Overview

Curlsmith In-Shower Style Fixer 8oz is a styling gel designed specifically for curly, coily, and wavy hair. This high-hold formula offers a combination of frizz control and long-lasting definition without the usual crunch or flakiness that many gels leave behind. Free from sulfates, silicones, and parabens, the product is a great choice for those looking for a more natural solution. Ideal for curly hair care routines, this vegan and cruelty-free gel promises extreme hold without compromising hair health. The result is soft, defined curls that stay in place throughout the day.

Key Ingredients & Benefits

The Curlsmith styling gel contains key ingredients like aloe vera and chia seeds to hydrate and define curls while keeping them soft and bouncy. These natural elements work together to lock in moisture, ensuring your curls stay nourished all day long. Unlike many traditional gels, this product provides a strong hold without causing that dreaded stiff or crunchy feel. It also helps to keep curls intact and frizz-free, even in humid conditions, making it an excellent option for individuals living in areas with high moisture levels.

Best For

This styling gel is ideal for individuals with dry, wavy, curly, or coily hair who need a product that offers both frizz control and a strong, long-lasting hold. If you're someone looking for a vegan, cruelty-free alternative to traditional styling gels, this product fits the bill. It’s especially suitable for those following the Curly Girl Method or anyone looking for an effective and gentle styling gel without harsh chemicals. Whether you’re styling for a special occasion or just day-to-day wear, it provides reliable and natural-looking results.

User Feedback

Users generally rave about how the Curlsmith gel defines curls while keeping them soft and bouncy with no crunch. Many have noted that the hold lasts through the day, even in high humidity, which is often a struggle with other gels. On the flip side, a few users mentioned that while the gel offers great hold, they felt it was slightly heavy for finer hair types. Overall, customers appreciate the absence of residue and stiffness, with some even highlighting how it keeps curls moisturized without weighing them down.

Pros

  • Defines curls without leaving a crunchy or stiff texture.
  • Long-lasting hold, even in humid conditions, keeps curls in place all day.
  • Free from sulfates, silicones, and parabens, making it ideal for curly hair routines.
  • Hydrates hair with natural ingredients like aloe vera and chia seeds.
  • Vegan and cruelty-free formula appeals to ethical consumers.
  • Ideal for those following the Curly Girl Method, promoting healthy curls.
  • Doesn't leave any residue or make hair feel weighed down.
  • Works well for both dry and damp hair, offering flexibility in styling.
  • Provides a strong hold while maintaining curl bounce and softness.

Cons

  • May not provide enough moisture for very dry or coarse hair.
  • The in-shower application can be tricky for users with thick, dense hair.
  • Some users find the product a bit challenging to distribute evenly.
  • The light scent may not last throughout the day, leaving hair scentless.
  • Not ideal for extremely thick or tightly coiled hair that needs a heavier hold.
  • Requires careful application to avoid overuse, which can weigh hair down.
  • May not be suitable for those who prefer a more fragrant styling product.
  • Can feel a bit heavy for users with fine hair.
  • The product's texture might not be a match for those who prefer lightweight gels.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user feedback from various platforms and regions worldwide, the scores for the Curlsmith In-Shower Style Fixer 8oz reflect a balanced mix of strengths and weaknesses. Only authentic, high-quality reviews were included, filtering out spam, bots, and exaggerated comments. Both positive and critical insights have been incorporated to offer a clear view of this styling gel's performance across different hair types and needs.

Hold and Definition
92%
Users love the extreme hold this styling gel provides without compromising curl definition. Many mention how their curls stay well-formed throughout the day, even in challenging weather conditions. It offers a reliable hold that lasts, even with humidity or moisture in the air, without feeling heavy or greasy.
A few reviewers feel that the product doesn't provide enough hold for extremely coarse or thick curls. Additionally, some users have noted that the strong hold can leave curls feeling a bit stiff if too much product is used.
Frizz Control
89%
Many buyers rave about the impressive frizz control this gel provides. It helps to maintain a smooth, defined curl shape throughout the day, even in humid or damp conditions. Users often highlight how it prevents flyaways and unruly curls, especially in areas prone to frizz.
While effective for most, a few users with very frizzy hair felt that the gel didn’t fully tame their hair, especially on humid days. Some also mentioned that it works better on finer curls than on thicker, more resistant textures.
Texture and Finish
84%
One of the standout features of this gel is its non-crunchy, non-flaky finish. Users appreciate that it provides hold without leaving their curls feeling stiff or crunchy. Curls remain soft, bouncy, and natural-looking, which is a significant plus for those avoiding gel-like finishes.
However, some reviewers have noted that the product can feel slightly sticky or heavy on the hair if too much is applied. This can result in a less natural finish and may weigh down finer curls.
Hydration and Moisture
87%
The inclusion of aloe vera and chia seeds is praised for helping to hydrate and nourish curls. Many users report that their hair feels moisturized and soft after using the gel, without any dryness or crunchiness that typically accompanies high-hold gels.
A few customers mentioned that while it hydrates to some degree, it may not provide enough moisture for individuals with extremely dry hair or those needing deep hydration in addition to hold.
Suitability for Curly Hair Types
90%
This gel is specifically loved by curly, coily, and wavy hair types. The formula is designed to give long-lasting curl definition and frizz control, making it ideal for people following the Curly Girl Method. Many users with different curl textures reported that it worked well without weighing hair down or causing product buildup.
Some people with particularly tight or thick curls found that the gel did not offer enough definition or hold for their hair type. Additionally, a couple of users felt it wasn't as effective for waves or looser curls compared to tighter, coily textures.
Application Ease
85%
The gel’s in-shower application makes it convenient for users who prefer quick and easy styling routines. Many people appreciate how it spreads evenly through wet hair, reducing the need for excessive manipulation. It’s a time-saver for busy mornings or those looking for a simple product that gets the job done efficiently.
However, some reviewers pointed out that its in-shower use can be tricky to manage for those with very thick or dense hair, requiring extra time to ensure even distribution. A few also mentioned that it can be a little difficult to apply without the product dripping off the hair.
Sulfate, Silicone, and Paraben-Free Formula
93%
Users looking for a clean, gentle styling product appreciate that this gel is free from sulfates, silicones, and parabens. It’s a good option for those who follow natural hair care routines and prefer to avoid harsh chemicals that can strip or damage curls.
Some users did express disappointment that the absence of silicones in the formula sometimes means they need to apply more product for the same level of slip or smoothness, especially when detangling or styling thicker hair.
Long-Lasting Hold in Humidity
88%
Many buyers were impressed by the gel’s ability to maintain a strong hold even in humid climates. For curly-haired individuals who struggle with frizz or flat curls in moist conditions, this product offers a reliable solution that keeps curls defined and frizz-free for hours.
That said, a few users found that it wasn’t always as effective in extreme humidity or after long periods of wear. While it does help with frizz control, some noted that their curls did flatten out by the end of the day.
Packaging and Dispensing
82%
18%
The gel comes in a simple, user-friendly container that allows for easy access to the product. Many users found it easy to squeeze out just the right amount, which helps avoid wastage and makes it ideal for in-shower application.
Some buyers mentioned that the bottle design could be improved to prevent product buildup around the nozzle. A few users also pointed out that the gel tends to get stuck at the bottom, making it harder to use when nearing the end of the bottle.
Scent and Fragrance
80%
20%
The gel has a light, fresh fragrance that most users find pleasant and not overpowering. It’s a welcome change for those who dislike heavy, artificial scents in their hair products, and many appreciate the natural, subtle aroma that lingers only briefly after styling.
However, a few users didn’t enjoy the scent, finding it too faint or not quite to their taste. A small number mentioned that the fragrance didn’t last long enough, while others simply preferred no fragrance at all.
Value for Money
91%
For many, this gel offers excellent value considering its performance. Users feel they’re getting a high-quality, long-lasting product that works well for curly hair types at a reasonable price. The large bottle size also makes it an investment for long-term use.
A few users noted that while the gel works well, it can be more expensive than other similar products on the market. Some felt that the price didn’t always justify the performance, especially if they were not achieving perfect results every time.
Cruelty-Free and Vegan
95%
The vegan and cruelty-free qualities of this gel are appreciated by many users who prioritize ethical beauty products. It’s a great choice for people who are mindful of animal testing and prefer products made without animal-derived ingredients.
There weren’t many negative comments here, but a couple of users mentioned that they would prefer to see even more sustainable packaging or eco-friendly components in the product to align with the cruelty-free ethos.
Customer Support
78%
22%
While the product itself generally receives high praise, the brand’s customer service has been helpful for users dealing with shipping issues or product inquiries. A few buyers noted positive experiences with fast response times and resolution of concerns.
Some users reported delays in customer support responses, and a few had issues with returns or exchanges, which led to dissatisfaction. For some, the experience didn’t match the positive impressions created by the product itself.

Suitable for:

This styling gel is an excellent choice for individuals with curly, coily, or wavy hair who need a strong hold and frizz control. It works particularly well for people following the Curly Girl Method, as it's free from sulfates, silicones, and parabens. Those living in humid climates or dealing with long-lasting frizz issues will benefit from its ability to define curls and maintain their shape throughout the day. The product is also ideal for those looking for a vegan, cruelty-free formula that hydrates and defines without causing crunch or flakes, making it great for users who prioritize clean beauty products in their curly hair care routines.

Not suitable for:

While this gel is highly effective for most curly-haired individuals, it may not be the best choice for people with extremely thick, coarse, or tightly coiled hair that needs an even stronger hold. Additionally, those with very dry hair might find that it doesn't offer enough moisture on its own, requiring a more hydrating product in addition to this gel. The in-shower application method may also pose a challenge for users with dense hair, as it can be tricky to distribute evenly. Finally, if you're looking for a fragrance that lasts throughout the day, this product's light, subtle scent might not meet your expectations.

Specifications

  • Hair Type: Ideal for curly, coily, and wavy hair types.
  • Size: Comes in an 8oz (236mL) container.
  • Hold Level: Provides extreme hold for long-lasting curl definition.
  • Free From: Free from sulfates, silicones, and parabens.
  • Vegan: This product is completely vegan.
  • Cruelty-Free: Not tested on animals and cruelty-free.
  • Texture: Non-crunchy and non-flaky, ensuring soft curls without stiffness.
  • Frizz Control: Helps control frizz throughout the day, even in humid conditions.
  • Hydration: Contains hydrating ingredients like aloe vera and chia seeds.
  • Application Method: Designed for in-shower use to style wet hair after washing.
  • Curly Girl Method: Suitable for users following the Curly Girl Method.
  • Consistency: Has a gel-like consistency that spreads easily through the hair.
  • Humidity Resistance: Offers long-lasting hold, even in high humidity.
  • Scent: Features a light, subtle fragrance that dissipates after application.
  • Shelf Life: Best used within 12 months after opening for optimal performance.
  • pH Balance: Formulated to be pH balanced, making it gentle on hair and scalp.
  • No Residue: Does not leave residue or build-up, unlike many traditional gels.
  • Cruelty-Free Certification: Certified cruelty-free by recognized standards.
  • Texture Feel: Leaves hair feeling soft, bouncy, and defined without a sticky or greasy feel.

FAQ

Apply this styling gel to wet hair after washing and conditioning. Scrunch or smooth through your curls in sections to ensure even coverage. Leave it in and let your hair air dry or diffuse for defined, frizz-free curls.

This gel contains natural ingredients like aloe vera and chia seeds, which hydrate and define curls. It is free from sulfates, silicones, and parabens, making it a great option for those with curly hair looking for a more natural, gentle styling gel.

Curlsmith In-Shower Style Fixer 8oz is specifically designed for curly, coily, and wavy hair. It provides strong hold and frizz control, but those with very fine or thin hair may find it a bit too heavy, depending on their styling preferences.

Yes, many users have praised this styling gel for its long-lasting hold, even in high humidity. It helps maintain curl definition and reduces frizz throughout the day, making it a reliable choice for humid climates.

Yes, this product is both vegan and cruelty-free, making it an ethical choice for those who prefer not to use products tested on animals or containing animal-derived ingredients.

Absolutely! This product is Curly Girl Method-friendly, as it is free from sulfates, silicones, and parabens. It’s a great addition to your curly hair care routine if you’re looking for a strong hold gel without the harsh chemicals.

The fragrance is light and subtle, with some users noting that it doesn’t last long throughout the day. If you prefer a stronger scent, this product may not be the best choice, as its fragrance tends to dissipate quickly.

The hold provided by this gel is long-lasting, typically lasting throughout the day without the need for touch-ups. It holds curls well, even in humid conditions, making it a great option for all-day styling.

This gel is designed for use on wet hair, preferably after washing and conditioning. Applying it to damp hair helps to activate its frizz control and strong hold properties, allowing for the best curl definition.

While most users find this gel gentle and effective, those with very sensitive skin or scalp might experience mild irritation. It’s always a good idea to patch-test first if you’re prone to sensitivities, as individual reactions can vary.