All curl patterns are not alike, but anyone whose hair falls between 3A to 4C on the Walker scale can confirm they all need specific TLC.
These products were all taken for a spin by American Salon testers who have lush curls, coils, and kinks. Here are 12 that got top marks for performance and longevity.
CAMILLE ROSE NATURALS — GUAVA SLIP DETANGLING SHAMPOO & CONDITIONER
This indulgent twosome does more than cleanse and condition super well: they loosen up stubborn knots and tangles like a dream, and they lock in lasting moisture with essential fatty acids.
CÉCRED — CLARIFYING SHAMPOO & SCALP SCRUB
This hydrating formula is kind to curls while leaving hair and scalp squeaky clean — removing even heavy residue and buildup without stripping. It’s even got a chelating agent to neutralize hard water.
COLOR WOW — DREAM COAT SUPERNATURAL SPRAY
The brand has a variety of fab products for curly types, but the ultimate go-to for superior frizz busting and shine is the cult favorite styling spray in 3 versions: OG, Curly Hair, and Extra Strength.
DESIGN ESSENTIALS — ROSEMARY & MINT STIMULATING SUPER MOISTURIZING CONDITIONER
This super hydrating, ultra-nourishing treatment both softens and detangles thick and coarse hair, and wakes up the scalp. Hair looks and feels stronger post-use while scalp is left fresh, clean, and balanced.
THE DOUX — DOUX DROPS BONDING POLISH SPRAY
A heat-protecting mist and detangler that also strengthens via bond-building technology, this rich formula binds split ends and leaves hair nourished with a luxe, glossy, light-reflecting surface.
IGK — BEST INTEREST DEEP REPAIR AIR DRY STYLER
Yay for wash-and-go hair! During air drying, this leave-in styling cream seals split ends while defining curl patterns and keeping frizzies out of the picture.
IT’S A 10 — COILY MIRACLE LEAVE-IN PRODUCT
We looove a good all-in-one, and this decadent spray delivers for curls, coils, and kinks: amazing detangling, heat protection, replenishing, softening, and strengthening.
MOONSTONE SEVEN – THE HAIR PLOP
Yes, it's possible to dry hair via the tried-and-true plop method without having to DIY with a T-shirt. This soft, adjustable head wrap absorbs water quickly and creates springy, frizz-free curls ready to style.
MUK — KINKY MUK EXTRA HOLD CURL AMPLIFIER
It’s not easy to find a long-lasting hold product for curls that doesn't leave a crunchy finish. This leave-in does just that, creating soft, defined spirals and ringlets that resist frizz for days.
OLI G — RENEW POROSITY BALANCING HAIR OIL
This light, fast-absorbing serum is fortified by growth-stimulating oligopeptides. True to its name, it evens out the hair's porosity so it can retain moisture longer. Curls look polished and shiny sans greasiness.
PHYTO — INTENSE CURLS ANTI-FRIZZ GEL
This super-hydrating gel forms silky, bouncy ringlets while locking out frizz-producing humidity, thanks to the brand’s proprietary Nutri Curl Complex (derived from botanical sugars).
SLEEPY TIE — THE SHOWER CAP
Game-changer alert: this roomy, cute, waterproof bonnet provides all the moisture protection of a traditional shower cap, plus the requisite satin inner lining that’s a must for curls, coils, and kinks.