Using curling cream effectively can transform your hair by enhancing natural curls or adding definition to waves. Curling creams are formulated with moisturizing ingredients and styling agents to tame frizz, boost shine, and shape curls without stiffness. Whether your hair is naturally curly or you’re aiming to create curls, understanding how to use curling cream involves applying it evenly from roots to ends, scrunching or twisting sections for desired curl formation, and allowing the hair to air dry or using a diffuser for added volume.

This guide will explore the steps for using curling cream, including tips for different hair types and styling preferences. Whether you’re looking to embrace your natural curls or experiment with a new look, mastering the application of curling cream can help you achieve beautifully defined and manageable hair.
Importance of Curling Cream in Hair Styling
Curling cream plays a crucial role in hair styling, especially for those with curly or wavy hair. One of the primary benefits of curling cream is its ability to define and enhance natural curl patterns, providing a more polished and controlled look. Unlike traditional gels or mousses, curling creams typically offer a soft hold without the crunchy or stiff texture, allowing curls to remain touchable and flexible. Additionally, these creams are often enriched with hydrating ingredients that combat dryness and frizz, which are common concerns for curly hair.
This not only improves the overall health and appearance of the hair but also makes it easier to manage and style. Curling cream is also versatile, suitable for a variety of styling techniques whether you’re air-drying, diffusing, or even using heat tools. By incorporating curling cream into your hair care routine, you can achieve a range of styles from loose, beachy waves to tight, defined ringlets while keeping your hair healthy and vibrant.
Differences Between Curling Creams and Other Styling Products
When comparing curling creams to other styling products such as gels, mousses, and serums, several key differences arise that can influence your choice depending on your hair type and desired outcome.
Curling Creams: These products are formulated to enhance and define curls while providing a soft hold. They are typically rich in moisturizing ingredients, making them ideal for combating frizz and dryness. Curling creams leave curls touchable and flexible without the stiffness or crunchiness that some other styling products can cause.

Gels: Hair gels offer a stronger hold and are great for defining curls and waves with precision. However, they can sometimes leave hair feeling stiff or crunchy and may not provide the same level of moisture and frizz control as curling creams. Gels are often used for styles that require a more durable and lasting hold.
Mousses: Hair mousses are lightweight foams that add volume and body to hair. They can enhance curl definition but may not provide as much moisture as curling creams. Mousses are excellent for achieving bouncier, fuller styles but may need to be paired with other products for hydration and frizz control.
Serums: Hair serums are concentrated formulas designed to add shine and smoothness. They are typically used to tame frizz and flyaways and to add a sleek finish to styles. While serums can be beneficial for adding a glossy finish to curls, they do not offer the same defining capabilities as curling creams and may need to be combined with other styling products for optimal curl enhancement.
10 Methods How to Use Curling Cream
1. Choosing the Right Curling Cream
Before applying curling cream, it’s essential to choose a product that suits your hair type and curl pattern. Look for curling creams formulated with moisturizing ingredients such as shea butter, coconut oil, or argan oil, which help hydrate and nourish your curls. Consider whether you need lightweight cream for fine hair or a richer formula for thicker, coarser hair. Avoid products containing sulfates and silicones if you prefer a more natural approach. Understanding your hair’s needs ensures you select the best curling cream for achieving your desired curl definition and moisture balance.

2. Starting with Clean, Damp Hair
Begin by washing your hair with a hydrating shampoo and conditioner suitable for curly hair. Gently towel-dry or blot excess water from your hair until it is damp but not dripping wet. Damp hair allows the curling cream to distribute evenly and absorb effectively without diluting its consistency. Avoid applying curling cream to dry hair, as it may not penetrate the hair shaft effectively or provide optimal curl definition.
3. Sectioning Your Hair
To ensure even application of curling cream and achieve consistent curl definition, divide your hair into sections. Use hair clips or hair ties to separate your hair into manageable sections, such as top, sides, and back. Working in sections allows you to apply curling cream more evenly from roots to ends and prevents tangling or over-application in one area. Smaller sections are especially beneficial for tighter curl patterns, ensuring every strand receives adequate moisture and definition.
4. Dispensing and Emulsifying the Curling Cream
Take a small amount of curling cream, typically a dime-sized to quarter-sized amount depending on your hair length and thickness. Rub the cream between your palms to emulsify and warm it up slightly. This step ensures even distribution and makes the cream easier to apply smoothly throughout your hair. Avoid applying too much product at once to prevent weighed-down curls or a greasy residue.
5. Applying Curling Cream
Starting with one section of hair at a time, apply the emulsified curling cream to the lengths and ends of your damp hair. Use your fingers to rake the cream through your hair, ensuring all strands are coated evenly. Focus on areas where your curls tend to frizz or lose definition. Use a gentle scrunching motion with your hands to encourage curl formation and enhance bounce. Continue applying curling cream section by section until your entire head is evenly coated.
6. Enhancing Curl Definition
For enhanced curl definition and bounce, consider using a technique called “praying hands.” After applying curling cream to each section, smooth your palms over the surface of your hair in a downward motion. This technique helps smooth the hair cuticle and encourages uniform curl formation from roots to ends. Alternatively, gently twist small sections of hair around your finger to encourage tighter curls or coils, depending on your natural curl pattern.
7. Diffusing or Air-Drying
Once you’ve applied curling cream throughout your hair, choose a drying method that complements your curl type and desired look. To enhance volume and define curls, use a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer. Set the dryer to a low or medium heat setting and scrunch your hair upwards towards the scalp as you dry. This technique helps maintain curl definition and minimizes frizz while adding lift at the roots.

If you prefer a more natural air-dried look, allow your curls to dry naturally without disturbing them. Avoid touching or manipulating your hair while it dries to prevent frizz and maintain the defined curl pattern created by the curling cream. Whether diffusing or air-drying, be patient and allow your curls to dry completely for optimal results.
8. Avoiding Over-Manipulation
Throughout the drying process, avoid touching or scrunching your hair excessively to prevent disrupting the curl pattern or causing frizz. Once your hair is dry, you can gently fluff your roots with your fingers or shake your curls at the roots for added volume. Over-manipulation can lead to frizz and disturb the defined curls created by the curling cream. Embrace your natural curl pattern and allow it to set without excessive interference.
9. Refreshing Curls Between Washes
To maintain and refresh your curls between washes, use a small amount of curling cream to redefine and moisturize your curls. Apply a dime-sized amount of curling cream to your fingertips and lightly scrunch it into dry or slightly damp hair. Focus on areas where your curls have lost definition or become frizzy. Avoid applying too much product, as it can weigh down your curls or create a greasy appearance. Refreshing curls with curling cream helps extend the life of your hairstyle and keeps your curls looking vibrant.
10. Protecting Curls Overnight
To preserve your curls overnight and prevent frizz, protect them with a satin or silk scarf or sleep on a satin pillowcase. Gently gather your curls on top of your head and secure them with a loose scrunchie or hair tie to maintain their shape. This technique prevents friction between your hair and the pillowcase, reducing the risk of frizz and maintaining curl definition until the next day. Protecting your curls overnight helps prolong the effects of the curling cream and ensures you wake up with refreshed, defined curls.

Conclusion
In conclusion, using curling cream effectively involves selecting the right product, starting with clean, damp hair, and applying it evenly throughout your curls. Sectioning your hair ensures thorough application, while emulsifying the cream allows for smooth distribution. Enhancing curl definition with techniques like “praying hands” or finger-coiling promotes uniform curl formation. Whether diffusing or air-drying, allowing your curls to dry undisturbed ensures optimal results. Thanks for reading, and we hope this has given you some inspiration on how to use curling cream!
About the Author
Jane Hubbard is a passionate beauty expert with a wealth of experience in makeup, hair, and overall beauty techniques. After years of working as a hairdresser specialist, she followed her entrepreneurial spirit and started her own consultancy business.
Jane has always been driven by her desire to help others feel confident in their own skin, and she does this by sharing her knowledge, experiences, and practical beauty tips. Through her consultancy, she empowers individuals to embrace their unique beauty, offering tailored guidance that boosts both self-esteem and personal style.
Professional Focus
- Specializes in makeup, hairstyling, and beauty consulting.
- Provides personalized beauty advice, tips, and techniques to help individuals feel confident in their appearance.
- Dedicated to staying up-to-date with the latest industry trends and developments.
- Passionate about creating a comfortable and empowering experience for every client.
Education History
- University of Craft and Design – Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Woodworking and Furniture Design
- Woodworking Apprenticeships – Extensive hands-on training with skilled craftsmen to refine carpentry and furniture making techniques
- Online Courses & Masterclasses – Continued education in advanced woodworking techniques, design principles, and specialized tools
Expertise:
- Makeup artistry, hairstyling, and beauty consulting.
- Personalized beauty techniques to enhance confidence and self-expression.
- Educating clients on how to maintain their beauty routines at home.