Are you looking for a new curl activator to try? If so, you're in luck! Whether you're looking for a volumizing curl activator or one that helps define your curls, we've got you covered.
We've reviewed each of these 5 products to make sure they give you the best results. From lightweight formulas for fine curls, to heavy duty activators for thick and unruly hair, we've got something for everyone. And with natural ingredients like argan oil and aloe vera, your curls will look healthier than ever before!
We take the guesswork out of finding the best products. Each product was individually selected by our editors. Some may have been sent as samples for us to try out for ourselves and some we combed through thousands of reviews to find, but all opinions in this article are our own.
P.S. LindsaysReviews may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page if you decide to buy something at no extra cost to you (that's how we stay in business and keep bringing you the best finds to save you time).
How We Pick the Best Curl Activator
There are a lot of factors we consider when choosing the 5 best curl activators online. We look at their reviews, ingredients, and overall performance to make sure they check all the boxes for a great product.
First, we make sure that each product contains natural ingredients like argan oil and aloe vera that are known for hydrating and nourishing curly hair. This ensures that your curls get the hydration they need to look their best.
We also make sure these products are lightweight enough to not weigh down finer curls, but still provide enough hold for thicker hair textures. That way, you can achieve a volumized and defined curl without any sticky or heavy residues.
Finally, we make sure each product has lots of glowing reviews that attest to its effectiveness at reviving curls and adding shine. That way, you can trust that the product will work for your hair type and give you the definition and volume you're looking for.
Cantu Shea Butter Moisturizing Curl Activator
Why It’s Our Top Pick
It provides moisture and definition for any curls, adding shine to create a frizz-free look. This lightweight formula won't weigh down your hair or leave behind sticky residues. Plus, with natural ingredients like shea butter and coconut oil, it hydrates and nourishes your strands too. It is also great for a Wash n' Go and delivers volume and shine with every use. Its reviews are excellent, making it our top pick.
All The Details
The Cantu Shea Butter Moisturizing Curl Activator is a lightweight formula that can be used on fine curls to provide volume and shine. Its creamy consistency contains natural ingredients like argan oil and aloe vera that not only activate your curls, but also help to nourish and protect them.
This curl activator is great for a quick "wash and go" look, leaving you with frizz-free and bouncy curls. It is designed to smooth and define your curls without leaving behind any residue, so you can enjoy all day hydration and locks that stay put. Whether you're looking for an extra boost of body or just need to tame frizz, the Cantu Shea Butter Moisturizing Curl Activator is the perfect choice for all curl types.
Customer Reviews
Many customers are raving about the Cantu Shea Butter Moisturizing Curl Activator, claiming that it not only activates their curls, but also helps to nourish and protect them. Customers report that their curls feel softer and look more defined after using this product.
Sofn’Free Moisturizer & Curl Activator
Why It’s Our Top Pick
It’s always nice to have a product that does double duty, and the Sofn’Free Moisturizer & Curl Activator is exactly that! This product is a curl activator and a moisturizer in one, making it perfect for those with curly hair.
It contains Vitamin E, Panthenol and Glycerin for softness and sheen. It also has Coconut oil for an amazing scent. This product is great for all hair types, from thin to thick and curly to wavy. It also helps with breakage control and defines curls for a natural-looking bounce and body. With this product, you get two styling products in one, making it a great choice for anyone with curly hair!
All The Details
Looking for a curl activator that will give you salon-like, healthy hair? Look no further than the Sofn'Free Moisturizer & Curl Activator! This two-in-one lotion contains vitamin E to promote healthy hair, panthenol to condition and restore moisture, and glycerin for softness and sheen.
This curl activator is suitable for all hair types, from fine, thin curls to thick, unruly hair. It forms and enhances soft curls and waves while controlling frizz for a natural-looking bounce and body. Plus, it’s infused with coconut oil and a fresh botanical fragrance for a great scent. It is also ideal for people with color-treated and low porosity hair.
Customer Reviews
Most customers who tried this product were impressed by its ability to define curls and add moisture. Many said that it made their hair softer, shinier, and more manageable. Many also found that the coconut oil fragrance was pleasant and not too overpowering.
SoftSheen-Carson Care Free Curl Activator
Why It’s Our Top Pick
The SoftSheen-Carson Care Free Curl Activator uses a natural formula to help boost your curls without adding any extra weight. It contains aloe vera and argan oil that helps to keep your curls hydrated and nourished.
The natural ingredients also promote healthy hair growth for softer, shinier results. The activator is easy to apply and a great choice for all types of curls including kinky, curly and wavy. The formula is also cruelty-free, so you can use it with peace of mind. This curl activator is a must-try for anyone looking for healthier, more defined curls.
All The Details
The SoftSheen-Carson Care Free Curl Activator is an oil-based product that helps to maintain the balance of moisture and oil required to keep your curls looking and feeling healthy. This curl activator repairs split ends, revitalizes limp curls, and conditions hair while providing a pleasant scent. It's perfect for all types of curly hair, including kinky-curly-wavy and natural styles.
The SoftSheen-Carson Care Free Curl Activator is designed to protect hair from dryness and keep it curly. It also provides a range of styling products for all types of curls, including moisture-sealing gels and leave-in sprays, rejuvenating oils, pomades, creams, and butters. Plus, the SoftSheen-Carson Care Free Curl Activator helps people of color celebrate unique looks and styles by providing tailored treatments, colors and styling products.
Customer Reviews
Customers have given the SoftSheen-Carson Care Free Curl Activator 5 out of 5 stars. They love how it keeps their curls hydrated, soft and manageable without being too heavy. Customers also appreciate the natural formula that helps to repair split ends, reduce frizz and promote healthy hair growth.
Luster's S-Curl Activator
Why It’s Our Top Pick
Luster's S-Curl Activator Moisturizer is the perfect choice for those looking to add definition and body to their curls and waves. It's formulated with natural ingredients like Sunflower Oil, Vitamin E and Aloe Vera to help reduce breakage and keep your hair soft and shiny.
Plus, it's a no-drip formula so you don't have to worry about any messy spills or greasy build-up. If you're looking for a curl activator that delivers great results without leaving your hair feeling greasy, Luster's S-Curl Activator is the one for you.
All The Details
Luster’s S-Curl Activator is a moisture-rich styling spray designed to define and enhance your natural curls, waves, and coils. This lightweight, non-drip formula is perfect for all hair types, so you can achieve lovely curls with minimal effort. The naturally derived ingredients, such as argan oil and aloe vera, help keep your curls soft and healthy while adding a long-lasting shine. Plus, the fast-drying formula gives you an instantly clean feel, so you can enjoy your curls without any greasy build up.
Perfect for all curl types, Luster’s S-Curl Activator is an essential part of your hair care routine. With just a few sprays of this activator, you can get gorgeous curls that last throughout the day. Whether you want loose waves or tight spirals, this product will help you unlock your perfect look.
Customer Reviews
Customers love Luster’s S-Curl Activator for its lightweight, no-drip formula that quickly adds definition and shine to their curls. Most people report that it leaves their hair feeling soft and hydrated, while the fast-drying formula eliminates any greasy residue. Plus, it’s suitable for all hair types, which makes it an ideal choice for those with curly or wavy hair.
Lustrasilk Max Curl Activator Moisturizer
Why It’s Our Top Pick
This curl activator from Lustrasilk is a great choice for those with thick, unruly curls. It’s non-greasy formula is designed to give dramatic definition and control, while providing moisture from argan oil.
The ultra-lightweight formula won’t leave your hair feeling weighed down, while still providing excellent hold. Plus, it’s formulated to prevent stubborn flyaways and frizz, so your curls will stay looking their best all day long. For ultimate curl definition and control, Lustrasilk Max Curl Activator Moisturizer is the perfect choice. Get ready to show off your beautiful, healthy curls!
All The Details
Lustrasilk Max Curl Activator Moisturizer is an effective curl activator that helps you get thick and voluminous curls. It's enriched with argan oil, which provides lasting moisture and shine to your curls while giving them dramatic definition, shape and control. This lightweight formula is designed to help prevent stubborn flyaways and frizz, so your curls will look perfectly polished and stay that way all day long.
It's formulated without sulfates, parabens or phthalates to ensure your curls stay healthy and strong. Lustrasilk Max Curl Activator Moisturizer will give you the curls that you've been dreaming of and it's made in the United States, so you know it's high-quality. So, if you're looking for a curl activator that will give you stunningly defined curls with a long-lasting hold, then the Lustrasilk Max Curl Activator Moisturizer is the perfect choice.
Customer Reviews
Customers are raving about the Lustrasilk Max Curl Activator Moisturizer! They love how it gives them beautiful, defined curls without leaving their hair feeling weighed down. Customers are also impressed with the natural ingredients, including aloe vera and argan oil, which help to keep your curls healthy and manageable.
Best Curl Activator FAQS
Do curl activators really work?
Yes, curl activators can help enhance your natural curls and make them look more voluminous and defined. Curl activators also provide long-lasting hold, so your curls will stay in place for longer.
What ingredients should I look for in a curl activator?
Look for curl activators that contain natural ingredients like argan oil and aloe vera, as these will help keep your curls soft and hydrated. Also look for products that are free from sulfates, parabens and phthalates, as these can damage your curls.
Can curl activators be used on all hair types?
Yes, there are curl activators available for all hair types. For fine and thin curls, look for lightweight formulas that won't weigh your hair down, while thicker and unruly curls can benefit from heavier, more hydrating curl activators.
Is Curl Activator better than a mousse or gel?
Curl activators provide more hold and definition than mousses or gels, as they contain more nourishing ingredients. However, it's best to experiment with different products and find which one works best for your hair type.
How can I get the best results from a curl activator?
To ensure you get the best results, make sure to apply your curl activator evenly throughout your hair. When you're done, use a diffuser to help define and shape your curls. If you want more volume, scrunch the ends of your hair while drying. Finally, use a light-hold hairspray to keep your curls in place all day long!
Can I use a curl activator on wet or dry hair?
Most curl activators work best when applied to damp hair. However, some products can also be used on dry hair for a more natural and effortless look. Just make sure to read the label of your curl activator before using it.
Is a curl activator better than a curl cream?
It depends. If you're looking for added definition and hold, then a curl activator may be a better option. However, if you want more moisture and hydration, then a curl cream may work best. Try out both products to find which works best for your hair type.
What Is The Best Curl Activator For You?
If you are in the market for a curl activator, we hope our blog post helped point you in the right direction. There are so many great options on Amazon, and it can be tough to decide which one is right for you. Go ahead and tap any of the pink buttons above to check on pricing!
Just remember to consider your hair type, budget, and what ingredients you are looking for before making your final decision. We wish you the best of luck finding your perfect curl activator!
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