Let’s be honest, having curly hair is both a blessing and a curse. You never really know whether your curls will behave and form perfectly after wash day, or if they’ll turn into wild, frizzy beasts that refuse to be tamed. And that’s not even mentioning how your curl pattern can look completely different each morning, because, after all, you’re only human and need to sleep with your head on a pillow.
The truth is, curly hair needs just as much care as straight hair, if not more. Having a consistent haircare routine can make a world of difference when it comes to managing frizz, dryness and tangles, which are common issues regardless of your curl type or pattern. While sleeping with your hair loosely tied up in a scrunchie can help preserve your curls, the right hair products are just as essential for keeping your locks strong and healthy.
Using quality, well-formulated products not only maintains your hair’s natural texture but also protects it from environmental stress and damage. And when it comes to tackling frizz, dryness, and definition all at once, one product stands out: the curly hair cream.
What Is a Curl Hair Cream?
A curl cream is a specialised product designed to maintain your hair’s natural texture, define curls, and encourage them to fall into their natural pattern. As a bonus, it adds bounce and shine, leaving your hair looking vibrant, healthy, and full of life.
What Makes It an Important Step of the Routine?
The main thing you should know is that a curly hair cream defines and enhances the curls’ natural pattern. It provides moisture, shine and bounce, giving your hair a soft, natural finish without that stiff, crunchy feel that mousse or gel can leave behind.
By choosing the right cream with nourishing ingredients, you can hydrate your hair while keeping dryness and frizz under control. A high-quality curl cream forms a protective barrier around each strand, helping to shield it from humidity and other causes of frizz. The result? Smooth, glossy curls that stay defined and bouncy.
Well-hydrated hair is frizz-free hair, and frizz-free hair means you can enjoy having soft, shiny, beautifully defined curls that actually cooperate.
Does Curl Cream Make Your Hair Curly?
Here’s an important point, curl creams aren’t magic potions. They won’t make straight hair curly. Their purpose is to hydrate, define and control frizz in hair that already has a curl or wave pattern.
So, if your hair is naturally straight and you’re hoping a curl cream will give you ringlets overnight, it’s best to adjust your expectations. Curl creams enhance what’s already there, they don’t create curls from scratch.
Some Important Do’s and Don’ts
If you’ve got curly hair, knowing a few basic do’s and don’ts can make a big difference in how your hair looks and feels. These small changes can help you avoid dull, heavy or lifeless curls.
When shopping for a curl cream, look for formulas made with lightweight, nourishing ingredients that won’t weigh your hair down. This helps maintain that essential volume, bounce and movement that makes curly hair so special.
Do’s
Use the Cream on Damp Hair
No matter which curl cream you choose, always apply it to damp hair. This helps the product absorb better, locking in moisture and definition. Applying it to dry hair can lead to uneven coverage, making your curls appear greasy or patchy.
Use Small Amounts of It
An important thing you should know about hair creams is that a little goes a long way. That is why you should start with a small amount of it and add more if you need it.
Make Sure to Apply It Evenly
Distribute the cream evenly through your hair. Start by rubbing a small amount between your palms, then rake it through your mid-lengths and ends. Avoid the roots to prevent greasiness. Make sure every strand gets a bit of product for consistent curl definition and frizz control.
Scrunch It
Once you’ve applied the cream, scrunch your hair gently to encourage your curls to form and spring up. This helps enhance definition and bounce.
Air Dry
If possible, it is best to leave your hair to air dry to prevent frizz. However, if you don’t have the time, you can always dry it with a hair dryer.
Don’ts
Avoid Using Too Much Product
Overdoing it with curl cream can flatten your curls and make your hair look greasy. Stick to small amounts—you can always add more if your hair needs it.
Avoid Applying It to Dry Hair
Curl creams are meant for damp hair. Applying them to dry strands can leave your hair sticky, frizzy and messy, making it look more weighed down than defined.
Don’t Touch the Hair Too Much
Once the product is in and your curls are drying, resist the urge to touch them. Constantly running your hands through your hair disrupts the curl pattern and leads to frizz. So, after applying your cream, keep your hands off as much as possible.