We've tested countless options, but just these 9 hairstyling creams have made it into our daily routines.

      I have a confession to share. Even though I work as a beauty editor with plenty of hair products at my disposal, I tend to be quite low-maintenance regarding my hair. My hair care routine includes just shampoo, conditioner, and occasionally a bit of hair oil after using my hair dryer. However, after repeatedly neglecting to apply heat protector with my styling tools, along with years of using bleach and balayage to change my hair color, my locks now require extra attention. With the changing weather as summer comes to a close, I’ve noticed my hair appearing drier and less vibrant, needing some de-frizzing as the autumn rains approach. Thus, I've decided to incorporate some hairstyling creams into my regimen, and I’m really pleased that I did.

      What Are Hairstyling Creams?

      Unlike lighter hair serums or heavier hair oils, hairstyling creams fall somewhere between the two. Meant to be applied to damp hair before styling (or even to dry ends, depending on the product), they help hydrate, smooth, define curls, enhance shine, and provide heat protection while styling. With their numerous benefits, they make a fantastic addition to streamline your hair care routine, allowing you to use fewer products. They can also extend the longevity of your style if you use a straightener or curling wand; some can even refresh your hair when dry, helping to reduce frizz or add shine and moisture between washes.

      However, finding the right hairstyling cream for your specific hair type and concerns can be challenging, given the multitude of options available. That’s why I’ve turned to the Who What Wear UK editorial team to highlight their favorite hairstyling creams below, making it easier for you to find the perfect match for your hair texture and styling requirements. We’ve tried countless products together, so the following selections are truly worthy of a place in your routine.

      The Best Hairstyling Creams:

      Best Overall: Hershesons Almost Everything Cream

      Best for Smoothing: Ouai Anti Frizz Crème

      Best for Curls: Cantu Shea Butter Coconut Curling Cream

      Best for Air-Drying: JVN Hair Complete Air-Dry Cream

      Best for Lasting Hold: Gisou Honey Milk 5-in-1 Styling Cream

      1. Hershesons Almost Everything Cream

      **Best Overall**

      Pros: A versatile styling cream that can serve multiple purposes, including smoothing, defining curls, and creating slicked-back styles. It can replace several products in your routine and is suitable for all hair types.

      Cons: Lacks heat protection.

      Hershesons Almost Everything Cream is a favorite among our beauty team for several reasons. True to its name, it can be utilized in various ways—whether smoothing frizz and flyaways, defining curls, adding texture to dry hair, or creating a sleek bun. "It's the hairstyling cream I use on my fine, straight hair," shares Shannon Lawlor, beauty director at Who What Wear UK. "It doesn't weigh my hair down, and I appreciate that I can use it for everything from slicked styles to adding moisture to the ends or creating waves."

      2. Ouai Anti Frizz Crème

      **Best for Smoothing**

      Pros: Controls frizz for up to 72 hours, applicable on both wet and dry hair, heat protection, hydrating and non-greasy texture, excellent fragrance.

      Cons: Not ideal for those seeking a fragrance-free hairstyling cream.

      I have coarse, frizzy hair that can be exacerbated by humid or rainy weather, and this cream is one of the few to keep my hair looking and feeling smooth. It hydrates my somewhat wavy hair without being heavy, keeping it sleek for a couple of days. It's also effective on dry hair for refreshing styles between washes. As with all Ouai products, the scent is fantastic, featuring their iconic Melrose Place fragrance—a gentle rosy musk that lingers with every swish of your hair.

      3. Color Wow One Minute Transformation Styling Cream

      **Best for Dry Hair**

      Pros: Adds shine, hydrates dry or damaged hair, lightweight, and non-greasy.

      Cons: May not provide enough moisture for curly hair textures; best applied to dry hair rather than damp.

      If your hair is dry or lacks luster and requires some tender loving care, Color Wow's One Minute Transformation Styling Cream is an excellent pick. This hydrating and smoothing non-greasy cream tackles frizz and helps restore dry or damaged ends, leaving your hair with a polished shine and healthy bounce when applied to dry hair.

      4. Cantu Shea Butter Coconut Curling Cream

      **Best Curl Cream**

      Pros: Hydrates and nourishes hair, ideal for curly and coily textures, affordable.

      Cons: Those with fine curls may prefer a lighter formula; some might be put off by the coconut scent.

      "My hair