Curly Hair Care

Looking for Curly Hair Products in India? Check out this Epic List

Curly Hair Products in India

When I started my curly hair journey almost eight years ago, I would get frustrated trying to find curly hair products in India.

Everyone I learned about natural hair care from, lived in countries that already had access to multiple brands solely created for textured hair types.

There was nothing like a desi curly hair brand, so we had to make do with finding products that didn’t have certain ingredients or saving up for expensive international curly hair brands and trying our luck with customs.

Things have changed, as can be seen as you see by the number of products under each category.

As the curly hair community grew in India, more local brands also launched, alongside platforms that curated products for our hair type from across the globe while subsidizing customs.

It can be difficult to keep track of all the options available now, and that is why I wrote this post—more so for me than for you!

This is a list, a directory almost, of local and international products available in India that suit naturally dry, frizzy waves or curls, even if they are not created or marketed as ‘curly hair products.’

But first, a note on how to select something from each list.

Table of Contents

How to Choose Products

I’ve listed the products in increasing order of price so everyone can browse each category and find something to suit their budget.

Most of the products listed can be termed ‘CG Friendly,’ which means they are free from sulphates and silicones, two ingredients that many in the community avoid. You can read more about why here.

Those with either or both of these ingredients have been listed as Not-CG Friendly.

If you don’t know how to choose, I recommend starting with products that are CG-Friendly, because they won’t dry out your hair as much.

If you find your hair can handle a little extra dryness on your scalp or even prefers and needs it, and hair is less frizzy with silicone based conditioners, go for the ones listed as not CG-friendly.

It can be overwhelming if it’s your first few attempts at building a kit for your waves and curls. Don’t worry; start by getting one:

  1. Clarifying shampoo (for deep cleansing)
  2. CG-friendly shampoo (for regular cleansing)
  3. Moisturizing conditioner
  4. A leave-in conditioner (if you have wavy or loose curls)
    OR
    Curl cream (if you have tighter curls)
  5. Gel

Under each category, I have explained for which hair type a further sub-category might be a better fit.

Note: If you have done Keratin treatment, smoothening, cysteine, or excessive straightening, and your hair is very damaged, just using such products will not drastically change the results you can get. Please read this post to learn what to do next – How to Get Your Curls Back From Chemical Straightening

(Planning to shop on Amazon? Take the shortcut and browse my Amazon Shop- The Curious Jalebi)

Curly Hair Products in India

Many beginners make the mistake of thinking that by only using a ‘good’ shampoo, you can get healthy waves and curls.

However, a shampoo is meant only to clean your hair of dirt and oil. For our hair types, a ‘good’ shampoo is one that is used regularly and cleanses our scalp and hair well without leaving it feeling like dried hay.

Clarifying Shampoo

Clarifying shampoos contain ingredients that are great for removing product buildup and deep cleansing, usually sulphates, but don’t have silicones.

Use it when you first start your natural hair journey to remove any buildup, and then once every few weeks or months, depending on how often you use silicones or even if your scalp needs a stronger cleanse.

Fine waves and curls usually thrive with more frequent clarifying as it brings back bounce and definition.

  1. Pantene Lively Clean Shampoo– (Rs.170)
  2. Ashba Botanics Clarifying Shampoo – (Rs. 499) (CG-Friendly) *
  3. Ashba Botanics Exfoliating Shampoo – (Rs. 699)
  4. Manetain Clarifying Shampoo – (Rs. 949) (CG-Friendly)*

Note: I’ve always understood that to clarify, your shampoo needs to have sulphates, but some brands have recently countered that and said there are other ingredients that aren’t as drying but still will deep clean equally well.

CG-Friendly Shampoos for Wavy and Curly Hair

Shampoos listed under this have gentler cleansing ingredients instead of harsh sulphates. As a result, they can be used regularly to clean textured hair without worrying about over-drying them.

Sulphate-free shampoos are also called Curly Girl Approved or CG-friendly shampoos, even though in the original CG method, the author recommends using NO shampoo at.

When the technique spread worldwide, people co-opted it and modified it. Suddenly, across the web, CGM meant any routine that allowed using shampoos, just that they don’t have any sulfates and used milder ingredients.

That is what I follow, though updated community lingo now classifies my routine as ‘modified CGM.’

Since CGM is not an official label, like FDA approved, or ‘animal-friendly’, the jury is still out on whether certain ingredients are considered harsh or not.

For example, Sodium Lauryl Sarcosinate and Sodium c14-16 Olefin Sulfonate are not sulphates but are considered by some to be CGM-friendly and by some not.

Based on my personal selection criteria (personal experience), the products on the list don’t have the ‘bad’ harsh sulphates and are, as a result, gentler on our hair types for regular use.

Under Rs.500

  1. Johnson’s Baby Active Kids Soft and Smooth Shampoo  – (Rs. 99)
  2. Johnson’s Baby No More Tears Baby Shampoo – (Rs. 205)
  3. Aroma Magic Moisture Boost Shampoo – (Rs. 230)
  4. Plum Baby Avocado Shampoo – CG Friendly (Rs. 365)
  5. RE’ EQUIL Hair Fall Control Shampoo – (Rs. 395)
  6. Curlvana Wavy Hair Shampoo – (Rs. 399)
  7. Skin Elements Caffeine Shampoo Infused With Argan & Almond Oil (Rs.399)
  8. The Moms Co. Natural Protein Shampoo –  (Rs.429) | Protein
  9. Alphavedic Rice Shampoo – (Rs. 495)
  10. StBotanica GO Curls Hair Shampoo For Curly Hair – (Rs. 475)
  11. Truth & Hair Hydro Nourish Shampoo for Curly Hair – CG Friendly (Rs. 495)
  12. Bare Anatomy Curl Defining Shampoo – (Rs. 499)
  13. WOW Coconut Milk No Parabens, Sulphate, Silicone, Salt & Color Shampoo – (Rs. 499)
  14. WOW Apple Cider Vinegar No Sulphate & Parabens Shampoo – (Rs.499)
  15. Satthwa Argan Oil Shampoo – (Rs.499)

Under Rs.1000

  1. Northwish Naturals Nourishing Shampoo –  (Rs. 545)
  2. True Frog Anti Hair Fall Shampoo  –  (Rs. 545)
  3. Curl Up Curl Moisturising Shampoo – (Rs. 575)
    Read my review
  4. True Frog Shampoo for Curls  – (Rs. 585
  5. Best Life Argan Nourish Shampoo –  (Rs. 599)
  6. Best Life Keratin Onion Shampoo – (Rs. 599)
  7. Best Life Biotin Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo– (Rs. 599)
  8. Best Life Argan Nourish Hair Shampoo For Men & Women – (Rs. 599)
  9. Curlvana Fortifying Curl Cleanse – (Rs. 599)
  10. Sugerboo Curls Cleansing Shampoo – (Rs. 599)
  11. Moxie Beauty – Gentle Cleansing Shampoo – (Rs. 625)
  12. Phyto Curls Intense Moisture Lock Shampoo – CG Friendly (Rs. 649)
  13. Love Beauty & Planet Smoothening Shampoo – (Rs. 650)
  14. Curl Co Cleanse and Hydrate Curl Shampoo –  (Rs. 699)
  15. XO Curls Hydrating Shampoo – (Rs. 699)
  16. Manetain Store Oh So Soft Moisturising Shampoo – (Rs. 849)
  17. Maui Moisture Nourish & Moisture + Coconut Milk Shampoo -(Rs.895)
  18. Arata Advanced Curl Care Shampoo – (Rs. 899)
    (Use my Discount Code CURIOUSARATA on orders above Rs.999)
  19. AllDoer Gentle Clarifying Shampoo – (Rs. 899)
  20. Daughter Earth Purple Rice + Quinoa The Shampoo – (Rs. 925)
  21. Fix My Curls Cleansing Shampoo – (Rs. 965)
    (Use my Discount Code THECURIOUSJALEBI for 15% OFF)
  22. Fix My Curls Everyday Moisturizing Shampoo – (Rs.970)
    (Use my Discount Code THECURIOUSJALEBI for 15% OFF)

Rs. 1000 – Rs.2000

  1. Wella Professionals Elements Sulfate Free Renewing Shampoo – (Rs. 1050)
  2. Maui Moisture Revive & Hydrate + Shea Butter Shampoo – (Rs.1075)
  3. Maui Moisture Thicken & Restore + Bamboo Fiber Shampoo – (Rs.1075)
  4. Ashba Botanics Hydrating Shampoo – (Rs. 1099)
  5. Pattern Twist & Turn Shampoo – (Rs. 1270)
  6. SheaMoisture Organic Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo –  (Rs.1290)
  7. Shea Moisture Raw Shea Butter Deep Moisturizing Shampoo –  (Rs.1290)
  8. Shea Moisture Raw Shea Restorative Shampoo – (Rs. 1290)
  9. Shea Moisture 100% Virgin Coconut Oil Daily Hydration Shampoo – (Rs. 1290)
  10. Curl Cure Gentle Cleansing Shampoo – (Rs. 1299)
  11. Shea Moisture Hydrate & Repair Moisture Shampoo – (Rs. 1970)

Above Rs.2000

  1. Shea Moisture Manuka Honey And Mafura Oil Intensive Hydration Shampoo – (Rs. 2010)
  2. Shea Moisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore Shampoo – (Rs. 2240)

Shampoo Bars & Exfoliating Scalp Scrubs, Scalp Treatments

  1. Earth Rhythm Murumuru Butter Shampoo Bar – CG Friendly (Rs. 379)
  2. Bounce Curl Turmeric Hair Detox – CG Friendly (Rs. 2870)

Anti-dandruff shampoos

I’ve written a detailed guide to dealing with dandruff in this post: How to Prevent Dandruff in Wavy and Curly Hair

I’ve had chronic dandruff that flares up in some seasons, so I use a medicated shampoo once a month or more, depending on my scalp’s condition.

Such shampoos can cause more dryness than other shampoos, so remember to follow up with a rich, moisturizing conditioner or hair mask.

Also, don’t worry about such a shampoo being CG-Friendly; when you have dandruff, your scalp needs a deeper cleanse to remove oil and dirt, so sulphate-based shampoos can actually help.

  1. Scalpe Pro Anti-dandruff Shampoo – Not CG-Friendly
  2. True Frog Anti Dandruff Shampoo  – CG Friendly (Rs. 585)
  3. Bare Anatomy Anti Dandruff Shampoo – Not CG Friendly (Rs. 545)
  4. L’Oréal Professionnel Scalp Advanced Anti-Dandruff Dermo-Clarifier Shampoo – (Rs. 895)

Non-CG Friendly Shampoos

These shampoos have sulphates and/or silicones. If you have a very sweaty, itchy scalp, or prefer stronger cleansing in your shampoo routine, try one of these!

  1. BBLUNT Curly Hair Shampoo (Rs. 399)
  2. Dove Beautiful Curls Sulphate Free Shampoo – (Rs. 499)
  3. Prolixr Curly Hair Deep Cleansing Shampoo – (Rs. 649)
  4. Prolixr Curly Hair Hydrating Cleanser – Rs. 649)
  5. OGX Quenching + Coconut Curls Curl-Defining Shampoo – (Rs. 960)
  6. Sebastian Professional Twisted Elastic Shampoo for Curly Hair (Rs. 1950)
  7. Biotop Professional 69 Pro Active Curly Hair Shampoo (Rs. 1980)
  8. Kerastase Curl Manifesto – Bain Hydratation Douceur Shampoo (Rs. 3200)

Shampoo for Removing Metal Deposits/Minerals/Hard Water

If you’re a regular swimmer or live in areas with hard water, you might notice build-up, almost as if your usual products no longer give the same result.

That’s because the products can no longer penetrate the hair strands. In such cases, a wash with a chelating shampoo will ‘demineralize your hair’ and remove the build-up.

Remember, chelating shampoos are harsher than sulphate-based shampoos and should be used mindfully, and followed up with a rich, moisturising conditioner.

  1. Detoxie Hard Water Relief, Hair Fall Control & Pro Growth Shampoo – CG Friendly (Rs. 585)
  2. Iluvia Professional Hard Water Shampoo (Rs. 775)
  3. L’Oreal Professionnel Metal Dx Anti-Metal Cleansing Cream Shampoo Serie Expert (Rs.1280)

CG-Friendly Cowash For Wavy & Curly Hair in India

CG Friendly Cowashes in India

Co-washing, short for “conditioner-only washing is a technique where a product very, very gently cleanses dry, coarse hair without stripping it of its natural oils.  It’s a conditioner first, with a small amount of cleansing-based ingredients.

When I first came across CG Method, I was surprised to learn such a concept even exists, because I grew up thinking shampoo is the only thing you can use to wash your hair.

Even when I tried a co-wash the first few times, I was uncomfortable, only because I wasn’t used to washing my hair without any signs of lather.

But when I had a random bout of dry scalp and also needed to wash my hair multiple times a week due to working out, I tried co-washes again and understood how they could help my weekly routine.

I personally think it’s only good for when you wash your hair very frequently, almost daily, and need something to gently clean and condition at the same time.

However, I don’t use co-washes anymore. I don’t step out often and have gotten lazier about washing my hair.

When I finally brave a shower, I prefer shampoos with stronger cleansing properties. I also think co-washes aren’t really meant for humid, tropical weather like we have in India. Using one really depends on whether it suits you.

Note: I get asked if you can use a regular conditioner to co-wash using their fingertips to scrub the scalp. I don’t recommend this, as physical exfoliation isn’t enough to clean well. A proper co-wash will have a cleansing ingredient or two to remove dirt, which is important to keep your scalp healthy.

Under Rs.500

  1. Coco Soul Curl Cult Daily Clarifying Co-Wash – (Rs. 323)
  2. Manetain Co-Wash for Curly Hair – (Rs. 350) *30 ml

Under Rs.1000

  1. Curl Up Cowash Cleansing Conditioner – (Rs. 690)
  2. Manetain Co-Wash for Curly Hair – (Rs. 1049) *200 ml

 Above Rs.1000

  1. As I Am Coconut Cowash Cleansing Conditioner – (Rs.1799)
  2. Shea Moisture Coconut & Hibiscus Co-Wash Conditioning Cleanser – CG Friendly (Rs.1900)
  3. Cantu Shea Butter for Natural Hair Complete Conditioning Co-Wash – (Rs.1999)
  4. Aveda Be Curly Co-Wash – CG Friendly (Rs.2850)

Non-CG Friendly Cowash

  1. The Earth Collective Co-Wash (Rs. 1250) (Has silicone)
  2. Moroccanoil Curl Cleansing Conditioner (Rs. 2475) (Has silicone)

CG- Friendly Conditioners For Wavy & Curly Hair in India

Curly Hair Products in India

If you have wavy or curly hair, using a good moisturizing conditioner is the best thing to add to your routine. Dry hair thrives when treated to thick, creamy conditioners, which leave them soft to the touch and less prone to frizz.

They also help detangle knots and tangles. In fact, ‘good slip‘ is what most natural hair peeps look for when looking for a conditioner, as it helps avoid breakage inside the shower when we are combing our hair wet.

Most conditioners on the market contain silicone, which is harmless and actually provides a protective barrier to hair, reducing moisture loss.

However, in CGM, it’s not recommended to use products with silicone as it can build up on hair, slowly preventing the absorption of new hair products. The only way it can be removed is through sulphate-based shampoos, which people tend to avoid as it can leave our hair very dry.

I’m not that particular about sticking to any technique unless it personally helps me. I simply don’t prefer regularly using sulphate shampoos, as they dry out my hair, and I have felt my curls feel weighed down more easily with silicone-based conditioners.

Note: A common mistake I see beginners make is the amount of conditioner they apply. It’s usually always too little for our hair type. Even if the instruction labels say to use a little bit, trust me, be generous instead. With each wash day and experimenting with different amounts, you will discover how much your hair needs to look moisturized, soft, and frizz-free.

(Watch how much conditioner I need for my hair and how I apply it in this video).

Under Rs.500

  1. SugarBoo Curls Hydrating Conditioner – (Rs. 199/299)
  2. RE’ EQUIL Murumuru Damage Repair Conditioner – (Rs. 295)
  3. Dalan D’Olive Colour Protection Conditioner – (Rs.350)
  4. Biolage Hydrasource Conditioner – (Rs.370)
  5. RE’ EQUIL Babassu Anti Frizz and Smoothening Conditioner – (Rs. 395)
  6. Enliven Natural Fruit Extracts Coconut and Vanilla Conditioner – (Rs.399)
  7. Enliven Fruit Conditioner, Raspberry & Red Apple – (Rs.399)
  8. Curlvana Wavy Hair Conditioner – (Rs. 399)
  9. Curlvana Curl Shine Gentle Conditioner – (Rs. 399)
  10. Dalan D’Olive Volumising Conditioner – (Rs.400)
  11. The Moms Co. Natural Protein Conditioner with Argan Oil and Protein – (Rs.429)
  12. StBotanica GO Curls Hair Conditioner – (Rs. 449)
  13. Truth & Hair Hydro Nourish Conditioner for Curly Hair – (Rs. 495)
  14. Truth & Hair Hydro Nourish Conditioner for Wavy Hair – (Rs. 495)
  15. WOW Coconut & Avocado Oil No Parabens & Sulphate Hair Conditioner – (Rs. 495)
  16. WOW Coconut Milk Conditioner – (Rs. 499)

Under Rs.1000

  1. Plum Avocado & Argan Frizz Control Conditioner – (Rs. 520)
  2. Petal Fresh Pure Ultra Shine Aloe & Citrus Conditioner – | Protein Free (Rs.760)
  3. Northwish Naturals Moisturising Conditioner – (Rs. 650)
  4. True Frog Everyday Hair Conditioner – (Rs. 565)
  5. Curl Up Curl Hydrating Conditioner – (Rs. 590)
    Read my review here
  6. Best Life Argan Nourish Hair Conditioner – (Rs. 599)
  7. Curlvana Curl Shine Gentle Conditioner – CG Friendly (Rs. 599)
  8. SOULTREE Hibiscus and Henna with Nourishing Shikakai Hair Conditioner – (Rs.695)
  9. Moxie Beauty Ultra Hydrating Conditioner – CG Friendly (Rs. 695)
  10. Love Beauty & Planet Natural Argan Oil & Lavender Smoothening Conditioner – (Rs. 650)
  11. XO Curls Hydrating Conditioner – (Rs. 699)
  12. Giovanni Organic Smooth As Silk Deep Moisture Conditioner – (Rs. 795)
  13. Curl Co Nourish and Hydrate Curl Conditioner – (Rs. 799)
  14. The Body Shop Banana Conditioner – (Rs.895)
  15. Arata Advanced Curl Care Rinse Off Conditioner – (Rs. 899)
    Use my Discount Code CURIOUSARATA on orders above Rs.999
  16. Fix My Curls Hydrating Deep Conditioner – (Rs.970)
    (Use my Discount Code THECURIOUSJALEBI for 15% OFF)
  17. Ashba Right Ringlets Nourishing Conditioner – (Rs 999)

Rs.1000 – Rs.2000

  1. Maui Moisture Thicken & Restore + Bamboo Fiber Conditioner – (Rs. 1021)
  2. Ashba Botanics Nourishing Conditioner – (Rs. 1099)
  3. Alldoer Conditioner For Curly Hair – CG Friendly (Rs. 1099)
  4. SugarBoo Curls Hydrating Conditioner – (Rs. 1199)
  5. Shea Moisture 100% Virgin Coconut Oil Daily Hydration Conditioner – (Rs. 1290)
  6. Shea Moisture Strengthen & Restore Hair Conditioner – (Rs. 1290)
  7. Curl Cure Intensive Hydrating Conditioner – CG Friendly (Rs. 1499)
  8. Manetain Multipurpose Hair Conditioner – (Rs. 1670)
  9. Shea Moisture Raw Shea Butter Restorative Conditioner – | Protein Free (Rs.1990)
  10. Aveda Cherry Almond Softening Conditioner – (Rs. 2100)
  11. SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Conditio ner – (Rs.1498)

Non-CG Friendly Conditioners for Curly Hair

These conditioners have silicones and can weigh down fine waves and curls.

But- many curly people across the world do just fine with such conditioners. If you don’t want to get into ingredients too much, pick one of these below – I will recommend you to clarify now and then to remove any possible buildup!

  1. BBLUNT Curly Hair Moisturizing Conditioner – Not CG Friendly (Rs. 399)
  2. Coco Soul Curl Cult Nourishing Conditioner – (Rs. 549)
  3. Dove Beautiful Curls Detangling Conditioner – (Rs. 599)
  4. Prolixr Curly Hair Conditioner – (Rs. 649)
  5. OGX Nourishing + Coconut Milk Moisturizing Conditioner – (Rs.799)
  6. OGX Quenching + Coconut Curls Conditioner – (Rs. 899)
  7. OGX Renewing + Argan Oil of Morocco Hydrating Hair Conditioner (Rs. 899)
  8. Wella Professionals Nutricurls Detangling Hair Conditioner for Waves & Curls – (Rs. 1100)
  9. Moroccanoil Curl Enhancing Conditioner (Rs. 2340)

Silicone Free Deep Conditioners For Wavy & Curly Hair in India

Curly Hair Products in India

Think of deep conditioners as very powerful conditioners. They’re formulated to penetrate the hair strand deeper than a normal conditioner and are usually thicker and richer in consistency.

Some also have protein-based ingredients or bond-repairing ones to help your hair recover from damage.

You can use a deep conditioner instead of your conditioner if your hair is very dry, too thick, or coarse.

Or, treat yourself to a deep conditioning session once or twice a month if you’re starting out on your journey to get healthier hair faster.

People with loose waves and curls don’t need deep conditioning as often, as it can weigh down fine hair.

Remember to experiment and use your personal opinion as your guiding force on what suits your hair.

(Learn more about hair masks in my post here: Deep Conditioning Curly Hair – How, When, Why)

Under Rs.500

  1. Lotus Herbals Soyasmooth Protein Creme Deep Conditioner – (Rs. 189)

Under Rs.1000

  1. Mamaearth’s Onion Hair Mask for Hairfall Control with Organic Bamboo Vinegar– (Rs. 599)
  2. Arata Advanced Curl Care Hair Mask – (Rs. 599)
    Use my Discount code CURIOUSARATA on orders above Rs.599
  3. Deconstruct Nourishing Hair Mask – (Rs. 599)
  4. Plum Olive & Macadamia Mega Moisturizing Hair Mask – (Rs.675)
  5. Plum Avocado Nourish-Up Hair Mask – (Rs.675)
  6. RE’ EQUIL Pea Protein & Ceramide Hair Mask – | Protein (Rs. 595)
  7. True Frog Deep Conditioning Hair Mask – (Rs. 695)
  8. Curlvana Deep Nourish Double-Cream Hair Mask – (Rs. 749)
  9. Manetain Ultimate Moisture Therapy– (Rs. 1349)
  10. Curl Up Intense Hydrating Hair Mask – (Rs. 750)
  11. Best Life Deep-conditioning, Strength and Repair Hair Mask – (Rs. your 799)
  12. SugarBoo Curls Rejuvenating & Strengthening Hair Mask – CG Friendly (Rs. 674)
  13. Wildly Pure Professional Keratin Spa Hair Mask – (Rs. 960)

Rs.1000- Rs.2000

  1. Fix My Curls Moisture Melt Deep Conditioning Hair Mask – (Rs. 1200)
  2. Ashba Botanics Deep Treatment Hair Masque – CG Friendly (Rs. 1599)
  3. The Body Shop Shea Butter Richly Replenishing Hair Mask – (Rs. 1645)

Protein Treatments & Bond Repair

  1. Fix My Curls Protein Powered Deep Conditioning Mask – (Rs. 1200)
  2. Olaplex No. 3 Hair Perfector – (Rs. 3200)
  3. K18 Leave-In Repair Hair Mask Treatment – (Rs. 5625)

Non-CG Friendly Deep Conditioners for Curly Hair

  1. Bare Anatomy Curl Enhancing Hair Mask – (Rs. 596)
  2. Dove Beautiful Curls Deep Moisture Miracle Hair Mask (Rs. 599)
  3. Giovanni Organic 2Chic Olive Oil & Avocado Ultra-Moist Deep Moisture Hair Mask – (Rs. 895)
  4. Schwarzkopf Professional Bonacure Hyaluronic Moisture Kick Treatment (Rs. 1550)
  5. Kerastase Curl Manifesto – Masque Beurre Haute Nutrition (Rs. 4200)

Curly Hair Products in India

After you’ve washed your hair, how do you ensure your curls won’t frizz up too much in the next 2-3 days before you have to wash again?

By using a leave-in conditioner!

A leave-in conditioner is a moisturizing product designed to be left in your hair.

It can be light and watery, like a spray, or thicker and creamier. I’ve added a section under each type to help you decide which after-wash product will suit your hair.

There are multiple ways (and growing!) to apply a leave-in conditioner and other styling products for curly hair.  Read this post to find one that will suit YOU: The Ultimate Guide to Styling Wavy & Curly Hair

Silicone Free Leave-in Conditioner Spray For Thin, Wavy & Loose Curly Hair

If you have looser curls or waves, or fine hair, using thick, creamy products can make your hair feel weighed down. Instead, use a lighter product like sprays & mists that won’t over-moisturize your hair.

Rs.500- Rs. 1000

  1. Pilgrim Patuá Leave in Conditioner Spray – (Rs. 350)
  2. Fix My Curls Ready Set Refresh Spray – (Rs. 420)
  3. Giovanni Organic Vitapro Fusion Protective Moisture Leave-in Spray (Rs. 695)
  4. Arata Advanced Curl Detangling Refresh Spray – (Rs. 599)
    Use my Discount Code CURIOUSARATA on orders above Rs.999

Rs. 1000- Rs. 2000

  1. Schwarzkopf Professional Bonacure Moisture Kick Spray Conditioner with Glycerol – (Rs. 1100)
  2. Shea Moisture Manuka Honey & Yogurt Hydrate + Repair Multi-Action Leave-In Spray – (Rs. 1290)
  3. Shea Moisture 100% Virgin Coconut Oil Leave-in Treatment – (Rs. 1325)
  4. Curls Aloe & Blueberry Juice Curl Moisturizer – (Rs. 1880)
  5. Cachos Brazil – Rio Mist Leave-in Conditioner – (Rs. 1994)

Above Rs.2000

  1. Aveda Nutriplenish Leave-In-Conditioner – (Rs. 3600)
  2. Innersense Sweet Spirit Leave In Conditioner – (Rs. 2430)

Non-CG Friendly Leave in Conditioner Spray

  1. Marc Anthony Coconut Oil And Shea Butter Nourishing Leave In Conditioner – (Rs. 1249)
  2. John Frieda Frizz-Ease Daily Nourishment Leave-In Conditioning Spray – (Rs. 2039)

Silicone Free Mousse for Wavy & Curly Hair in India (Boosting Volume)

Mousse & Light Leave in Conditioners In India

Mousses are airy, foamy styling products that help boost volume and give soft, defined waves. It also helps lift up roots and prevent a flat crown.

Like the leave-in conditioner spray, a mousse is great for wavy hair or loose, fine curls, as they don’t weigh hair down.

Under Rs.1000

  1. Enliven Hair Mousse – (Rs. 399)
  2. Curlvana Wavy Hair Mousse – (Rs. 499)
  3. Curl Up Weightless Curl Enhancing Mousse – (Rs. 650)
  4. Giovanni Organic Natural Mousse Air Turbo Charged Hair Styling Foam – (Rs.695)
  5. True Frog Volumizing Mousse – (Rs. 585)
  6. Fix My Curls Weightless Whip Volumising Mousse – (Rs. 770)
    (Use my Discount Code THECURIOUSJALEBI for 15% OFF)

Above Rs.1000

  1. Ashba Botanics Curl Volumizing Foam – (Rs. 1099)
  2. Shea Moisture Coconut & Hibiscus Frizz Free Curl Mousse – (Rs.1390)
  3. Cantu Comeback Curl Next Day Curls Revitalizer – (Rs. 1799)

Non-CG Friendly Mousse for Curly Hair in India

  1. Wella Professionals EIMI Bounce Boost Curl Enhancing Hair Mousse – (Rs. 750)
  2. Sebastian Professional Whipped Creme – (Rs. 1950)
  3. Aussie Instant Freeze Sculpting Mousse – (Rs. 1969)
  4. Garnier Fructis Style Curl Construct Mousse – (Rs. 1999)
  5. Moroccanoil Curl Control Mousse – (Rs. 2070)

Silicone Free Leave-in-Conditioner For Thick, Wavy & Curly Hair

Unlike the products in the previous category, which are lighter, the leave-in conditioners listed below provide more conditioning.

As they are still water-based, they will moisturize your waves and curls without weighing them down.

However, they usually don’t help with long-lasting definition and hold, which curl creams and gels are used for.

Under Rs.1000

  1. Ashba Botanics Curl Moisture Milk – (Rs.330)
  2. Arata Advanced Curl Care Leave-In Conditioner  – (Rs. 449)
    Use my Discount Code CURIOUSARATA on orders above Rs.999
  3. Love Beauty & Planet Rice Water & Angelica Seed Oil Leave in Conditioner – (Rs. 500)
  4. Manetain Leave in Conditioner for Curly Hair – (Rs. 549)
  5. Alldoer Leave-in Conditioner for Curly Hair – (Rs. 548)
  6. XO Curls Hydrating Leave In Conditioner – (Rs. 550)
  7. Fix My Curls Leave In Cream – (Rs. 575)
  8. Northwish Naturals Curl Defining Leave-in Conditioner – (Rs. 590)
  9. True Frog Leave-in-Conditioner – (Rs. 625)
  10. Moxie Beauty Weightless Leave-In Conditioner – (Rs. 625)
  11. SugarBoo Curls Leave-In Conditioner – (Rs. 649)
  12. Curlvana Moisture-lock Curl-Styling Leave-in Cream (Rs. 749)

Rs.1000- Rs.2000

  1. Ashba Botanics Right Ringlets Leave-in Conditioner – (Rs. 1099)
  2. Fix my Curls Leave in Cream (Rs. 1200)
  3. Ashba Curl Moisture Milk – CG Friendly (Rs. 570, Rs. 1299)
  4. Shea Moisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Style Milk – (Rs.1390)
  5. Spring Curl Curl Smoothie – CG Friendly (Rs. 1449)
  6. Shea Moisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Leave in Conditioner – (Rs. 1699)
  7. Kinky-Curly Knot Today Leave In Conditioner/Detangler – (Rs. 1910)

Above Rs.2000

  1. Aveda Cherry Almond Softening Leave-In Conditioner– (Rs. 2100)
  2. Aveda Be Curly Style-Prep – (Rs. 2750)

Non-CG Friendly Leave-in Conditioner

  1. L’Oreal Paris Dream Lengths No Haircut Cream Leave-In Conditioner (Rs. 499)
  2. Bare Anatomy Curl-Boosting Cream Leave-In Conditioner – (Rs. 449)
  3. Bare Anatomy Anti Frizz Leave In Conditioner – (Rs. 599)
  4. Alldoer Leave-in Conditioner for Curly Hair – (Rs. 1099)
  5. Marc Anthony Strictly Curls Leave-In Conditioner – (Rs. 1349)

Silicone Free Curl Cream & Butters For Wavy & Curly Hair

Curl creams are much thicker and richer than leave-in conditioners.

Since most of them have ingredients like butters and oils, they can be too heavy for light waves and loose curls.

But some people with Type 2 waves find it gives them hold, to help the clumps remain defined for longer.

Remember to experiment with quantity with this—some wavy hair needs only a small dollop of curl cream, while some hair types (curlier and coiler types) need a lot!

Curly Hair Products in India

A leave-in conditioner is used for hydration and moisture, but curl creams are used more for hold and definition!

Under Rs.500

  1. Ustraa Hair Cream for Men – (Rs.250)
  2. Plum Avocado & Argan Curl Enhancing Crème – (Rs. 475)

Under Rs.1000

  1. Manetain Curl Cream – (Rs. 549)
  2. Fix My Curls Curl Quenching Hair Butter – (Rs. 550)
  3. Arata Advanced Curl Care Curly Hair Cream – (Rs. 599)
    Use my Discount Code CURIOUSARATA on orders above Rs.999
  4. Moxie Beauty Super Defining Curl Cream – (Rs. 625)
  5. SugarBoo Curls Soft Hold Curl Defining Cream – (Rs. 649)
  6. Ashba Botanics Curl Defining Moisture Cream – (Rs. 649)
  7. Curl Up Curl Defining Cream – (Rs. 690)
    Read my review
  8. Best Life Define and Shine Hydrating Style Cream – (Rs. 699)
  9. Fix My Curls Curl Quenching Hair Butter – (Rs. 550)
    (Use my Discount Code THECURIOUSJALEBI for 15% OFF)
  10. Curl Cure Define & Shine Curl Cream – CG Friendly (Rs. 899)
  11. Fix my Curls Curl Quenching Hair Butter (Rs. 985)

Rs. 1000 – Rs. 2000

  1. Cantu Curl Activator Cream– (Rs. 1490)
    This cream is a favourite of mine and so many curly hair people across the world. Read my review here

Non-CG Friendly Curl Creams in India

  1. Prolixr Curly Hair Cream – (Rs. 525)
  2. Livon Style Pro Curl Cream – (Rs. 655)
  3. Aveda Be Curly Curl Enhancer (Rs. 950)
  4. Umberto Giannini Creme De Curl, Curl Control Cream – (Rs. 999)
  5. Moroccanoil Intense Curl Cream (Rs. 2970)

CG-Friendly Gels For Wavy & Curly Hair in India

Hair Gels For Curly Hair in India

A gel is usually applied last in a wavy or curly hair routine. No, it won’t lead to grey hair (that is entirely up to your genes + level of stress you are under).

Gels form a hard cast around your clumps, helping them stay defined for longer by protecting them from humidity.

I LOVE using a gel. It keeps my curls happy by increasing the gap between wash days 😛

Under Rs.500

  1. DIY Flaxseed Gel
    So effective and easy to make! It’s incredibly cheap, too. Watch this video to learn how to make it right.
  2. Set Wet Hair Gel Cool Hold – CG Friendly (Rs.100)
  3. Set Wet Hair Gel Vertical Hold – CG Friendly (Rs. 100)
  4. Set Wet Hair Gel Ultimate Hold – CG Friendly (Rs.200)
  5. Enliven De Cheveux Ultimate Hair Gel – CG Friendly (Rs.299)
  6. SugarBoo Curls Citrus & Hibiscus Moisture Hold Gel – (Rs. 349)
  7. Enliven Hair Gel, Ultimate – CG Friendly (Rs. 399)
  8. Enliven Active Care Hair Gel, Extreme – CG Friendly (Rs. 399)
  9. Bare Anatomy Curl Defining Gel – (Rs. 449)
  10. Dove Beautiful Curls Defining Gel – (Rs. 449)
  11. Earth Rhythm Phyto Curl Hair Gel – (Rs. 499)

Under Rs.1000

  1. Manetain Volume Gel – (Rs. 549)
  2. Manetain Hard Hold Gel – CG Friendly (Rs. 549)
  3. Northwish Naturals Curl Defining Styling Gel – (Rs. 590)
  4. True Frog Styling Gel for Curls – CG Friendly (Rs. 595)
  5. Giovanni Organic LA Natural Styling Gel – (Rs.595)
  6. True Frog Styling Gel – (Rs. 595)
  7. Giovanni 2chic Brazilian Keratin and Argan Oil Ultra-Sleek Soft Hold Styling Gel – (Rs. 695)
  8. Arata Advanced Curl Care Curly Hair Gel –  (Rs. 699)
    Use my Discount Code CURIOUSARATA on orders above Rs.999
  9. Curlvana Curl-Defining All-in-One Styling Gel – (Rs. 699)
  10. Moxie Beauty Flexi Styling Serum Gel – (Rs. 625)
  11. Fix my Curls Flax Seed Gelly – CG Friendly (Rs. 750)
  12. Curl Up Ultra Defining Hair Gel – (Rs. 790)
  13. Best Life Define and Shine Hydrating Style Gel – (Rs. 799)
  14. Fix my Curls Defining Hair Gel (Rs. 800)
  15. Aveda Nutriplenish Curl Gelee (Rs. 950)
  16. Alldoer Super Hold Jelly – (Rs. 999)

Rs.1000- Rs.2000

  1. Ashba Botanics Right Ringlets Curl Defining Gel for Curly/Wavy Hair – (Rs. 1199)
    Read my Review
  2. Spring Curls Curl Jelly – (Rs. 1449)
  3. As I Am Smoothing Gel – (Rs. 1800)
  4. Aunt Jackies Don’t Shrink Flaxseed Elongating Curling Gel – CG Friendly (Rs. 1948)

Above Rs.2000

  1. Aussie Instant Freeze Sculpting Gel – CG Friendly (Rs. 2066)

Custards

Usually a mixture of curl cream and gel, these work like a one-and-done styling product for waves and loose curls, giving hold and moisture.

  1. Ashba Botanics Flaxseed Curling Custard – (Rs. 1149)
  2. Northwish Curl Defining Custard – (Rs. 590)
  3. Kinky Curly Original Curling Custard (KCCC) – CG Friendly (Rs. 3187)
  4. Cantu Shea Butter for Natural Hair Curling Custard – CG Friendly (Rs. 1499)
  5. Aunt Jackie’s Curl La La Defining Curl Custard – (Rs. 1999)

Curly Hair Products for Kids with Curly Hair

Many of us who have naturally wavy or curly hair grew up dreading the times our moms would ask us to stay still and patient as they tried to brush our hair. It would always be painful and frustrating for both mother and kid!

Now, as more people, especially parents, learn how to care for frizzy, dry hair correctly, brands are also launching specific products that are better suited for children.

They’re formulated with fewer, milder ingredients, which are less likely to cause an allergic reaction.

To Wash & Condition

  1. Yellow Naturals Shampoo & Conditioner for Kids (4-12 Years) – Rs. 599
  2. Cantu Care for Kids Nourishing Shampoo – CG Friendly (Rs. 1999)
  3. Cantu Care for Kids Nourishing Conditioner – CG Friendly (Rs. 1500)
  4. Aveeno Kids Curly Hair Conditioner – (Rs. 2499)

To detangle and remove knots

  1. Omumsie – Detangler Hair Serum For Kids – (Rs. 449)
  2. Wet Brush Hair Brush Kids Detangler – (Rs. 649)
  3. Cantu Care for Kids Conditioning Detangler – (Rs. 1999)
  4. Shea Moisture Kids Extra-Moisturizer Detangler – CG Friendly (Rs. 2599)

To style

  1. Cantu Care for Kids Leave-In Conditioner – (Rs. 1500)
  2. Cantu Care for Kids Styling Custard – (Rs. 1699)

Oils for Wavy and Curly Hair

Growing up in India, you learned and did ‘champi,’ which involves drenching your hair in oil, keeping it overnight, and then washing it off.

It may surprise you, but our hair types don’t need heavy oiling. Oils seal, conditioners moisturize, and the latter is what we need more.

So, is oiling useless? No. It’s great for protecting hair from protein loss and reducing dryness from shampooing. If you use it in a scalp massage, it’s also great for increasing circulation in your scalp.

It’s also therapeutic. Oiling our hair is almost like a ritual many of us turn to, and that in itself is enough.

The key is to have a light hand- coat instead of drench, and keep for 15-10 mins, instead of overnight. Otherwise, you’ll need to use extra shampoo to remove it, leaving your hair drier in the process!

Afrer your hair has dried from styling, take a few drops of oils and scrunch out the gel cast from your hair gently. You can also apply some to the ends of your hair to seal in the moisture and prevent split ends.

  1. XO Curls Cold-Pressed 100% Organic Argan Oil – (Rs. 588)
  2. Neemli Naturals Rosemary & Jojoba Hair Oil – (Rs. 688)
  3. Arata Zero Chemicals Natural Nourishing Hempocado Oil – (Rs. 699)
  4. Fix My Curls Scalp & Strands Elixir Hair Oil – (Rs. 770)
  5. Curl Up Curl Nourishing Hair Oil – (Rs. 720)

Accessories

Curly Hair Products in India

There are caps to dry your hair or protect them from losing shape and moisture at night…

Spray bottles to refresh your hair on days you don’t wash them…

Even detangling/styling brushes are great to add to your hair routine, to help you get defined waves and curls without breakage.

You can also

  • Use a T-shirt to dry and plop your hair
  • Finger detangle, then use a wide tooth comb, followed by a narrow comb to remove knots
  • Use a satin scarf to protect it at night

Items listed below can add convenience and fun to your hair routine, and I love making it easier and joyful (so I don’t dread the next shower 😛 ).

Combs & Brushes for Wavy & Curly Hair

  1. XO Curls Shower Detangling Wide-toothed Comb – (Rs. 228)
  2. Alexvyan V-shaped Straight Comb – (Rs.499)*
    *For styling only
  3. THR3E STROKES Styling n Detangling Wet Hair Comb – (Rs.499)
  4. Manetain Store Scalp Stimulating Brush – (Rs. 499)
  5. Manetain Store Detangling Brush – (Rs. 999)
  6. Tangle Teezer Brush (Rs.999)
  7. Wet Brush, Refresh and Extend Paddle Detangler – (Rs. 1149)
  8. Curl Keeper Flexi Brush (Rs. 1820)
    This is my personal favourite for detangling. No product has come close to this one.

Protective Satin Caps for Wavy & Curly Hair

  1. Curlyn Pineapple Keeper – (Rs. 499)
  2. Curlyn Elastic Bonnet Plain– (Rs. 649)
  3. Curl Cure Satin Hair Bonnet – (Rs. 699)
  4. Manetain Store Satin lined cap (Rs. 780)
  5. Manetain Store Satin Lined Beanie (Rs. 860)
  6. Manetain Store Doctor’s Cap (Rs. 750)
  7. Manetain Store Satin Lined Monsoon Hat/Raintain (Rs. 850)
  8. Manetain Store Satin Lined Knotty Cap (Rs. 790)
  9. Manetain Store Pineapple Caps – (Rs. 650 onwards)
  10. Fix my Curls Italian Satin Bonnets – (Rs. 1499)

Heat Caps, Shower Caps, Drying Accessories

Heat caps are great for enhancing the impact of a hair mask. Some can be heated up in the microwave, which helps the deep conditioner penetrate your hair better. Think of it like a DIY way to give your hair a steam-based hair spa.

Towel bonnets help dry waves and curls without causing frizz. They’re also great for ‘plopping.’

  1. Curlyn Satin Gloves – (Rs. 249)
  2. Hairlove Plop T – (Rs. 499)
  3. Curlyn Bonnet Dryer Plain – (Rs. 649)
  4. Manetain Microfiber Bonnet – (Rs. 740)
  5. Manetain Store Towel Bonnet – (Rs. 740)
  6. Manetain Hair Buff – (Rs. 780)
  7. Curlyn Microfiber Bonnet – (Rs. 789)
  8. Hairlove MicroFiber Turban – (Rs. 800)
  9. Manetain Store Double-Sided Towel Bonnet – (Rs. 840)
  10. Manetain Raintain – (Rs. 850)
  11. Hair Love Net Plopping Bonnet – (Rs. 999)
  12. Manetain Double-Sided Turban Towel – (Rs. 999)
  13. Hair Love Silk Mittens Scrunching Gloves – (Rs. 999)
  14. Hair Love Cape Plus Scruncher – (Rs. 1049)
  15. Curlyn Heat Cap – (Rs. 1489)
  16. Manetain Store Heat Cap (Rs. 2240)

Diffusers For Curly Hair in India

A diffuser is an attachment for your hairdryer. It reduces the time your hair takes to dry and is safer for your hair type.

The attachment helps distribute hot air uniformly through the diameter of the rim, so it doesn’t damage natural hair like a normal hairdryer.

It’s also great for when you want more volume from the roots.

Watch my video tutorial to see how to dry your hair with a diffuser: How to Diffuse Curly Hair Without Getting Frizz!

  1. Segolike Universal Collapsible Silicone Hair Dryer Blower Diffuser – (Rs.1559)
    Fits with the Chaoba 2800 Hair Dryer
  2. The Curly Co Collapsible Diffuser  – (Rs.3310) (Fits with Croma Diffuser)
  3. Agaro-HD-1150-Turbo Pro Hair Dryer with Diffuser – (Rs. 1575)
  4. Havells HD3270 2-in-1 1700 Watts Hair Dryer with Diffuser and Thin Concentrator (Rs. 1775)
  5. Wahl 5439-024 Hair Dryer With Diffuser (Rs.2299)
  6. Vega Pro-Xpert 2200 W Professional Hair Dryer with Diffuser & 2 Detachable Nozzles (Rs. 2199)

Wrapping Up

I hope this list of curly hair products in India helps you find what you need quickly and without worry.

Don’t get bogged down by all the choices. Choose something affordable and within your budget, and learn how to apply it correctly before giving up on a product.

And remember, products do only so much. The technique is as important. 

Until next time, peeps! If you haven’t already, follow me on Instagram @thecuriousjalebi. I’d love to see you say hello.

Jalebi Out!

  • Reply
    sunpreet singh
    at

    quite good details here. thanks a lot

  • Reply
    Praveena
    at

    Hi Pallavi,

    Thank for sharing a wonderful blog which really helpful to the people those who has curly hairs and all the content you have shared here very informative. You have done a great job. Keep Posting!!!

    • Reply
      Pallavi Juneja
      at

      Thank you Praveena! So glad you liked it 🙂

  • Reply
    Ketki Mujumdar
    at

    Can you pls suggest a CG friendly hair color( i have lot of grey hair. So its mandatory to color my hair once a month) and CG friendly shampoo & conditioner for colored hair?

    • Reply
      Pallavi Juneja
      at

      All CG Friendly shampoos are by default gentler on coloured hair since they don’t have harsh sulphates. You can choose any CG Friendly shampoo and conditioner acc to your budget 🙂

  • Reply
    pallavi
    at

    Really informative blog

    • Reply
      Pallavi Juneja
      at

      Thank you! So glad you liked it.

  • Reply
    pankhuri bindalPankhuri
    at

    Hey! Great blog! Have you tried the Loreal Evercurl products? They’ve worked great for me so far. I use Body Shop Grapeseed Serum after wash. For the in-between days, I spray my hair with water, comb it and apply Aloe vera gel and scrunch to get back my curls-works for me! Any advice you have for this regime pls?

    • Reply
      Pallavi Juneja
      at

      I haven’t since they aren’t Cg Friendly I think? Not sure! The serums also isn’t and personally serums don’t really do much for me! But if they are working for you, keep rolling with it, just make sure you clarify now and then to remove buildup. 🙂

  • Reply
    anshul bhatt
    at

    hi Pallavi, thanks for this amazing post. i am about to start my CG journey but before that just wanted to ask if styling products like live in conditioner and gel are safe to use after every wash? i was my hair twice a week. also i am already using Soultree hibiscus shampoo, is it a CG product or i need to switch to another?

    • Reply
      Pallavi Juneja
      at

      Hey Anshul, If you use good leaven in conditiooners that don’t have drying alcohols, mineral oils etc, should be fine. It’s a myth that styling products cause hairfall. Not sure if its cg friendly without knowing its ingredients. Just run the ingredients on curlsbot or isitcg.com 🙂

  • Reply
    Shruti
    at

    Hey from one curly girl to another
    Your blog is eye opening for me and I hope would be game changer for my curly hair. Like you I have heard so many I’ll remarks for my Frizzy hair and time has come to own them thanks to you.
    I have lot of grey hair and in your blog there is no information regarding which hair colour to use to lessen the damage. Kindly guide..

    • Reply
      Pallavi Juneja
      at

      Hi Shruti, thank you! Glad you liked the blog. So here’s the thing, except henna most colours do tend to damage hair in varying degrees. I just chopped off my damaged length after enjoying a year of coloured hair! I should have deep conditioned and done more olaplex. You can manage it with some extra effort to deep condition more regularly, sealing the ends with oil etc.

  • Reply
    Aiswarya
    at

    Hey pallavi! So releaved to find this list. This is a life line for all of us. Thankyou so much. Also, did u happen to try juicy chemistry leave in conditioner, the apricot one? If yes please give ur review and tell us wheather it’s CG friendly.

    • Reply
      Pallavi Juneja
      at

      I have long back tried some leave in of theirs but the quantity was so less for the cost and also it felt more like an oil based thing… I haven’t tried their recent launches. Also,thank you so glad you liked the list!

  • Reply
    Pinky
    at

    Thank you for this post! Since I am a newbie, this post helps me understand the different CG friendly products.

    • Reply
      Pallavi Juneja
      at

      Thanks Pinky, glad you liked it! All the best on your journey!

  • Reply
    Anuja sharma
    at

    hi pallavi
    my curly hair has losen their shape
    plz tell me how to do protein treatment to restore my curl pattern
    my hair has become too soft to lose their shape at crown part

    • Reply
      Pallavi Juneja
      at

      Hi Anuja, try a Rice water rinse first, then products that have protein in them. Also make sure you are clarifying once a month. Next, try a DIY Gelatin treatment (just youtube it). Also, as hair grows longer, curls tend to become flatter which is normal so try diffusing the crown as well for more volume.

  • Reply
    Srushti Prashant Sardeshmukh
    at

    Also, after oiling is it necessary to use a clarifying shampoo?

    • Reply
      Pallavi Juneja
      at

      Nope, but if you oil too heavily then it might be needed. Best to oil lightly. The day you are doing heavy oiling, then clarify.

    • Reply
      Mary joy alvar
      at

      Wow products are not CG friendly. They don’t put the FULL INGREDIENTS LIST only key ingredients, it they use silicones and sulfates

      • Pallavi Juneja
        at

        That’s untrue for quite a few of their products. Also, Indian brands also have this random bad habit of writing key ingredients and mentioning the whole list. Then some brands genuinely mention only key. So a DIY way to figure this out is by looking for preservatives. If they have mentioned preservatives and the end of the ingredient list, its very likely it is the full list of ingredients. If no preservatives can be seen, they aren’t sharing the full list.

  • Reply
    Srushti Prashant Sardeshmukh
    at

    Hi! Could you pls recommend products for curly hair with hair loss problem?

    • Reply
      Pallavi Juneja
      at

      I can’t because hair loss, if its too much is usually an internal, medical issue. Please see a dermatologist and get your blood work done for hormonal, vitamin defficiency etc first 🙂

  • Reply
    Arushi
    at

    Hi! Can you recommend a dupe for the denman brush?

  • Reply
    Nikita Joseph
    at

    Hi Pallavi,
    Firstly your this blog is my holy grail when it comes to looking out for new products to buy. So Thank you!!

    Secondly, I have low porosity hair and was looking out for CG friendly moisture/hydrating shampoos; do you have any recommendations for starters?
    Currently i’m using the Mamaearth Happy Heads Hair Shampoo.

  • Reply
    Malavika A R
    at

    THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU for this immensely useful post. I came across the insta profile of curl_pal, and that’s how I was introduced to this CGM, the next moment I set aside my whole studies and chores and started researching on this. Went on and on about a lot of articles, methods and products, and was so heartbroken to see the prices of good products, as I am not an earning person. Also I was confused about the routines and washings. I saw curl_pal’s reference of you in her posts and thought to give it a try. Voila! All the time it was here and never saw !

    My hair type is 3A/2C when it’s dry, and 3B when its wet 😀 I am from Kerala, which is very humid most of the time, unlike my hair 🙁
    Usually, I do oil (mixture of coconut oil, castor oil and olive oil) massaging and wash my hair (without shampooing/conditioning),every 3rd day. I shampoo and condition maybe once in 10-13 days. No other leave-in conditioner or moisturizing in between. This was my routine so far.
    I haven’t done any chemical treatments so far except for the very often (twice in a year or so) protein treatment. And I was shocked when I checked my shampoo and conditioner ingredients in the isitcg meter.

    So you can see I haven’t done any kind of special care or protections to my hair so far. Well, that doesn’t mean I am immune to damage. My hair started showing enormous hair fall since my college days (10 years ago) and still continuing. Split ends are a come and go. And the lengthening process is slower than any snail/sloths.

    So after coming across this CGM, what I understood the method is like:

    1) Use CG friendly products only (Only need to refer your post now).
    2) Wash your hair with shampoo, then conditioner, and afterwards, apply a leave-in conditioner or mousse in the wet hair, using the method CGM suggests.
    3) De-tangling should be done during conditioning, and never once the hair is dry. ( you know, that fact is the exact opposite of what I have been hearing and doing all these years).
    4) Do the 2nd step every 3rd or 4th day.
    5) Maintain the moisture of your hair by applying mousse/gel in the second and third days.

    Please correct me if I am wrong, and also add to my understanding what else I should do?!! (Preferably in the first 6 months).

    Hoping you would reply. Thank you once again for simplifying the process for beginners like me.

    PS: I ordered last day, WOW Apple Cider Vinegar No Sulphate & Parabens Shampoo and their conditioner, along with aloe vera gel, to start my CG care. *Fingers crossed*

    • Reply
      Pallavi Juneja
      at

      Hey Malavika, looks like you are on the right path! Just try to deep condition once or twice a week to speed up the process as well.

  • Reply
    Reshmi
    at

    Hi Pallavi, I recently came across the Art Nourish Shampoo – Keratin Hair Anti-breakage and Strengthening Shampoo and the Moroccan Argan Hair Repair And Hydrate Shampoo. It is mentioned that these have no SLS/Sulphate Paraben or Silicone. Are these CG friendly products and do you know if these work well

    • Reply
      Pallavi Juneja
      at

      Hi Reshmi, I am unable to find their actual ingredient list online. So I can’t say 🙁

  • Reply
    S
    at

    Hello,

    Post hair wash, is a gel necessary or is a leave-in conditioner sufficient?

    Thank you.

    • Reply
      Pallavi Juneja
      at

      It absolutely depends on your hair type- I do think start with a gel, apply that after conditioning hair really well. If you still think hair needs more moisture, add a leave in conditioner as well.

  • Reply
    ansu
    at

    This was really helpful. Thanks❤️

    • Reply
      Pallavi Juneja
      at

      Yay I’m glad ❤️

  • Reply
    sharonkoshy2015
    at

    Thank you for this list! I checked the petal fresh conditioner ingredients and they have thyme, marshmallow etc, which have proteins. So is it really a protein free conditioner?

    • Reply
      Pallavi Juneja
      at

      See, for a product to act protein heavy, the ingredient should ideally be hydrolysed. The same reason why egg actually doesn’t behave like a protein treatment because its molecules are too big and cannot penetrate the hair strand.

  • Reply
    Deepti
    at

    Hey Pallavi! This list has really been the go to guide for me for my CG journey start. Thanks for cataloging this so well, especially mentioning protein and protein-free…such a Godsend!!! Recently I went for St.Botanica’s Biotin&Collagen Shampoo-it gave me an amazing silky feeling,but its not on ur list 🙁 is it CG approved?

    • Reply
      Pallavi Juneja
      at

      I just checked the ingredients, seems so, will add it to the list, thank you! And yay glad you liked it!

  • Reply
    Shally
    at

    Hi,
    I’m yet to begin my CG Journey. I’ve been following alot of bloggers on Insta & reading a lot on CGM . However, its overwhelming to understand all the products & their use. My Hair is 3A, High elasticity and low porosity…have been loosing a lot of hair lately. No wonder I’m keen to start my CGM asap! Every other thing I found on your website….recommendations within budget…a BIG Thank you. However, I still have 3 questions:
    1) what do you mean by “Slip”?
    2) as a beginner, what would be your suggestion for a Co-wash product (considering my Hair type above)?
    3) Also, I was earlier using “Moroccanoil Treatment Oil ” serum (https://www.moroccanoil.com/in/hair-care-moroccanoil-treatment-original-in) …lately, I came to know it has Silicone and so what could be an alternate to this as per CGM?

    I look forward to hearing from you…Pls do respond! any suggestions are welcome…

    Regards
    Shally V

    • Reply
      Pallavi Juneja
      at

      Hi Shally,
      1. Slip is in regards to conditioner or detangling products, how much it makes your hair strands slip and slide against each other, thereby reducing tangles and knots. This helps to get good clumps without breakage. Some conditioners do this better than others.

      2.For co-wash, see this list- https://www.amazon.in/shop/thecuriousjalebi?listId=1O7KX1YXRZI55

      3. So there are no serums in CG- as a concept, serums don’t do much to our hair. What you need is a leave in conditioner or a curl cream (if your hair is more curly than wavy) and a gel. Maybe a little oil just to seal the ends.

      All the best!

  • Reply
    A
    at

    hey pallavi 🙂 this list was so helpful- I bought the wow shampoo, curl up conditioner, Mamaearth hair mask and Arata styling products and I love them!I came across a CG friendly brand called pilgrim that has a shampoo and hair mask. have you heard of this brand, what do you think about the products/ ingredients? id love if you could review it on your blog

    • Reply
      Pallavi Juneja
      at

      So I had heard of this brand but the shampoo that is sulphate free has silicone (Amodimethicone) So that makes it not CG Friendly.Even the mask has silicone!

  • Reply
    Maya
    at

    Hi Pallavi,

    Could you please give some advice for low porosity hair? I have highly low porous wavy hair. None of the products adviced for curly hair works for me, Giovanni, arata, vilvah, biolage, enliven are some of the names I have tried. Recently bought vilvah goat milk shampoo and cream conditioner and it was a big disappointed. I don’t see many products in Indian market for low porosity hair.

    • Reply
      Pallavi Juneja
      at

      I think you may be looking at it the wrong way- enliven is light, giovanni styling products are very light too -what is your hair type? Can you share a hair picture on mail or on my FB Group Ask Jalebi so we can figure this out? 🙂

  • Reply
    S
    at

    Hey. Are hair masks and deep conditioners the same? Can they be used the same way since they are in the same list above? I heard hair masks are not supposed to be put in post conditioner and shampoo.

    • Reply
      Pallavi Juneja
      at

      Yes they are the same. They’re supposed to be used pre or post shampooing inplace of a conditioner. They are basically more stronger conditioners.

  • Reply
    Srishti
    at

    Hey, the set wet gels contain parabens – both blue and green ones. I don’t know if they changed the formula or if it always had it

    • Reply
      Pallavi Juneja
      at

      Parabens isn’t considered in the CG philosophy. Also further studies have shown that other studies are inconclusive – it’s more of a personal decision to use products with this. Just look it up if you’d like 🙂

  • Reply
    Swati
    at

    Hey pallavi, i liked ur articles in curly hair.. i have curly hair too..can u tell me wheteher to use syoss products or not..or wow products?

    • Reply
      Pallavi Juneja
      at

      I can’t decide like that..don’t know about syoss.. try to first understand your hair type and technique and then buy products. 🙂

  • Reply
    Premikaa Pitcheshwar
    at

    Hey Pallavi! Firstly, this is such a great post that has simplified things for us curlies. Thank you. 🙂

    Now, to my issue. I have 2c/3a type of curls. I started painting my curls as late as in 2018. Noticed that curls were bouncy and soft until I used the Loreal Smooth Intense Conditioner. But I think the product isn’t manufactured anymore. After that, I have tried various combinations, but nothing gives the same results as the former.

    Since you are very experienced and seem up to date with the products, I request you to please update this list for 2020. It would be of great help to me and other fellow curlies. Thanks!

  • Reply
    Anant
    at

    Hello!
    I guess there are less men in this blog, but i wanted to ask a few things and hope you could give their solutions.
    1) I have greasy hair, thin hair and 3A hair, and i have to shampoo my hair every alternate day, is there a solution to these greasy hair?
    2) I wanted to thicken my hair, how do i do that?

    • Reply
      Pallavi Juneja
      at

      You could try an oil removing shampoo like Pantene lively clean, though it does make the rest of the hair dry too so be generous with your conditioner next.
      Alternatively if you want to avoid shampooing, try dry shampoo!
      Thickening hair, for men, is often related to genetics – there are some doc based prescribed scalp lotions you could try but by yourself- do oil scalp massages once or twice a week, eat lots of greens and proteins

  • Reply
    shreya ramakrishnan
    at

    Hi! Thank you for this comprehensive and informative blog. I’m beginning to follow all your advice. I have a basic ques- is it ok to use one brand as shampoo and another as conditioner and another as leave in or is it best if all the products like conditioner and cream are from the same range? Can I use the curl up conditioner and the arata cream and mamaearth deep conditioner together?

    • Reply
      Pallavi Juneja
      at

      Absolutely! So glad you liked the blog!

  • Reply
    SNEHA
    at

    Hi Pallavi, I follow a weekly routine of oiling and shampoo. I use a mild shampoo with Loreal conditioner. Off late I am having lot of hairfall, and I feel my hair is thinning, it’s kind of scary now.
    If I were to switch to any of the products from the list above, can you suggest me a a shampoo, conditioner, Co-wash, and leave-in conditioner (in case it’s needed) along with anything else. (I would prefer to start purchasing from the below 500 category). Is there anything else I should follow to reduce hairfall? Your post was very helpful. Thanks in advance!

  • Reply
    Nikita Choudhary
    at

    Hello!
    I just wanted to ask if it’s necessary to use the products from the same brand?
    After following the CG method, my hair seems to loose it’s curls around the crown on the 2nd and 3rd day. What kind of after shower products should I use?
    I have 3A hair and I live in Pune. You have been extremely useful in helping me go natural and learn to love my curls better! Thank you so much!
    Do you know any salons for curly hair cuts in Pune?

    • Reply
      Pallavi Juneja
      at

      Nope you can def mix and match. Its normal for wavy loose curls to get limp in a few days. When its not springing back into shape even after refreshing, simply means its time to wash again!
      I’m so glad the blog helped!
      And yes for pune- try connecting with Honest Liz, she runs a curly hair special salon

  • Reply
    sk
    at

    Have you got any idea if the yves rocher low poo shampoo is cg friendly?

    • Reply
      Pallavi Juneja
      at

      nope, it has IPA which is drying slightly. But since its a rinse out product it shouldn’t harm the hair as such

  • Reply
    Akhila
    at

    Hi Pallavi,

    Firstly thankyou for such a great blog! It makes it so easy for all of us around the world to lookup on the care we should be taking for our hair types.

    I am looking for help in selecting a shampoo , conditioner ,leave in , curl cream and gel for hair 3A type. I thought more protein helps my hair lock the moisture since it is getting dry and frizzy in 5 minutes after hair wash.

    1. Is Giovanni Creamy Avocado & Olive Oil Shampoo & Conditioner good one ?

    2. I tried the Shea Moisture COCONUT & HIBISCUS CURL ENHANCING SMOOTHIE but it makes my hair more dry and frizzy. Please suggest a leave in and curl cream please.

    3. What about hair serums? Any good ones that can be used and please advise when to apply.

    Thankyou in advance for the answers

    You are doing a great job here. Kudos !!

    • Reply
      Pallavi Juneja
      at

      Hey Akhila, I can’t recommend anything without looking at your hair, since texture decides quite a bit. Would recommend you post a pic on Ask Jalebi my fb group and ill direct you there. Or email me at pallavijuneja92(at)gmail.com

  • Reply
    Curlsfordays
    at

    Been using Devacurl products forever but always looking for a dupe since their products cost $$$. Yesterday, I decided to change up my routine and use the set wet vertical hold hair gel. My hair looked AMAZING and I just felt like a goddess. Thanks so much for recommending 🙂

    • Reply
      Pallavi Juneja
      at

      I’m so glad!

  • Reply
    Neha Joshi
    at

    Hi Pallavi,
    First of all Thank you for a wonderful post..

    I have 2b/2c fine thin wavy hair, even normal conditioner weighs down my hair and so not using any leave in. Probably having webbing of hair due to same and having hard time detangling. Didn’t had this webbing issue for first 6 months when I started CG

    Pls suggest me good curl cream/enhancer/Mousse or smoothie for styling and to get volume.. and what to change from below products according to my issues and hair type.

    products I use currently
    1 mixer of EVCO and JBCO – pantene lively clean
    2.Righteous Rx oil- Giovanni smooth as silk shampoo (seems drying for my hair, Inataur was better)
    3. As I am coconut co wash
    4. Enliven/ Requill
    5. Cantu curl activator cream
    6. Sometimes Giovanni la strong hold gel (makes my hair limp on next day)/flaxseed gel( works well but don’t have handy each time)
    7. Matrix purple DC, once 10 days.

    • Reply
      Pallavi Juneja
      at

      Hey Neha! Switch back to inatur if you like that better. For conditioner try Enliven, it isn’t too heavy. To style, try giovanni mousse or giovanni leave in treatment which is watery not creamy. Another name is curl keeper original. Another would be Innersense Leave in Conditioner spray- these won’t weigh hair down. For gel, a watery one like DIY Flaxseed gel could work better.
      See posts in this category as well- https://thecuriousjalebi.com/category/wavy-curly-hair-care-india/wavy-hair-care/

  • Reply
    Hetal Patel
    at

    Hi Pallavi, I have tried Arata, Babbasu and Shea moisture coconut and hibiscus conditioners…none of then are giving good slip, I need more thick and creamy one. Can you suggest please.

    • Reply
      Pallavi Juneja
      at

      Try Matrix Biolage Hydrasource Masque! Very slippery. Even reequil is good but quantity is less.

      • Hetal Patel
        at

        Can I use mask as conditioner Everytime I wash my hair? And how do I care for my hair when I will join swimming for a month or two? I am also coloring my hair regularly to cover my greys.

  • Reply
    Rupa
    at

    Hi. Can you suggest some options for hair colour? I have a lot of gray which is visible. I used to use loreal but now that I’m in the CG routine..I don’t want to use it anymore. Read about henna and indigo.. but I have used henna in the past n it tends to dry out my hair making it even more frizzy. Even if I put oil later..it doesn’t help. So can you suggest some options. Thanks

    • Reply
      Pallavi Juneja
      at

      Hi Rupa, some curly peeps use henna but I have read that there are some times it makes the hair less curly. Would suggest you go for any ammonia free hair colour and then take extra care of your hair by deep conditioning it regularly since coloured hair gets dryer faster!

  • Reply
    Amarpreet Bakshi
    at

    Are the gels from set wet and Himalaya really CG friendly? I know you mentioned it in the list but I’m still apprehensive. Actually they are really cheap as compared to other curly hair products.
    What i want to ask is will they not cause any build-up or harm my hair in any way?

    • Reply
      Pallavi Juneja
      at

      The one’s I’ve linked do not have drying alcohols and silicones and can be used. Cheaper doesn’t always mean worse – a lot of marketing also plays its part. I personally find better results with more expensive gels like Arata (500ish) and others but so many like Himalaya as well! U=If you’re apprehensive, start with DIY Flaxseed Gel (check YouTube) its fantastic and affordable and natural

  • Reply
    joshileee
    at

    Thank you so much for this list! I’ve been really confused about how to go about caring for my hair better and your blog hits the nail on the head.

  • Reply
    Hema Gohil
    at

    Hi pallavi.I have come across your blog and it is super helpful for me. Because I have high porosity 2b hair. And off course an oily scalp too. I am using sulfate free shampoos almost past two years now and looking my hair I think I lost all hope. But your blog came in to rescue in exact time. Thanks a lot for the information. Lots of love to you.

    • Reply
      Pallavi Juneja
      at

      Hi Hema! So glad this post helped you! Love, Pallavi

  • Reply
    Aashaka Gandhi
    at

    Hi…. Super Help this Post has been along with a lot of others.

    • Reply
      Pallavi Juneja
      at

      Thank you Aashaka, glad you liked it!

  • Reply
    jasmine caur
    at

    Is Morpheme Remedies Bhringraj, Onion & Black Seed Hair Shampoo and conditioner CG friendly?

    • Reply
      Pallavi Juneja
      at

      I think one of them is but I’ve not heard great reviews by people who have used them. Have not personally tried it. If you’re consfused about ingredients, copy paste them on https://www.curlsbot.com/ and it will tell you if its safe or not

  • Reply
    Priya Arun
    at

    Hi Pallavi,

    Questions for you:

    1. I’ve heard that Asha Curling Cream and Gel don’t work very well in humid places. Do you think so?

    2. What leave-in and gel do you recommend for places that are very humid (I live in chennai). I have thick. high volume, dry to very dry, low-po hair (2c/3a) and my school-going daughter has not-so thick, med dry, high-po hair (2b/2c s-shape hair).
    I am looking at products that both of us can use.

    3. Any tips/tricks to tone down the volume? I know curlies like volume but mine is too much. (I often say, “can you speak louder? Can’t hear you over the volume of my hair. LOL!)

    • Reply
      Pallavi Juneja
      at

      Hey Priya!
      1. No, these experiences are not the same for everyone. A good serving of gel usually minimises frizz in humidity. Having glycerine in very humid places can lead to some frizz but you can layer a glycerine free gel on top and some oil to seal, works well.
      2. Try Arata cream and hair gel! I’ve heard great reviews of it in Mumbai and Kerala.
      3. Haha! The key then is to weigh them down by using more cream per section of the hair, combing and then layering the gel. This will give more definition but less volume. Try Eden Curling cream if you can, its rich and heavy.

      • Priya Arun
        at

        Wow! This is a wealth of info. Thank you so much, Pallavi.

  • Reply
    Ritu Shah
    at

    Hi, please check out Cocomo Natural Shampoo + Conditioner for Kids. You might like to add it somewhere in the list! Works very well on curly and wavy hair.

    • Reply
      Pallavi Juneja
      at

      Thank you! I checked the ingredients and it’s CG Friendly. adding it to the list!

  • Reply
    sailaja
    at

    hey !!! Is camille rose naturals coconut water leave in treatment works well on curly hair. Can i know the reason why you did not add this product in leave-in conditioners category

    • Reply
      Pallavi Juneja
      at

      I last edited the post when this was not available in India, now that it is, I’ve added it. Thank you for noticing! 🙂

      • Nands
        at

        Great….. I was searching around for CG products… But couldn’t find affordable products anywhere..fed up..and gave up…. Later again went in search and … Later found ur page… Thank u so much… I am surprised how u found these much products allover and updated us…ur time and effort is helpful.. Love u loads…keep rocking… 😘

      • Pallavi Juneja
        at

        Thank you for stopping by! So glad the list helps <3

      • Mary joy
        at

        Can you recommend a protein conditioner without itchy M’s? My hair is suffering from moisture overload, ive been using petal fresh for shampoo, cowash, and condish. My hair is naturally oily and i may be susceptible with too much protein. I have fine 3a/b hair i have low/medium porosity

      • Pallavi Juneja
        at

        Try this one- https://amzn.to/3rEqJTB

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