If you have wavy, curly, or coily hair, using the right conditioner is the key to keeping your locks healthy, smooth, and tangle-free. The best conditioners for curly hair restore much-needed moisture to locks with hydrating oils and butters, while strengthening breakage-prone strands, adding softness, and taming flyaways and frizz. Moreover, those with very dry or naturally coily hair should prioritize conditioners that contain nourishing ingredients like jojoba and avocado oil.
To find the best conditioners for a variety of hair textures and types, we researched the most popular options on the market based on factors like price, ingredients, and customer reviews. We also spoke with Erika Audrey, a master hair stylist and owner of Hawkins & Clover, a salon and contemporary gift shop, for expert advice on using your chosen conditioner correctly. Read on for our curly hair conditioner recommendations, as well as extra shopping tips for finding the perfect product for your tresses.
PHOTO: Sephora
The Briogeo Curl Charisma Hydrating Conditioner is an all-natural, vegan conditioner that excels in smoothing flyaways and boosting hydration to define all types of curls. Powerhouse ingredients like rich amino acids, mollis leaf extract, and tomato fruit ferment strengthen strands and lock moisture in the hair cuticle to minimize frizz, all while keeping curls consistently soft yet well-defined. Additionally, antioxidizing ingredients like shea butter hydrates without bulk, while rich avocado oil adds sheen to dull strands.
Reviewers love that this conditioner leaves locks soft and has a pleasant, yet not overwhelming herbal smell. A little goes a long way, so experts recommend using it sparingly to avoid oversaturating your hair. They also caution that the rich, butter-based product might be too heavy for those with finer, oily hair.
Key Ingredients: Rice amino acids, shea butter, and avocado oil | Size: 8 ounces | Curl Types: 2A-4C
PHOTO: Amazon
At just $10 for a generously sized 15.2-ounce bottle, Not Your Mother’s conditioner is a steal. Designed specifically for curly hair, the vegan and budget-friendly cream contains mango butter, a moisture-packed emollient that softens strands while preventing split ends. Glycerin also hydrates and tames frizz for softer, more manageable styling.
The conditioner can also double as a defining cream for thick, dry locks, but the brand suggests those with tighter textures apply more product for the best results. Reviewers note that the rich ingredients can weigh down finer or oiler hair, so less is more when applying. And while the peach-pineapple scent is reminiscent of a tropical vacation, some might find it too overpowering for everyday use.
Key Ingredients: Glycerin, mango butter | Size:15.2 ounces | Curl Types: 3A-4C
PHOTO: Amazon
Level up your hair hydration game with this cult favorite conditioner from SheaMoisture Curl & Shine, a Black-owned brand that specializes in products for dry, coily hair. This conditioner is packed with jojoba oil to repair breakage, castor oil to strengthen strands, and coconut oil to calm frizz. Apple cider vinegar acts as an untangling agent, making it easier to comb out knots, while enriching shea butter protects hair from the elements while calming scalp inflammation and adding shine.
Safe for color-treated hair, SheaMoisture can be used without shampoo — just apply and rinse for shiny, defined curls in minutes. The rich ingredients pack a punch for 3A-4C hair, but its rich formula can weigh down finer or oilier hair. And while many reviewers love the tropical, hibiscus scent, others may find it a bit too strong.
Key Ingredients: Apple cider vinegar, caster oil, coconut oil, jojoba oil, shea butter | Size: 13 ounces | Curl Types: 3A-4C
PHOTO: Dermstore
As the name suggests, The R+Co Atlantis Moisturizing B5 Conditioner is formulated with B5 to restore the driest, most brittle strands, no matter how thick. This ingredient penetrates parched locks and seals in moisture, creating a lasting sheen that isn’t overly saturated. A triple threat of rice brain, acai fruit, and maracuja seed oil soothes dry scalps while delivering hydration that strengthens hair and tames frizz and flyaways.
The super hydrating formula is potent but lightweight, so it doesn’t add bulk or grease. While several fans love the “divine” floral and herbal-forward scent, others found it a little too potent. Just note as well that since this is a lightweight conditioner, those with coily hair or very dry scalps might have to use a lot of the product, or may have to opt for a heavier formula.
Key Ingredients: Acai fruit and maracuja seed oils, Vitamin B5, rice bran oil | Size: 8.5 ounces | Curl Types: 2A-4C
PHOTO: Amazon
The budget-friendly Maui Moisture Lightweight Hydration Conditioner revives parched locks without weighing them down with rich oils or ingredients, making it an excellent option for those with fine hair. The formula is composed of aloe vera juice infused with pure coconut water, a combination that nourishes and hydrates hair without leaving heavy residue or weighing down curls. Additionally, ingredients like hibiscus water, passion fruit, and watermelon, all come together to sculpt healthy-looking curls.
The conditioner washes out quickly and works on gentle waves, defined coils, and even color-treated hair. But those with thicker or drier hair may want to opt for a conditioner with heavier ingredients like shea butter or avocado oil to avoid overusing this product.
Key Ingredients: Aloe vera juice, coconut water, hibiscus water, passion fruit, watermelon | Size: 13 ounces | Curl Types: 2A-4C
PHOTO: Ulta
If you’re suffering from dry or damaged locks, Ouidad’s Curl Quencher Moisturizing Conditioner certainly lives up to its “curl quencher” moniker. Wheat amino acids combined with Pro-Vitamin B5 strengthen hair bonds, lock in moisture, and prevent breakage and split ends. The rich formula also has enough slip to help untangle stubborn knots, all while preserving the natural shape of all curly textures.
Ouidad Curl Quencher is hydrating but gentle thanks to soothing ingredients like aloe and echinacea. However, some reviewers noticed residue after conditioning, so it’s recommended that you use the conditioner with a clarifying shampoo to reduce any greasy feel. As with most conditioners that emphasize moisture, it’s best for those with fine hair to look at other options to avoid oversaturating.
Key Ingredients: Wheat amino acids and Pro-Vitamin B5 | Size: 8.5 ounces | Curl Types: 2A-4C
PHOTO: Amazon
Yes, oily hair still needs conditioner! The Evo Bride of Glutton Volumizing Conditioner comes highly recommended by Audrey, who praises its lightweight, volumizing formula that softens and hydrates curls without weighing them down. The conditioner contains a keratin amino acid blend, a smoothing formula that helps detangle and defrizz unmanageable locks. Lightweight macadamia ternifolia seed oil adds shine and softness without greasiness, while panthenol seals in moisture at the root to prevent breakage and split ends.
The gentle formula is safe for color-treated hair, thanks to hydrolyzed quinoa, which strengthens and repairs damaged strands and ensures vibrant shades until your next appointment. Built-in UVA/UBA protects the scalp from sun damage, especially when the conditioner is used as a leave-in or styling tool. Because it’s designed for fine, oily hair, Bride of Gluttony is not the best choice for people with thicker, drier locks, and it doesn’t add a lot of volume.
Key Ingredients: Hydrolyzed quinoa, keratin amino acids, panthenol, macadamia ternifolia seed oil | Size: 10.5 ounces | Curl Types: 2A-4C
PHOTO: Amazon
Audrey is a fan of this protective conditioner from K18, which contains the brand’s namesake proprietary protein, K18PEPTIDE. The formula nourishes locks while shielding color-treated hair against damage from UV rays, environmental stressors, and styling tools for up to three days. Other ingredients like jojoba oil add additional moisture and shine, while a fortifying ceramide blend seals the hair cuticle for additional smoothness and protection.
Reviewers rave that the conditioner makes their hair “a lot less frizzy and more manageable,” and Audrey says the lightweight formula keeps colored curls glossy and defined without heavy residue or film. If your hair is oily, she recommends using a small amount of product for the best results. Just note that the bottle’s bulky shape makes squeezing product out of it a little tricky.
Key Ingredients: K18PEPTIDE, biotech-produced polysaccharide, ceramide blend, jojoba oil | Size: 8.5 ounces | Curl Types: 2A-4C
PHOTO: Amazon
Carol’s Daughter Goddess Strength Fortifying Conditioner is a nutrient-dense moisturizer that contains castor oil, which restores and repairs damaged hair while stimulating growth and fortifying locks from root to end. The ultra-hydrating formula also makes it easy to detangle knots, minimizing frizz and breakage. According to the brand, the conditioner can also do double duty as a deep conditioning mask when left on hair for five to seven minutes.
Ideal for dry, curly hair of all textures, the formula is paraben- and silicone-free, so it won’t irritate the scalp or strip hair of color. Carol’s Daughter recommends adding extra product to the tips of hair for a smoother overall look and split end prevention. Because the rich, oily formula is so intense, it’s best for occasional rather than everyday use. Also bear in mind that some have mentioned that the conditioner’s scent can be a little overpowering.
Key Ingredients: Castor oil, black seed oil, ginger | Size: 11 ounces | Curl Types: 2A-4C
PHOTO: Nordstrom
For those with wavy hair, Aveda’s Be Curly Conditioner is an all-vegan, hydrating solution that helps define your curls and adds extra volume. The formula is safe for color-treated hair, and contains hydrating wheat protein, which strengthens the hair shaft to deter split ends and breakage. The brand claims that when combined with organic aloe, the potent blend expands wet hair and contracts it when dry, leaving curls frizz-free, voluminous, and shiny.
Because it’s free from parabens and other harsh chemicals, the conditioner won’t irritate or dry out your scalp. While it’s light enough to be used daily or as a styling cream for wavy hair, it isn’t quite heavy enough to hydrate extremely dry or coily hair. If you do have slightly thicker, wavy hair, you may have to use extra product to experience its full effect.
Key Ingredients: Wheat protein and organic aloe blend | Size: 6.7 ounces | Curl Types: 2A-3C
PHOTO: Amazon
Living Proof’s No-Frizz Conditioner’s formula includes OFMPA, a proprietary molecule that creates a barrier around locks to block moisture and humidity in order to treat and prevent frizz. Hydrolyzed wheat protein does double duty to repair thermal and color damage while strengthening and preventing further damage. Combined, the powerhouse ingredients keep curls healthy and hydrated, even on sweltering summer days and during sweaty workouts.
The product also contains enough weight to work as a detangler, but reviews note it takes a few rinses to get the conditioner out. That being said, it’s recommended that you use this product when you have the time to get it all out.
Key Ingredients: OFMPA, hydrolyzed wheat protein | Size: 8 ounces | Curl Types: 2A-4C
PHOTO: Amazon
Behind every perfect halo of curls is the unwieldy process of detangling them, but the Mielle Organics Pomegranate & Honey Conditioner helps banish split ends and unruly knots. A trio of all-natural oils — babassu, coconut, and pomegranate seed — hydrate curls and provide gentle traction for detangling, all while restoring moisture to parched hair. Honey also helps to strengthen and soften strands while giving curls bounce and definition.
While deeply hydrating, the oil-based conditioner is very rich and heavy. With that said, its recommended people with oily or fine hair use only a small amount in targeted sections to avoid a greasy look. Even if you don’t fall into either category, a little does go a long way, so it’s best to not overuse the product in general.
Key Ingredients: Babassu, coconut, and pomegranate seed oil | Size: 12 ounces | Curl Types: 2A-4C
PHOTO: Amazon
Packed with hydrating ingredients like shea butter and olive oil, Oribe Intense Conditioner lives up to its hype as a “deeper-than-deep conditioner.” Two types of protein — hydrolyzed vegetable and rice — repair and nourish hair that has been damaged by harsh chemicals, styling tools, pollution and UV rays. This results in smooth, shiny, and bouncy curls.
Safe for color- and keratin-treated hair, the formula also includes UV protection to prevent further breakage and damage. However, be prepared to splurge as this product is a bit costly compared to other competitors. Moreover, you only get a 6.8-ounce bottle, which many may find to be a bit small for the price.
Key Ingredients: Shea and illipe butter, olive oil, and hydrolyzed vegetable and rice protein | Size: 6.8 ounces | Curl Types: 2A-4C
PHOTO: Sephora
This leave-in conditioner from OUAI is lightweight, versatile, and doubles as a heat-protectant. Formulated for all types of curls, the leave-in mist contains tamarind seed extract to boost hydration without weighing down tresses. Vitamin E and panthenol help detangle stubborn knots while an amino acid blend smooths and strengthens tresses as the conditioner sets.
The formula also contains proteins that protect curls from heat damage up to 450°F, allowing you to safely use styling tools without worry. It’s also available in a mini size for travel or styling on the go. A major drawback with this product, however, is its floral-heavy scent which may be too strong for some. Not to mention, its price tag is a little steep for how much product you get.
Key Ingredients: Tamarind seed extract, Vitamin E, and panthenol | Size: 4.7 ounces | Curl Types: 2A-4C
Final Verdict
For all of your curly hair needs, the Briogeo Curl Charisma Hydrating Conditioner is a standout. This product is all-natural, vegan, and works on all types of curls. While it does offer excellent hydration, it may be a little heavy for those with oily or fine hair. If your curls fall into either category, we recommend taking a peek at the Evo Bride of Glutton Volumizing Conditioner, our best pick for oily hair, or the Maui Moisture Lightweight Hydration Conditioner, our best pick for fine hair.
How to Shop for Conditioners Like a Pro
Curl Type
Expert stylist Audrey said it’s important to choose a conditioner designed for your specific hair type and needs. “The density of hair will impact the amount of product you need, and the weight of the product you can handle,” Audrey explains. “Those with finer hair will need something lighter weight or even just a leave-in conditioner, while thicker and coarser curls will benefit from something richer and heavier.”
If your hair is color-treated, Audrey suggests using a product that contains moisturizing ingredients like oils along with proteins like amino acids, which keep the color from fading and shield hair against UV and environmental damage. However, she warns not to over use protein-heavy conditioners, as it can lead to breakage.
Porosity
Your hair’s porosity determines its ability to absorb and retain moisture. Low porosity hair has a tight cuticle structure, which makes it harder for it to absorb moisture, so a richer conditioner with oil is needed for hydration. High porosity hair has an open cuticle, which makes it easier to hydrate, so a lightweight or leave-in conditioner that also has protein to lock in moisture is your best bet.
Key Ingredients
Curly hair conditioners contain a range of ingredients to combat dryness such as repairing protein compounds and lightweight, smoothing emollients like seed oils. Audrey says choosing the right combination of ingredients depends on the root cause of your dryness.
“You need to know if your dryness is caused by a lack of moisture or from a lack of protein,” she says. “Color-treated hair needs a balance of moisture and protein, while natural hair may need to just focus on hydration.” Heavy emollients like avocado oil and shea butter can rehydrate extremely dry or coarse locks, while a lighter oil or water-based conditioner can restore finer, more oily hair without weighing it down. Adding in a protein base, like amino acid or protein blend, will help repair hair while also preventing further damage from sun and styling.
Questions You Might Ask
Is conditioner necessary for curly hair?
Yes, it’s necessary to condition curly hair. Whether you live in an arid or humid climate, everyday life and activity will strip hair of moisture and introduce sweat, pollution, and other particles that cause dryness and frizz. Regular conditioning replaces lost hydration while also repairing damage from those environmental stressors. This allows your curls to stay healthy, smooth, and shiny.
How often should you condition curly hair?
Audrey recommends conditioning hair after every shampoo in order to “replace the hydration.” For those with drier, coarser hair, washing and conditioning once a week is sufficient. She also suggests using deep conditioners less frequently, such as once every few weeks, to give hair extra hydration. However, people with more oily hair who are more active might need to shampoo daily, especially during warmer months or in more humid climates.
How long should you leave conditioner on curly hair?
Curly hair conditioners work best when left on for a few minutes, says Audrey. She recommends applying conditioner to the middle and ends of hair, and spending three to five minutes to “work through any tangles with a comb or wet brush.” While not necessary, she also says rinsing with cold water will help seal the cuticle, keeping moisture in for longer and creating a protective barrier for hair.
Take Our Word for It
This article was written by Laura Scholz, a contributing writer for Real Simple. To find the best conditioners for curly hair, she researched a variety of popular brands, and evaluated them based on price, ingredients, curl type, and customer reviews. For expert tips, Laura spoke to hair stylist Erika Audrey, owner of Hawkins & Clover, a salon and contemporary gift shop.
