What a time to be a curly girl in India now that we have many Indian brands coming up with products that cater specifically to our naturally wavy curly hair. Curl Up is one of them who launched their line of shampoo, conditioner and curl cream recently.
I had initially tested them a year or so ago when they were working on creating the products and I’ve also done a teaser review on my Instagram which you can read here but this review hopefully will answer all the doubts/questions that you may have regarding their products.
Because, being an Indian brand takes you only so far – what really matters at the end is –
Do they work?
Are they as good as international products?
Can all hair types use it?
Does it work well in humidity?
Does it have protein?
Get all the answers in my review below!
Table of Contents
Disclaimer
This review is sponsored by Lets Curl Up. Thank you to the brand for making me feel my efforts are valued and to you my readers who have supported me this far! I will emphasize though- early on itself, I had told the brand that I would be honest about my experience – I will NOT want to lose the trust I have developed with my readers. They were on board for the same so I’m glad this collaboration worked out!
Secondly, please remember that reviews are personal – I have tried to include information for different hair types so that all of you are well informed on if an how you should be using this line but results can vary on your hair health, type, weather and more!
Lastly, the products linked are Amazon Affliate links which means if you buy using those links, I get a small commission at no extra cost to you. Your contribution keeps this website going so thank you in advance!
Let’s begin!
About Curl Up
We are passionate about creating a perfect hair care solution for your curls. To us curly hair is a unique asset that needs to be embraced and celebrated in their natural form. We know that curls need that extra love and care and thus Curl Up was born! Providing premium quality, natural hair care products is our ultimate aim. Our products are tailored specifically for Indian curly/wavy hair type. It’s time to put yourself first and let your curls speak their own story.
Curl Up Curl Moisturising Shampoo
What is it
A cleansing shampoo to keep your scalp and hair clean.
Description
Are you looking for the best moisturizing shampoo for dry hair? You have come to the right place! Our shampoo is a mild coconut-based cleanser which gently cleans the scalp and hair without stripping away the natural oils transforming dry and frizzy hair into soft, bouncy, happy curls. Natural ingredients like Argan oil and Chia seed extracts with high content of antioxidants and vitamin E, brings your luxurious waves and curls back to life.
Details
- Quantity: 200 ml
- Texture: Creamy, creates a lot of lather
- Price: Rs. 575
- Fragrance: Strong, floral
- Cg Friendly – Yes
- Has Protein – Yes
Curl Up Curl Moisturising Shampoo Ingredients:
Aqua, CocoAmido propyl betaine, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate, Ethelyne glycol distearate, Aqua (and) Polyquaternium-10 (and) PG-Hydroxyethylcellulose Cocodimonium Chloride, Glycerin, Panthenyl Hydroxypropyl Steardimonium Chloride, Perfume, DS EDTA, Aqua (and) Linum Usitatissimum (Flax) Seed Extract (and) Salvia Hispanica( Chia) Seed Extract, Cocodimonium Hydroxypropyl Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Argan Oil, Jojoba Oil, Methylchloroisothiazolinone (and) Methylisothiazolinone, PEG 150 distearate
First 5 Ingredients (form about 97% of the whole product)
- Now while it doesn’t have harsh sulphates, the first 3 ingredients after water are gentler surfactants which will ensure your scalp gets deep cleaned from all build-up and dirt.
- However Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate in particular can be slightly drying which I also found happened when I used it. Some consider this ingredient CG safe and some don’t – it is NOT a sulphate so Lorraine Massey doesn’t say this cannot be used but some people find it drying.
- Ethelyne glycol distearate helps mix ingredients better together
Remaining Ingredients (form less than 1-2% of the product)
- Aqua (and) Polyquaternium-10 (and) PG-Hydroxyethylcellulose Cocodimonium Chloride is a trademarked formulation (MiruStyle™ CP) that claims “Exceptional curl memory and retention benefits for high energy, well defined curls. Reduces frizz and doesn’t affect feel or shine of the hair.”
- Glycerine is a humectant, that means, it draws moisture into itself from the hair or the environment making it a difficult ingredient to use in humid or very hot/dry areas. But since this is completely rinsed off, you don’t need to worry about glycerine in shampoos.
- Panthenyl Hydroxypropyl Steardimonium Chloride is a conditioning ingredient that reduces static and frizz. This will combat the cleansing surfactants so hair doesn’t get too dry.
- Perfume or fragrance in most products are usually at the end of the list. Since this is in the middle, I can see why the fragrance is strong. It has a floral scent.
- DS EDTA is a preservative, again something that is usually at the end of the list, not before the extracts and proteins which I find surprising but I’m not qualified enough to understand or explain why.
- The Aqua (and) Linum Usitatissimum (Flax) Seed Extract (and) Salvia Hispanica( Chia) Seed Extract have anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties, especially Chia seeds which is great for the scalp.
- Cocodimonium Hydroxypropyl Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein is a protein (duh) that like any hydrolysed protein conditions hair, is anti static and also offers more build and definition. Since this is NOT in the first 5 ingredients, it’s effect will be mild.
- Argan Oil & Jojoba Oil are light oils that will also counter the surfactants drying effect.
- Methylchloroisothiazolinone (and) Methylisothiazolinone is slightly controversial, also called as Itchy M’s. These preservatives in high concentrations can cause a super sensitive scalp to get itchy. But since this the second last ingredient – the quantity is almost negligible and nothing to worry about.
- PEG 150 distearate is an emulsifer and thickner used in many cosmetic products
Curl Up Curl Hydrating Conditioner
What is it
A creamy conditioner to moisturise your curls, reduce frizz and dryness.
Description
We give you the best conditioner for dry hair that actually works! Our conditioner for curly hair consists of an ultra-rich and nourishing formula with Argan oil, Chia seed extract and flax seed extract which provides good slip thereby making it easy to detangle your curly locks. It secures moisture and strengthens curly hair to prevent breakage and split ends
Details
- Quantity: 200 ml
- Texture: Creamy with good slip
- Price: Rs. 590
- Fragrance: Strong, floral
- Cg Friendly – Yes
- Has Protein – Yes
Curl Up Curl Hydrating Conditioner Ingredients:
Aqua, Cetostearyl alcohol, Quaternium-91 (and) Cetrimonium Methosulfate (and) Cetearyl Alcohol, Aqua (and) Polyquaternium-10 (and) PG-Hydroxyethylcellulose Cocodimonium Chloride, Glycerin, Cetyl Palmitate, Cetrimonium chloride, Shea butter, Shea butter ethyl Ester, Laureth 4, PPG-3 Caprylyl Ether, Perfume, Argan oil, Jojoba oil, Aqua (and)Linum Usitatissimum (Flax) Seed Extract (and) Salvia Hispanica( Chia) Seed Extract, Panthenyl Hydroxypropyl Steardimonium Chloride, Cocodimonium Hydroxypropyl Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, DS EDTA, Guar hydroxypropyl trimonium chloride, Butylated hydroxy toluene, DMDM hydantoin, Diazolidinyl Urea (and) Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate
First 5 Ingredients (form about 97% of the whole product)
- Cetostearyl alcohol is NOT a drying alcohol (very common doubt). It is actually a fatty alcohol responsible for moisturising and conditioning our hair.
- Quaternium-91 (and) Cetrimonium Methosulfate (and) Cetearyl Alcohol gives conditioning effect and softeness to the hair.
- Aqua (and) Polyquaternium-10 (and) PG-Hydroxyethylcellulose Cocodimonium Chloride like mentioned in the shampoo note section gives well defined curls
- Glycerine is a humectant, so be cautious of this in very humid or hot/dry climates. Again since most of this is rinsed out, you don’t need to worry.
Remaining Ingredients (form less than 1-2% of the product)
- Cetyl Palmitate is a thickener and emollient, leaving hair and skin soft.
- Centrimonium Chloride is a conditioning ingredient that also cleanses, removes odour (look for this ingredient in co-washes)
- Shea butter, Shea butter ethyl Ester are rich, fatty chemicals that are used in hair and body butters. It will moisturise your hair really well.
- Laureth 4 is an emulsifier, which means it stops the ingredients from separating
- PPG-3 Caprylyl Ether is a substitute for silicones, without the build-up. So it will offer an moisturising effect.
- Perfume is high up so expect a moderate to high scent strength.
- Jojoba oil, Argan Oil moisturise the hair
- The Aqua (and) Linum Usitatissimum (Flax) Seed Extract (and) Salvia Hispanica( Chia) Seed Extract have anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties, especially Chia seeds which is great for the scalp.
- Panthenyl hydroxypropyl steardimonium chloride is a combination of panthenol (derived from rice) and stearic acid (found in shea butter) which is another hair conditioning ingredient.
- Cocodimonium Hydroxypropyl Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein is a protein – conditions hair, is anti static and also offers build and definition. Since this is NOT in the first 5 ingredients, it’s effect will be mild.
- DS EDTA, Butylated hydroxy toluene & Diazolidinyl Urea (and) Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate are preservatives
- Guar hydroxypropyl trimonium chloride deposits active ingredients onto the hair keeping curls from frizzing up or feeling dry.
- DMDM hydantoin is also a preservative. It is considered moderately irritating to skin and lungs in large amounts. Since this ingredient is second last, it means there’s hardly any amount of it in the product. It is also considered much safer than parabens and is present in many curly hair brands as well – I don’t think you need to worry if you are. 🙂
Curl Up Curl Defining Cream
What is it
A styling curl cream to moisturise & define your curls for the next 2-3 days until you wash them again.
Description
Bring the bounce back with the best leave in cream for dry hair that helps you reclaim soft, bouncy, happy curls for life.Our curl defining cream is infused with the right amount of natural ingredients such as Argan oil, shea moisture and flax seed extracts which are rich in antioxidants and vitamins A, C and E. It helps reduce frizz, adds shine and defines curls with long-lasting hold. With our all-in-one cream, a little goes a long way to make your curls pop!
Details
- Quantity: 200 gm
- Texture: Creamy with good slip
- Price: Rs. 690
- Fragrance: Floral
- Cg Friendly – Yes
- Has Protein – Yes
Curl Up Curl Defining Cream Ingredients:
Aqua, Cetostearyl alcohol, Shea butter ethyl Ester, Polyquaternium-69, Quaternium-91 (and) Cetrimonium Methosulfate (and) Cetearyl Alcohol, Aqua (and) Polyquaternium-10 (and) PG-Hydroxyethylcellulose Cocodimonium Chloride, Cetrimonium chloride, Shea butter, Ceteareth 25, Glycerin, Perfume, PPG-3 Caprylyl Ether, Jojoba oil, Argan Oil, Aqua (and) Linum Usitatissimum (Flax) Seed Extract (and) Salvia Hispanica( Chia) Seed Extract, Panthenyl Hydroxypropyl Steardimonium Chloride, Cocodimonium Hydroxypropyl Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, DS EDTA, Guar hydroxypropyl trimonium chloride, Butylated hydroxy toluene, DMDM hydantoin, Diazolidinyl Urea (and) Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate
Notes on Ingredients
- Most of the formulation is very similar to the conditioner (refer above).
- Shea butter ethyl Ester is the second ingredient which means it forms 95-97% of the whole product. Shea butter has been used by women since centuries for hair lotions and body butters. Since it’s a very rich, creamy ingredient, it can be too heavy for some hair types. Those with acne should take care with shea butter based products by washing their face after applying such products or not allow the hair to swing and touch the face.
- Polyquaternium-69 is known to resist high heat and humidity conditions and ensures your curls remain defined – perfect for Indian, tropical weather! This styling polymer also gives lasting hold and this ingredient can be removed easily by cleansing.
- Glycerine is a humectant but the Polyquaternium 69 will combat this well so it can be used in humid areas. At max, you might need to layer over a glycerine free gel.
How to Use Curl Up Line
- Wet hair well and take a small amount of the Curl Moisturising Shampoo in your palms and gently scrub on to your crown and scalp
- If you find it slightly harsh, take a small amount in a mug and mix some water with it to reduce the harshness
- Rinse out and it will clean the length- you don’t need to apply this separately on the length of the hair
- Separate hair into 2-3 sections (depending on your thickness)
- Take a big dollop of the Curl Hydrating Conditioner and smooth on each section (hair sandwhiched between palms.
- Take your fingers to gently detangle and follow with a wide-tooth comb or a detangling brush like Curl Keeper Flexi Brush
- Keep it for 3-5 minutes and rinse
- In the shower itself when hair is still wet, smooth on their Curl Defining Cream the same way you did the conditioner.
- However if you have wavy hair, you won’t need a lot and you don’t need to comb after applying it since it will break the clumps.
- Curly hair peeps, apply and comb to define the curls better
- You can follow up with a gel (recommended) if you want more definition or the curls to last longer. Using just the cream alone gives you more volume.
- Air dry or diffuse (up to you)
- You can buy the whole set(3 products) here
Pros
- Cg Friendly
- The conditioner and curl cream are both highly moisturising, creamy and slippery.
- This means it is easy to detangle hair and leaves curl looking soft and moisturised and you don’t need a LOT to do this
- The curl cream on it’s own defines curls well (see results pictures+ video) – soft, touchable definition. Those who want results without the crunchiness that gels gives can try just the curl cream to style their hair.
- All of them are pocket-friendly (Rs.1600 approx for 3 products versus for one international CG product)
- Made in India #desibrandsfordesicurls but works as well as other international brands.
- It will work well for both very wavy (2C) and above (type 3 hair) hair – all you need to experiment is with the amount and styling technique.
- I quite liked the smell! (It’s not strong as Cantu, for many of you who asked for alternatives)
Cons
- I found the shampoo drying for my hair – I’d use it after oiling to ensure all of its removed or water some of it in a mug on normal days before applying.
- The curl cream can be too rich for type 2A, 2B or fine curls & weigh them down.
- Shea butter doesn’t suit everyone, especially if they have acne so be careful that it doesn’t touch your face when it dries, IF you already have a history of this reaction with products like Cantu Curl Activator
- I do hope they increase the quantity as the company grows!
Best For
- The shampoo is great for people who like having a clean scalp, live in polluted/humid areas or oil their hair often.
- Conditioner is great for any hair type really – it will greatly reduce the dryness and frizz.
- Curl cream is rich so I’d recommend it for type 3 and type 4 without worry of them getting weighed down.
- However for wavy hair, I think type 2C can use a small amount and make it work but less wavy than that might get weighed down.
Buy Now
You can buy the combo of all 3 Curl Up products here (save Rs.165) or the shampoo, conditioner and curl cream separately.
Whew! 3 products in one post – I hope you understood what I thought about the products without feeling overwhelmed.
If you’re not a fan of detailed ingredient analysis, simply skip that and move to the pros and cons!
Anywho, if you liked this review, don’t leave without the following
- Join my private coaching group on FB – Ask Jalebi
- Like my Facebook & follow me on Instagram (@thecuriousjalebi) for more bite-sized info about curly hair care
- Watch my other Youtube tutorials (The Curious Jalebi) and subscribe, your support is what keeps me going! 🙂
If you’re new to the world of curly hair care, please choose between the below posts to start your journey!
How to get Healthy, Bouncy Curl Hair
Until next review peeps. Jalebi out!
10 Comments
maya
athey! i love this post. can i use the curl up conditioner as a cowash?
Pallavi Juneja
atNo, I wouldn’t recommend that. Its quite thick and creamy and doesn’t have any cleansing ingredient.
Baishakhi Das
atHi Pallavi, Your blog is truly amazing and to be honest it actually inspired me to start my CGM journey (It’s been one and half month). I have two questions to ask you here. I have 2b/2c hair and looking for a curl cream. Which one according to you would likely to suit this hair type cantu curl activator or curl up? I am also looking for a deep conditioner. Do you think Shea moisture manuka honey would go with wavy hair?
Pallavi Juneja
atHi Baishaki, thank you! So for wave, be careful with a curl cream as it can weigh down your hair. So experiment with amount if you get. Try Arata hair cream I think (You can get CURIOUSARATA to get 15% OFF) since it comes in a smaller amount so if it doesn’t suit you, you won’t waste the whole bottle also since you won’t need a lot, that much should be enough. And yes, shea moisture manuka honey is great
Fiddi
atHey! So I am a complete newbie at all these things. I have thick wavy hair that have curls/ringlets when i come out of the shower but tends to become frizzy and lose their shape as it dries. So i was wondering if i should start with the guide for beginners and buy all the clarifying shampoo etc or should i just go in for this 3 combo set? Terrible at maintaining routines (heck the day i condition with whatever is lying around is also a good day) 🙂
You blog has been quit informative. Thank you for all the information 🙂
Ta’
Pallavi Juneja
atSee for curls- a shampoo really isn’t what’s going to get you soft, moisturised hair. That’s the conditioners and stylers job and very very important.
Def get shampoo, conditioner (v impt) and you can start with home-made DIY Flaxseed gel to style!
Twinkle Jain
atI’ve been hopping off to your blog for every product I think of buying! It’s super informative and structured! I was planning to get it but I think I will skip as I have type 2b-2c waves and after the first two days, they kind of become straight! I’ve been trying the Ashba range and FMC leave in but they’re not helping in defining the waves. What would you suggest? Do I need a curl cream? What affordable options would you suggest?
Pallavi Juneja
atHi Twinkle, glad you liked the blog! For your hair type, a small dollop of cream or leave in smoothed over your hair plus more generous amounts of gel could work. Try making DIY Flaxseed gel at home and experimenting. Otherwise any of this could also help- https://www.amazon.in/shop/thecuriousjalebi?listId=1OXNE1IT2CBT0
Priya
atHey, first of all, thumps up for a very well structured and informative blog.
Next, could you suggest me conditioner with very good slip. It’s very difficult for me to detangle. I have tried Arata and mom’s company before. Arata was 100% fail for me, mom’s co. was lil better.
Pallavi Juneja
atTry Matrix Biolage Hydrasource Masque, Reequil Conditioner!