Updated: December 20, 2021
The following list contains products that I consider staples, meaning, my hair likes them and I get consistent and beneficial results. I have the following hair properties:
- Texture: Medium/Coarse with some fine areas by my nape and hairline
- Density: Thick
- Porosity: Low-normal
- Priorities: Frizz Control and Moisture, Length Retention
- I do not type my hair using Andre Walker’s system, nor do I know what type my hair falls under (it would most likely be a mix though). By the Curly Girl system, I have fractal and corkscrew curls.
Note: All black-owned brands are indicated on the page as well.
Shampoo
- Camille Rose Naturals Sweet Ginger Cleansing Rinse (Black-owned)
- Dollar Curl Club Maintain Gentle Cleanse Shampoo (Black-owned)
- Hollywood Hair Honey Moisturize Me Shampoo (Black-owned, current rotation)
Deep Conditioners
- Miche Beauty Indulge Deep Conditioner (Black-owned, current rotation)
- Camille Rose Cholesterol Treatment (Black-owned)
- EVOO and Honey
Protein Treatments/Conditioners (tbh, I have not been concentrating much on PTs since I grew out my color)
- Curl Junkie Repair Me! (Strong PT, Black-owned)
- Curl Junkie Beauticurls Strengthening Conditioner (Light PT, Black-owned)
Cleansing Conditioner
- Oyin Handmade Ginger Mint Cowash (Black-owned)
- Curl Junkie Daily Fix Cleansing Hair Conditioner (Black-owned)
- The Doux One Love (Black-owned)
- Camille Rose Cleansing Milk (Black-owned)
- As I Am CoWash (current rotation)
Rinse Outs
- Suave Coconut Conditioner
- Trader Joe’s Tea Tree Tingle Conditioner (Main condish)
- Aussie Three Minute Miracle Curl
- Alaffia Neem Conditioner (Black-owned)
Leave-in Conditioners (Note, I added Alikay and MC to this category b/c they have the texture of a more traditional leave-in)
With Glycerin
- Miche Lavish Leave-In Conditioner (Black-owned, current rotation)
Without Glycerin
- Curl Junkie Curl Rehab (Strawberry Ice Cream scent) (Black-owned)
- Alikay Naturals Dulce (Black-owned, current rotation)
- Mane Choice Softening Milk (Black-owned brand)
Hair Milks/Lotions
- Oyin Hair Dew and pt. 2 here. (Black-owned brand)
- Camille Rose Naturals Curl Love (Black-owned brand)
- Alaffia Babies & Up Hair and Body Lotion (Black-owned brand)
Moisturizers
- Qhemet Biologics Cocoa Tree Detangling Ghee (Black-owned brand)
Stylers
Gels (for Wash and Gos)
- Camille Rose Curl Maker Gel (Black-owned)
- Fruit of the Earth Aloe Vera Gel (Target’s brand is a good alternative)
- Alikay Naturals Aloe Berry Gel (Black-owned, current rotation)
- Uncle Funky’s Daughter Curly Magic (Black-owned)
- Miche Sculpt Curl Defining Gel (Black-owned, current rotation)
Finishers
- Curls Blueberry Bliss Curl Control Paste (Black-owned)
- Curl Junkie Curls in a Bottle (Black-owned)
Twists/Twist Outs
- Camille Rose Almond Jai Twisting Butter (Black-owned)
Pomades/Sealants
- Bekura Palm Tapioca Deluxe Hair Cream (Moisturizer, Black-owned)
- Oyin Whipped Pudding (Moisturizer, Black-owned)
- Miche Quenched Hydrating & Twisting Butter (Moisturizer, Black-owned)
Oils
- Organic Unrefined Coconut Oil
- Rosemary (EO)
- Aunt Jackie’s Girls E-Blast Oil
- Camille Rose Natural Nibs & Honey Ultimate Growth Serum (Black-owned)
- Creme of Nature Argan Oil Replenishing Sheen Spray
Straightening Products
- Emtage Silktage Oil (Black-owned)
- Refined coconut oil
Refresher Sprays
- Uncle Funky’s Daughter Defunk (Black-owned)
- Hairizon Aloe Spray (Black-owned)
- Alaffia Reviving Tonic (Black-owned)
- Alikay Naturals Hair Perfume (Black-owned)
Beauty Products
- Face Cleanser: Jade & Fox Co. Liquid Gold (black-owned brand)
- Face Mask: Various
- Face Moisturizer: Black Girl Sunscreen & Bolden Brightening Moisturizer (Black-owned brands)
- Face Toner: TN Dickinson Witch Hazel
- Face Mist/Setting Spray: Pixi Glow Mist
- Face Oil: Rose Hip Oil, Argan Oil
- Body Lotion: B.A.S.K. Whipped Custard in Muscovado Vanilla or Shea Shea Bakery (Black-owned brand)
- Foot Moisturizer: Oyin Whipped Pudding (Black-owned brand), Gold Bond Radiance Renewal Cream Oil
- Liquid Lipstick: Various
- Traditional Lipstick: Mented Cosmetics and Pat McGrath
- Mascara: Pat McGrath (Black-owned)
- Pressed Foundation: Laura Geller Bake n Brighten in Medium
- Liquid Foundation: Beauty Bakerie Cake Mix (#35) and Sknydip (Creamsicle) – both black-owned
- Foundation Stick: Mented L10 (Black-owned)
- Eyeliner: Pretty Vulgar
- Eyeshadow: Beauty Bakerie and Pat McGrath (Black-owned brands)
- Bronzer: Beauty Bakerie Deja Brew (Black-owned brand) or Fenty Mocha
- Highlighter: Nine Three Beauty (various shades, Black-owned brand)
- Brows: MLN Beauty (black-owned)
- Perfume: Solstice Scents oils, Dior Hypnotic Poison, Comptoir Sud Pacifique Amour De Cacao
A few notes:
- These are all products I consider to be holy grails, and do not include products that I will simply rebuy due to a sale, if I’m bored, etc…I buy lots of things on a whim or if I’m in a bad mood (lol).
- VITAMINS: I do not take vitamins to grow my hair. But, I do like vitamins in general and take hair/skin/nails vitamins for overall health. Right now I am taking Futurebiotics Hair, Skin, and Nails, which I like right now. Also, please remember that no matter what you try to get your hair to grow, it doesn’t mean anything if you aren’t using proper hair care practices to RETAIN length. Check out my playlist on Health/Growth & Retention for more information on vitamins and healthy hair practices.
- FORMULATION CHANGES: If I remove a product from my HG list due to a formulation change, it does not mean that the new formulation is bad. It just means that I have not tried the new formula, and I can’t have something on my list that I haven’t tried. That’s one of the benefits of having several staples – I don’t cry when I have to remove something!
Comparing Products: I am often asked to compare two products in the same category (for instance KCCC vs. UFD, UFD vs. Pattern Pusha, etc). Truthfully, the best way to compare products is to view the review for each product and make your own comparison – I try to be very thorough in my reviews and go over several objective details in addition to how they performed on my hair. When the initial review is done, the thoughts are fresh in my head, so that is when you will receive the most information. Sometimes, the result is so similar (like with KCCC and UFD) that I may do a video/photo comparing them side by side in my hair.
Honorable Mentions – These are products I rebuy on sale or with free shipping. Most of my HGs I can either buy on the ground or am able to do hauls with multiple products and get a discount and/or free shipping. Mainly, things I can buy from AveYou, Vitacost, Sage, iHerb, etc. These other products are not as readily available and I can live without them (while pouting), but I still like them a lot.
- The Doux Bonita Afro Balm
- Tresemme Naturals Moisturizing Conditioner (Update)
- Camille Rose Caramel Cowash
- Beija Flor Naturals Creme Brulee
- SDOTBEAUTY CurlFriend Smoothie
- Cush Cosmetics Curl Extender
- Cush Cosmetics Uncoiled Leave-In
- Cush Cosmetics Buriti Butter
- Donna Marie Dream Curling Crème (now OutDo)
- Curl Junkie Hibiscus & Banana Deep Fix
- Donna Marie Miracurl Curling Gelly (now OutDo)
- Rice Bran Oil
- Oyin Honey Hemp Conditioner
- Elucence Moisture Balancing Shampoo
- Elucence Moisture Balancing Conditioner
- Creme of Nature Perfect Edges Hair Gel (as a finisher)
- Herbal Essences Honey I’m Strong Conditioner
- Cush Cosmetics Creme de Palm
- Mixed Chicks Gentle Clarifying Shampoo
- Oyin Burnt Sugar Pomade
- Herbal Essences Long Term Relationship Conditioner
- Creme of Nature Argan Oil Moisture and Shine Shampoo
- Carol’s Daughter Chocolat Smoothing Conditioner
- Curl Junkie Beauticurls Argan and Olive Oil Daily Conditioner
- Camille Rose Curl Love Moisture Milk
- Curl Junkie Curls in a Bottle
- Carol’s Daughter Hair Elixir
Thanks, lovies! xoxo
questfortheperfectcurl.com 
Hey Elle!!!
How are you? Have you ever tried ECOSLAY Orange marmalade gel? If not please try it. It has hold for days, very good ingredients(mostly natural), its doing awesome in this humid VA humidity.Its almost similar to You go curl in consistency but not in hold. Ecoslay has a hold of 10. The owner is a black female, makes everything in her kitchen, will answer any questions you might have. I have paired it with honey hemp conditioner and love it. Please try, it’s awesome and it’s not sticky.
I just ordered it, the ingredients look great. Thanks for the suggestion!
You’re welcome!!!! Also where have you been??? I miss you😊
Why did you remove the organicals deep conditioner from your holy grail list? Is it not effective anymore?
It’s just a bit of a hassle to order so I haven’t used it in years. It’s much easier to get products locally now and I can get black-owned brands at Target, CVS, Walmart, etc that weren’t available before.
Hey Elle, I’m getting ready to blow out my hair and ran across this article you wrote https://bglh-marketplace.com/2015/07/4-tips-on-using-water-based-moisturizer-on-straightened-natural-hair/. I wondered if you still used the products mention here to moisturize your straighten hair for styling. Do you have any others that are found on the ground?
I actually haven’t flat ironed my hair in fooooorever so I what I used in that article is still current – you don’t have to use those exact products but make sure to follow the tips.
Hey Elle,
Quick question. I haven’t bought hair products online in the longest…! I went searching for Aveyou and they’re no where to be found. Other than Curlmart, where else online do u get multiple produces from? Is Donna Marie and Ohm around anymore??
AveYou is gone – their website has been down for quite some time. I usually order products directly from the brand site or at Target or Mom’s Organic Market. Donna Marie is around but not Ohm.
I am a new subscriber OMG!! Where have you been all my LIFE!! I am catching up on past videos. I love that you have updated and continue to update the list. So informative I live on the east coast the weather here is 👎🏾for my hair. But with this list my hats are going back in the closet!! Thank You 😍
Welcome!! 🙂 And I have to keep the list updated, otherwise I’ll forget myself, lol! I hope you find some helpful information.
I just came across this list and I’m pleased to see that you recently just updated this.
Hey Elle,
Have you ever worn Kitchen during the warmer months?
I wear all of my SS year round!
Thanks!!! I want to try the Lemon Ginger Cream. Have you tried Bekura’s new Balsamic Oil Gelee? It’s a wonderful textured oil, leaving your skin feeling like silk. It also has little sparkles in it.
No, I haven’t tried that one! It looks nice but I don’t use a lot of body oil because I wear so many leggings and the oil stains, lol.
Hey Elle!
I don’t have face book, but I always check yours, like everyday. I just have to say the picture of you when you were little is sooooo adorable, you haven’t changed a bit. You still have that sincere smile. Lol. Have a blessed day.
Thank you! 🙂
Hey Elle,
I recently tried Coco Curls shampoo and conditioner and I must say, awesome products. I especially Love the conditioner. Its very moisturizing and the slip is amazing. I had to try it, since you stated that it gives Curl Junkie Curl Rehab a “run for its money”. IMO it has by passed the Curl Rehab. I’ve using the Curl Rehab since 2013 and it has been wonderful but as of this moment Coco Curls is winning due to the moisture factor, I can still feel the moisture on my hands, after I have rinsed them clean. I don’t feel that with Curl Rehab. But anyway thanks for all your honest/great reviews and taking the time out to teach newly naturals like myself, to get to know our hair(fine, lo-po)and learning how to properly care for our curls. Thx for everything.
Hey Elle,
Does Aveyou have discount codes?
They usually do but I haven’t ordered from them in awhile.
Ok thanks, I want to order some more Camille Rose products and Aveyou seems to have a good deal going on as far as shipping goes. I would order directly from her site but her shipping is like crazy. The amount you pay for shipping you could actually buy another product(s). Where do you order your Camille Rose products from?
Hi Elle,
I have 6 brand new containers of the super wet gel. I purchased them months ago thinking I would get around to using for wash and go’s, however I no longer have a use for them as I’ve recently locked my hair. I’m selling them all. If you’re interested in purchasing, please email me at samkaugust@yahoo.com.
What does the PT means after your specific product listed?
Protein Treatment!
Hey Elle!
Quick question. When are you planning on doing the review for Camille Rose Jansyn’s Moisture Max Conditioner? I would really love to hear your thoughts concerning this conditioner. I would also like to know how would you compare this conditioner to the Coco Curls Revitalizing Conditioner?
I’m not totally sure when I will have time to film again, and my next video is going to be an updated “Holiest of the Holy Grails” and I also need to review the DevaCurl Decadence No Poo. I can do it after that!
Thanks Elle,
I truly enjoy your honest reviews so I will be on the look out for your next film. Have a wonderful rest of the day.
Omg. In regards to tresemme…. You must try perfectly (un) done. It’s silicone free and the slip is great! I was disappointed when they changed the formula from the old conditoner and this is a great replacement.
Hi, Elle.
When you do your honey and evoo deep treatment do you heat it up before you apply it to your hair? I also picked up some TJTTT conditioner yesterday because I want to save my expensive conditioners as leave-ins as you do. I also tried Fruit of the Earth aloe vera gel with Jessicurl too shea conditioner as a leave-in and that is a hg combination for me. So thank you for truly honest reviews.
Hey Elle!
I’ve been using Oyin Honey Hemp conditioner for the last few months but here recently it has caused my scalp to sting almost as if it was on fire. When you were using it did you ever experience that type of reaction? I’m scared to use it again in fear of it damaging my hair follicles. I know that might sound silly but that’s how I feel. It’s an awesome conditioner and I hate to part ways with it but it seems I might just have to say bye-bye.
No, that’s never happened to me. Did you email Oyin?
Thx for responding:-)
I did e-mail curl mart. I plan on sending it back. Thanks and have a wonderful evening.
I gave away my used bottle and just recieved my new bottle today. That’s the one I plan on sending back. I have great success using Curl Junkie Curl Assurance Strengthening conditioner as a leave-in and Curl Queen styling gel. I like the curl queen more so than KCCC because I can just slather in on and not have to worry about sectioning at this time due to my twa status. Again I love all of your reviews.
Hi, Elle. Just thought you should know that there’s been a formula change in the Creme of Nature Argan Oil Moisture and Shine Suphate Free Shampoo…and the new ingredients include sulphates and silicones 😢
I am so disappointed. It was my HG shampoo for at least two years. I actually gave it a try because of it’s honorable mention on this page. Will be trying some more of your recommendations in search of a replacement. XO
Wow, really? That’s disappointing. Where did you see that? I couldn’t find anything about it online.
I recently bought one and upon using it noticed that the fragrance was different. I checked the ingredients and compared it to my old (empty) bottle and, sure enough, it was changed.
Since its not possible to post a pic in these comments, I’ve copied the ingredients list below.
OLD FORMULA: Aqua (Water) (Eau); Trideceth-7 Carboxylic Acid; Decyl Glucoside; Glycol Stearate; Polyqauternium-10; Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil; Sodium Hydroxide; Disodium EDTA; Quaternium-15; Parfum (Fragrance); Methylparaben; Propylparaben; Methylchloroisothiazolinone; Methylisothiazolinone Cl 14700 (Red 4); Cl 19140 (Yellow 5).
NEW FORMULA: Aqua (Water (Eau)); Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate; Cocaimdopropyl Betaine; Cocamide MEA; Parfum (Fragrance); Polyquaternium-10; Glycol Stearate; Glycol Distearate; Glycerin; Tetrasodium EDTA; Dimethicone; Amodimethicone; Cetrimonium Chloride; Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil; Mica; Trideceth-12, Citric Acid; Benzyl Benzoate; Phenoxyethanol; Methylisothiazolinone; Yellow 5 (Cl19140); Red 4 (Cl 14700), Titanium Dioxide (Cl77891).
Ah okay, thanks for listing the ingredients! The olefin is actually still considered sulfate-free, but that’s annoying about the cones. They probably wanted it to have more slip.
Right! I totally forgot that about the sulphates…it’s been so long since I’ve had to scrutinize shampoo labels lol. And Maybe it’s all in my head but I actually found it to have less slip than the old formula even with silicones. XX
Hey Elle!
I just wanted you to know that I love your channel. I have tried some of your hg’s, some worked some didn’t. Besides that I love your hair and personailty. You are sooo funny but you also get straight to the point. I have so many people that ask what I use in my hair and when I start to tell them they have the nerve to give me the side eye. But I think it’s funny because most of my product selection in based on your recommendations and my hair is moisturized and healthy. But they don’t listen though. Smh. I love to try new products and play in my hair. I should’ve been a cosmetologist instead of a nurse.
Hey Elle!
I tried oyin honey hemp conditioner with kccc and I got awesome results. Thx for the recommendation. Have a wonderful weekend.
Hey Elle!!!
I just wanted to know have you tried Darcy’s botanical pumpkin seed conditioner and kccc together, if so how were the results?
I look forward to hearing your reply
Have a blessed day:-*
Sorry, I don’t remember! If I don’t mention it in my review of either product, I’m not sure. I haven’t used KCCC in awhile b/c it’s sticky and my long hair gets all over my shoulders.
Thx!!! So what would you recommend as a good leave-in to use with kccc?. I didn’t like the kckt because it made my scalp itch and my hair look dull. By the way I love your blog and your youtube channel. You’re so down to earth and really informative when you give reviews. GOD BLESS
My favorite was always Oyin Honey Hemp conditioner. And thank you!
Thanks!
Elle, I love your videos and posts. I think you were the first low porosity curly I discovered. I recently tried almost every Bee Mine product there is in a last ditch effort to find what “Jada” (my hair) likes. I wanted to love the luscious moisturizer, but it had too much protein for me 😦 The other day I saw your video review and realized that my ends seemed to be the only part of my hair to love it. I’m trying to get to waist length here, so this really helped me out. Thanks for your honest and helpful reviews! You remind me of the grown up version of my little cousin, too cool for school.
Hey Elle, i have thick coily hair and have a difficult time achieving a wash and go that doesn’t shrivel up later into a dry mess. Do you think a protein treatment might be helpful? Any other suggestions?
If your hair is dry it would seem that you’d need moisture rather than a protein treatment. However, actual shrinkage is just part of being natural as long as your hair is moisturized and soft.
I love, love, love your hair ( not sure if you’re still wearing it curly) but I would love to know what you used/use on your wash n go…I know the products may not render the same results but I just wanna give it a try =)
Hey Beverly , the products are listed on this page – and check out my regimen page which lists my diff wash and go combos. There is also a tutorial on there. Hth!
I bought the Amour de Cacao because at all times I absolutely have to smell like I dived into a vat of cake batter. This is perfect! It smells amazing with my body shop chocomania body butter. Sounds like chocolate overload, but it’s actually quite subtle. Thanks Elle!
We have some of the same HGs. Been following you for a while, love your reviews and hair!
Thanks honey!
Hi Elle, I just wanted to say how thankful I am for your YouTube channel and your blog…I don’t know where my hair would be without it. I am 11 months natural. I transition for about 5 months then big chopped almost a year ago. My hair is low porosity with coarse strands and some fine strands, so our hair is very similar. I am trying my best not to buy everything on your holy grail list for budget reasons, but everything that I have tried thus far that you recommend has worked great for me. I use Deva Curl no poo to cleanse, shea moisture black soap deep condition as a pre poo and deep condition, I also use organicals as pre poo and deep treat (my daughter is addicted to organicals for herself and her one and three year olds, gotta lock the stuff up or I will never have any for myself…lol) tresemme naturals to rinse and detangle, Darcy’s botanicals pumpkin seed leave in conditioner and coconut oil to moisturize and seal, then I style with super wet natural look gel. I have never gotten so many compliments in my life and I am in love with my hair. She is so healthy and happy. I want to try some of the curl junkie products too. I have the ciab on order as well as the curl rehab ( strawberry ice cream scent) and I can’t wait until they get here…long story short thank you for sharing your journey and what works for you it has really helped this curly girl. You’re the best keep doing what you’re doing!
That’s awesome, thank you so much for sharing your story with me! Those are all yummy products, so I’m glad you are also enjoying them along with your hair!
Hi, I was just wondering why you removed Kinky Curly Curling Custard from your Honorable Mentions List
When my hair started touching my back, I took it off b/c it always leaves a film on me. But I’ve started using it again b/c KMF is off the list (ingredients change).
Hi Elle, thanks so much for your informative blog and videos. I only use gel in the summer and used to use KMF upper management gel, but due to the repackaging I stopped. I seen Max Green Alchemy Scalp Rescue styling gel at TJ Maxx and decided to give it a try. Wow, it holds and gives a sheen to my hair. This is now my HG gel! Yes to Carrots anti frizz serum is what I use in the winter. Have you ever tried these two products?
I haven’t, someone else told me about the Max Green though. I’m going to have to try it out.
Hi Elle,
Im thinking of replacing my shampoo with a cleansing conditioner and I am torn between Curl Junkie Daily Fix and Ouidad. After reading several reviews it seems as though the Curl Junkie Daily fix is more moisturizing however I am not sure if it can replace shampoo permanently. I noticed on your list you didn’t add the Curl Junkie as a shampoo, do you feel that It doesn’t cleanse well enough?
It’s just not a shampoo at all. If I didn’t know what was in it, I would probably try to leave it in my hair!
I always Daily Fix as my cleanser and I find it cleans my hair really well. I don’t have any problems just using it and it feels really great going on!
What made you prefer the Knotty Girl finisher over the CIAB? When you mention CJ now I noticed that you don’t really count it as one of your fave products by them anymore. I love the Knotty Girl but I can’t buy it near me anymore and it’s kind of hard to order…so I was thinking of switching to CIAB instead, but I’m kind of worried it might not be as good as the Knotty Girl.
If I recall correctly, it was really just the smell and I believed that I liked the KG ingredients a little better. I still use CJ products – I have three of them on my HG list but removed a lot only because I had too many products on there, so I removed a lot of products overall.
I have very thick low porosity hair. I can get really nice wash and gos but my hair is really dry even on the first day if I use Eco because of the protein, but a little more moisturized if I use super wet gel. I don’t believe it is my product combination bc this same combination leads to a very moisturized twist out that stays moisturized up to seven days. I currently use knot today as my leave in, followed by grapeseed oil, and as I am moisturizer. Why doesn’t this work for my wash and go? Do I need heavier products on low porosity hair to keep the moisture levels up?
It could be several things, but IMO you shouldn’t need heavier products on low porosity hair b/c it has problems getting moisture in, not really getting it out. The LOC method could have too many products on your hair (it looks like you’re using four for each styling session?) or it could be how you refresh your hair styles. I recommend playing with some product combinations after DC’ing your hair to ensure it’s properly moisturized to begin with and go from there.
Hi Elle,
I’m thinking about using Curl Junkie Curl Rehab but I’m confused because it’s a hair treatment and seems like a product that should be rinsed out.. although it says that it can be used as a leave-in…
…the thing is that other times when I’ve used a conditioner as leave-in, the conditioner would make my hair dry and weird after a couple days of not rinsing it out; because of this I’m skeptical of products that claim “rinse out or leave-in”.
How is your experience with this? Have you found this (what I experienced) to be a problem using the Curl Junkie Rehab Curl? Have you tried other Curl Junkie products that can only be used as a leave-in? If you have, is that product as moisturizing as the curl rehab?
I’m just looking for a real moisturizing leave-in because I have major shrinkage and my hair get dry soo fast and snaps easily 😦
Please help me 😦
Hey Nalie! I’ve never had an issue leaving Rehab in and actually prefer it that way. I’ve also tried several Curl Junkie leave-ins and reviewed them, but haven’t used them lately. Now I mainly use the Rehab and Daily Fix.
Thanks soo much!
Hi Elle! First off, love the blog and videos. Your reviews are so helpful. I am wondering if you’ve had the opportunity to try the reformulation of UFD Curly Magic? I was so dissapointed that they changed something that in my opinion wasn’t broke, and am kicking myself that I didn’t stock up ont the old formula before the change. If you’ve tried it, would you mind sharing your thoughts? thanks!
Hey there! Glad you like the blog and vids and find them helpful. 🙂 I haven’t tried the new formula and I don’t plan to because of the glycerin – I don’t know why they’d change something that was so great, I used to love that stuff! I was really annoyed that they changed it.
Curly Kinks Curl Factor seems to be a very nice substitute! Also, I get much better multi day hair than I ever did with UFD. Definitely worth a try. It’s sold at Curlmart now 🙂
Alexandra, its funny that you mention Curly Kinks Curl Factor because I am waiting on my shipment of this product as we speak lol…I’ve also tried Coil Jam which works similarly to KCCC despite the glycerin.
Do you wash your hair before the cherry Lola treatment? I’m thinking of doing one my next wash day for some protein.
No, I usually apply to dry hair.
And I don’t see a detangling section, which products do you like to use for that?
Elle, I follow you on YouTube and was wondering… Have you ever or will you try the water only method of cleansing your hair. I’m trying it now, not even a week yet but I’m looking forward to seeing how this works.
Nope, not at all! I use too many products on my hair for that to work. I need an efficient (yet gentle of course) cleanser – if I go too long without cleansing, I get white gunk in my hair when I apply my leave-in.
The conditioners in the list are also used to detangle. I don’t use special products for detangling.
So all of the products on the updated Holy Grail list can be used year round?
No…I just cannot use products heavy on glycerin all year round, which is why some were removed. Some I removed for other reasons. Also, please keep in my mind that my list is a reflection of products that work for me, and the ones in the Honorable Mentions also work. However, you may have different results.
Hi Elle,
I have been experimenting with Carol’s Daughter Smoothing Chocolate conditioner. I used it once for a rinse out, the slip was minimum to little. I thought I would give it another shot and attempted a twist out on wet hair. The end result was hair that had a filmy coating. Can you tell me if this is a result of using too much product or is the conditioner best used on dry twist outs?
Thanks in advance!
L
I noticed the Camille Rose milk moved down, I do not like the new formula with all the other stuff added in. The old formula moisturized better IMO. Im sad too bc that was my fave!
You know what, I’ve actually never tried the new formula! I have a bottle of the old one still. Interesting that they changed the ingredients.
Wow, you completely revamped your HG list. There are no leave-ins with glycerin…is there any reason behind that?
I’ve said in the past that I do not like glycerin products unless they are inexpensive because I cannot use them year round. I only had one up there and moved it to my honorable mentions.
=( So sad to see you cross off KMF Upper Management Gel due to the ingredients change. *sheds single tear* I’m curious what gel you will be reaching for the most when your supply runs out (assuming you have a bit of a supply of the old formula like me).
I don’t have one. 😦 The only other HG gel I really have now that I consistently use year round is AV gel, and sometimes that’s too light if it’s really humid.
Gotcha ='( thanks for responding. My hair doesn’t even respond well to aloe so it’s really tough for me… if i find anything that caters to super picky hair, I’ll holla!
Hey Elle,
where is the B.A.S.K. Palm Tapioca Deluxe Hair Cream sold?? i googled it and can’t find anything on it….
nevermind lol found it i think
Hi Elle, I have two random questions for you…When you were relaxed were you able to do wash and gos? Also, how long was your hair when you were relaxed? Thanks 🙂
I did them sometimes in summer, but they didn’t look good. I wouldn’t have considered them “doing” my hair. When I was relaxed, my hair was a variety of lengths. It was around BSL, then I cut it to my chin, and throughout the years with hair cuts it was chin length to about APL.
Hey Elle, have you seen the new ingredient list on the KMF website? Seems the Upper Management gel now has Glycerin (second ingredient) and the formula looks to have been completely revamped. Pinged their Facebook page inquiring as to why the change, but so far no response. 😦
Omg. Noooooo! 😦 I’m sad now.
Omg noooooo! My hair doesn’t like aloe or glycerin and this is literally the only gel that agrees with me. Say it ain’t so 😥 I ordered my first bottle from drugstore.com after big chopping. It’s weird because I ordered a 3-pack on Amazon and even though these ingredients listed are the same, the one from Amazon makes my hair more dry. I wonder if they had already tweaked it. Elle or Chicago, have you noticed inconsistency in results from different bottles of the formula? Omg. So sad still. My hair isn’t long enough to twist or otherwise style yet and I rely on gel for my wash and gos.
correction: from different bottles of the OLD formula?
Hey Jali, I’ve never actually used the bottle with the newer design, so I can’t say. I’ve only gotten the older bottle with my orders.
Justjali, I haven’t tried the new formula. I accidentally stumbled upon the product change. I’d recently purchased a bottle and noticed a ‘scent’, that’s the best way I can describe it, was emitted from my hair while under my hooded dryer….this ‘scent’ made my eyes quite irritated. I thought it was odd because I’d never had that experience with KMF before. I compared my recent bottle to a few others I had on stock and the ingredients were the same. At this point I figured it must be in my head; however it happened again the next time I used KMF. Again, on the hunt I went, because in my previous search the KMF site ingredient list was a duplicate as on my bottle, but this time I noticed things had changed drastically, i.e glycerin. I don’t believe the new formula has rolled out to many of the online vendors since many still list the old ingredient list. I ordered 8 bottles from Vitacost and confirmed with them ingredients on their site in fact matched the bottles (didn’t want any surprises). Not sure how long before the new formula takes over.
ugh. What a mess! Thanks to both of you ladies for responding. Elle, I know what you’re talking about. I think all of my bottles have had the newer design. Do you use Vitacost as well? I might try ordering from them but I think I’m just going to stick to my last 2 1/2 bottles and CJ Pattern Pusha which hopefully will get me through to being able to do twistouts. Not cool, KMF! Not cool. Don’t they know people love this stuff and that glycerin is so incompatible with a lot of people’s hair? I would think they are going to see a drastic decline in their sales. If anyone knows of any other medium-hold glycerin and aloe-free gels, please shoot me a reply. Thanks again.
Just kidding, I totally just ordered 4 bottles from Vitacost. Thanks a lot for your research chicagocutie… knowing that you called and confirmed ingredients allowed me to order enough that will hopefully last me until I’m at a length where I can start twistouts and move away from gel for the most part. *sigh* why are they doing this?! They seem so shameless on their Facebook page about it too. It would be nice to show some care about your loyal customers’ reaction and input about these things. Jeez.
Hi! Elle I have really important questions to ask. I’m not natural but transitioning to natural. It has been about 6 months w/ 1 1/2 – 2 inches of new growth!My new growth is coily and quite dry. I’m really proud but my hair is still quite frizzy and damaged! I wanted to know if you have any advice on how I can control this frizz and heal the damage. Also do you have any tips to help me grow length without protective hairstyles
Hi Gabbi! Have you browsed the blog at all or searched the site/YouTube? This is a common issue, especially with transitioners, so I have done several Question of the Day posts and FAQ videos about frizz, damage, and retaining length without protective styling (because I don’t protective style). I also wrote an article called, “Retaining Length Without Protective Styling” or something to that effect. There can be several different reasons for frizzy hair or dryness though, so I always encourage people to review my posts then try to apply it to their hair – it’s impossible for me to give folks one on one advice about their issues without knowing their full routines, products, etc. The Transitioning Movement site by Carol’s Daughter is also a great resource for transitioners – there is an “Ask the Experts” section that includes lots of information on the topics you’re interested in.
Elle, thank you so much for sharing this list. I just did my bc last Saturday after transitioning for 16 months! I wanted to do a wash and go so bad!!! So after reading your list I tried the Oyin hair dew and Kiss my Face Upper Management. The results were awesome. Plus the drying time is so fast. No “wet cat look” either 🙂 Thank you so much. Hopefully, I will be able to get 2nd, 3rd, and hopefully 4th day hair with this style!
Advice PLEASE!!! (((((DYE DEBACLE = LIMP/THIN HAIR)))))
Hi Elle, this is a serious “What would Elle do?” plea for help.
Yes, I just very well may have destroyed my hair and I’m gonna try not to bawl on this keyboard.
I don’t know if you answer from the general messages in YouTube but my question is too long to post as a comment under your “Dye Aftercare” video.
I’m really struggling with something and always look to your vids for advice, though our textures are vastly different.
I just subscribed to your blog and learned how you describe your hair. Well, mine is quite different (looking), though yes, curly. I suppose this is how I’d describe my hair, and maybe from this you can help with my issue?
Texture: Medium/Fine, more on the Fine side
Density: Medium/Thin. Definitely not thick
Porosity: Low-normal, but I’m not quite sure on this one
Priorities: Moisture, Frizz Control and full looking hair, length retention (strengthening/non-breaking)
Here’s what’s happened. After using Henna for about 3 years, every six months, I decided I wanted to give it a rest for a little over two months (to have it fade a bit and a little new growth). I did this because I was dying (no pun) to lighten my hair and as you know, close to impossible to do over henna. So, I reluctantly went back to box dye, trying the non-ammonia HerbaShine and Natural Instincts. Both in medium browns. I have done this about 3 times and all seemed fine though I swear, it’s like I woke up one day (about two weeks ago) and I had less hair!!! Not from breakage, just thin, pitiful strands of hair. No bouncy curls – even though my hair is really thin, at least I could create the illusion of full curls before the box dye. I am so discouraged. I use the Curl Junkie repair every 6 weeks, but nothing has helped. I’m don’t know if there is even a quick fix or have I ruined what I’ve beed trying to nurture for years (haven’t had a relaxer since something like 2001). I’ve never, (even with really moisturized, protected hair) grown long hair but I did achieve healthy hair with what I think is a normal amount of breakage/shedding, to my shoulders when dry. I liked what was going on and maybe it was the Henna that was giving me the texture of curly fullness? I know how some people say Henna loosened their curl pattern and that wasn’t the case for me. However, it’s almost completely straight now that I’ve used the non-ammonia dyes.
My main question is, should I go back to henna? Will that revive my texture and plump up my hair? It’s not appearing dry, just utterly deflated and stringy. Is it only possibly to have the new growth return to the texture I liked and worked so hard to achieve and hopeless for the dyed strands (which is all of my hair, ARGG!!!). Can pathetically limp hair be resuscitated?
Please help me diagnose this disaster. I would be FOREVER grateful!
Thanks and LOVE all that you do.
KMJ
New York City
p.s. if I can figure out how to write to you elsewhere (blog?) I will, in case you don’t read your messages here. Yeah, I’m desperate, have you noticed?
That stinks your hair is acting up, I know how crappy it is to feel like you messed up a ton of progress. Overprocessing your hair can easily allow you to lose your curl pattern and thin out hair significantly. However, unfortunately :(, I can’t really answer whether you “should” henna or not, because I have never been in your situation. There are certainly pros and cons – henna coats your strand and may thicken your strands up, but it can also weigh your hair down and won’t give you the bounciness you desire. Also, since henna is permanent, I’m not sure it would be as easy to deal with if it didn’t work like you planned. Another idea would be to explore other ayurvedic herbs to assist with thickness, like cassia or amla. You may also want to increase the frequency of your protein treatments and use more products with strengthening proteins in your everyday routine.
Hi Elle, I am new to your blog and youtube channel but do you still use the Mason Pearson to detangle (either the rake or brush)? I tried to search through the videos and posts so forgive me if I missed it. Thanks and I LOVE your hair!
I still use the comb, not the brush that much though.