I don't care what anyone says, leave-in conditioners are very important.
It's a step I've never skipped in my haircare routine, and my curls have definitely reaped the benefits over the years. The only issue is that with so many products on the market now (a very good problem!), it can be hard to pin down the cream of the crop.
Thankfully, I have the privilege of getting to test dozens upon dozens of products for my job, so I want to help streamline the process for you.
Here, I rounded up seven of the best leave-in conditioners for natural hair. And trust me, they're good.
Mizani 25 Miracle Milk Heat Protectant Leave-In Conditioner
To shop: $38; sephora.com
I've been using Mizani since the beginning of time, and I keep going back to the line because I know it will get the job done. The Miracle Milk is appropriately named, seeing as the combo of coconut and fennel seed oils helps to moisturize dry hair, add shine, and prevent breakage. Plus, it also doubles as a heat protectant, so even if I decide to blow my hair out, I know this product has me covered.
Moroccanoil All in One Leave-In Conditioner
To shop: $30; sephora.com
My hair and argan oil are the best of friends. They fell in love many years ago and are still in a committed relationship. So basically anything Moroccanoil comes out with is a hit. The All in One Leave-In Conditioner blends its signature argan oil with sunflower seed oil, quinoa extract, along with amino acids to help condition and strengthen hair. The results? Unbelievably soft curls that are a breeze to detangle.
Pattern Leave-In Conditioner for Curly & Coily Hair
To shop: $25; sephora.com
I started using Pattern's signature Leave-In Conditioner last year and it's been a staple in my routine ever since. At first, I had my reservations, considering it was a little lighter than what I'd typically use. But I quickly had to eat my own words. Its blend of jojoba oil, honey, and biotin leave my hair feeling super soft without weighing it down. And the light scent is otherworldly.
Dove Beauty Hair Therapy 7-in-1 Miracle Mist
To shop: $8; target.com
When I first tried this Miracle Mist from Dove, I didn't really go into it with any expectations, I just wanted to see what it would do. But my goodness, the vitamin C and amino acid-rich formula blew me away after the first try. Usually I have to use a lot of product to cover my super thick strands, but a little goes a long way here, and it leaves my hair unbelievably soft and free of knots.
Maui Moisture Shea Butter Leave-In Conditioning Mist
To shop: $11; sallybeauty.com
I don't care what anyone says, Maui Moisture is one of the best universal drugstore haircare lines of all time — and I will fight a-n-y-b-o-d-y over that statement. This lightweight leave-in gives my hair incredible shine, slip, and softness. If you haven't already tried it, you need to get into it.
Mielle Pomegranate & Honey Leave-In Conditioner
To shop: $13; sallybeauty.com
Mielle is one of those haircare brands that everyone loves — literally. I've yet to ever hear a bad review of these products and it's easy to see why. The Pomegranate & Honey Leave-In Conditioner moisturizes and detangles with a blend glycerin, murumuru seed butter, and other ingredients that help to nourish the hair. It's the perfect product to use when you want to achieve a bomb twist-out.
Briogeo Be Gentle, Be Kind Aloe + Oat Milk Ultra Soothing Detangling Mist
To shop: $25; sephora.com
This product may lack fragrance, but it makes up for it in quality and efficacy. I typically use it before a blow-out for some extra shine. A blend of aloe vera, oat milk, and green tea extract work together to add sheen, prevent scalp irritation, and nourish hair.
This is All Natural. From the kinkiest coils to loose waves, we're celebrating natural hair in its many forms by sharing expert tips for styling, maintenance, and haircare.
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