanda Fama

A little goes a long way: Bumble and Bumble Curl Defining Hair Styling Cream

What we like

• A little goes a long way
• Defines curls
• Doesn't weight curls down

Something to note

• Too much can make hair greasy

Product Type: Curl cream | Size: 8.5 oz. | Key Ingredients: Avocado oil, coconut oil, jojoba oil, shea and cocao butters | Best for: Medium to thick hair; all waves and curls

This is the one curl cream that truly holds my curls for long. I used to have to wash my hair every day to maintain my style, but this curl cream is consistently good on non-wash days, too. My curls don't look greasy, and still have some body and movement that some styling products can constrict. But if you have finer hair, you can still use this cream, just note that you only need the tiniest amount to see a difference.

Editor-tested curl revivers

For waves that'll replicate the beach: Ceremonia Guava Beach Waves

What we like

• Enhances waves and curls
• Offers UV protection
• Great for styling

Something to note

• Some say the scent is strong

Product type: Spray | Size: 4.2 oz. | Key ingredient(s): Pink Bolivian salt, aloe vera and guava fruit extract | Best for: All waves and curls

“I don’t frequent the beach as much as I should, but you’d never suspect it if you saw my laidback beach-y waves after I spray this texturizing spray through my tresses,” raves senior editor Jess Bender. “I tend to either spray it on its own to give my natural waves a little extra bounce in-between washes, or combine it with a leave-in conditioner for more defined texture.”

Adds texture: Ouai Wave Spray

What we like

• Lightweight
• Has a nice scent

Something to note

• None to note at this time

Product type: Spray | Size: 4.9 oz. | Key ingredient(s): Rice protein and coconut oil | Best for: All waves and curls

Just a spritz of Ouai's Wave Spray can enhance your curls as though you just dipped into the ocean water — except without the salty, dried feel, of course. “My natural hair is thick and wavy, and this spray is the perfect finishing touch,” boasts senior partnerships editor Francesca Cocchi Zabloudil. “It subtly enhances my waves without adding weight or a crunchy texture. Plus, it smells incredible.”

Courtesy of Francesca Cocchi, Shop TODAY Senior Editor

Defines curls, even when air-dried: Crown Affair The Texturizing Air Dry Hair Mousse

What we like

• Adds body and volume
• Doesn't leave a crunch

Something to note

• Some say it doesn't hold curls

Product Type: Mousse | Size: 5.1 oz. | Key Ingredients: Pink Bolivian salt and a plant protein blend | Best for: All waves and curls

"I’ve started to incorporate this 'air dry' mousse into my post-wash routine in an effort to better define my waves and cut down on some frizz," suggests Bender. "After adding about four pumps of product on my tresses in total, I’ve seen quite the difference in my texture after my hair is fully dried; the S-pattern is more apparent versus what my hair normally looks without product." She also noticed the mousse added more body and zero crunch.

To refresh your curls: Kérastase Curl Manifesto Refresh Absolu Hair Spray

What we like

• Great for second-day hair
• Helps with frizz
• Adds shine

Something to note

• Some find the scent strong

Product Type: Spray | Size: 6.4 oz. | Key Ingredients: Manuka honey and ceramides | Best for: Coily, curly and very curly hair

Another product I recommend, this spray is great for refreshing curls on non-wash days. I often struggle with dry hair on those days, and when I use my standard styling products, the dryness can sometimes be emphasized. But I have found that this spray rehydrates my curls so that they can better seal in the products. If you have looser curls (like me), you'll want to spray small amounts since this is best for thicker hair.

Editor-tested baby-hair products for curly hair

To style baby hairs: Dae Cactus Fruit 3-in-1 Styling Cream with Taming Wand

What we like

• Great for on-the-go use
• Has a built-in wand
• Some say it is good for edges

Something to note

• Can be a bit flaky

Product Type: Cream; stick | Size: 20 ml. | Key Ingredients: Dragon fruit, cactus flower extract and prickly pair seed oil | Best for: All waves and curls

I use this wand consistently because it's so easy to just pop in your bag while you're on the go or traveling. It's Dae's popular styling cream in a stick form, as this new packaging has a styling wand to help tame frizz and slick back flyways with ease. It doesn't hurt that it smells amazing, just like many of the brand's products.

For slick-back buns: Briogeo Style + Treat Hair Styling Sleek Stick

What we like

• Compact size; great for travel
• Glides on smoothly
• Tames frizz

Something to note

• Some might find it small

Product Type: Cream; stick | Size: 0.5 oz. | Key Ingredients: Yuza extract, plum oil and B vitamins | Best for: All waves and curls

I love this styling stick for its compact size because it sits nicely in my hand and is great for travel. Any time I want to throw my hair up, this has made the style look more fresh and put-together. I'm also always impressed by how long the results last, even throughout the New York City humidity.

To tame frizz: Rahua Smoothing Hair Balm

What we like

• Keeps frizz at bay
• Can be used on cuticles & lips
• Lightweight formula

Something to note

• Some find the texture sticky

Product Type: Balm | Size: 0.59 oz. | Key Ingredients: Rahua oil and shea butter | Best for: All waves and curls

Stewart isn't a fan of gels and wax sticks, but she gravitates to a slick-back style. This balm from Rahua, however, has been a happy medium of the two because it successfully tames baby hairs without the sticky residue. "I was introduced to this balm at an event for a different product from the brand and have been really loving it," Stewart explain. "It’s a balm so it feels creamy. but still helps me tame flyaways and get that sleek look I want. Plus, if I want to do a slick back one day and have my curls out the next, I don’t feel like I need to have a full wash day in between when I use this."

The brand even notes that the balm can be used to nourish the cuticles, lips and dry spots.

Editor-tested treatments for curly hair

A budget-friendly mask: Mielle Rosemary Mint Strengthening Hair Masque

Winner: Best budget hair mask

What we like

• Affordable
• Repairs damaged hair

Something to note

• Could be more moisturizing

Product Type: Mask | Size: 12 oz. | Key Ingredients: Biotin, aloe vera, honey and essential oils | Best for: All waves and curls

Leave this award-winning hair mask on for just 15 to 20 minutes, and Mielle promises that strands will be transformed from dry to hydrated. And when used frequently, the brand also claims that those with brittle, long and/or thick hair should see a difference in body and bounce, as the mask is meant to repair dry ends and frizz. It doesn't hurt that the mask smells good, too.

“I got a couple of compliments on the smell of my hair after I used this," mentions senior associate Donna Pilikyan. "I really like Mielle products, and this one is no exception!”

Best for curly and kinky hair: SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Deep Moisturizing Masque

What we like

• Great size for value
• Thick, creamy texture
• Adds tons of moisture

Something to note

• Some were mixed on smell

Product Type: Mask | Size: 16 oz. | Key Ingredients: Organic shea butter, argan oil, panthenol and avocado oil | Best for: Medium to thick textures, curly to kinky hair

Right away, Ortiz noticed a major difference in her hair after using this affordable mask. "I left it on for 30 minutes in a plastic cap, trapping heat and moisture that catalyzed the results," she recalled in a previous Shop TODAY story. "It’s formulated with natural ingredients and free of sulfates and parabens, giving it the chance to fortify and repair hair without disrupting natural moisture on the scalp or hair."

Customers also found the creamy texture easy to glide through the hair, but noticed the thickness isn't for everyone.

To treat your scalp: NatureLab Perfect Clean Scalp Balancing Sake Rinse

Winner: Best overall scalp treatment

What we like

• Restores the scalp
• Removes product build-up
• Lightweight

Something to note

• Some aren't fond of the smell

Product type: Scalp rinse | Size: 6.7 oz. | Key ingredient(s): Japanese sake | Best for: All waves and curls

One of Bender's favorite scalp treatments is this award-winning pick from NatureLab. "From initial use, I started to notice a significant difference in how my scalp felt after washing and felt less of an urge to scratch at my irritations," she says. "This has also been great for adding another day in between my wash days since my roots aren’t getting as greasy as quickly."

An award-winning hair cream: Kérastase Curl Manifesto Nourishing Mask for Curly Hair

Winner: Best splurge hair mask for curly hair

What we like

• Deeply hydrating
• Defines curls

Something to note

• Might be heavy on fine hair

Product type: Mask | Size: 6.8 oz. | Key ingredient(s): Alpha Manuka honey and ceramides | Best for: All waves and curls

With the combination of manuka honey and ceramides, dry, damaged curls should quickly feel revived after using this splurge-worthy (and award-winning) hair mask. According to the brand, the formula is ultra-rich in order to repair split ends and prevent damage, so curls are left soft and smooth afterwards. "I noticed after applying a little to my roots (not too much) I didn’t have as much flaking/dryness as I usually do, so it definitely provides moisture and hydration," says Stewart.

Editor-tested tools for curly hair

For "day two hair" styling: Pattern Mist Spray Bottle

What we like

• Sprays a fine mist
• Aerosol-free
• Tall bottle

Something to note

• Some had trouble with button

Product type: Mist bottle | Comes with: Bottle | Best for: All waves and curls

For what you get, the bottle size is totally worth it. I use this on the days I want to refresh my hair for styling. This spray such a fine yet prolonged mist that truly gets a good amount of my hair wet in just a few uses. A bonus is that the mist doesn't go everywhere!

An Amazon-favorite brush: Denman Curly Hair Brush D3

What we like

• Defines and shapes curls
• Detangles
• Doesn't drag

Something to note

• Takes time getting used to

Product type: Hair brush | Comes with: Hair brush | Best for: All waves and curls

At the start of every curly and wavy girl's journey, you've mostly likely come across the Denman brush. It was one of my first purchases when I started taking my curly hair routine seriously because many (and I mean many) have raved about how it transforms curls.

When you twist it through your hair, the unique staggered bristles style your curls without tangling or dragging — it might just take some time getting used to.

A budget-friendly blow dryer: InfinitiPRO by Conair Quick Styling Salon Hair Dryer

Winner: Best budget hair dryer

What we like

• Affordable
• Has ionic technology

Something to note

• Few settings

Product type: Hair dryer | Comes with: Hair dryer, two attachments and round brush | Best for: All waves and curls

Earning the title as the best budget hair dryer during Shop TODAY's 2024 Beauty Awards, Conair's Quick Styling Salon Hair Dryer impressed our team for all that it does for an affordable cost. While it only has a few settings (three heat and two speed), the dryer has incredible airflow to quickly dry and style your strands. You should also notice less frizz, according to the brand, because it has ionic technology.

"As someone who’s always in a rush, I appreciate how quickly this brush does the job," noted associate editor Allie Wise during our Beauty Awards testing. "It dries hair quickly, and gives my hair volume I don’t always get with a regular hair dryer. I’m not the best at styling my hair, but this brush makes it easy."

Best luxury hair dyer:T3 Featherweight StyleMax Professional Ionic Hair Dryer 

What we like

• Lightweight design
• Has multiple attachments
• Automated heat settings

Something to note

• Cord is a bit stiff

Product type: Hair dryer | Comes with: Hair dryer and four attachments | Best for: All waves and curls

After trying T3's Ionic Hair Dryer, I'm never going back to any other hair dryer. Here's why: The dryer has a smart StyleMax Technology that customizes its heat and speed setting based on your hair type and styling goals. With this, I haven't experienced a too-hot or overly powerful airstream as I diffuse, blow dry and blow out my hair. And since it has an ionic generator, you should notice your styles more shinier and less frizzy.

To help shape straggler curls: Pattern The 3-in-1 Interchangeable Curling Iron

Winner: Best splurge curling iron

 

What we like

• Comes with various barrels
• Sleek design
• Has a glove and heat mat

Something to note

• The matte finish isn't for all

Product type: Curling iron | Comes with: 3 barrels, protective glove and case | Best for: All waves and curls

We all have those days when there are a few straggler curls that didn't seem to curl as well as the rest. That's where we cue in this award-winning curling iron from Pattern. Alongside its protective glove and carrying case, the iron comes with various barrels to create different styles, no matter if you want a tight or loose curl.

Although she doesn't have curly or wavy hair, commerce editor and producer Julie Ricevuto loves that the curling iron feels and looks "high quality." During our Beauty Awards testing, she suggested that "this is definitely a better option for those with wavy or curly hair to begin with," because the barrel sizes are designed to mimic natural curls, from coily to loose.

Frequently Asked Questions

What ingredients should curly and wavy hair types avoid?

"Curly and wavy hair should avoid sulfates, which strip natural oils, and silicones that can weigh hair down with buildup," Korab explains. "Parabens and drying alcohols, like ethanol, can irritate and dehydrate the hair, so look for paraben-free and alcohol-free products."

This is because "curly hair tends to be drier in texture, therefore using a product that has a higher alcohol content can tend to make the hair even drier," claims Aguirre.

Especially if you have thin and/or flat hair, Korab also recommends avoiding heavy oils and butters because they "might make curls greasy and weighed down, so opt for lighter alternatives."

And for overall curl maintenance, "minimize the use of high heat styling tools to prevent damage and always use a heat protectant," Korab adds. "Additionally, choose products with a balanced pH to avoid cuticle lifting and frizz."

How do you keep curly hair from frizzing?

This is where styling comes into play. This consists of using either a curl gel or mousse (or all of the above), depending on the hold you want, and your curl pattern. These types of products are what seal your curl shape.

"Once completed, do not touch the hair. It needs to set so it can create a cast on the hair," hairstylist Brendnetta Ashley previously shared with TODAY. "The cast allows for frizz control. The more you touch while wet, it will create frizz."

How we chose

Shop TODAY contacted hairstylists for their expertise on treating a variety of curl patterns. Along with expert commentary, we included our go-to beauty products for waves and curls to make your shopping experience a breeze.

Meet the experts

Jennifer Korab is a celebrity hair stylist and colorist based in New Jersey.
Brendnetta Ashley is a hairstylist and an Artistic Educator with The Salon by Instyle.
Shelly Aguirre is a hair stylist at Maxine Salon in Chicago.