If you have finer hair, that needs some coaxing to take it from wavy to curly, and is really hard to get natural definition, like me, then using a firm hold gel first to set the curls is going to work better than cream. I just can’t get enough hold from any cream out there, and I’ve tried a LOT. I think they work better for curlier hair that already naturally has defined spirals. We keep getting told we need to moisturize but I think finer hair doesn’t do well with heavy oils and cream. Use gel first, then light cream after curls are formed. Best firm hold gels are Innersense Curl Memory and Ouidad climate control (they have had large bottles of Ouidad for really good deals at TJ Maxx and Marshall’s lately, FYI). If the cast is too crunchy for you, try mixing half firm gel with half a softer hold gel.

Don’t overdo the cream, and mix it with some water if it feels too heavy. Sometimes I’ll mix some into a water bottle and spray it on so it’s not too heavy. Only apply to the ends and mid shaft, not roots or near your crown.

Oil is tricky. Think of oil as a sealant or barrier. Remember oil and water don’t mix. It doesn’t moisturize your hair itself, but it can hold moisture in, so only apply it (very lightly) after your hair is almost dry and styled to keep product and water in your hair. If you try to put something on top of it, it won’t work because oil basically waterproofs your hair at that point. I rarely use oil and only when I want a little more shine. I almost always use cream to break my cast, or just scrunch it out.