The 18 Best Curl Creams for Every Hair Texture

Over 1,900 Amazon reviewers agree that this drugstore favorite gives limp curls life. It works by leveraging the key ingredient (pure Moroccan argan oil) to penetrate the hair shaft and hydrate from within. The result is soft, frizz-free curls with built-in heat and UV protection that works on various hair types and colors.

Reviewers say: “I have tried dozens and dozens of products to help with my curly, frizzy hair…this one makes my natural curls look defined without appearing greasy or making them feel crunchy and stiff.”

Perk up lackluster curls with this uber-hydrating and nourishing styling cream formulated with coconut oil and shea butter. Users are obsessed with the lightweight-but-lasting hold and the decadent, sweet vanilla scent enhanced with florals and softwoods. Apply with a few scrunches post-shower.

Reviewers say: “It worked really well at hydrating my hair! My curls have finally started to take shape after using this product!”

Textured hair loves moisture and hydration, but combining too many products can weigh down the hair, or even worse, delay the drying time for your twist-out. The Alpha Curly As Can Be Cream from The Mane Choice allows you to cut through the multi-step routine with its super nourishing formula that enriches the hair—vitamin E, biotin, avocado oil, and agave nectar are packed into the tube—while also defining curls.

Reviewers say: “I love everything about this new Alpha Curl defining cream product. I often use alpha line and this is definitely my go to. I will definitely be ordering more.”

When it comes to curly hair, humid weather can be your worst enemy, which is why this curl cream is such a revelation. This product adds definition and moisture to all curl types, while blocking out frizz-causing humidity so you can style with ease all season long.

Reviewers say: “I use this product after I get out of the shower and run it through my wet hair. I have curly hair and this product keeps my hair in check, no frizzies and no stickiness!”

Mielle’s Curl Smoothie smells delicious enough to eat (but don’t). This sweet cocktail blends babassu oil, honey, a humectant that helps to retain moisture and shine, and pomegranate extract to strengthen the hair follicles and promote hair growth.

Reviewers say: “Everything good I’ve read about this product is true. It’s excellent! I’m sorry I waited so long to buy it.”

With Briogeo’s Curl Charisma, you don’t have to choose between hydration and definition—you get the best of both worlds. This cream is packed with avocado oil for extra moisture and Mollis leaf extract to fight off frizz.

Reviewers say: “I absolutely love this! It smells so good and it works so well. I have wavy hair so it can’t define the absolute most...but it does a splendid job doing so in a calm way.”

SheaMoisture’s fan-favorite Curl Enhancing Smoothie is the dry hair cure-all. Perfect for those with thick hair, the smoothie is built around its main ingredient, shea butter, to give hair a pillow-soft touch and manageable curls.

Reviewers say: “My fave curl cream. Hydrates and defines my curls like nobody’s business.”

With aloe vera, shea butter, and coconut oil, this curl cream is a multi-benefit product that reduces frizz, adds definition, and increases hydration for all hair types.

Reviewers say: “My curls really came to life once I started using Rizos Curls, I haven’t gone back to anything else.”

Maui Moisture’s products smell like a tropical getaway and make you forget you’re on hour two of wash day. This heavenly mixture of coconut oil, papaya, and plumeria extract also quenches the thirstest of curls.

Reviewers say: “Defines my curls, moisturizes my hair, and has a soft finish to it. I definitely recommend this product.”

This hair butter looks and smells good enough to eat, but know that it’s better for your hair in a one-step routine or a traditional liquid, oil, cream method.

Reviewers say: “Perfect for twists. I apply right after shampooing and twist! I love it!”

Avocado, almond, and argan oils help detangle and offer the most length for days when you want to elongate your curls.

Reviewers say: “I’ve been using this product for a few years now and I truly enjoy how my hair feels and acts when I use this. No matter how little or how much I use, my hair remains soft, moisturized, and easy to manage.”

This curl gel does both, just like its name—providing both the hydrating benefits of a cream and the feathery hold of a gel that leaves the crunchy side effects at home.

Reviewers say: “I used this product once, but love the definition it gave my curls. I am looking forward to wash day so I can use it again.”

This fragrance-free option is for you whether you’re sensitive to smells or just want to skip any added perfume from your hair products. A little goes a long way when prepping a twist out or shingling. This styler leaves hair bouncy without stickiness or crunch.

Reviewers say: “I put it in my hair when it’s wet and it dries so nice and frizz-free. I am definitely satisfied with this product and will be buying more in the future!”

If moisture is what you’re lacking, then this cream gel is what you need. It might seem strange for a styler to be both a cream and a gel, but this Coco Creme product strengthens and moisturizes dry hair while defining your natural curl.

Reviewers say: “It is an excellent product. You will be happy you bought it!!!”

Control your curls, don’t let them control you. This wheat protein and organic aloe-infused cream intensify texture for tighter, bouncier curls. It works just as well if you air-dry or diffuse, just make sure to apply to large sections of the hair and twist each strand into coils for a more defined look.

Reviewers say: “I will never go without this again. My hair looks great, which makes me feel great.”

This unique cream-gel hybrid is formulated with moisturizing shea butter, conditioning coconut oil, and flaxseed oil for hold. Plus, you’ll go all day without a single flake.

Reviewers say: “This product works great on my short natural hair!”

Dry, brittle hair doesn’t stand a chance against Cantu’s Coconut Curling Cream. You’re likely already a fan of the brand’s cult-favorite Leave-In Conditioner—up the ante and coat your hair in this cream for deeply moisturized strands and defined coils.

Reviewers say: “I love my natural hair; I love it even more using this product.”

This multi-use curl cream is ultra hydrating with ingredients to help repair dry, damaged hair. Use it as a leave-in daily moisturizer or styling cream to help manage frizz, add moisture, and restore your hair to it healthiest state.

Reviewers say: “I use this product on my hair after it has been washed to style and hydrate my naturally curly hair. It feels and smells amazing!”