Only Curls
Hydrating Curl Creme
"A beautifully balanced curl cream that moisturises without weight. Protein-free and silicone-free with a formula that works across a wide range of curl types. A reliable everyday styling cream."
Hair Compatibility
Curl Pattern
Strand Thickness
Porosity
Performance
- Hold Level
- Light Hold
- Weight
- Light
- Finish
- Soft, No Cast
- Buildup Risk
- Low
What's Inside
Marula Oil
Lightweight nourishing oil rich in antioxidants
Shea Butter Ethyl Esters
Modified shea butter for lighter moisture
Aloe Vera
Hydrating base with soothing properties
Glycerin
Humectant for moisture retention
View Full Ingredients List
Aqua (Water), Glycerin, Sclerocarya Birrea Seed Oil, Phospholipids, Polyquaternium-37, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Propylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate, Phenoxyethanol, Ceteareth-20, Cetrimonium Chloride, Parfum (Fragrance), Shea Butter Ethyl Esters, PPG-1 Trideceth-6, Panthenol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Acrylates/Stearyl Methacrylate Copolymer, Sodium Hydroxide, Limonene, Glycolipids, Sorbitan Oleate, Benzyl Benzoate, Citric Acid, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Sterols, Coumarin, Linalool, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate
Analyze these ingredients with our Ingredient Checker tool.
How to Use
Best as: Styler
Alternatives to Consider
Overview
Only Curls Hydrating Curl Creme exemplifies the brand’s straightforward approach to curl care. This lightweight cream provides moisture and definition without the heaviness that weighs down finer curls. The protein-free, silicone-free formula makes it suitable for almost everyone, and the balanced texture works whether you’re using it alone or layering with other products.
Key Ingredients Breakdown
- Shea Butter - A classic curl care ingredient that moisturises deeply and helps seal the hair cuticle to prevent frizz.
- Argan Oil - Lightweight enough for fine hair whilst still delivering genuine nourishment and shine.
- Aloe Vera - Provides a hydrating base with soothing properties and helps with curl definition.
- Glycerin - A humectant that draws moisture from the environment into the hair (performs best in moderate humidity).
What We Love
- Lightweight moisture - Hydrates without weighing down
- Protein-free - Safe for protein-sensitive hair
- Versatile - Works alone or layered with gel
- Pleasant texture - Absorbs well without greasiness
- CGM-friendly - Clean, simple formula
- Works for many curl types - From waves through coils
What Could Be Better
- Light hold only - You’ll likely need a gel for lasting definition
- Glycerin content - May not suit very humid or very dry climates
- Can run out quickly - Generous application is often needed
- Limited availability - Primarily through brand website
How to Use
As Primary Styler
- Apply to soaking wet hair
- Use praying hands to distribute from mid-lengths to ends
- Scrunch to encourage curl formation
- Air dry or diffuse
Layered with Gel (Recommended)
- Apply cream to soaking wet hair as above
- Follow with a medium- to strong-hold gel
- Scrunch gently
- Allow to dry completely before scrunching out the cast
For Refresh
- Dampen hair with water or refresh spray
- Apply a small amount to frizzy or flat areas
- Scrunch to reactivate curls
Pro Tip
This cream works exceptionally well with Only Curls Mega Hold Gel. The two products are formulated to complement each other, with the cream providing moisture and the gel adding hold.
The Verdict
Only Curls Hydrating Curl Creme sits comfortably in the mid-range tier and delivers reliable, no-fuss performance. It won’t revolutionise your curl routine, but it provides consistent moisture and definition that you can depend on. The protein-free formula means it’s accessible to almost everyone, and the lightweight texture prevents the weighed-down feeling common with richer creams.
For those who want a simple, effective styling cream without complicated ingredient lists, this is a solid choice.
Our Rating: 4/5