Amika Curl Enhancing Gel vs. Defining Cream: A Curly Hair Showdown

Choosing between styling products can be a curly girl's dilemma. This review pits Amika's Curl Enhancing Gel against its Curl Defining Cream in a head-to-head comparison, examining their performance, application, and overall results on naturally curly hair. Both products promise defined, voluminous curls, but their textures and hold differ significantly. We'll delve into the specifics of each product's consistency, ease of use, and the impact on curl definition, bounce, and longevity. From cute packaging and clean ingredients to the final look and feel, we'll uncover which Amika product reigns supreme – or if they both deserve a spot in your curly hair routine.This in-depth comparison explores the subtle differences and surprising similarities between the Amika Curl Enhancing Gel and Curl Defining Cream. We'll analyze the pros and cons of each, including their hold, hydration levels, and how well they perform with a diffuser. Ultimately, we aim to help you decide which product best suits your curl type and personal preferences, providing a clear understanding of which one delivers the soft, bouncy, and defined curls you desire, whether you prefer a more natural, less-structured look or something with a little more shine.

Pros And Cons

Amika Curl Corps Defining Cream
  • Lightweight
  • Moisturizing
  • Clean scent
  • Provides soft, bouncy curls
  • No hold
  • May not be suitable for humid weather
Amika Curl Corps Enhancing Gel
  • Lightweight
  • Watery consistency
  • Clean scent
  • Provides volume and defined curls
  • No cast
  • Little to no hold
  • May not be suitable for humid weather

Read more: Davines More Inside Relaxing Moisturizing Fluid: A Deep Dive Review

Packaging and Brand Values

Amika's curly hair products boast undeniably cute packaging. The aesthetic is pleasing and immediately catches the eye, adding to the overall brand experience. Beyond the looks, Amika prioritizes clean ingredients, making their products sulfate, paraben, and silicone-free. This commitment to natural formulations is a major plus for those with sensitive scalps or who prefer ingredient transparency.

Product Texture and Application

The Amika Curl Defining Cream has a lightweight, moisturizing consistency. It's easy to distribute through the hair without weighing it down, making it ideal for those seeking hydration without stickiness. The Curl Enhancing Gel, on the other hand, is surprisingly watery and less sticky than expected. The application process for both was smooth and effortless.

Drying and Initial Impressions

After drying, there wasn't a significant visual difference between the two sides of the hair. The gel side appeared slightly shinier, while the cream side felt more moisturized. Neither product left a hard cast, which is a positive for those who prefer a softer, more natural feel. Both products gave good volume and definition to the curls.

Diffusing and Final Results

Diffusing added volume and enhanced the curl pattern on both sides. The final result was similar for both products, though personal preference might dictate which one is preferred. Overall, the curls were big, fluffy, soft, and well-defined. The reviewer noted that the curls looked particularly nice on Day 2 and Day 3, suggesting good longevity.

A full 360 view of the styled hair.
A full 360 view of the styled hair.

Conclusion and Verdict

Both the Amika Curl Enhancing Gel and Curl Defining Cream delivered well-defined, soft, and voluminous curls. The gel, while lacking a strong hold, produced shiny curls. The cream provided excellent hydration without weighing hair down. Ultimately, the choice comes down to personal preference. If you enjoy a crunchy, long-lasting hold, the gel might not be your best choice. However, for those who prefer soft, bouncy curls with less hold and a natural finish, either product would be an excellent choice. While the gel's claim of weatherproof is questionable due to its lack of hold, both were impressive in producing defined, voluminous results.