Believe me when I say that these curl creams are the only ones deserving of your divine hair.

      (Image credit: @micaricketts, @peterluxhair, @jodiemcomer)

      I've been open about my complicated relationship with my hair, having spent years attempting to straighten it because I struggled to embrace its natural texture. My hair is slightly curly, occasionally wavy, and always prone to flyaways, so I never liked how it looked when left alone, yet I disliked the products that made it feel sticky and heavy. For a long time, I avoided curl products altogether, hoping for the best. Spoiler alert: that isn't a formula for great hair days. Recently, however, I've come to truly value the importance of using the right products for my hair. Since becoming a parent, I often lack the time to blow-dry it with a hairdryer or use straighteners, making it crucial to have effective products at my disposal to help me feel somewhat put together.

      A good curl cream is essential for defining my natural hair texture and taming flyaways. Unlike mousses or gels, which can be drying or stiff, a quality curl cream focuses on nourishment and definition. They are generally formulated to hydrate, promote curl formation, and combat frizz, often containing moisturizing ingredients that smooth and condition curls while allowing for natural movement—and, importantly for me, without the crunch.

      However, not all curl creams are the same, and finding the right one can feel like a never-ending trial-and-error process. What works for someone with 4C coils might weigh down 2A waves. Some creams may provide too much moisture, while others may not offer enough. Personal preferences also play a role. I prefer my hair to feel soft but still be defined, while others may enjoy a firmer grip. That's why, in addition to sharing my favorite curl creams tested over the years, I've sought input from hair stylists and fellow editors to create this list of the top curl creams available today. From drugstore finds to luxury picks, and options for every curl type, these are the curl creams that will elevate your texture.

      **Shop the Best Curl Creams**

      **Best Overall Curl Cream:** Bouclème Curl Cream, £22

      **Best Curl Cream for Hold:** Paul Mitchell Curls Twirl Around Crunch-Free Curl Definer, £30

      **Best Curl Cream for Air-Drying:** JVN Complete Air Dry Cream, £24

      **Best Curl Cream for Second-Day Hair:** Got2B Coil Refresher Cream, £7

      **Best Curl Cream for Smoothing:** Maria Nila Coils & Curls Oil in Cream, £24

      1. **Bouclème Curl Cream**

      *Best overall curl cream*

      Key ingredients: Coconut oil, kukui nut oil, castor oil, shea butter

      Size: 300ml

      Bouclème is a lovely British brand with a range of products designed for all types of curls. Its curl cream is ideal for those who dislike the feel of products in their hair. It's lightweight, despite its nourishing blend of coconut and kukui nut oils, and enhances curls without adding weight. I think those with finer curls and waves like mine will particularly appreciate its light texture. Plus, it has an incredible scent.

      **Pros:**

      - Suitable for all hair types

      - Lightweight texture

      - Natural ingredients

      **Cons:**

      - Doesn’t provide the most intense hold

      2. **Charlotte Mensah Manketti Oil Pomade**

      *Best curl cream for thick hair*

      Key ingredients: Shea butter, manketti oil, aloe leaf extract, squalane, cocoa seed butter, oat extract

      Size: 200ml

      If your hair is very thick or particularly dry, you'll love this rich and nourishing curl cream that effortlessly smooths and softens textured hair. "Infused with shea butter, mongongo oil, and argan oil, it delivers rich hydration and lasting definition," says hair stylist and brand founder Charlotte Mensah. "Perfect for all textures, especially coily hair, you just need to finger-curl for easy shape and shine." A little goes a long way—and finer hair types might find it slightly heavy—but it works beautifully whether you’re diffusing or air-drying for added polish.

      **Pros:**

      - Smooth, rich texture

      - Amazing scent

      - Minimizes frizz and flyaways

      3. **Paul Mitchell Curls Twirl Around Crunch-Free Curl Definer**

      *Best curl cream for hold*

      Key ingredients: Glycerin, jojoba seed oil, shea butter, apricot kernel oil, wheat germ oil

      Size: 150ml

      Though it's a newer find for me, I've been impressed with this excellent formula for its ability to provide both definition and control without sacrificing softness. It combines moisture from a cream with the hold of a gel to shape and smooth curls and waves while reducing frizz. Best of all, it boasts impressive hold; my curls stay defined