For many, curl pattern does not matter but when shopping for hair care products but it does matter when it comes to styling products. I’m aware of this because when I hear the words “sea salt spray” I steer clear and I know I am not alone. There are even brands that include descriptions like wavy, curly, tight curls, and coily on the packaging. So we’ve listed products that many curly girls are curious about and discussed what they are intended to do and who may benefit the most by using it.
Sea salt spray
Sea salt spray helps to style hair into that sexy, wet, messy beachy look. It gives hair a light hold, wavy look. They have lighter ones to enhance waves or loose curls that yield a beachy texture. If you have Type 3 curls or Type 4 coils, this will not give you the hold you need to clump your curls and coils.
Dry shampoo
Many experts find washing hair too often is damaging, and dry shampoo is a quick and easy way to clean without over-cleaning one’s hair. It can be used in-between washes and is excellent for extension twists. Dry shampoo is a powdery substance that absorbs the oils, dirt, and product that can buildup on one’s scalp. This is for all hair types and the best ones tend to have nutrients in them. Texture guru Anthony Dickey suggests using dry shampoo for those with Type 2 or Type 3 wash and go’s styles and for Type 4 coils when maintaining straight styles.
Custard
Custards tend to get lumped together with hair butters and puddings since all three provide deep moisturizing hold. I love the Kinky-Curly Curling Custard although I consider it a gel it actually is a custard that adds moisture, shine and hold. A custard is a heavier product that women with Type 3 and 4 gravitate to and may be too much weight for Type 2, wavy hair. They are intended for curl definition, adding shine, and hold.
Soufflé
The main objective of a hair soufflé is to be light, touchable hold. It is a lightweight styler that will combat frizz without feeling greasy. Type 2 and 3s may find these more attractive although any Type 4s who are also looking for light holds may find this attractive if volume or touchable softness is their desire. The SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curling Soufflé is quite popular.
Butters
Hair butters can be all natural like mango butter or a blend of butters and oils. These thick. luscious products are nourishing and heavy. Most Type 4s and some Type 3s use them for their thick and creamy texture that adds moisture and softness. They are great for dry strands but may be too heavy for the Type 2 and looser Type 3 textures.
Edge tamers
Harsher gels with the so-called bad alcohols were used in year’s past but now there are edge tamers that use curl friendly ingredients for less stiff, dry, slicked edges. Edge tamers provide hold without flakes and are commonly used by women with Type 4 hair. They are used to control the fine hairs along the hairline called “baby hairs” for a slick finish.
Will it work for me?
As you probably noticed, many of these products cross over into other types of curl products so it can be challenging to determine which types would work best for you. I say opt for figuring out the style you are going for, then decide which product may give you that type of hold or look. Also, looking for YouTube reviews and tutorials can be helpful. The bottom line is you find out what works best by trial and error but this list should give you an excellent starting point.
