Two big problems with most curl routines: either your curls go soft and lose shape within an hour, or they end up coated in a hard, crunchy gel cast that breaks the moment you touch them. The trick is in the cream you use and the order you apply it.
This is a UK-friendly routine for waves, loose curls and tight coils, using a lightweight curl cream that defines without stiffening.
Why most curl products go wrong
The classic curl gel forms a hard "cast" around damp curls so they dry without falling apart. That works, but it leaves curls feeling brittle. People then scrunch out the cast and end up with frizz or limp curls. A modern curl cream gives definition without the cast in the first place.
The other common mistake: using a heavy butter or oil. On UK weather (humidity-prone, soft water in some regions), heavy products weigh curls down. A lightweight cream like the Moné Curls Transformer Cream sits between gel and butter — enough hold for shape, light enough that curls keep their bounce.
The 5-step curly routine
Step 1 — Cleanse without stripping
Curly hair is naturally drier because oils struggle to travel down the spiral shape. Use a sulfate-free shampoo. For coloured curly hair, the Sparkling Shine Shampoo cleans without stripping colour and adds shine. Massage at the scalp only for 60 seconds.
Step 2 — Condition generously, mid-length to ends
Apply conditioner from mid-length to ends and finger-detangle in the shower. Don't rinse fully — leave a thin film. This is your slip layer.
Step 3 — Apply curl cream on soaking wet hair
Out of the shower, with hair still dripping, take a generous palm-full of Curls Transformer Cream. Scrunch upward from ends to roots, section by section. The wetter your hair when you apply, the better the curl shape sets.
Step 4 — Plop or microfibre, no terry towels
Wrap hair in a microfibre towel or cotton T-shirt and "plop" for 10–20 minutes. Terry cloth roughs up the cuticle and creates frizz.
Step 5 — Air-dry or diffuse on low
Air-drying gives the most defined finish but takes time. If you diffuse, use low heat and low airflow, hover the diffuser, don't push the hair. Once 80% dry, scrunch upwards once more to break any subtle cast.
What to add for extra hold or volume
- For more hold on tight curls: a small amount of Beach Chic Sea Salt Spray applied on damp hair adds texture and grip.
- For root lift on flat curls: a sprinkle of Texturizing Volume Powder at the roots once dry.
- For shine and frizz control between washes: the Color Lemonade Hair Oil applied to ends only, half a pump.
Refresh on day 2 and 3
Don't re-wash. Wet hands, lightly scrunch in some cool water, then re-apply a smaller amount of Curls Transformer Cream to ends. Add a quick scrunch of Beach Chic Sea Salt Spray if curls feel limp. Most curly hair improves visually on day 2 and 3 if you don't disturb the pattern.
Frequently asked questions
Is Curls Transformer Cream suitable for all curl types?
Yes — waves, loose curls, tight curls and coils. Adjust the amount: less for waves, more for tighter patterns.
Will Curls Transformer leave hair crunchy?
No. It's specifically formulated without strong cast-forming polymers. Curls dry soft and bouncy, not stiff.
Can I use it on coloured curly hair?
Yes. The formula is gentle on coloured, bleached and balayaged curly hair.
Should I use a leave-in conditioner alongside?
If your curls are very dry or damaged, layer a leave-in like the Moneplex 04 Keratin Leave-In before the curl cream. The leave-in adds nutrition; the curl cream defines.
How much should I use?
Start with a 2-pence-coin-sized amount per section. Add more if your hair eats it (dry, thick or porous curls usually need more).
Build the full curl routine: Dry & Damaged Hair collection for the foundation, plus Curls Transformer Cream for definition. Free UK delivery over £20.