Curly Girl Approved – The Best CGM Recommended Products

The Curly Girl Method has become increasingly popular over the past few years and many brands have now caught on to the trend. In fact, it’s never been easier to buy Curly Girl approved products!

In this post, I am going to list over 30 Curly Girl approved products that you can start using right now. But not only that, I’m going to share exactly which products work for which type of hair!

curly girl approved

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How do I know they work? Because in 2020 I conducted a survey with over 700 CG followers from 32 countries around the world. They all shared their secret tips and tricks with me.

Most importantly, they shared their top Curly Girl approved products, and today, I’m going to share a few of these products with you so that you can find success with the CG method much faster!

So whether you have wavy or curly hair, low porosity, or high porosity hair, there’s a product for you!

What Does Curly Girl Approved Actually Mean?

In short, Curly Girl Approved is a term used for hair products suitable to use on the Curly Girl Method. The products are free from sulfate, silicones, waxes, drying alcohols, and parabens.

As long as a product doesn’t contain any of the above, it can be considered Curly Girl approved.

Types of Curly Girl Method Approved Products

There are 5 different kinds of products you can use on the Curly Girl Method:

  • Co-Wash
  • Conditioner
  • Gel
  • Deep Conditioner
  • Mousse

As mentioned earlier, a product used for co-washing can either be a gentle botanical cleanser or a conditioner. Deep conditioner is for when your hair needs a bit of extra care.

When it comes to gel or mousse, that’s really your call.

Some prefer to use gel only, others prefer mousse as it gives a lighter hold. The downside to mousse is that it can be a bit drying. Some mix the two together.

I haven’t added clarifying shampoos to this list because it’s not really part of CGM. Clarifying shampoos contain sulfate or olefin sulfonate and are therefore not Curly Girl approved.

However many CG followers do clarify once every 4 to 6 weeks because they experience an itchy scalp caused by build-up. Again, this is completely your call. It’s your hair and you can do whatever you want.

Don’t let the method take over your life. Instead, try and incorporate it the best you can to suit your own schedule and lifestyle.

My Top CGM products

The first list of products below contains my absolute favorite products. They work for my hair type and I always have good results.

curly girl method before and after
Before and After The Curly Girl Method

Further down below, as promised, I have listed Curly Girl Method products that are suitable for each category of hair type.

My favorite Curly Girl Co-Washing Products

Giovanni’s Smooth As Silk Conditioner

1. Giovanni’s Smooth As Silk Conditioner

This is a budget-friendly product that works well for a lightweight condition.

It helps to detangle knots while increasing shine and protecting against split ends. This product is vegan and can be used daily.


As I Am Co-wash

2. As I Am Coconut Co-wash

The As I Am co-wash is a light-textured co-wash that thoroughly cleanses and hydrates your curls.

The product contains coconut oil and castor oil which help to promote hair growth.

The co-wash effectively removes product build-up while moisturizing your hair at the same time and therefore makes hair easier to detangle. Suitable for daily use.


Garnier Ultimate Blends Almond Crush Conditioner

3. Garnier Ultimate Blends Almond Crush Conditioner

This conditioner is gentle and weightless and brilliant for everyday use when co-washing or conditioning.

The formula contains organic almond milk and organic agave sap and helps to cleanse your hair of build-up caused by products and pollution.

Can be used daily and leaves hair feeling silky smooth and soft.


My favorite Curly Girl Conditioners

Garnier Ultimate Blends Banana Hair Food

1. Garnier Ultimate Blends Banana Hair Food

This Banana Hair food mask is a 3 in 1 intensive hair treatment that works well both as a regular conditioner as well as a deep conditioner.

The product contains blended banana and Shea butter and leaves dry hair feeling intensely nourished.

A fantastic lightweight conditioner with maximum impact.


Bouclème Curl Conditioner

2. Bouclème Curl Conditioner

The Bouclème Curl Conditioner is a slightly more expensive yet super hydrating conditioner that protects your hair on a daily basis.

It contains a unique formula made with coconut and Argan oil as well as aloe vera and honey. This product brings back softness and shine to dull curls.


Faith In Nature Aloe Vera Conditioner

3. Faith In Nature Aloe Vera Conditioner

This conditioner is a great starting point for any new Curly Girl.

Not only is it affordable but it contains fantastic ingredients to help rejuvenate your dry locks.

A key ingredient is aloe vera which is great for a sensitive scalp and provides added nourishment to dry and damaged hair. Suitable for everyday use.


My Favorite Curly Girl Gels

Eco Styler Gel - Olive Oil

1. Eco Styler Gel – Olive Oil

This gel contains 100% pure olive oil and provides a medium to strong hold. Great for Curly Girl Method beginners and for those looking for budget-friendly gels.

The Eco gel works great when layering with cremes or mousses and leaves your hair with a healthy shine. You may need more than you think for a superior crunchy cast but the gel is super lightweight and doesn’t leave white flakes.


Umberto Gianni Curl Jelly Vegan Scrunching Jelly

2. Umberto Gianni Curl Jelly Vegan Scrunching Jelly

Umberto Giannini has a small but good selection of Curly Girl approved products. This gel is their best-selling product and understandably so. The gel has a medium hold and adds shine while giving definition to waves and curls.

The gel is suitable for all hair types and helps prevent frizz. It is also extremely crunchable so if you like to break a cast, this is the gel for you.


Bouclème Curl Defining Gel

3. Bouclème Curl Defining Gel

This best-selling gel from Bouclème creates smooth and defined curls without any flakiness. The gel creates a strong cast and leaves your locks with a long-lasting medium hold.

The formula contains virgin coconut oil, Argan oil, and organic aloe vera. The gel is vegan and 99% naturally derived.


My Favorite Curly Girl Deep Conditioners

As I Am Hydration Elation Conditioner

1. As I Am Hydration Elation Conditioner

This hydrating conditioner from As I Am offers an intensive moisture treatment for brittle and damaged hair. It helps by moisturizing deep within the hair shaft and protects weak areas and repairs split ends.

This product contains sugar cane, green tea, apple and lemon, shea butter, and vitamin E.


Curls Blueberry Bliss Reparative Hair Masque

2. Curls Blueberry Bliss Reparative Hair Masque

This hair mask offers an intensive reparative treatment guaranteed to prevent breakage. It contains blueberry extract, aloe leaf juice, and chamomile extract which helps to protect your natural curls.

Use once a week as part of your Curly Girl Method routine for bouncy, soft, and hydrated curls.


Bouclème Intensive Moisture Treatment

3. Bouclème Intensive Moisture Treatment

This intensive treatment from Bouclème is definitely a high-end product but according to its customers, it’s absolutely worth it.

The formula is designed to strengthen your hair and protect it against both environmental stressors as well as breakage. Can be used as a deep conditioner or a leave-in. Use once a week for soft, bouncy curls.


My Favorite Curly Girl Mousses

1. Pantene Pro-V Maximum Hold Mousse

Pantene Pro-V Maximum Hold Mousse

This Curly Girl Method approved mousse from Pantene is a firm favorite amongst CG followers. The formula is nonsticky and lightweight which allows for maximum volume and soft curls. The mousse has a strong hold which ensures that your curls stay in place throughout the day.

It also allows for curl flexibility and elasticity and helps to prevent frizz and flyaways. A great affordable mousse for a healthy-looking finish.


Aussie Mousse Turn Up The Curl

2. Aussie Mousse Turn Up The Curl

This mousse from Aussie is great for those who don’t fancy a hard cast. It provides curls with softness and bounce without feeling sticky or heavy.

If you’re looking for an everyday mousse to help define your curls, this is it. Even better, the mousse is PETA certified.


Wella EIMI Extra Volume Mousse Strong Hold Volumizing Mousse

3. Wella EIMI Extra Volume Mousse Strong Hold Volumizing Mousse

This lightweight mousse offers volume and moisture for visibly defined curls. It has a strong hold and is humidity resistant.

With its weightless texture, curls stay flexible and touchable throughout the day. Can also be used alongside a gel or other smoothing styling products.


And there you have it. My personal favorites are definitely worth a try!


Curly Girl Method Approved Products For Low Porosity Hair

TRESemmé Botanique Conditioner Nourish and Replenish Coconut and Aloe

Curly Girl Approved Products For Low Porosity Hair

The TRESemmé Botanique conditioner is a very popular conditioner. It is lightweight and nourishing and helps to transform dry hair into bouncy, shiny locks.

The botanical formula was created for those with dry hair and contains coconut and aloe vera for maximum hydration.

Use regularly and follow up with your favorite styling product.


Giovanni Tea Tree Triple Treat Invigorating Conditioner

curly girl approved products

Giovanni has made some excellent Curly Girl Method friendly products and this is no different. This Tea Tree Triple Treat conditioner helps to revitalize your scalp, hydrate dry and damaged hair whilst removing product build-up and grease.

The conditioner is infused with aloe vera, lavender, and other botanical oils that make it easy to detangle matted hair.

This product is Bunny certified.


SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Restorative Conditioner

curly girl approved products

This Raw Shea Butter Conditioner can be used both for conditioning as well as deep conditioning. It offers a high dose of moisture and helps to restore dull, lifeless hair back to its natural shine.

You can use this as a conditioner on wash days or as a reparative treatment mask once or twice a month.


Shea Moisture Coconut and Hibiscus Curl and Shine Conditioner

curly girl approved products

SheaMoisture is a very popular brand with the Curly Girl Method community and their Coconut and Hibiscus conditioner is a firm favorite.

Great for those with thick hair as the product has a rich, creamy texture which helps soften hair. The conditioner detangles dry, frizzy hair and infuses your curls with intense moisture.


Giovanni LA Hold Styling Gel

Giovanni LA Hold Styling Gel

The Giovanni LA Hold Styling Gel offers a strong hold for your curls. This gel is color-safe, cruelty-free, and won’t break the bank.

Perfect for those who need extra frizz control and if you’re looking for more defined curls.


Aussie Instant Freeze Gel

curly girl approved products

The Aussie Instant Freeze gel is a firm favorite amongst Curly Girl Method followers. It has a very strong hold and contains Australian jojoba oil and sea kelp.

The gel locks in moisture without going flaky or being sticky and leaves your hair feeling soft and bouncy.

The gel is also super affordable and would therefore be great for those on a budget.


Curls Blueberry Bliss Reparative Hair Masque

Curls Blueberry Bliss Reparative Hair Masque

The Curls Blueberry mask offers an intensive reparative treatment guaranteed to prevent breakage. It contains blueberry extract, aloe leaf juice, and chamomile extract which helps to protect your natural curls.

Use once a week as part of your Curly Girl Method routine for bouncy, soft, and hydrated curls.


Garnier Ultimate Blends Argan Oil & Almond Cream Hair Mask

curly girl approved products

This Argan Oil & Almond Cream Hair Mask from Garnier is perfect for those with dry and unruly hair. Argan oil deeply nourishes damaged hair and helps to restore shine and vigor to your curls.

The hair mask has a creamy consistency yet a lightweight feel that doesn’t weigh down your hair. Use once a week as a deep treatment mask for optimal results.


John Frieda Frizz Ease Curl Reviver Mousse

curly girl approved products

This mousse from John Frieda is a great product if you’re looking for soft, loose curls. It contains a thermal protectant as well as UV filter which helps to prevent damage from heat styling and environmental factors.

The consistency of this mousse is lightweight and non-sticky which allows for a voluminous look without the crunch or stiffness.

Use alongside a gel for a stronger cast.


Umberto Giannini Curl Whip Curl Activating Mousse

curly girl approved products

This vegan curl mousse from Umberto Giannini is perfect for those who aren’t necessarily looking for a cast but for softer, bouncier waves or curls.

The mousse offers a voluminous boost and helps transform dull hair into shapely and bouncy curls.

Use by scrunching into damp hair and leave to dry or diffuse. Can be used alongside other styling products for a stronger hold.


Curly Girl Method Approved Products For Medium Porosity Hair

Curlsmith Curl Quenching Conditioning Wash

curly girl approved products

Curlsmith’s Curl Quenching Conditioning Wash is another great non-lathering co-wash if you’re not comfortable with conditioner washing.

It is a very gentle yet effective co-wash and helps to remove build-up and dirt without the need for shampoo.

Suitable for everyday use and helps to detangle unruly locks.


Cantu Complete Conditioning Co-wash

curly girl approved products

The Cantu co-wash is a gentle cleanser that removes heavy product build-up. It contains a blend of over 15 natural butters and oils and helps to keep your scalp clean and moisturized.

A great alternative to conditioner if you need a thorough cleanse on wash day.


Garnier Ultimate Blends Banana Hair Food

curly girl approved products

This Banana Hair food mask is a 3 in 1 intensive hair treatment that works well both as a regular conditioner as well as a deep conditioner.

The product contains blended banana and Shea butter and leaves dry hair feeling intensely nourished. A fantastic lightweight conditioner with maximum impact.


SheaMoisture Coconut And Hibiscus Curl And Shine Conditioner

curly girl approved products

SheaMoisture is a very popular brand with the Curly Girl Method community and their Coconut and Hibiscus conditioner is a firm favorite.

Great for those with thick hair as the product has a rich, creamy texture which helps soften hair. The conditioner detangles dry, frizzy hair and infuses your curls with intense moisture.


Bouclème Curl Defining Gel

curly girl approved products

This best-selling gel from Bouclème creates smooth and defined curls without any flakiness.

The gel creates a strong cast and leaves your locks with a long-lasting medium hold. The formula contains virgin coconut oil, Argan oil, and organic aloe vera.

The gel is vegan and 99% naturally derived.


Bounce Curl Light Cream Gel

Bounce Curl Light Cream Gel

This light gel from Bounce Curl is 80% gel and 20% cream which helps to lock in the shape of your curls whilst providing optimal hydration. It is vegan, color-safe and its lightweight formula will allow you to create maximum volume. For best results, mix with other Bounce Curls products if needed.


Garnier Ultimate Blends Papaya Hair Food

Garnier Ultimate Blends Papaya Hair Food

The papaya hair food from Garnier is used by Curly Girl Method followers all over the world. It has a creamy yet light-textured consistency and can be used for co-washing, conditioning, and as a deep conditioning hair treatment.

The papaya hair mask visibly reduces split ends even after just one use and contains hydrating Papaya and Alma extracts to replenish moisture to dry and dull hair.


As I Am Hydration Elation Intensive Conditioner

curly girl approved products

The As I Am Hydration Elation Conditioner offers an intensive moisture treatment for brittle and damaged hair.

It helps by moisturizing deep within the hair shaft and protects weak areas and repairs split ends.

This product contains sugar cane, green tea, apple and lemon, shea butter, and vitamin E.


Giovanni Mousse Air-Turbo Charged Hair Styling Foam

Giovanni Mousse Air-Turbo Charged Hair Styling Foam

This lightweight foam from Giovanni is a game-changer. It gives curls a natural weightless look and adds volume to roots.

Can be used in conjunction with gel on wash days or even on refresh days when your curls need an extra boost.

A great addition to your routine if you’ve been wanting to try a lighter alternative to gel.


Cantu Shea Butter for Natural Hair Wave Whip Curling Mousse

Cantu Shea Butter for Natural Hair Wave Whip Curling Mousse

This mousse from Cantu contains pure Shea butter which helps to moisturize your locks while simultaneously creating soft, bouncy curls. It has a medium hold and won’t create a cast but if you’re looking for softer curls or waves without the crunch, this is for you.


Curly Girl Method Approved Products For High Porosity Hair

XHC Ginger Conditioner

XHC Ginger Conditioner

This ginger conditioner from XHC offers a nourishing cleanse and condition to both hair and scalp.

A great conditioner if you’re only just starting the CG method and also budget-friendly. Helps to hydrate thirsty locks and leaves hair feeling shiny, refreshed, and full of life.

This conditioner also protects your hair from dryness and environmental damage.


Faith In Nature Lavender And Geranium Conditioner

Faith In Nature Lavender And Geranium Conditioner

This conditioner from Faith In Nature is a great product that helps to detangle unruly hair. It is lightweight and has a mild but wonderful scent made from 100% natural fragrances.

This product doesn’t lather too much and therefore offers a thorough but gentle cleanse. Suitable for everyday use.


CONDITIONERS

curly girl approved products

The Bouclème Curl Conditioner is a slightly more expensive yet super hydrating conditioner that protects your hair on a daily basis.

It contains a unique formula made with coconut and Argan oil as well as aloe vera and honey.

This product brings back softness and shine to dull curls.


Noughty To the Rescue Moisture Boost Conditioner

curly girl approved products

This popular Boost conditioner from Noughty Haircare contains a unique blend of plant oils that help restore and smooth damaged hair.

The hydrating formula which contains shea butter and coconut oil helps to reduce frizz and breakage.

An affordable product that is gentle enough for everyday use.


Kinky Curly Curling Custard

Kinky Curly Curling Custard

The Curling Custard Gel from Kinky Curly is a real CG favorite. It contains an all-natural formula that provides moisture, and shine and helps define waves and curls.

Its botanical ingredients leave your hair feeling strong and hydrated and the soft textured gel helps eliminate frizz and flyaways.

For best results, use on soaking wet hair and leave to dry or diffuse without touching.


Cantu Define & Shine Curling Custard

Cantu Define & Shine Curling Custard

This curling custard from Cantu is another popular product amongst CG followers. Contains Shea butter which moisturizes your hair and allows for frizz-free and defined curls.

Control flyaways with this custard and expect shiny, bouncy locks after use. Great for a long-lasting, flake-free hold.


SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore Treatment Masque

SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore Treatment Masque

This restorative treatment mask from SheaMoisture helps to prevent breakage and shedding.

It is formulated with Jamaican black castor oil as well as Shea butter and offers an intense deep condition.

A firm favorite amongst many followers of the Curly Girl Method and works particularly well if your hair is heat damaged from previous use of styling tools.


Camille Rose Algae Renew Deep Conditioner

Camille Rose Algae Renew Deep Conditioner

The Algae Renew Deep Conditioner from Camille Rose is full of incredible ingredients to help revitalize your curls.

The formula contains a blend of blue-green algae, mango, and cocoa butter, as well as 65 minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants.

Algae extract in particular, helps to promote a healthy scalp and regulates oil production.

This is a fantastic Curly Girl Method approved deep conditioner that will help restore damaged hair.


Pantene Pro-V Maximum Hold Mousse

Pantene Pro-V Maximum Hold Mousse

This mousse from Pantene is a firm favorite amongst CG followers. The formula is nonsticky and lightweight which allows for maximum volume and soft curls.

The mousse has a strong hold which ensures that your curls stay in place throughout the day.

It also allows for curl flexibility and elasticity and helps to prevent frizz and flyaways. A great affordable mousse for a healthy-looking finish.


Herbal Essences Totally Twisted Curl Boosting Mousse

curly girl approved products

This mousse from Herbal Essences offers a light hold and an easily breakable cast which delivers soft, bouncy waves and curls that will last all day.

Great for frizz-control and flyaways and helps to boost and define your curls. Can be used daily and is color-safe and pH-balanced.


Curly Girl Method Approved Products For Wavy Hair

XHC Banana Conditioner

curly girl approved products

This affordable conditioner from XHC is enriched with banana which leaves your hair feeling shiny, moisturized, and smooth.

The conditioner has a lovely scent and helps clean hair from impurities and product build-up.

The texture is rich and therefore aids in producing soft and tangle-free curls. Suitable for everyday use.


Faith In Nature Aloe Vera Conditioner

Faith In Nature Aloe Vera Conditioner

This conditioner from Faith In Nature is a great Curly Girl approved starting conditioner for any new Curly Girl. Not only is it affordable but it contains fantastic ingredients to help rejuvenate your dry locks.

A key ingredient is aloe vera which is great for a sensitive scalp and provides added nourishment to dry and damaged hair. Suitable for everyday use.


Garnier Ultimate Blends Almond Crush Almond Milk & Agave Sap Conditioner

Garnier Ultimate Blends Almond Crush Almond Milk & Agave Sap Conditioner

This gentle and weightless conditioner is brilliant for everyday use when co-washing or conditioning.

The formula contains organic almond milk and organic agave sap and helps to cleanse your hair of build-up caused by products and pollution.

Can be used daily and leaves hair feeling silky smooth and soft.


Noughty To the Rescue Moisture Boost Conditioner

Noughty To the Rescue Moisture Boost Conditioner

This popular conditioner from Noughty Haircare contains a unique blend of plant oils that help restore and smooth damaged hair.

The hydrating formula which contains shea butter and coconut oil helps to reduce frizz and breakage. An affordable product that is gentle enough for everyday use.


Ecoslay Orange Marmalade

Ecoslay Orange Marmalade

The Orange Marmalade from Ecoslay is an extremely popular gel with the CG community. It provides a strong hold that leaves your curls feeling shiny, bouncy, and super defined.

Contains flaxseed, aloe vera juice, and marshmallow root extract for consistent springy curls at every wash.


Giovanni LA Hold Styling Gel

Giovanni LA Hold Styling Gel

The Curly Girl approved Giovanni LA Hold Styling Gel offers a strong hold for your curls. This gel is color-safe, cruelty-free, and won’t break the bank.

Perfect for those who need extra frizz control and if you’re looking for more defined curls.


Jessicurl Deep Conditioning Treatment

curly girl approved products

The Jessicurl Deep Conditioning Treatment is a moisturizing treatment mask that is thick, creamy, and helps repair and restore damaged hair.

It helps to soften and bring back life and shine to otherwise dull and unruly curls. Use once a week for 30 minutes as a deep treatment mask.

Can also be used as a leave-in conditioner for thicker hair textures. A really great product from Jessicurl that delivers great results.


Noughty To The Rescue Intense Moisture Treatment

Noughty To The Rescue Intense Moisture Treatment

The Noughty To The Rescue Intense Moisture Treatment is a great investment for those in need of rejuvenating their locks.

The mask is deeply hydrating and helps to restore thirsty and over-processed hair.

Made from 97% natural ingredients, this hair treatment will rescue your dry curls and transform them into shiny, smooth, and defined curls.


Cake The Curl Whip Whipped Curl Mousse

Cake The Curl Whip Whipped Curl Mousse

The Curl Whip Whipped Curl mousse from Cake offers great curl control and definition without a heavy feel.

This lightweight product gives your locks a natural, soft hold with zero crunch. Protects against frizz and gives your hair great volume.

Use before diffusing or air drying.


Not Your Mother’s Curl Talk Curl Activating Mousse

Not Your Mother's Curl Talk Curl Activating Mousse

This mousse will give you long-lasting hold and humidity control. It helps to activate your natural curl pattern and offers amazing frizz control. You only need a small amount to see instant results.

The mousse also protects against environmental stressors so that you can have bouncy, shiny, and voluminous curls.


Curly Girl Method Approved Products For Curly Hair

Aunt Jackie’s Coco Wash Coconut Milk Conditioning Cleanser

Aunt Jackie's Coco Wash Coconut Milk Conditioning Cleanser

The Aunt Jackie’s Coconut Milk Conditioning Cleanser is formulated for dry hair but is a stronger cleanser that may be suitable as a clarifying cleanse rather than for everyday use.

The formula contains nourishing ingredients such as avocado and Shea butter which can help treat a dry scalp.

Massage the product into wet hair and make sure you work through any tangles as well as your ends.

Use a scalp brush if you’re experiencing product build-up.


As I Am Coconut Co-wash Cleansing Conditioner

As I Am Coconut Co-wash Cleansing Conditioner

The As I Am co-wash is a light-textured co-wash that thoroughly cleanses and hydrates your curls.

The Curly Girl method approved product contains coconut oil and castor oil which help to promote hair growth. The co-wash effectively removes product build-up while moisturizing your hair at the same time and therefore makes hair easier to detangle.

Suitable for daily use.


Bouclème Curl Conditioner

Bouclème Curl Conditioner

The Bouclème Curl Conditioner is a slightly more expensive yet super hydrating conditioner that protects your hair on a daily basis.

It contains a unique formula made with coconut and Argan oil as well as aloe vera and honey.

This product brings back softness and shine to dull curls.


Garnier Ultimate Blends Banana Hair Food

Garnier Ultimate Blends Banana Hair Food

This Banana Hair food mask is a 3 in 1 intensive hair treatment that works well both as a regular conditioner as well as a deep conditioner.

The product contains blended banana and Shea butter and leaves dry hair feeling intensely nourished. A fantastic lightweight conditioner with maximum impact.


Eco Styler Gel – Olive Oil

curly girl approved products

This Eco Styler olive oil gel contains 100% pure olive oil and provides a medium to strong hold. Great for CG beginners and for those looking for budget-friendly gels.

The Eco gel works great when layering with cremes or mousses and leaves your hair with a healthy shine. You may need more than you think for a superior crunchy cast but the gel is super lightweight and doesn’t leave white flakes.


Kinky Curly Curling Custard

Kinky Curly Curling Custard

The Curly Girl approved Curling Custard Gel from Kinky Curly is a real CG favorite. It contains an all-natural formula that provides moisture, shine and helps define waves and curls.

Its botanical ingredients leave your hair feeling strong and hydrated and the soft textured gel helps eliminate frizz and flyaways.

For best results, use on soaking wet hair and leave to dry or diffuse without touching.


SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore Treatment Masque

curly girl approved products

This restorative treatment mask from SheaMoisture helps to prevent breakage and shedding. It is formulated with Jamaican black castor oil as well as Shea butter and offers an intense deep condition.

A firm favorite amongst many followers of the Curly Girl Method and works particularly well on heat-damaged and chemically treated hair.


As I Am Hydration Elation Intensive Conditioner

As I Am Hydration Elation Intensive Conditioner

The As I Am Hydration Elation Conditioner offers an intensive moisture treatment for brittle and damaged hair.

It helps by moisturizing deep within the hair shaft and protects weak areas and repairs split ends.


SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Frizz-Free Curl Mousse

SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Frizz-Free Curl Mousse

This hair mousse from SheaMoisture helps you keep your curls defined and free from frizz.
The mousse is rich in moisture and enhances your natural waves or curl pattern. The mousse is not sticky, crunchy, or flaky and the result is voluminous curls with a soft shine.

Perfect for managing fizz in humid conditions and coconut oil has been added to help moisturize and protect dry, brittle hair from breakage.


John Frieda Frizz Ease Curl Reviver Mousse

John Frieda Frizz Ease Curl Reviver Mousse

This Curly Girl approved mousse from John Frieda is a great product if you’re looking for soft, loose curls. It contains a thermal protectant as well as UV filter which helps to prevent damage from heat styling and environmental factors.

The consistency of this mousse is lightweight and non-sticky which allows for a voluminous look without the crunch or stiffness. Use alongside a gel for a stronger cast.


Curly Girl Method Approved Products For Kinky Hair

Aunt Jackie’s Purify Me – Moisturizing Co-Wash Cleanser

Aunt Jackie’s Purify Me – Moisturizing Co-Wash Cleanser

The Purify Me Moisturizing Co-Wash Cleanser from Aunt Jackie’s is great for those who suffer from dry hair that needs detangling.

This creamy triple-action cleanser washes away impurities and product build-up while replenishing moisture and softness back into your curls.

Contains flaxseed which is known for preventing hair thinning and shedding. Gentle enough to use daily.


Eden BodyWorks Coconut Shea Cleansing CoWash

Eden BodyWorks Coconut Shea Cleansing CoWash

This co-wash from Eden is an affordable CG beginner’s product and can be used regularly.

It gently cleanses hair from pollution and product build-up and promotes a healthy environment for hair growth.

Contains coconut, aloe vera juice as well as Shea butter for additional moisture.


The Mane Choice Pink Lemonade and Coconut Super Antioxidant and Texture Beautifier Conditioner

The Mane Choice Pink Lemonade and Coconut Super Antioxidant and Texture Beautifier Conditioner

An affordable intense conditioner that turns dry hair into silky soft locks. Helps to revive unruly and damaged hair and restores your hair’s natural curl pattern.

This conditioner has a lovely scent of oranges and grapefruit and can be used both as a regular conditioner as well as a deep conditioner.


Aunt Jackie’s Rescued Thirst Quenching Recovery Conditioner

Aunt Jackie's Rescued Thirst Quenching Recovery Conditioner

This reparative conditioner from Aunt Jackie’s contains grapeseed oil, castor oil, and tamanu oil for maximum hydration.

This conditioner helps to repair damaged and dry hair and you should notice a difference after the first wash. Can be used as an intensive repair treatment as well as a regular rinse-out conditioning treatment.

Best used after a clarifying co-wash.


Aunt Jackie’s Don’t Shrink Flaxseed Elongating Curling Gel

Aunt Jackie's Don't Shrink Flaxseed Elongating Curling Gel

This Curly Girl approved gel from Aunt Jackie’s is a styling gel that lasts all day. It contains moisturizing ingredients such as flaxseed, Shea Butter, and extra virgin olive oil which helps to give bounce to your curly locks.

The gel offers a really great hold without flaking or caking. Use more product if you have tighter curls.


Eco Styler Black Castor And Flaxseed Oil

curly girl approved products

It’s no secret that Eco Styler is one of the most popular products amongst CG followers. It’s a super affordable brand that produces a high-quality gel that lasts all day.

This black castor and flaxseed gel is no different. It provides a superior hold that lasts all day while banishing frizz and flyaways.

Its moisturizing formula gives you long-lasting shine the mixture of vitamin E and Omega-3 helps to promote hair growth.


Camille Rose Algae Deep Conditioning Hair Mask

curly girl approved products

The Algae Renew Deep Conditioner from Camille Rose is full of incredible ingredients to help revitalize your curls.

The formula contains a blend of blue-green algae, mango, and cocoa butter, as well as 65 minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants.

A fantastic deep conditioner that will help restore damaged hair.


Eden BodyWorks Jojoba Natural Deep Conditioner

curly girl approved products

The Eden BodyWorks Jojoba Monoi Deep Conditioner helps to repair your curls’ natural shine from over-processing, damage, and dryness.

The formula contains moisturizing ingredients such as coconut oil, jojoba oil, and castor seed oil which strengthens the hair from the inside out.

Camomile and tea tree oil have also been added to provide scalp care. An intense deep conditioner that restores your hair’s natural beauty.


ORS Curls Unleashed Green Tea and Mango Shine and Define Mousse

curly girl approved products

This Shine & Define Mousse from ORS is guaranteed to give you bouncy and soft curls without frizz or crunch.

The foamy texture is lightweight and provides lots of moisture and shine. This mousse helps to increase volume and curl definition and leaves hair so soft and touchable it feels like you didn’t use a product at all.

Works very well with other styling products for an even stronger hold and additional frizz control.


What Is The Curly Girl Method?

As you probably know, the Curly Girl Method (also known as CGM), is a best practice curly haircare routine developed by Lorraine Massey, the author of Curly Girl, The Handbook.

The Curly Girl Method encourages you to ditch heat styling tools such as straighteners and curlers as well as any products containing sulfate, silicones, waxes, drying alcohols, and parabens.

The aim is to nurture your hair back to its original healthy state which can really only be done by removing harmful elements from your curly hair routine such as chemicals in shampoos and applied heat. 

There are essentially 3 steps to follow on the Curly Girl Method:

Step 1: Co-washing

Co-washing means washing your hair using conditioner only. One of the key rules of the CG Method is to stop using shampoo.

This is mainly because most shampoos contain sulfate and this can easily dry out your hair. Some use low-poo shampoos which is shampoo that doesn’t contain sulfate, but some say they shouldn’t be used either.

Instead, the CG Method encourages you to use Curly Girl approved cleansers which are botanical cleansers without sulfates. They are also described as ‘no-poo’ which means that they do not lather.

This is why using a silicone-free conditioner to co-wash is recommended as you should not be using any foaming hair products when washing your hair.

You can also buy co-washing products made for this specific purpose. Although they are called co-washes, they tend to be gentle, lightweight cleansing conditioners. 

You may think that not using shampoo will make your hair greasy and unmanageable, and maybe that’s true for some at the start. This is called the transition phase. But the truth is, you really don’t need shampoo to cleanse your hair.

Step 2: Conditioning

After co-washing, it’s time to condition. Some use the same Curly Girl approved conditioner to co-wash and condition whilst others prefer to use a lighter conditioner for co-washing. It’s completely up to you.

Conditioning on the CG Method is slightly different than what you might be used to. Instead of just smothering the product into your hair, you’ll need to ‘squish to condish’.

This means that you let the product work as much as it can with water and you ‘squish’ the mixture into your curls towards your scalp. This is super hydrating and creates amazing curls.

It works best if you bend your head forwards of course. You can wash out the conditioner as much as you wish, but many leave a bit of conditioner on their curls at it helps them to form.

Once you’re happy with how your curls look, it’s time to style.

Step 3: Style

I find it best to style wet hair in the shower. So once you’ve squished your curls, use a gel to lock in the moisture of each curl. Grab a handful of gel and again, squish upwards towards your scalp. You can then either let your hair air dry or use a diffuser for quicker results.

Once your hair is dry, you ‘scrunch out the crunch‘ revealing soft, bouncy curls.

And that’s really all you need to know if you’re a beginner.

For a more thorough explanation of the Curly Girl Method, check out my detailed step-by-step Curly Girl Method guide.


And there you have it. Over 30 Curly Girl Method approved products that you can start using right now for amazing results! I hope this article has been helpful to you and all the best with your Curly Girl journey!

Disclaimer: This site is not intended to provide professional or medical advice. All of the content on LovedByCurls.com is for informational purposes only. All advice should be followed at your own discretion. Ingredients may change at any time so always check the product label before using. Check our full disclaimer policy here.