Best Hair Styling Creams of 2025

Lisa Bechard Avatar
Lisa Bechard
Last Updated: Jan 16, 2025

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Hair styling creams are an essential product for anyone looking to achieve a sleek and polished hairstyle. These creams are designed to provide hold and control, while also nourishing and protecting the hair. They come in a variety of formulas, from lightweight creams for fine hair to heavier creams for thick, unruly hair. Some styling creams also offer added benefits such as heat protection and shine enhancement. Whether you're looking to create a slicked-back look or simply tame flyaways, a good hair styling cream is a must-have in your hair care arsenal.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Travel-friendly Moroccanoil Hydrating Styling Cream Cover #TOP 1
Travel-friendly Moroccanoil Hydrating Styling Cream
ftb score rating icon 9.9
dae Hair Cactus Fruit 3-In-1 Styling Cream Cover #TOP 2
dae Hair Cactus Fruit 3-In-1 Styling Cream
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Olaplex No. 6 Bond Smoother Hair Cream Cover #TOP 3
Olaplex No. 6 Bond Smoother Hair Cream
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Hair Styling Creams

#TOP 1

Travel-friendly Moroccanoil Hydrating Styling Cream

HYDSTC75ML
Fragrance Originale
Travel-friendly Moroccanoil Hydrating Styling Cream Cover
Moroccanoil Hydrating Styling Cream, Travel Size, 2.4 Fl. Oz

The Moroccanoil Hydrating Styling Cream in a travel size of 2.53 Fl Oz is a great beauty and personal care product to style your hair on the go. The item is not a tester and packaging may vary. The hair styling cream is formulated with a blend of amber, musk, and floral scent to leave your hair smelling great. The cream is perfect for those who want to tame frizz, add shine, and hydrate their hair without weighing it down. Its lightweight formula is absorbed quickly and nourishes your hair without leaving any residue.

What We Like
Moisturizes without heaviness
Soft, smooth, frizz-free hair
Lightweight, quick absorption
Amazing scent
Works well on fine hair
What We Don't Like
May leave hair slightly stiff
Some flyaways remain
#TOP 2

dae Hair Cactus Fruit 3-In-1 Styling Cream

DAE
2539542
5 Ounce (Pack of 1)
dae Hair Cactus Fruit 3-In-1 Styling Cream Cover
DAE Cactus Fruit 3-In-1 Styling Cream - Smooth Styles, Prep Shiny Blowouts, Defines Curls (5 oz.)

Introducing the DAE Cactus Fruit Styling Cream - a clean, multitasking formula designed to give you smooth styled hair, prep shiny blowouts, and define natural curls. Infused with desert-derived extracts, this signature blend adds polish and shine to your hair while hydrating botanicals moisturize and tame frizz. The key ingredients, including Dragon Fruit, Prickly Pear Seed Oil, and Meadowfoam Seed Oil, work together to lock in moisture, condition strands, and restore dull and brittle hair to its natural glossy luster. This vegan and sulfate-free cream comes in recyclable packaging, making it a responsible choice for your hair care routine.

What We Like
Delightful skittles-like scent
High-quality natural ingredients
Versatile for various hairstyles
Non-greasy finish
Effective frizz control
What We Don't Like
May require more product for hold
Frizz control could be better
#TOP 3

Olaplex No. 6 Bond Smoother Hair Cream

OL007
white
Olaplex No. 6 Bond Smoother Hair Cream Cover
Olaplex No. 6 Bond Smoother, Leave-In Styling Hair Cream Treatment, Smooths, Conditions, & Strengthens, Frizz Control for Up to 72 Hours, For All Hair Types, 3.3 fl oz

Olaplex Bond Smoother is a versatile leave-in hair cream designed to keep your hair looking its best. With up to 72 hours of frizz control, it effectively combats humidity, ensuring your hair remains smooth and sleek throughout the day. The cream also provides deep moisture, which helps keep your hair hydrated and nourished. Additionally, it detangles easily, making your styling routine quicker and simpler. Not only does it condition your hair, but it also strengthens and repairs, reducing breakage for healthier locks.

What We Like
Soft, shiny hair
Effective frizz control
Lightweight and travel-friendly
Long-lasting results
Good value for money
What We Don't Like
Expensive
May require mixing with other products
#TOP 4

CHI Straight Guard Styling Cream, 8.5 FL Oz

CHI
CHI5208
CHI Straight Guard Styling Cream, 8.5 FL Oz Cover
CHI Straight Guard Smoothing Styling Cream, Eliminates Frizz For Sleek & Shiny Hair, Maximum Control, 8.5 Oz

The CHI Straight Guard Styling Cream is designed to control hair and eliminate frizz, providing a superior shine. Its creamy consistency allows for easy styling of smooth and sleek hairstyles, while its brush glide formula makes the application process quick and effortless. This styling cream is perfect for transforming frizzy and curly hair into sleek styles. Additionally, it contains Ionic and Catatonic Hydration Interlink technology to ensure healthy, hydrated hair.

What We Like
Lightweight formula
Reduces frizz effectively
Long-lasting results
Soft and shiny hair
Heat-activated for best results
What We Don't Like
Pump mechanism issues
Some detect no scent
#TOP 5

Cremo Premium Barber Grade Hair Styling Cream

20853382004913
WHITE
4 Ounce (Pack of 1)
Cremo Premium Barber Grade Hair Styling Cream Cover
Cremo Hair Styling Cream, Barber Grade, Medium Hold, Medium Shine Hair Products, 4 Oz

Cremo Hair Styling Cream is a versatile hair styling cream suitable for all hair types. With its flexible control, you can restyle your hair throughout the day without having to apply more product. The medium hold and medium shine give your hair a natural look. This cream is ideal for creating a textured, slept-in look when applied to dry hair. It can also reactivate your style when applied to unwashed hair. Cremo Hair Styling Cream is perfect for those who want to achieve a casual, effortless style that lasts all day.

What We Like
Good hold and shine
Easy to apply
Doesn't weigh hair down
Washes out easily
Subtle and pleasant scent
What We Don't Like
May require reapplication
Some find it a bit pricey
#TOP 6

John Frieda Frizz Ease Secret Weapon Touch-Up Crème

11699
SECRET WEAPON
4 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
John Frieda Frizz Ease Secret Weapon Touch-Up Crème Cover
John Frieda Frizz Ease Secret Weapon Touch-Up Crème - Anti-Frizz Styling Cream for Smooth, Frizz-Prone Hair, 4 Oz

Transform parched hair into smooth, glossy locks and tame frizz and flyaways with John Frieda Frizz Ease Touch-up Crème. This multi-use styling cream is formulated to fight frizz and fly aways on the go while camouflaging split ends. Apply to damp hair and blow dry with a round brush, and use a flat iron for smooth, straight hair. Suitable for all hair types, including chemically and color-treated hair, it's perfect for carrying in your handbag or gym bag for hair touch-ups throughout the day.

What We Like
Effective frizz control
Leaves hair silky smooth
Non-greasy, no residue
Affordable price
Long-lasting results
What We Don't Like
May require reapplication
Limited availability in stores
#TOP 7

Marc Anthony Instantly Thick Biotin Styling Cream

FJFIEJFOK221
White
Marc Anthony Instantly Thick Biotin Styling Cream Cover
Marc Anthony Styling Hair Cream, Instantly Thickening Biotin & Vitamin E Hair Cream, Lightweight Hold for Thicker & Fuller Volumizing Product for Thin, Flat Hair

Marc Anthony Instantly Thick Biotin Styling Cream is a volumizing lightweight thickening hair product for fine, dry dull hair. It contains biotin and vitamin E to make hair thick and full, and helps to condition and strengthen strands to minimize future breakage and split ends. Customers have found it to add texture and volume to their hair, while some have found it to be of a consistency that won't add much volume.

What We Like
Enhances volume effectively
Non-greasy and non-waxy
Affordable compared to competitors
Pleasant candy-like scent
Impressive results for fine hair
What We Don't Like
Uncertain heat protection
#TOP 8

Tea Tree Shaping Cream for All Hair Types

TTCM-085
3 Ounce (Pack of 1)
Tea Tree Shaping Cream for All Hair Types Cover
Tea Tree Shaping Cream, Hair Styling Cream, Long-Lasting Hold, Matte Finish, For All Hair Types, 3 oz

This Tea Tree Shaping Cream is the highest quality styling product available for all hair types. It comes with a long-lasting hold and a natural matte finish that lasts all day. This product is perfect for anyone who wants to achieve a natural, effortless look without using harsh chemicals.

What We Like
Long-lasting hold
Natural matte finish
No greasy residue
Easy to apply
Versatile for all hair types
What We Don't Like
Small container
Formula may have changed
#TOP 9

COLOR WOW One Minute Transformation Styling Cream

CW522
4 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
COLOR WOW One Minute Transformation Styling Cream Cover
COLOR WOW One Minute Transformation – Instant frizz fix| Nourishing styling cream smooths, tames + defrizzes on the spot, Avocado oil + Omega 3’s hydrate, repair for silkier, smoother texture

Introducing COLOR WOW Styling Cream, a game-changer for damaged, dry, color-treated, and over-processed hair. This innovative cream offers an instant on-the-spot frizz fix, bringing unruly hair under control in no time. Simply apply it to bumps, bends, and bed head, then brush or blow dry for a quick, smooth, and polished refresh. With its nourishing avocado oil, this styling cream not only tames frizz but also revitalizes and restores life to your hair. Say goodbye to waxy and greasy buildup with this lightweight formula. COLOR WOW Styling Cream is a must-have for anyone looking to transform their hair effortlessly.

What We Like
Highly effective for frizz control
Lightweight and non-oily texture
Long-lasting with small amount needed
Leaves hair smooth and silky
Works well on dry hair
What We Don't Like
Mixed results for some users
Can be greasy for certain hair types
#TOP 10

Paul Mitchell Quick Slip Styling Cream

607405
Paul Mitchell Quick Slip Styling Cream Cover
Paul Mitchell Quick Slip Styling Cream, Faster Styling + Soft Texture, For All Hair Types, 6.8 fl. oz.

The Paul Mitchell Quick Slip Styling Cream is perfect for all hair types. This cream reduces drying time, making styling faster and easier. The soft, flexible hold it provides will leave your hair looking great all day long. The cream has a pleasant scent of peachy, lily of the valley, and water fruits, and is both vegan and paraben-free, ensuring a safe and healthy product for your hair. The product is lightweight and easy to use, and it comes in a 6.8 fl. oz. bottle.

What We Like
Tames frizz effectively
Softens hair texture
Provides volume
Long-lasting results
Enhances curl definition
What We Don't Like
Small container size
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What does hair styling cream do?

Hair styling cream is designed to help style and shape your hair. It has a creamy consistency and provides nourishment and moisture, making it ideal for dry and brittle hair.

2. Do you put styling cream on wet or dry hair?

It is best to apply styling cream to damp hair, but it can also be used on dry hair. Take a dime-sized amount of the cream, rub it between your palms, and distribute it evenly through your hair. Use your fingers or a comb to style your hair as desired.

3. Should I use hair styling cream?

Hair styling cream is great for creating casual and relaxed hairstyles without appearing too heavy with product. It provides a low to medium hold and minimal shine, making it perfect for hairstyles that require movement and texture.

4. What are the disadvantages of hair styling cream?

Some hair styling creams may contain harmful chemicals that can damage the hair, such as alcohol and Propylene Glycol (PG). These ingredients can dry out the hair shaft, break down hair proteins, and make the hair more prone to breakage and frizz.

5. Is styling cream the same as mousse?

Styling cream and mousse have different purposes. If you want to enhance your wave pattern and prevent frizz, use curling cream. If you want volume, hold, and frizz protection, go for curling mousse. You can even use them together to get the best of both worlds.

6. When should you apply hair styling cream?

After styling your hair, you can apply a small amount of styling cream to add shine, enhance texture, and reduce frizz. Remember, a little goes a long way with oils, so use them sparingly.

7. Do you put leave-in conditioner before styling cream?

For optimal results, start by applying a lightweight leave-in conditioner all over your hair to hydrate and nourish your curls. Then, follow it up with a defining cream that is specifically made for your curl type to add shape and hold.

8. Should you brush hair before or after applying styling cream?

Avoid brushing or combing your hair after applying firm-hold styling products, as it can cause damage. If you need to restyle your hair after using styling gel, glaze, or mousse, mist your hair with water to slightly wet it before restyling. You may not need to reapply the styling product.

Editor's Notes

During our hair styling cream research, we found 48 hair styling cream products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 460,774 customer reviews through our big data system to write the hair styling creams list. We found that most customers choose hair styling creams with an average price of $15.19.

The hair styling creams are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of hair styling creams, including Moroccanoil, DAE, Olaplex, CHI, Cremo. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Lisa Bechard Avatar

Lisa Bechard is a skin therapist with 12 years of working experience in the beauty industry and also an experienced beauty writer who has expertise in skincare, medical aesthetics and cosmetic surgery, and wellness. Her writing skills are excellent and all her content is very persuasive and insightful.

Hair Styling Creams Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Moroccanoil DAE Olaplex CHI Cremo John Frieda Marc Anthony Tea Tree COLOR WOW Paul Mitchell
Product Benefits Tames frizz and flyaways. Soft-hold formula conditions and prepares hair for styling. Refreshes next-day hair. Smoothing, Hydrating, Defining Strengthens, hydrates, moisturizes and speeds up blow dry times while smoothing. Eliminates frizz and flyaways. Frizz Control, Smoothening, Straightening Medium Hold, Medium Shine Smoothening, Frizz Control, Split End Treatment Provides thickening, strength, moisture, and shine with a lightweight formula gentle hold for natural movement Vegan. Paraben Free. Gluten Free. Hydrating, Nourishing Vegan. Paraben Free. Gluten Free.
Hair Type All All Normal All, Curly All Frizzy Fine, Straight, Curly Hair All All, Frizzy, Dry, Damaged, Coarse All
Material Type Free Sulphate Free;Paraben Free Sulfate Free - Paraben Free Dairy Free Dye Free - Paraben Free. Gluten Free. Alcohol Free, Sulfate Free, Cruelty Free, Paraben Free, Vegan Paraben Free. Gluten Free.
Scent Fragrance Originale Citrus - Unscented Styling Cream Unscented - A burst of cool mint, tea tree and citrus refreshes and revives the senses Fresh and Clean Vibrant peachy scent infused with fresh and airy notes of lily of the valley and water fruits
Liquid Volume 75 Milliliters 5 Fluid Ounces - 8.5 Fluid Ounces 4 Fluid Ounces 4 Fluid Ounces - 3 Fluid Ounces 4 Fluid Ounces 6.8 Fluid Ounces
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
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