I always use curl creams with other hair products, such as a leave-in conditioner, then put my hair in twists to let it dry. I also use cream to define my curls and lock in moisture: in the morning, I mix a bit with water and spray it on my hair, to refresh my curls and give them the bounce I like.
Palmer’s Shea Formula Moisture Curl Cream (£7.99, feelunique.com) has a nice smell and does what it says on the tub: it definitely elongates your curls, but it’s quite heavy, so I couldn’t use much at a time. The instructions say to use it on dry hair, but I think the consistency is way too thick without any added moisture. It was really hydrating, however.
Aveda Be Curly Curl Enhancer (£21.50, aveda.co.uk) was the most expensive product I tried, and my least favourite: it’s no good for my hair texture, and probably works better on loose, wavy locks. Plus, it’s very watery and dried out my curls, rather than hydrating them.
The label says it has no artificial fragrances, but I wasn’t a fan of the medicinal smell of Boucleme Curl Cream (£19, boucleme.co.uk). I wish it was a touch heavier, too, because it’s very runny and doesn’t do much for my curls, though it was hydrating and gave a nice shine.
Shea Moisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie (£10.99, boots.com) was my favourite. It made my hair look and feel bouncy and healthy, smell great and took away frizz with little effort. It’s everything I could want in a curl-defining product, and for a great price, too. I’ll definitely carry on using it.
• Next week: Dewi Rees on deep pore cleansing masks for men.
