15 Best Curly Hair Oils And Serums In 2024

Medically reviewedby Dr. Amy Revene M.B.B.S.
WrittenbyLuat Duong
Last updated

Finding the perfect curly hair oil serum is essential for maintaining luscious, frizz-free curls.

In this article, we’ll explore top products to enhance your curls, keeping them hydrated, defined, and healthy.

Whether dealing with dryness, frizz, or lack of definition, we've got you covered with expert tips and recommendations.

Are oil and serum good for curly hair?

curly hair oil serum

Yes, oils and serums are excellent for curly hair. They nourish, hydrate, define curls, reduce frizz, and add shine. Maintaining adequate hydration is crucial for curly hair, and oils and serums offer deep nourishment by penetrating the hair shaft to provide moisture, reducing dryness and breakage.

Essential oils like argan, coconut, and jojoba are well-known for their hydrating and strengthening properties.

Serums add shine and reduce frizz by creating a protective barrier around the hair shaft, locking in moisture, protecting against environmental damage, and keeping out humidity, resulting in defined, smooth, and shiny curls.

Curly hair is more prone to frizz and damage due to its unique structure, so quality oils and serums can significantly enhance its health and appearance. When selecting the right product, consider your hair's unique characteristics and needs.

Some oils suit coarse, thick curls, while others are better for finer, softer curls. Serums vary in formulation, with some providing more hold for styling and others focusing on shine and softness.

However, as cosmetologist Ghanima Abdullah points out, "Oil serums are too lightweight to define curly hair. Usually, something much heavier, like a curl cream, is needed to provide definition. Oil serums are good moisturizers to use while the hair is still wet and without layering too many other products over it. If you use too many with an oil serum, you're likely to have heavy buildup mid-week."

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15 best curly hair oil serum

Here are some of the best curly hair oil serum:

  1. Bio-Pilixin Hair Serum
  2. John Frieda Frizz Ease Extra Strength Serum
  3. OGX Smoothing + Liquid Pearl Luminescent Serum
  4. Innisfree Camellia Essential Hair Oil Serum
  5. Matrix Biolage Smoothproof Serum
  6. Pureauty Naturals Biotin Hair Serum
  7. St.Botanica Moroccan Argan Hair Serum
  8. Natyv Soul Hair Serum
  9. DevaCurl High Shine Multi-Benefit Curl Oil
  10. Bumble and Bumble Curl Anti-Humidity Gel-Oil
  11. Garnier Ultimate Blends Coconut Hair Oil for Frizzy Hair
  12. Charlotte Mensah Manketti Hair Oil
  13. Ouidad Mongongo Oil Multi-Use Curl Treatment
  14. Aveda Nutriplenish Multi-Use Hair Oil
  15. John Frieda Frizz Ease Dream Curls Curl Nourishing Crème Oil

1. Bio-Pilixin Hair Serum

best curly hair serum

The Bio-Pilixin Hair Serum has emerged as a notable contender in the curly hair care scene in 2024, offering a plant-powered option that many users find effective in addressing hair concerns.

Many users find its plant-powered formula helpful in improving the look and feel of brittle, weak hair.

One key ingredient in its formulation is Capilia Longa, derived from the stem cells of Curcuma longa, which is commonly used in hair care products.

This means it not only helps in stopping hair thinning but also promotes the growth of thicker, fuller curls.

Niacinamide is another ingredient included in the Bio-Pilixin serum.

Known for its multiple benefits, Niacinamide boosts hair growth by improving blood flow in the scalp, which results in stronger, healthier hair follicles.

Many users find that it pairs well with Capilia Longa in the product's formulation.

Vanillyl Butyl Ether is also included in this transformative serum. This mild warming agent works by increasing blood circulation in the scalp.

This ingredient is commonly included in hair care products for its potential benefits in enhanced blood flow that ensures optimal delivery of nutrients and oxygen to your hair follicles.

So, if you're looking for a serum that many users find effective for a variety of hair concerns, the Bio-Pilixin Hair Serum might be worth considering.

To use the Bio-Pilixin Hair Serum, apply a few drops to your scalp and gently massage it in for maximum absorption.

With its plant-powered ingredients and a 150-day money-back guarantee, it's an option to consider for your curly hair care routine.

Bio-Pilixin® Activation Serum | For Women
Bio-Pilixin® Activation Serum | For Women
Drug-free & clinically tested

2. John Frieda Frizz Ease Extra Strength Serum

curly hair serum

Perfectly tailored for those with thick, coarse hair, the John Frieda Frizz Ease Extra Strength Serum effectively tackles unmanageable frizz and transforms it into a silky smooth finish.

With a potent combination of silk proteins, amino acids, and seaweed extract, this weightless formula not only tames wild hair but also plays a role in defining curls and prevents any potential flyaways.

It safeguards your hair from heat damage and humidity, making it a great pick for those with color-treated, highlighted, or natural hair.

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3. OGX Smoothing + Liquid Pearl Luminescent Serum

hair growth oil and serum

This luminous serum by OGX smooths hair to reveal a reflective luster. Enriched with sea kelp and pearl extract, it adds sleekness and shine to your curls.

The serum hydrates your curls, giving them a healthy bounce. Safe for color-treated hair, this serum enhances your hair health and infuses a brilliant shine.

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4. Innisfree Camellia Essential Hair Oil Serum

curly hair serum

The Innisfree Camellia Essential Hair Oil Serum is a savior for those dealing with damaged and frizzy curls.

With double the benefits of fermented camellia oil, jojoba seed oil, and Jeju camellia oil, it offers exceptional nourishment and hydration.

Its silky-smooth texture seamlessly detangles hair and addresses split ends, working like a charm on unmanageable hair.

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5. Matrix Biolage Smoothproof Serum

serum for hair curls

The Matrix Biolage Smoothproof Serum ensures lasting smoothness with an effective control of frizz.

Its standout ingredient is camellia, which imparts a silky smooth shine to dull, tangled, and frizzy curls.

Free of parabens, this serum shields your hair from the damaging effects of heat styling tools, maintaining your hair's smoothness throughout the day.

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6. Pureauty Naturals Biotin Hair Serum

curly hair serum

This hair-strengthening serum from Pureauty Naturals combines the benefits of biotin, d-panthenol (pro-vitamin B5), and pea sprout extract.

It moisturizes hair, softens its texture, and stimulates hair roots, promoting the growth of healthy-looking curls.

Its advanced formula enhances hair health and stimulates hair growth, making it a wonderful addition to your hair care regimen.

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7. St.Botanica Moroccan Argan Hair Serum

curly hair serum

The St.Botanica Moroccan Argan Hair Serum is a luxurious blend of Moroccan argan oil, macadamia oil, grape seed oil, and avocado oil.

This rich blend bestows your hair with the required strength, hydration, nourishment, and shine, keeping your curls intact and frizz-free.

Its non-sticky and lightweight formula treats split ends and restores hair health by repairing and protecting hair fibers.

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8.  Natyv Soul Hair Serum

hair serum for curly hair

Featuring the goodness of French Sea Beet extract and Moroccan argan oil, the Natyv Soul Hair Serum is a potent remedy for frizzy and unmanageable curls.

This serum imparts a natural-looking shine and leaves your hair smooth and appealing.

It creates a protective layer on your hair, guarding it against harsh weather conditions while maintaining its attractive look.

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9. DevaCurl High Shine Multi-Benefit Curl Oil

curly hair serum oil

The DevaCurl High Shine Multi-Benefit Curl Oil is a lightweight, silicone-free formula that works wonders on curly hair.

It enhances curls with a frizz-free finish while adding shine and moisture. What makes it stand out is its ability to balance oil production and soothe hair.

The oil leaves a refreshing, oriental, and woody fragrance that keeps you feeling cool and confident, making it a top choice for a variety of occasions.

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10. Bumble and Bumble Curl Anti-Humidity Gel-Oil

curly hair serum

This unique gel-oil hybrid by Bumble and Bumble is a boon for curly hair. Enriched with a blend of oils, including avocado, coconut, and jojoba, and butter like shea and cocoa, this product deeply hydrates hair, reduces frizz, and adds shine. 

The oil not only nourishes your curls but also protects them from humidity and the drying effects of sun damage.

It adds hydration, bounce, and shine to your curls, making them look and feel healthier.

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11. Garnier Ultimate Blends Coconut Hair Oil for Frizzy Hair

curly hair serum

Since 1982, Garnier Ultimate Blends' hair care products have been carefully crafted from nature and blended with love to offer wholesome solutions for your hair.

The brand promises to be good not only for your hair but also for the world we live in by sourcing renewable ingredients where possible and using 100% recyclable bottles.

This hair oil is particularly effective for dry, damaged, and frizzy curls. The vegan formula offers a natural approach to hair care, with the scent of coconut enveloping your senses.

The hair oil works to control frizz even in damp weather conditions, leaving your curly hair super sleek and smooth, free of silicones for a natural feel.

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12. Charlotte Mensah Manketti Hair Oil

curly hair serum

Curated by the award-winning Black British hair stylist Charlotte Mensah, this Manketti Hair Oil has earned a reputation as a cult favorite.

Crafted from a blend of organic, ethical, and sustainably sourced Manketti nut and Ximenia oils, this oil is particularly beneficial for dehydrated, undernourished, and damaged hair.

It helps to effectively reduce flyaways and smooth ends, improving the overall texture of curls and leaving behind a heavenly aroma.

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13. Ouidad Mongongo Oil Multi-Use Curl Treatment

hair serum and oil

Understanding the unique needs of different types of curls, Ouidad designed their Mongongo Oil Multi-Use Curl Treatment to cater to every curl type's individual needs.

The oil is derived from the Mongongo Nut and is blended with Coconut, American Palm Seed Oil, and Broccoli Seed Oil.

This lightweight formula effectively seals split ends and protects against heat without leaving loose curls feeling limp or greasy.

It works wonders on classic curls, brilliantly smoothing frizz and flyaways, while tight curls will love the way it adds illuminating shine and smooths the cuticle to perfect each individual coil. 

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14. Aveda Nutriplenish Multi-Use Hair Oil

Hair serum

Enrich your curls with the nutrient-powered hydration and shine of Aveda Nutriplenish Multi-Use Hair Oil.

Suitable for all hair types and textures, this oil features a concentrated blend of five powerful oils, and vitamin e, offering multiple uses.

With its 100% naturally derived ingredients, you can use this product in a variety of ways to restore hydration to your curls. 

From a pre-shampoo treatment, where the oil is applied to dry hair and then shampooed out, to a leave-in treatment on towel-dried hair, the Nutriplenish Multi-Use Hair Oil delivers hydration and shine exactly where your hair needs it. 

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15. John Frieda Frizz Ease Dream Curls Curl Nourishing Crème Oil

serum for curly hair

For those struggling with dull, dry, and frizzy curls, the John Frieda Frizz Ease Dream Curls Curl Nourishing Crème Oil is a game-changer.

This oil, formulated with Rosehip Oil and Curl Enhancing Technology, has a unique ability to transform frizzy strands into visibly healthy, bouncy curls. 

This fast-absorbing formula brings out the best of your unique curls with its curl-loving, frizz-defying properties.

Combining the nourishment of oil with the instant absorption of a cream, it deeply quenches without weighing down your hair, resulting in bouncy, defined curls. 

It's suitable for wavy and curly hair types and is vegan-friendly. With the Frizz Ease Dream Curls Nourishing Crème Oil, you can enjoy hydrated, soft, and lustrous curls that are resistant to frizz.

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What to consider when choosing serums or oils for curly hair?

When choosing serums or oils for curly hair, the key factors to consider include the product's ingredients, your specific hair concerns, and your hair's porosity. Look for products free of harsh chemicals and tailored to address your unique hair needs.

Understand your hair porosity

The porosity of your hair, or its ability to absorb and retain moisture, plays a crucial role in determining which oils and serums will work best.

Low porosity hair has tightly closed cuticles and struggles to absorb moisture, so lighter oils and serums are ideal. 

High porosity hair, on the other hand, absorbs moisture quickly but struggles to retain it, so heavier, more moisturizing products are beneficial.

Analyze the ingredients

It's essential to scrutinize the ingredients in your hair products. Avoid those containing sulfates, alcohols, silicones, and mineral oils as they can cause product buildup and rob your curls of their natural bounce. 

Look for serums with ingredients like dimethicone for frizz control, and oils like argan or macadamia oil for added shine and hydration.

In the case of hair dryness, for instance, deeply moisturizing ingredients like argan oil, coconut oil, or shea butter could be beneficial.

Consider lifestyle and styling needs

Your lifestyle and hair styling routine can also influence the type of oil or serum best suited for your curly hair.

For instance, your washing hair routine can significantly affect how often you need to apply these products and their effectiveness.

If you frequently style your hair using heat tools, consider a serum or oil that provides heat protection.

For instance, if your curls are mid-length, you might need a product that provides definition without weighing down your hair. 

If you prefer a more natural look, go for products that enhance curl definition and provide long-lasting moisture.

Check the product consistency

The thickness and consistency of the oil or serum is another important factor to consider. Thicker oils and serums might be able to soften coarse, unruly curls better, providing the needed moisture and control. 

Check the budget and availability

Your budget and the availability of the product also matter. Hair care doesn't have to break the bank; there are plenty of cost-effective serums and oils that deliver great results.

At the same time, consider the availability - it's better to choose a product that you can easily repurchase, both online or in local stores.

Regardless of your budget constraints, there are a variety of options on the market that can help tame your curly tresses and make them more manageable.

Read this: 15 Best Hair Growth Serums for Superior Hair Growth (2024)

Conclusion

Choosing the right oil or serum for your curly hair can transform its health, appearance, and manageability. Understanding your hair's unique needs and selecting products designed to meet those needs is key.

In 2024, many innovative products tailored for curly hair have emerged, offering intensive hydration, frizz control, and hair growth benefits.

With careful selection and experimentation, you can find the perfect oil and serum combination for your curls.

Remember, everyone's hair is unique, so it's important to experiment with different products, monitor the results, and adjust as needed.

Embrace the natural beauty of your curls and enjoy healthier, shinier, and more manageable hair.

 

FAQs

What type of curly hair oil or serum should I use for my hair type?

The type of curly hair oil or serum you should use largely depends on your hair type and specific needs. For example, if you have dry, brittle hair, look for oils with hydrating properties such as argan or coconut oil. If you struggle with frizz, a smoothing serum could be beneficial.

How often should I use curly hair oil or serum?

The frequency of use depends on your hair type and the product you're using. Some oils or serums are lightweight enough to use daily, while others should be used sparingly, perhaps once or twice a week. Always follow the instructions on the product's label, and observe how your hair reacts to adjust usage as necessary.

Does curly hair oil or serum help reduce frizz?

Absolutely! Many curly hair oils and serums are designed to smooth the hair cuticle, adding moisture and reducing frizz. Look for products with soothing ingredients like argan oil or smoothing serums that contain silicones, if you're not following the CGM (Curly Girl Method).

How should I apply a curly hair oil or serum?

You typically apply a curly hair oil or serum to wet or damp hair after washing. Dispense a small amount into your hands, rub your hands together to warm the product, and then scrunch it into your hair from ends to roots. You can also use some oils for a pre-shampoo treatment or a deep conditioning overnight mask.

References: 

  1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7522433/ 
  2. https://opendermatologyjournal.com/VOLUME/15/PAGE/52/FULLTEXT/ 
  3. https://www.bbc.co.uk/newsround/65879881
  4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6894537/
    Luat Duong

    Luat Duong is a Copenhagen-based writer and content strategist specializing in hair loss and health. His work has been featured in MyHealthGuide, The Right Hairstyles, and Woman's Era. He is a graduate of Vaasa University. You can connect with him on LinkedIn.