Aunt Jackie’s Curl La La is a curl-defining custard that promises lightweight hold and moisture, thanks to shea butter and olive oil. It’s aimed at people with natural curls and coils who want defined, frizz-free styles without weighing their hair down. In this review, we look at how it performs in real-world routines, its key features, and where it might fall short.
The product comes in a 15-ounce tub, which is a standard size for curl custards. The consistency is thick but not stiff, more like a gel-cream hybrid. It spreads easily through wet hair, and a little goes a long way—most users will find that a quarter-sized amount per section is sufficient. The scent is noticeable: a sweet, fruity fragrance that lingers but isn’t overpowering. If you’re sensitive to fragrances, you might want to sniff before committing to a full tub.
In terms of performance, Curl La La does what it says: it defines curls and reduces frizz. It works best on wet, freshly conditioned hair. Applying it with the praying hands method and then scrunching helps encourage curl formation. The hold is light to medium—it’s not a hard-hold gel, so it won’t give you that crunchy cast unless you use a lot. For many, that’s a plus: hair feels soft and touchable after it dries. However, if you’re looking for all-day hold in high humidity or for a style that needs to last through a workout, this might not be strong enough on its own.
One of the standout features is the ingredient list. Shea butter and olive oil are high on the list, providing moisture and conditioning. That makes it a good choice for dry or brittle hair. But it’s not a deep conditioner—it’s a styling product, so the moisture is more of a surface-level benefit. Also, the formula contains glycerin, which can be a friend or foe depending on your climate. In humid weather, glycerin draws moisture from the air, which can help keep curls hydrated but may also lead to frizz if the air is excessively humid. In very dry climates, glycerin can pull moisture from your hair, so you’ll need to layer with a leave-in conditioner to prevent dryness.
Compared to other curl custards, like Kinky-Curly Curling Custard or Eco Styler Gel, Curl La La sits in the middle in terms of hold. It’s more moisturizing than a typical gel but less defining than a strong-hold custard. It’s also more affordable than many salon brands, which makes it a popular drugstore option. However, the tub packaging can be messy—it’s easy to scoop out too much, and the product can get under your nails. A tube would be more convenient.
Who is this for? It’s ideal for people with type 3 and 4 hair who want soft, defined curls with minimal crunch. It’s also good for those who prefer a more natural, touchable hold. It’s not for anyone seeking extreme hold or a stiff cast, nor for those who are strictly CG (Curly Girl) method—it contains ingredients like glycerin and fragrance that some CG purists avoid. Also, if you have fine hair, use sparingly; too much can weigh it down.
In summary, Aunt Jackie’s Curl La La is a solid, affordable curl custard that delivers on its promise of lightweight definition and moisture. It’s not a miracle product, but it performs well for its intended use. Just be mindful of the glycerin content and the fragrance, and adjust your expectations for hold. For many, it’s a reliable staple in their wash-and-go routine.