The 10 Best Curl Activators

Hawaiian Silky Texturizing (appx. $9) relies on the power of natural ingredients to give you the style you want, like chamomile extract, which enriches color, and rosemary extract, which can prevent hair loss. Unfortunately, the formula is a bit watery.

If you want locks that people love to run their fingers through, then try Lustrasilk Max (about $11), which should do the trick. It contains argan oil, which creates a silky soft texture, and it can help repair pesky split ends, as well.

Is your mane lacking shine? Then try Twisted Sista Creme (about $10). It contains apricot kernel oil, which is loaded with omega-9s that will not only put the bounce back into your bob, but also stimulate your follicles and make your hair more manageable.

Ampro Pro Styl Enhancer is fortified with nourishing ingredients, like aloe and olive oil, to keep your strands looking lustrous no matter how you choose to style them. As a bonus, it comes in environmentally-friendly packaging.

If you can't make it to your stylist for a touch-up, then SoftSheen-Carson Care Free (about $6) can tide you over. It will help your strands lock in moisture without leaving your hair looking oily or wet. It does contain dyes and preservatives, though.

Smooth 'N Shine Extra Dry (about $30) is ideal for medium-intensity curls. Its aloe vera will hydrate brittle locks, and it's free of alcohol, so it's unlikely to irritate the scalp. Allowing for control and shaping without making hair stiff, this stuff's a miracle worker.

If you're skipping the salon to save money, you may as well get the affordable Cantu Shea Butter (about $6). It contains the deeply moisturizing ingredient you find in its name, which works to tackle dandruff, and can address excess oil production for those with greasy hair.

Do you love to manipulate your 'do with creams and gels, but hate how they leave hair feeling stiff? Long Aid Aloe Vera (about $13) will never lead to crispiness and is a favorite of those who wear slicked-back ponytails. It works well on coarse and soft locks.

MopTop Custard (appx. $15) has an unusual, yet appealing, citrus kumquat scent that will leave your mane smelling as good as it looks. It's available in multipacks and, in addition to an eight-ounce option, also comes in a convenient 16-ounce tub.

Kinky Curly Original (appx. $25) increases the definition of curls without giving them that dreaded crunchy look. Made using all-natural ingredients, you can feel confident about incorporating this gentle product into your beauty routine.