Taming curly hair isn't an exact science, and whether you're dealing with frizzy, dry or unruly curls — or all of the above — finding the perfect curly product cocktail can take a bit of trial and error.
In an effort to help improve your hair game, we sat down with a handful of hairstylists to help guide you in the right direction.
After witnessing just about every curly hair conundrum, these hairstylists have an impressive arsenal of product solutions up their sleeves, and they're willing to share all of their secrets. Even better? All the products are available at your favorite drugstore.
1. Shea Moisture 100% Pure Argan Oil
This oil is key for revitalizing dry, curly strands and giving them an extra silky shine.
"A little goes a long way, so apply (about a quarter-size drop) from the mid-shaft to ends and run the remainder through the hairline and part for added smoothness," said Glamsquad creative director Giovanni Vaccaro.
2. Cantu Coconut Curling Cream
Cantu's Coconut Curling Cream is good for defining curls.
"It's also great to use for those wash-and-go days," said hairstylist Jerica Edwards. "It's a great standalone product, but it can also be layered with your favorite hair oil or defining gel to create any signature style."
3. John Frieda Frizz Ease Dream Curls Daily Styling Spray
If you need some frizz control, this is a great option for you!
"I love this product because it fights the frizz that tends to come along with curly hair and also enhances natural curls while leaving hair shiny and smooth," said celebrity hairstylist Kristin Heitkotter, whose clients include Gina Rodriguez, Camila Alves and Molly Sims. "Spray product from scalp to ends and scrunch into hair to refresh curls."
4. Carol's Daughter Mimosa Hair Honey
This pomade will help you moisturize your scalp, condition your locks and control frizz.
"I love this product because it add maximum shine and conditions hair without weighing it down. It also has a great citrus-y scent," said celebrity hairstylist Nai'vasha Johnson, whose clients include Yara Shahidi, Logan Browning and Uzo Aduba.
5. Kenra Curl Defining Cream No. 5
This is perfect for the people who have curly hair but aren't quite sure how to style it!
"This product is good for wavy to curly hair. It refines and separates curls and waves, tames frizz and flyaways and adds control and shine. It's especially great for humid weather," said Kathy Benghanem, celebrity hairstylist and owner of Gemini 14 Salon in New York City. "Apply one to two pumps of product to damp hair, then diffuse or air dry."
6. Infusium Repair & Renew Leave-In Creme
This repairing leave-in product will help you rejuvenate your hair in no time.
"Use a few drops (about the size of a nickel or quarter) of Infusium Repair and Renew Leave-in Creme on wet hair after shampooing and conditioning to smooth split ends and add moisture to any dry areas," said Detra Smith, artistic director for Hot Tools.
"This product works well whether you like to air dry or blow dry with a diffuser. It also works well as a blowout cream if you want a smooth, straight look."
7. Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Featherlight Styling Cream
You're probably going to be battling dry hair until the weather gets a bit warmer, but until then, try out this extra hydrating styling cream.
"Curls need change with the seasons. To help battle winter dehydration, I like to use cream-based styling products like Ouidad’s Advanced Climate Control Styling Cream," said Scott Frelund, curl expert at Gene Juarez Salon & Spas.
"This lightweight, light-hold product gives the perfect amount of moisture to combat winter dryness."
8. Garnier Fructis Style Curl Sculpt Conditioning Cream Gel
This Garnier product is an effective and budget-friendly way to keep your curls frizz-free and contained.
"This works for all curl types and gives you bouncy, frizz-free curls with a great smell," said Benghanem. "Apply a quarter size amount on slightly damp hair, then use a comb to distribute it from root to tip. Let air dry or dry with a diffuser."
For more beauty recommendations, check out:
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This story was originally published on Jan. 22, 2018.