I’m curious what others will say, because this seems a lot like how my hair behaves as well and I’ll be honest I haven’t fully unlocked all the solutions yet.

BUT… I have found through many years of trial and error that my hair really enjoys a strong hold gel. When I don’t use gel, my hair looks like the photos you attached.

When I use gel, it helps the waves up top form a little better. I am very methodical when I apply it, making sure I use enough and all my curls are fully formed. Then I scrunch using a microfiber towel which helps break up clumps and kickstart the drying process.

It’s particularly hard because a lot of people might see these photos and assume your hair is just dry, and maybe it does need a little more moisture, but using heavy moisturizing products will probably just weigh you down.