Believe me when I say that these curl creams are the only ones deserving of your goddess-like locks.

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

      I’ve been open about my complex relationship with my hair, having spent many years meticulously trying to straighten it, as I struggled to embrace its natural texture. My hair is slightly curly, sometimes wavy, and always prone to flyaways, and I never liked how it looked when left to its own devices. At the same time, I disliked using products that often left it feeling sticky and heavy. Consequently, I avoided curl products for years, hoping for the best. Spoiler alert: that strategy doesn't lead to good hair days. Recently, however, I have gained a newfound appreciation for the importance of choosing the right products for my hair. Since becoming a parent, especially, I rarely have the time to properly blow-dry it or even use straighteners, so having the appropriate products in my arsenal is crucial for feeling somewhat put together.

      A quality curl cream has become essential for defining my natural texture and controlling flyaways. Unlike mousses or gels, which can often feel dry or stiff, a good curl cream focuses on nourishment and definition. Generally, it's formulated to hydrate, promote curl formation, and reduce frizz, typically containing moisturizing ingredients that smooth and condition curls while allowing for natural movement—crucially, without the crunch. However, not all curl creams are created the same, and finding the right one can be a daunting trial-and-error process. What works for someone with 4C coils might weigh down someone else's 2A waves. Some creams may deliver too much moisture while others may not provide enough. There's also personal preference to consider; I prefer my hair to feel soft while still looking defined, though others might enjoy a bit more grip.

      That's why I compiled a list of the best curl creams available today, in conjunction with my top picks from the last few years, and insights from hairstylists and fellow editors. Featuring both drugstore brands and luxury selections, along with formulations for various curl patterns, here are the curl creams to 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 tailored for every curl type. This curl cream is ideal for those, like me, who dislike the sensation of product in their hair. It's lightweight yet contains a nourishing blend of coconut and kukui nut oils that enhance curls without weighing them down. Fine curls and waves will particularly appreciate its airy consistency, and it smells incredible.

       **Pros:** Works for all hair types, lightweight texture, natural ingredients

       **Cons:** Not the most intensive 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 thick or very dry, this rich curl cream will be a favorite as it smooths and softens textured hair effortlessly. "Infused with shea butter, mongongo oil, and argan oil, it provides exceptional hydration and lasting definition," says hairstylist and brand founder Charlotte Mensah. "Ideal for all textures, especially coily hair, just a bit of finger curling will do for effortless shape and shine." A small amount is sufficient—finer hair types may find it slightly heavy—but it pairs well with both diffusing and 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

       Despite being a recent discovery for me, I’m impressed by this formula's ability to provide definition and control without sacrificing softness. It combines cream moisture with gel hold to shape and smooth curls while reducing frizz. Best of all, it