Curly hair is high-maintenance, no lies there. It gets dry, frizzy, unruly and sometimes just refuses to cooperate. But once you understand what your curls need, it gets easier. However, we are not taking away from the fact that it takes time to find out that one product that does it all. Whether your hair forms waves, spirals, or tight coils, the right routine can keep your curls soft, defined, and frizz-free. And one product that should be an essential in your curl care routine is a leave-in cream or gel that keeps the hair smooth, untangled, in place and looking like you’ve got it together

Let’s break it down.

What Curls Really Need?

Maintaining curls is complicated because the natural oils from your scalp don’t travel down curly strands easily. That means curls are drier by default, and when they’re dry, they frizz. Add humidity or improper care routine to it, you are in for a mess.

Keep these rules in mind:

• Hydration is king – curls need moisture, not just water.

• Less is more – stop over-shampooing and over-styling.

• Layer your products – leave-ins, creams, and butters each do a job.

Products That Work

This routine works whether you have 2C waves or 3B curls, short sides or long ringlets. You’ll need just a few solid products 

1. Cleanse Gently

Use a sulphate-free shampoo or co-wash 2–3 times a week. Avoid daily washing as it strips moisture and dries out the scalp and hair making it frizzier and unruly. Massage the scalp gently with your fingertips.

2. Condition Properly

Use a rich conditioner to detangle and soften curls. Leave it on for a few minutes. Use a wide-tooth comb or fingers to detangle while it’s in.

3. Lock in Moisture with a Leave-In

Apply a leave-in conditioner on damp hair to give curls hydration so that they look healthy, are easy to manage and stay in place.

Check out: 

- Moxie Weightless Leave-In Conditioner which is perfect for guys who hate sticky or greasy hair. It hydrates without weighing curls down.

4. Define and Control with a Curl Cream

Follow up with a curl cream or butter to lock in that moisture and define curl shape. Scrunch it in, or smooth through with fingers.

Check Out:

• Schwarzkopf Professional OSiS+ Bounty Balm – A rich curl cream for guys with dry or thick curls. Controls frizz and adds bounce.

• BBlunt Curl Defining Leave-In Cream – Suitable for Indian climates. Defines and adds shine without feeling heavy.

• Ouai Curl Cream – A luxury option that works well on medium curls. Keeps curls soft and frizz-free, not crunchy.

• Fix My Curls Curl Quenching Hair Butter – Best for dry, coarse, or high-porosity hair. Deeply moisturising and helps with overnight protection too.

5. Air Dry or Diffuse

Use a microfiber towel or old cotton T-shirt to blot excess water. Then let it air dry or use a diffuser on low heat. Avoid harsh rubbing or using old, hard towels.