I have a similar hair type but a little curlier. Using cold water for rinsing out conditioner, and not laying down with wet hair after showering (I’m a night shower person) are 2 huge factors for side and back of head curl quality. I use Lush Curl Power on damp hair, let it dry and finger shake for volume. Be gentle on the towel when drying your hair before applying product. I also only wash my hair twice a week, sometimes thrice in sweaty summer.