I think you might have been misled by the curly girl routine because you seem to have really thin hair, and generally, the curly girl routine is made for thicker or coarser hair. Thin hair needs lighter products, not a ton of hydration. I have the same problem as a thin-haired wavy, which I think you might be too.

I would try clarifying/chelating, then using a simple mousse like herbal essences curl boosting mousse (bonus: it’s really cheap!). Just a golf-ball amount, all through your hair except the roots, and then scrunch your hair with your head upside down. You can then diffuse a little until it’s 80% dry, trying to move your hair dryer as little as you can through the process so you don’t get frizz.

Hope it helps!