Over the last decade, the curly hair product category [1] has blossomed. Now you can't walk into a drugstore without seeing styling butters, preshampoo treatments, and co-washes targeted for ringlets and coils [2]. The latest innovation to hit stores is an import from the international beauty market: combing cream.

"The primary purpose of combing cream is to increase lubricity and improve surface slip," said Ammon Carver [3], creative director for L'Anza. "The trend started in Europe, where thicker hair has shown a need for a product to cut down on damage and length of time in the combing/brushing process." We thought we'd given up tear-free detangler after our Johnson & Johnson days, but combing cream has cut down the yanking and pulling required every time we wash.

The product is equal parts detangler and leave-in styling cream, which makes it perfect for all hair types. "For thicker hair, you need the control and detangling benefits," explained Ammon. "For thinner hair, stopping frizz and flyaway is a key benefit." The smooth texture helps a comb glide through tangled locks, minimizing breakage and knots.

Just apply the product section by section on towel-dried hair. Once you've detangled every strand, you don't have to rinse out any of the remainder. The excess acts as a lightweight, frizz-reducing curl cream. If you're going to add heat, combing cream protects from heat damage and UV and infrared rays; it also prevents static electricity. Shop the few combing creams available stateside ahead.

L'Anza Keratin Healing Oil Combing Cream

L'Anza Keratin Healing Oil Combing Cream [4] ($42)

Carol's Daughter Combing Cream

Carol's Daughter 4-in-1 Combing Cream [5] ($10)

nuNAAT Karite Special Leave-In Detangler

nuNAAT Karite Special Leave-In Detangler [6] ($5)