If your curls tend to snap and crackle more than they pop, these formulas will save them from irreversible damage.
Sure, there’s always a host of curl-enhancing products to choose from, but not all are created equal.
Those made with harmful ingredients (sulfates, parabens, alcohol) are actually causing curl sabotage by stripping the strands of moisture and destroying all hope of the perfect twist out.
As we continue to navigate the start of another spring season, reclaim shine, bounce and volume with these curly girl approved products.
This article originally appeared on Essence.com
(Read TIME’s affiliate link policy.)
Carol’s Daughter Pracaxi Nectar Curl Twisting Custard
Finally achieve your twist out goals with this curling custard that promises to leave your strands flexible, soft and long-lasting.
Available at Sally Beauty | $13
EDEN BodyWorks Coconut Shea Curl Defining Crème
Eliminate frizz and maintain the moisture of your curls with this humidity-resistant formula.
Available at Target | $9
Dark and Lovely Au Naturale Clay Cleansing Mask
This cleanser softly binds and defines curls. It contains a blend of kaolin clay, argan oil and coconut oil that cleanse without stripping the hair of moisture and encourages curl definition.
Available at Target | $7
Miss Jessie’s Pillow Soft Curls
This innovative styling lotion is made with fabric care technology that functions as a softener to help you get fluffy curls.
Available at Target | $15
SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Milk
This hair milk is made with silkening proteins that create soft-to-the-touch curls, while coconut and neem oil protect from breakage and add shine.
Available at Target | $10
Dark and Lovely Au Naturale Curl Control Gel
This gel moisturizes and holds curls together without creating build up and frizz.
Available at Target | $8
Curls Blueberry Bliss Curl Control Jelly
Get smooth, shiny and long lasting curls with this jelly-infused organic formula, made with gentle ingredients like blueberry extract.
Available at Target | $18
Uncle Funky’s Daughter Curly Magic Curl Stimulator
Reinvigorate second and third day curls with this firm hold gel.
Available at Target | $16
SheaMoisture Coconut and Hibiscus Curl and Shine Shampoo
This sulfate-free shampoo is formulated to cleanse, hydrate, and detangle thick, curly hair.
Available at Target | $10
Kinky-Curly Curl Custard Gel
Free up some space on your hair shelf with this all-in-one custard that defines, polishes, holds and elongates curls.
Available at Target | $13
ORS Curls Unleashed Curl Creme
Take your curls to new lengths with this anti-shrinkage curling creme that defines and adds volume to your strands without the use of harsh ingredients.
Available at Target | $10
Camille Rose Curl Maker
Get bouncy, defined and crunch-free curls with this moisturizing curly jelly.
Available at Target | $22
Pantene Curl Perfection Controlling Curl Crème
Enriched with a host of moisturizing oils, this curl creme delivers soft and shiny curls.
Available at Target | $5
Jane Carter Curls To Go Coil All Curls
This formula is perfect for wash and go styling. It reduces shrinkage and instantly delivers frizz-free curls.
Available at Target | $11
Cantu Natural Hair Moisturizing Curl Activator Cream
Bring your curls back to life with this shea butter-infused formula.
Available at Target | $6
More Must-Reads from TIME
- Why Trump’s Message Worked on Latino Men
- What Trump’s Win Could Mean for Housing
- The 100 Must-Read Books of 2024
- Sleep Doctors Share the 1 Tip That’s Changed Their Lives
- Column: Let’s Bring Back Romance
- What It’s Like to Have Long COVID As a Kid
- FX’s Say Nothing Is the Must-Watch Political Thriller of 2024
- Merle Bombardieri Is Helping People Make the Baby Decision
Contact us at letters@time.com