Curly hair coach helping you better understand your naturally curly hair through easy-to-follow tutorials, science-based haircare tips, and problem-solving.
Best & Worst Curly Hair Products I Tried in 2025 (Claims vs Results)
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In 2025, I tested a large number of curly hair products across real wash days, different routines, and different styling approaches. Some of those products earned a permanent spot in my routine. Others did not come close to delivering what the brand claims promised. This post breaks down the best and worst products I tried in 2025, based on my personal results on my hair, with a clear comparison between what the brand claims and what actually happened when I used them. These are products I tried for the first time this year. Some are new launches. Many are not new to the market, just new to me. As always, this is not about labeling products as “good” or “bad.” A product not working for me does not mean it will not work for you. My goal is to explain why something didn’t work for my hair, what that likely means, and who it may work better for so you can make more informed decisions. How I Evaluate ProductsBefore getting into the list, it’s important to understand how I test products, because this directly affects the results. I look at:
If a product claims it can replace conditioner, provide hold, eliminate frizz, or last multiple days, I evaluate it specifically against those claims. The Worst Curly Hair Products I Tried in 2025These products did not align with my hair’s needs or did not perform in line with what the brand claims advertised. Olaplex Weightless Nourishing Mask (Fine–Medium Hair)
What it claims
My experience
A major issue here is the claim that this can be used in place of conditioner. Based on my experience, it cannot. It did not leave my hair feeling conditioned at all. Who this may work for
LolaVie Intense Repair Treatment
What it claims
My experience
While the brand does acknowledge that you may need conditioner afterward, the claims around moisture, smoothness, and silkiness did not match my results. Who this may work for
En Love Beauty Coconut Milk & Aloe Vera Moisture Crush Foaming Mousse
What it claims
My experience
Who this may work for
The Doux Gangster Wrap Foam
What it claims
My experience
Who this may work for
Pattern Mousse
What it claims
My experience
The product does align with its “soft hold” claims, but it becomes a pointless step if you need longevity. Who this may work for
Fenty Homecurl Cream
What it claims
My experience
The cream performed like a curl cream, but the claims around hold, frizz control, and split end repair did not align with my results. Who this may work for
The Best Curly Hair Products I Tried in 2025These products delivered consistent results and aligned well with their claims. Curlsmith Awestruck Definition Cream
Curlsmith Awestruck Definition Cream What it claims
My experience
Who should try it
Joico Joigel Firm Styling Gel
Joico Joigel Firm Styling Gel What it claims
My experience
Who should try it
LolaVie Perfecting Leave-In
What it claims
My experience
Who should try it
Living Proof Dry Volume Texture Spray
Living Proof Full Dry Volume Texture Spray What it claims
My experience
Who should try it
Briogeo Superfoods Acai + Passionfruit Lightweight Mask
Briogeo Superfoods Acai Passionfruit Lightweight Hydration Hair Mask What it claims
My experience
Who should try it
Innersense Repair Mask
What it claims
My experience
Who should try it
Final ThoughtsThere are no universally good or bad curly hair products. There are products that are more or less aligned with your hair’s needs and your expectations. Unsure what would work best for your hair? First start by taking my free Hair Type Quiz. Testing products is not the hard part. Understanding why something works, why it doesn’t, and how to recreate results consistently is where most people get stuck. If you want to test products more effectively, documenting your results matters. I use my Curly Hair Tracker to track first impressions, next-day results, and long-term patterns.
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Gena Marie
Curly hair coach helping you better understand your naturally curly hair through easy-to-follow tutorials, science-based haircare tips, and problem-solving.
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