13 Best Hair Serums for Curly Hair to Combat Frizz

Written by Alvira Dsouza, Hair Expert
Updated on Mar 05, 2024
Best hair serums for curly hair
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Hair serum is a game-changer in the world of hair care that promises to revolutionize the way you style your curly hair. Based on our observations, the best hair serum for curly hair will help to reduce the appearance of frizz and separate the curls, giving them a more defined and polished look.

Curly hair tends to be more prone to dryness because the natural oils produced by the scalp have a harder time traveling down the hair shaft. Hair serums contain moisturizing ingredients that can help hydrate and nourish the hair, promoting moisture retention and preventing dryness and breakage. Hair serums are known for their ability to add shine and smoothness to the hair. They coat the hair strands, making them appear smoother and more reflective, resulting in a healthier-looking and lustrous mane. 

They can act as a detangler, making it easier to comb or brush through the hair without causing excessive breakage or damage. If you use heat-styling tools like curling irons or straighteners, applying a hair serum can provide a protective barrier against the heat. It helps to minimize damage and maintain the hair's health and integrity, reducing the risk of heat-induced frizz or breakage.

We will explore the world of hair serums specifically designed for curly hair. Whether you have tight coils or loose waves, we've got you covered. Stay tuned as we uncover the best hair serums on the market that will transform your curly locks into sleek, shiny perfection.

13 Best Hair Serums for Curly Hair

Put an end to all your frizz concerns with PHYTO's botanical plumping serum that instantly hydrates, and moisturizes curly coils. Infused with vitamin-rich peptides, this serum suits all hair types, especially oily! You can apply this on dry or damp hair and flaunt an instant sheen. You can also use this on damp hair every night to wake up to plumpier, healthy hair. This serum works beautifully for those who have fine hair. 

Pros
  • Suitable for all hair types
  • Affordable
  • Little goes a long way
Cons
  • Strong fragrance
  • Best for Daily Use

    HerStyler HAIR SERUM

    HerStyler HAIR SERUM
  • This serum for curly hair from HerStyler is specially formulated to give your hair the love it deserves because love is in the hair. Experience the power of argan oil, vitamin E, and aloe vera in one bottle. Argan oil is known for its nourishing properties that help repair damaged hair, leaving your curly tresses smooth, silky, and healthy-looking whereas vitamin E provides a boost of antioxidants, protecting your hair from environmental damage and giving a natural shine to your curls(1, 2). On the other hand, aloe vera, with its soothing and moisturizing properties, helps tame frizz and adds a natural shine to your locks (3). This hair serum is designed to control frizz, leaving your hair beautifully smooth and manageable. 

     

    Pros
    • Dairy-free
    • Non-greasy
    • Small amounts go a long way
    • Suitable for dry hair
    • Ideal for everyday use
    • Can be used by both men and women
    Cons
    • Strong scent
    • Poor packaging
  • Best for Colored Hair

    JOHN FRIEDA FRIZZ ease SERUM

    JOHN FRIEDA FRIZZ ease SERUM
  • You can treat your hair to the ultimate love and care it deserves with John Frieda’s hair serum for curly hair. With its extra strength formula, this hair serum effectively tames frizz and flyaways, leaving your hair looking sleek, smooth, and effortlessly shiny. The nourishing properties of argan and coconut oils work together to deeply moisturize and condition each strand, promoting healthier and more manageable hair. Not only does this serum combat frizz, but it also acts as a heat protectant, shielding your precious locks from the damaging effects of styling tools such as flat irons and curling wands.

     

    Pros
    • Paraben free
    • Sulfate-free
    • No alcohol
    • Perfect for curly color-treated hair
    • Repairs dry hair
    Cons
    • A little greasy
    • Poor packaging
  • Best for Split-ends

    VITAMINS hair cosmetics KERATIN SERUM

    VITAMINS hair cosmetics KERATIN SERUM
  • This curly hair serum from VITAMINS Hair Cosmetics is the ultimate solution for all your hair woes. Formulated with a blend of nourishing ingredients, including keratin protein and biotin, this serum works to repair and rejuvenate your hair, leaving it silky smooth, and manageable. The inclusion of castor oil in this treatment provides deep hydration, helping to moisturize and soften your hair. This serum also acts as a heat protectant, shielding your locks from the damaging effects of styling tools and leaving them with a vibrant shine and glossy finish. 

    Pros
    • Paraben free
    • Alcohol-free
    • Sulfate-free
    • Non-greasy
    • Suitable for all hair types
    • Perfect for split-end repair
    Cons
    • Overpowering scent
    • Non-functional pump
  • GK HAIR SERUM

    GK HAIR SERUM
  • With one of the best hair serums from GK, you can transform your hair into a crowning glory that radiates health and beauty. Enriched with the finest organic argan oil, this serum deeply nourishes and hydrates your hair, leaving it irresistibly soft and silky. It works its magic by strengthening and repairing your hair from within. It forms a protective barrier against heat-styling tools, preventing further damage and breakage. With regular use, you'll notice a significant improvement in the overall health and appearance of your hair.

     

    Pros
    • All natural ingredients
    • Does not weigh down hair
    • Convenient application
    • Perfect for all hair types
    • Suitable for regular use
    • Travel-friendly
    Cons
    • Small size
    • Costly
  • Best for Damaged Hair

    SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore Hair Serum

    SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore Hair Serum
  • You can revitalize your locks and achieve the hair of your dreams with this serum for curly frizzy hair from SheaMoisture. With its unique formula, this hair serum oil deeply penetrates the hair shaft, providing intense hydration and nourishment from root to tip. Jamaican black castor oil is known for its strengthening properties, helping to fortify weak and brittle hair, while shea butter adds moisture and promotes overall hair health. It is perfect for those struggling with dry, damaged, and brittle hair. It works to restore moisture, improve elasticity, and protect against future damage. With regular use, you can expect your hair to become more manageable, resilient, and noticeably healthier.

     

    Pros
    • Cruelty-free
    • Sustainably produced
    • Paraben free
    • Sulfate-free
    • No mineral oil
    • Suitable for damaged hair
    Cons
    • Odd smell
    • Bottle leaks on opening
  • Best Packaging

    Davines Hair Serum

    Davines Hair Serum
  • This must-have hair serum for curly hair from Davines will transform your hair into a frizz-free zone. With it, you can achieve the perfect curl pattern without any heaviness or crunchiness. The lightweight formula effortlessly penetrates your hair, providing deep hydration and nourishment from within. Infused with high-quality ingredients, this hair serum not only enhances your curls but also protects your hair from external aggressors. The unique blend of nourishing oils and botanical extracts helps to strengthen your strands, leaving them soft, smooth, and resilient.

     

    Pros
    • Cruelty-free
    • Talcum free
    • Humidity resistant
    • Flexible long-lasting hold
    • Carbon neutral packaging
    Cons
    • Weighs down hair
    • Slightly expensive
  • Best for Fine Hair

    OGX Nourishing + Coconut Milk ANTI-BREAKAGE SERUM

    OGX Nourishing + Coconut Milk ANTI-BREAKAGE SERUM
  • You can embrace your best hair days with one of the best serums for curly hair from OGX. It is formulated to revive and strengthen your hair, leaving it beautifully nourished and less prone to breakage. Infused with the goodness of coconut milk, this serum works deep within the hair cuticles to provide essential nutrients and hydration. It helps to repair damaged strands, reduce frizz, and prevent future breakage, giving you healthier, more resilient hair. Whether you have dry, damaged, or brittle hair, this anti-breakage serum can work wonders for you.

     

    Pros
    • Dairy-free
    • No sulfate
    • Softly scented
    • Suitable for all hair types
    • Perfect for breakage control
    • Great for daily use
    Cons
    • A bit sticky
    • Poor packaging
  • Most Affordable

    LUSETA CURL ENHANCING HAIR SERUM

    LUSETA CURL ENHANCING HAIR SERUM
  • You can experience a salon-like finish with every use, as this one of the best serums for frizzy hair from LUSETA will smooth out your hair and enhance its natural luster. This anti-frizzing and smoothing hair oil is specially formulated for curly hair types, providing a boost of hydration and definition. It is enriched with natural ingredients including argan oil, coconut oil, and shea butter that work wonders on curly hair. These ingredients penetrate deeply into the hair, nourishing and moisturizing from within, leaving your curls soft, shiny, and full of life. It is designed to combat frizz and keep your curls looking smooth and well-defined throughout the day.

    Pros
    • Climate pledge friendly
    • Paraben free
    • Sulfate-free
    • No gluten
    • Ideal for all curl types
    • Affordable
    Cons
    • Very thick
    • The pump does not work
  • Best Heat Protectant

    OLAPLEX No. 9 BOND PROTECTOR NOURISHING HAIR SERUM

    OLAPLEX No. 9 BOND PROTECTOR NOURISHING HAIR SERUM
  • OLAPLEX’s curly hair serum is specially designed to repair and strengthen damaged hair, leaving it healthier, shinier, and more manageable. With its advanced formula, it deeply penetrates the hair shaft, working from within to restore and rebuild the broken bonds in your hair. Whether your hair has been damaged by chemical treatments, heat styling, or environmental factors, this serum is here to rescue your locks. Infused with a powerful blend of nourishing ingredients, this hair serum provides intense hydration and helps to prevent future damage. It tames frizz, eliminates flyaways, and promotes smoother, silkier hair. 

     

    Pros
    • Paraben free
    • No silicone
    • DEA free
    • Unscented
    • Does not weigh down hair
    • Suitable for heat protection
    Cons
    • Poor packaging
    • Pricey
  • Best for Coarse Hair

    L’ANZA HEALING STRENGTH NEEM PLANT SILK SERUM

    L’ANZA HEALING STRENGTH NEEM PLANT SILK SERUM
  • Specially formulated for all hair types, this serum for curly hair from L’ANZA is your secret weapon to achieve a perfect silky look. Infused with the power of neem plant silk, this award-winning serum works wonders to transform your hair. It deeply nourishes each strand, providing essential vitamins and minerals that revitalize and rejuvenate your tresses. It is designed to target and mend split ends, dryness, and breakage, leaving your hair looking healthier and more vibrant than ever before. With regular use, you'll notice a remarkable improvement in the overall condition of your hair.

     

    Pros
    • Cruelty-free
    • No paraben
    • Nice smell
    • Adds long-lasting support
    • Perfect thermal protection
    • Suitable for coarse curly hair
    Cons
    • A bit heavy
    • Costly
  • bellisso HAIR REPAIR SERUM

    bellisso HAIR REPAIR SERUM
  • Enriched with the finest Moroccan argan oil, this hair serum for curly hair from Bellisso is designed to give you salon-worthy hair at home. Whether you have straight, curly, frizzy, or wavy hair, this serum is formulated to cater to all hair types. Its powerful ingredients work together to nourish your hair, leaving it sleek, smooth, and frizz-free. With its lightweight formula, this serum effortlessly absorbs into your hair, without weighing it down or leaving any greasy residue. It acts as a shield against heat damage, protecting your hair from the harmful effects of styling tools. 

     

    Pros
    • Cruelty-free
    • SLS free
    • Best for thermal heat protection
    • Makes hair manageable
    • Perfect for men and women
    Cons
    • Bottle leaks
    • A bit greasy
  • PUREnature ARGAN OIL SERUM

    PUREnature ARGAN OIL SERUM
  • Formulated with a blend of luxurious ingredients, including Moroccan argan oil, biotin, castor oil, and rosemary oil, this one of the best hair serums for curly hair from PUREnature provides the perfect combination of nourishment and protection. Moroccan argan oil deeply moisturizes and conditions the hair, leaving your curls soft and manageable, whereas biotin helps promote healthy hair growth. Castor oil, on the other hand, adds shine and luster to your curly tresses and tame flyaways, while rosemary oil stimulates the scalp, promoting overall hair health. With this serum as your ally, you can confidently style your hair without worrying about damage or frizz.

     

    Pros
    • Cruelty-free
    • Sulfate-free
    • SLS free
    • Non-greasy
    • Nice smell
    • Easy to use
    Cons
    • A bit drying
    • Poor packaging

    Now that you’ve seen our product recommendations for the best hair serum for curly hair, let us see the following buying guide and steps to use to shop wisely and make the best of the product.

     

    How to Choose the Best Hair Serums for Curly Hair?

    Here we will discuss some key factors to consider when selecting the best hair serum for your curly hair.

    Ingredients: The first and most important aspect to consider is the ingredients used in the hair serum. Look for serums that are free from harmful chemicals such as sulfates, parabens, and silicones. Instead, opt for serums that are enriched with natural ingredients like argan oil, coconut oil, shea butter, or aloe vera. These ingredients are known for their moisturizing and nourishing properties, which can help in enhancing the health of your curls.

    Frizz Control: Frizz is a common problem faced by many people with curly hair. When selecting a hair serum, look for one that offers excellent frizz control. The serum should have the ability to smooth down the frizz and provide long-lasting protection against humidity. This will help in keeping your curls intact and prevent them from turning into a frizzy mess.

    Moisture And Hydration: Curly hair tends to be dry and requires a lot of moisture to stay healthy and bouncy. Therefore, it is essential to choose a hair serum that provides adequate moisture and hydration to your curls. Look for serums that have hydrating properties and can lock in the moisture within the hair shafts. This will help in preventing dryness and improve the overall texture of your curls.

    Heat Protection: If you frequently use heat-styling tools like straighteners or curling irons, it is crucial to choose a hair serum that offers heat protection. Heat can damage curly hair and cause it to become brittle and frizzy. Therefore, opt for a serum that has heat-protective properties and can shield your curls from the damaging effects of heat styling.

    Weight And Consistency: The weight and consistency of a hair serum play a crucial role in how it performs on curly hair. Consider your hair's thickness and density when choosing the weight and consistency of your serum.

    Our contributor William Slator, a hair expert, says, “Hair serums for curly hair should be chosen based on the specific needs of the hair, rather than just the thickness. For fine curly hair, lightweight serums that provide moisture without weighing down the hair are recommended. For thick curly hair, a richer and more hydrating serum can be beneficial to tame frizz and define curls. Some popular serums for curly hair include those containing ingredients like argan oil, coconut oil, or shea butter.”

    Price: While budget-friendly hair serums may not have the same luxurious packaging or fancy marketing campaigns as high-end brands, they can still deliver excellent results. Look for serums that are reasonably priced without compromising on quality. Remember, expensive doesn't always mean better.

    With the right hair serum, you'll be well on your way to achieving healthy, defined, and frizz-free curls.

    How to Use Hair Serums for Curly Hair?

    1. Wash your hair with a hydrating shampoo and conditioner specifically designed for curly hair. Gently towel dry your hair to remove excess moisture, leaving it slightly damp.
    2. Take a pea-sized amount of hair serum in your palms and rub them together to distribute the product evenly. Avoid using too much product, as it can weigh your curls down and make them appear greasy.
    3. Apply the hair serum starting from the mid-lengths to the ends of your hair, avoiding the roots. This is where curly hair tends to be drier and more prone to frizz. Use your fingers or a wide-toothed comb to distribute the product evenly.
    4. Once the serum is applied, gently scrunch your hair upwards towards your scalp using your hands. This technique will help to enhance your natural curl pattern and create more definition.
    5. To enhance your curls and minimize frizz, use a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer. Set the dryer to a low or medium heat setting and gently cup your curls with the diffuser, lifting them from the roots. This will help to dry your hair without disrupting the curl pattern.
    6. Once you've applied the hair serum and used the diffuser, resist the urge to touch your hair while it dries. This can cause frizz and disrupt the curls' formation. Let your hair air dry or use a diffuser on low heat if you need to speed up the drying time.
    7. Once your hair is completely dry, you can add a few drops of hair serum to the ends of your curls to add extra shine and smoothness. Again, remember to use a small amount to avoid weighing your hair down.
    8. If you notice any frizz or loss of definition throughout the day, you can use a tiny amount of hair serum to smooth out the problem areas. Avoid applying too much product, as it can make your hair appear greasy.

    Conclusion

    Finding the best hair serum for curly hair is crucial for achieving and maintaining healthy, defined, and frizz-free curls. After analyzing the top-rated options mentioned here, it is evident that these are the standout products that cater specifically to the needs of curly hair. These hair serums not only provide essential moisture and nourishment but also help to enhance the natural texture and shine of curly locks. Whether you are looking for added hydration, heat protection, or improved manageability, there is a hair serum out there to meet your unique needs. By incorporating the right hair serum into your curly hair routine, you can enjoy bouncy, luscious curls that are sure to turn heads.

    Contributor: William Slator, Product developer - HairGuard

    FAQ's

    Does a serum help curly hair?
    By providing essential nourishment and hydration, serums help to combat frizz, define curls, and enhance overall hair texture. The lightweight formula of a serum ensures that hair remains bouncy and voluminous without feeling weighed down. Incorporating a serum into your hair care routine can help unleash the full potential of your curly locks, leaving you with beautifully defined and manageable curls.
    Can you apply hair serum to dry hair?
    Applying hair serum to dry hair can be beneficial in providing hydration, shine, and taming frizz. It helps to restore moisture and nourishment to the hair, making it appear healthier and more manageable. Use the right amount of serum and distribute it evenly to avoid weighing down the hair.
    Are serums good for curly hair?
    Serums can be highly beneficial for curly hair. With their lightweight formulas and ability to deeply penetrate the hair shaft, serums provide much-needed moisture, reduce frizz, and enhance the overall health and appearance of curly locks. By applying a serum to damp or dry hair, individuals with curly hair can enjoy increased manageability, improved definition, and a smoother, more polished look.
    Is serum or cream better for curly hair?
    Serums are lightweight and provide a smoother and more polished finish, making them ideal for controlling frizz and adding shine. On the other hand, creams are richer and provide more moisture and definition to curls, making them a great choice for those with dry or damaged hair. Ultimately, it is important to experiment and find the product that works best for your specific hair type and desired results.
    Which serum is best for dry and frizzy hair?
    For those with extremely dry hair, a serum containing nourishing ingredients like argan oil or coconut oil can provide deep hydration and restore moisture to the hair shaft. If frizz is the main concern, serums with anti-frizz properties, such as silicone-based formulas, can effectively smooth the hair and create a protective barrier against humidity.
    Is serum or oil better for frizzy hair?
    When it comes to taming frizzy hair, both serums and oils can be effective solutions. Serums have a lightweight formula that helps to control frizz without weighing down the hair. They also provide added shine and nourishment. On the other hand, oils are deeply moisturizing and can work well for thick and extremely frizzy hair. They help to smooth down the cuticles and add moisture to the hair.
    Do you apply frizz serum to wet or dry hair?
    Applying frizz serum to wet hair can help distribute the product evenly and provide a smoother finish. On the other hand, applying frizz serum to dry hair can help tame frizz and add shine without diluting the product with water. Experimenting with both methods can help determine which application technique works best for your hair type and styling routine.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    Alvira, the author, and our in-house hair care expert, is a shopaholic and loves experimenting with new products. She has beautiful straight locks, and so to curate this list of best hair serums for curly hair, she has tried out different serums on a team member who has naturally beautiful curls to check whether they work or not. She was genuinely amazed to see the results of a few serums, and after doing extensive research, she mentioned some of the best hair serums that tame frizz and define curls to make them look more vibrant and bouncy.

    As someone with naturally curly hair, finding the right hair serums has always been a challenge for Neha Tiwari. However, after trying some of the recommended serums mentioned here, she was amazed by the results. HerStyler HAIR SERUM is one of her favorites as it not only tames her frizz but also defines her curls and makes them look more vibrant and bouncy. She highly recommends these hair serums to anyone looking to enhance their natural curls.

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust Select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!

    Author BIO
    reviewer
    Alvira Dsouza
    Hair Expert

    With a keen eye for detail and a passion for hairstyling, Alvira is a certified Hair Expert who brings the latest tre More