Pros: Inexpensive; addresses frizziness.
Cons: Has a sticky texture.

In a lot of cases, frizziness occurs when hair is lacking moisture, so this cream features a blend of keratin amino acids and rice protein to address dryness from inside the strands. Remember: Keratin is a protein that can repair the structure of the hair, but it can also moisturise and smooth the cuticle so that frizz is less of an issue. Rice protein can also coat the hair and provide a light protective barrier so that said moisture can be retained, resulting in less frizz overall. The cream has a semi-thick, lotion-y texture that can be used to define wet or dry curls, and it doesn’t hurt that you can purchase it for under £25.

Testing notes: “I loved the definition on this one,” Hardy says. “When my hair dried down, it fluffed up nicely while still maintaining the definition.” According to Hardy, this cream’s only downside is that the texture feels a bit sticky.

Best for Coily Hair: Amika Curl Corps Defining Cream

Courtesy of brand

Amika Curl Corps Defining Cream

Best for: Light hold and curl definition.

Pros: Provides hold all day; works on coily hair.
Cons: Pricey for amount of product.

This is a curl “cream” that actually has the consistency of a gel, which would explain how it does such a great job of holding your hair in place. Products like this often have a reputation of making the hair feel hard, dry, or crunchy, but thanks to the inclusion of moisturising ingredients like oat peptide, you can expect your curls to feel soft whether you style it in a braid-out, a twist-out, or an air-dried style.

Testing notes: “This smells absolutely amazing and has an incredibly smooth, luxurious texture,” Mayola says. “From the first day I applied it, I noticed a lot of definition in my hair, and best of all, it didn’t leave it feeling crunchy, sticky, or weighed down at all. It gave my hair a natural, soft bounce while keeping everything perfectly in place. A solid 10 out of 10 from me!”

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Best for Dry Hair: Charlotte Mensah Manketti Oil Hair Pomade

Manketti Oil Pomade

Best for: Curly, textured hair.

Pros: Nourishing and hydrating.
Cons: Premium price point.

If your hair’s craving some serious TLC, make a beeline for Charlotte Mensah’s Manketti Oil Pomade. This lightweight, silky pomade is perfect for everyday use or as a finishing touch to elevate any hairstyle. Packed with a myriad of nourishing oils, shea butter, and cocoa butter, it hydrates, tames frizz, and adds subtle shine without feeling heavy or greasy.

Testing notes: “What I love most about the Manketti Oil Pomade is how a tiny amount goes such a long way. Just a dab smooths my frizz, adds shine, and softens my hair, making it my absolute go-to for everyday styling.”

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Best for Curl Definition: Flora & Curl Sweet Hibiscus Curl Activating Lotion

Flora & Curl Sweet Hibiscus Curl Activating Lotion

Best for: Wavy, curly and coily hair types.

Pros: Enhances natural curl definition.
Cons: The texture may be too light for very dry hair.

Designed to wake up your natural texture without any crunchy cast, this lightweight curl lotion glides through damp hair and delivers soft, defined curls. We love the delicate, floral scent that adds a subtle, uplifting touch to your hair care routine without lingering too heavily. It’s great for everything from wash‑and‑go routines to protective styles.