If you wear your hair wavy, curly, or coily, the best curl creams are probably a cornerstone of your curl routine. They help define your natural pattern while delivering moisture and softness, striking a balance between hydration and flexible hold. “They can also add polish and help with manageability and frizz,” says Stanley Nolan, a cosmetologist and beauty education specialist at Ogle School. Plus, “unlike gels, they provide a softer, more flexible hold, so your hair stays movable and bouncy,” adds Sarah Sango, a pro hairstylist.
As with most natural hair care products, finding the right option is ultimately a very personal experience, dictated in part by your hair texture, type, and concern. To find the best of the best, Glamour editors and contributors with waves, curls, and coils tested dozens of formulas over several months. We evaluated how easily each one distributed through damp hair, how well it defined the curl pattern, whether it caused buildup or flaking, and how long the results lasted between wash days. Whether you’re looking for a multitasker that hydrates and prevents breakage—like our best overall winner, Paul Mitchell Twirl Around Cream Serum, an affordable and effective drugstore option, or a frizz-free finisher, there’s something here for you.
Our top curling cream picks
Frequently asked questions
Best Overall: Paul Mitchell Twirl Around Cream Serum
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Original photo from Eden Stuart testing Paul Mitchell Twirl Around Cream Serum
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Original photo from Eden Stuart testing Paul Mitchell Twirl Around Cream Serum
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Paul Mitchell Twirl Around Cream Serum
- Pros: combines gel and cream to provide both definition and moisture; beautiful smell
- Cons: Pricey
A favorite of Nolan’s for its ability to “define curls, smooth frizz, and add shine, making curls look more polished without feeling stiff,” this formula is part gel, part cream. The former provides definition, and the latter helps to smooth and hydrate—all are top concerns for those with thick, coarse hair, which tends to be prone to dryness and can be tougher to manage. “The dual-action formula supports curl shape while maintaining softness, which is especially helpful for those [seeking] definition with a sleek finish,” she adds.