Curly hair can be a beast to live with. My particular type of curl is among the worst, because I’m somewhere in between corkscrew curls and serious beach waves, with a touch of frizziness. When it comes to maintenance, I’m extremely picky about the products that I use in hopes of controlling that frizz without the added hassle of greasy roots from heavy product. Over the last month or so, some pretty awesome products have made their way from Jeannine’s desk to mine that have revolutionized my daily hair routine in a big way, so it would be a crime not to share these curly hair styling saviors!
John Frieda Frizz Ease Daily Nourishment Leave-In Conditioner, $5.99 at Ulta.com
This spray not only smells fantastic, but works wonders on tangly curls post-shower. Typically us curly-haired girls fight with our strands for hours just to get a comb through it, but this product eliminates the struggle and leaves behind a blissfully knot-free mane. Added bonus? This vitamin-infused tonic also works as a heat protectant, eliminating another step to your morning routine.
Paul Mitchell Curls Ultimate Wave Beachy Texture Cream-Gel, $20 PaulMitchell.com
Using any product with the word “gel” in it typically spells certain crunchy doom to any girl with curly hair, however this product is an exception to the rule. Lightweight and non-greasy, this gel adds just the right amount of body to curls without the extra crunch of a traditional gel. Scrunch a nickel-sized amount through damp strands for all day humidity control and an added tousled wave look.
John Frieda Frizz Ease Nourishing Oil Elixer, $11.99 Drugstore.com
I know, I know…another John Frieda product? Trust me when I say that John Frieda knows curls, and this Argan- based oil completely proves that. Perfect for combating frizziness, this oil coats and protects strands while adding a beautiful shine to finished hair. Pro Tip: mix one pump of oil with that nickel-sized amount of the Paul Mitchell Curls Cream-Gel for a totally life-changing combo, just be sure to apply from mid-shaft to tip to avoid greasiness at the scalp.
Mark. That’s Beachy Texturizing Surf Spray, $14 at MeetMark.com
This spray is literally beach hair in a bottle. This delicious smelling tonic adds incredible volume while defining curls in a way that I have yet to see from anything short of actual ocean water. It’s super lightweight and I find that I can spray it all over, from root to tip, with no fear of greasy residue once it’s dry. All that is left is beachy bombshell hair that will be your go-to style for summer. The best part? It’s only $14, a total steal compared to higher-end brands and delivers way more bang for your buck.
Biolage Volumizing Whipped Mousse, $19 Drugstore.com
Similar to gels, mousses tend to be extremely hit or miss when applied to curly hair. This mousse adds volume and a little goes a very long way in even the thickest of tresses. Pump a dollop into your palm and work through damp hair for a touchably soft wavy look, sans any crunch. Not only does this mousse feature a medium hold, but it also strengthens strands with macro-lipids and Ceramide without added weight or grease. The 250 mL size will last you a lifetime, making it recessionista-approved.
