Defined, healthy looking curls are possible with the right styling products.
When it comes to styling curly hair, figuring out whether to use gel, curl cream, or mousse can feel overwhelming—especially if you’re unsure of the differences. What you choose can mean the difference between defined, frizz-free curls and a tangled, unruly mess.
To help you choose the best products to enhance your curls, we’re sharing a comprehensive guide comparing our top styling products for curly hair. This post breaks down the pros and cons of each product—making it easier to select the right one based on your curl type, desired hold, and unique hair goals.
Not sure which product is best for your curls? Scroll down to our comparison chart for a quick guide!
How to Choose the Best Curly Hair Styling Products
Your curly hair is unique and requires special care. The right product can:
- Define and shape curls without crunch or stiffness.
- Hydrate and strengthen hair to prevent breakage.
- Control frizz and protect against heat and UV damage from diffusers.
- Add volume, body, and shine.
Step 1. Identify Your Curl Pattern:
- Wavy (2A–2C): Opt for lightweight creams or mousses for soft hold and definition.
- Curly (3A–3C): Choose hydrating creams and gels for frizz-free, defined curls.
- Coily (4A–4C): Use strong-hold gels or gelee to elongate curls and lock in moisture.
Step 2. Consider Your Hair’s Density:
- Fine or thinning hair: Go for volumizing mousses or lightweight creams.
- Medium to coarse hair: Hydrating creams and strong-hold gels will provide structure and moisture.
Step 3. Think About Your Desired Hold Level:
- Light hold: For touchable, natural-looking curls.
- Medium hold: For structured, frizz-free curls.
- Strong hold: For defined, long-lasting styles.
Step 4: Choose a Styler for Your Curl Type & Needs
To simplify your choice, here’s a side-by-side comparison of our best styling products for curly hair. Whether you’re looking for strong hold, added volume, or lightweight hydration, this guide will point you in the right direction. Experiment and layer products. Achieving optimal curl definition and frizz control often requires a combination of curl cream, gel, and mousse.
Compare our stylers
Best Curly Hair Products: Comparison Chart
| Product | Hold Level | Hydrating | Curl Definition | Heat & UV Protection | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hair Gels | |||||
| Evolvh WonderBalm Magic for Curls | No Hold | Yes | Soft, frizz-free curl definition | Yes | All hair types |
| Innersense I Create Curl Memory | Strong, flexible hold | Yes | Long-lasting, elongated curls | No | Coarse, curly & coily hair |
| Innersense I Create Hold | Strong | No | Defined, structured curls | No | Curly to tight curls |
| Carina Organics Hair Gel | Medium to strong hold | No | Defined, structured curls | No | Curly to tight curls |
| Hair Mousse | |||||
| Evolvh InstaVolume Volumizing Mousse | Medium to strong hold | No | Defined, frizz-free curls | Yes | Fine, flat, or thinning hair |
| Innersense I Create Lift Volumizing Foam | Light to medium | Light | Lift roots & define curls | No | Wavy to curly hair |
| Curl Creams & Lotions | |||||
| Evolvh SuperCurl Defining Cream | Medium | Yes | Soft, defined curls & waves | Yes | Curly and wavy hair |
| Innersense Quiet Calm Curl Control | Light | Yes | Smooth, shape & define curls | No | Medium to coarse hair |
| Hair Spray | |||||
| Evolvh UltraFlex Hairspray | Buildable | No | Holds curls in place & eliminates frizz | Yes | All hair types |
Types of Curly Hair Styling Products and Their Uses
Hair Gel
Hair gel typically offers the strongest hold and is ideal for defining curls and maintaining definition throughout the day. Elongating hair gels help reduce shrinkage and stretch curls, while regular hair gels provide hold and definition. Try layering gel over your leave-in conditioner to keep curls moisturized.
Benefits:
- Defines and enhances your natural curls and holds them in place
- Controls frizz and protects against humidity.
Best for: Thicker, tighter curl patterns or anyone wanting a structured, defined look.
⚠️ Considerations: Gel can sometimes leave a crunchy or sticky cast if not used correctly. May be too heavy for those with fine, thin, or looser curl patterns
Curl Creams & Lotions
Curl creams and lotions are perfect for soft, defined curls. They are often formulated with lightweight oils or hydrating ingredients like shea butter that coat the hair cuticle to smooth frizz and keep curls soft and manageable.
Benefits:
- Provides moisture and enhances curl definition without the stiffness of a gel.
- Leaves curls soft, bouncy, and touchable.
Best for: Dry, coarse, or medium-density curls that need hydration and definition.
⚠️ Considerations: Curl creams may not provide enough hold so you might need to apply gel on top to extend your style.
Hair Mousse
Hair mousse is a lightweight foam that adds lift and definition to curls, making it ideal for enhancing loose waves and ringlets.
Benefits:
- Adds volume and texture while providing soft hold.
- Ideal for fine or thin hair that needs extra body.
Best for: Wavy hair (2A–2C) or curls needing lightweight hold without heaviness.
⚠️ Considerations: Mousse may not provide sufficient hold on its own. Some mousses can be drying, especially if they contain alcohol.
Hair Spray
A flexible hold hairspray is perfect for locking in curls while maintaining natural movement and bounce. It’s best when layered over a curl cream or gel.
Benefits:
- Maintains shape without stiffness.
- Adds shine and protects against humidity.
Best for: All curl types looking for long-lasting hold with flexibility.
⚠️ Considerations: Some formulas can leave curls sticky or stiff. Traditional hairsprays can contain ingredients that can be drying for curly hair.
Not sure which product is right for you? Browse all of our Curly Hair Styling Products and find your perfect match!
