Discover the best Ouidad gels and creams for men’s curly hair. Get tips by curl type—waves, spirals, or coils—for simple, effective styling.
When it comes to styling curls, men often want two things: simplicity and results. But choosing between gels, creams, or other stylers can feel overwhelming if you’re new to curl care. Do you need hold or hydration? Definition or flexibility? The good news: with the right product matched to your curl type, you don’t have to choose.
This guide takes a closer look at five of our favorite Ouidad products for men’s curly hair. We’ll break down the difference between gel and cream, share specific recommendations by curl type, and give tips on how to get the most out of each product. Whether your hair is wavy, spiraled, or coily, Ouidad has a solution that fits your routine.
Gel vs. cream: what’s the difference?
Before we get into products, it’s helpful to understand the role gels and creams play in a curl routine:
-
Gels provide definition, structure, and hold. They help curls maintain shape, fight frizz, and last longer throughout the day. Gels are best when you want your hair to look more polished, uniform, or structured.
-
Creams deliver hydration, softness, and flexibility. They’re ideal when your curls feel dry, frizzy, or you prefer a natural, touchable finish. Creams emphasize moisture and manageability, so curls feel softer and less stiff.
The truth is that most men benefit from using both, depending on their curl type and styling goals. Creams can act as a foundation of moisture, while gels layer on top to lock in definition and hold.
How to choose your product by curl type
Check your curl pattern with Ouidad’s curl type guide. Use this quick reference:
-
Waves: Volumizing Jelly or Defining Cream
-
Spirals: VitalCurl Gel or Curl Quencher Cream
-
Tight Curls: Curl Quencher Styling Gel or Curl Cream
-
Coils: Coil Infusion Gel or richer creams
Think of gels as your go-to for hold and control, while creams are your solution for softness and hydration. For many men, alternating or combining both is the secret to curls that look and feel great.
Product recommendations by curl type
1. For wavy hair: Curl Shaper Volumizing Jelly (gel)
Waves tend to fall flat at the root and puff at the ends, making definition tricky Curl Shaper Volumizing Jelly is perfect for wavy types who need lightweight hold without stiffness. The formula defines your natural S-shape, keeps waves from collapsing, and creates volume that lasts all day.
How to use it: After shampooing and conditioning, apply a quarter-size amount to damp hair. Scrunch waves upward and let air-dry or diffuse. The lightweight gel ensures your style holds without looking crunchy.
Pro tip: For a natural look, rake product through your hair with your fingers, then scrunch. This encourages more even wave formation.
2. For wavy-to-curly hair: Curl Shaper Defining Cream (cream)
If your waves or loose curls crave hydration, Curl Shaper Defining Cream is your go-to. It moisturizes without heaviness, smooths frizz, and keeps your style soft and touchable.
How to use it: Work a dime-size amount through damp hair, focusing on mid-lengths and ends. Let hair air-dry or diffuse on low heat. You’ll notice your waves or curls have more consistency and less frizz.
Best for: Men who prefer a natural look without strong hold but want smoother, more manageable curls. Great for everyday use or casual styling.
3. For spiral curls: VitalCurl Gel (gel)
Spiral curls often need structure to maintain their shape throughout the day. VitalCurl Styling Gel delivers lightweight definition and controls frizz without crunch, making it an ideal pick for spirals.
How to use it: Apply to damp hair, rake through with fingers or a wide-tooth comb, and scrunch to encourage curl formation. Let the curls set naturally or diffuse for more volume.
Pro tip: Pair it with VitalCurl Styling Cream if you need an extra layer of moisture before applying gel. The cream will hydrate, while the gel will lock in the curl shape.
4. For tight curls: Curl Quencher Intense Curl Cream (cream)
Dryness is one of the biggest challenges for curls, especially for men who wash frequently or style daily. Curl Quencher Intense Curl Cream deeply hydrates while defining curls, making it a great everyday product for tight spirals or drier textures.
How to use it: Apply evenly through damp hair, starting with a small amount and adding more as needed. The cream absorbs into curls, leaving them softer and less prone to breakage.
Best for: Men with tight curls or hair prone to dryness. This cream works as a leave-in styler or as a base before applying gel for added hold.
5. For coily hair: Coil Infusion Styling Shaping Gel (gel)
Coily textures require products that provide both moisture and strong hold. Coil Infusion Styling Shaping Gel is designed specifically for coils. It defines tight curl patterns, elongates coils, and locks in shape while reducing shrinkage.
How to use it: Work through damp hair in sections for even coverage. Let curls dry undisturbed to maintain definition.
Best for: Men with coily or very tight curl patterns who want strong hold without sacrificing curl health.
Stylist tips
Layering gels and creams for lasting hold
Layering cream with gel maximizes results. Start with a cream like Curl Shaper Defining Cream to hydrate and smooth, then layer on a gel such as VitalCurl Gel or Coil Infusion Gel. This method locks in moisture while ensuring long-lasting definition, perfect for busy days or special occasions.
This technique also adapts to seasonality. In winter, creams prevent dryness. In summer, gels protect against humidity. Learning to layer helps men master year-round curl care.
Quick curl routine for men
-
Apply to wet hair: Ensures even distribution and curl definition.
-
Start small: Use a little product, then add more if needed.
-
Refresh between washes: Mist with water and scrunch to reactivate curls.
-
Use a diffuser: Dry on low heat/airflow to prevent frizz.
-
Protect overnight: Satin pillowcases or loose pineappling reduce friction.
A simple routine makes styling easier. For men with busy schedules, consistency is more important than complexity. This five-step system takes only a few minutes and simplifies men’s curl care.
-
Cleanse & condition: Hydrate with curl-friendly shampoo/conditioner.
-
Apply cream: For softness and frizz control.
-
Layer gel (optional): Add definition and hold.
-
Air-dry or diffuse: Choose based on preferred finish.
-
Refresh next day: Mist and scrunch to revive curls.
Wrapping it up
Men’s curly hair deserves the same thoughtful care as anyone’s. With the right gel or cream, your routine can be simple, effective, and tailored to your curl type. Whether you have waves, spirals, or coils, Ouidad has a product designed to match your texture and lifestyle.
Experiment with these five favorites, try layering techniques, and enjoy the confidence that comes with curls that look defined, hydrated, and healthy every day.
