EVOLVh SmartCurl Review for Fine Curly Hair
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Following the curly girl method and looking for a clean curly girl approved line? EVOLVh SmartCurl just might be the answer.
In this post, I share my review of the EVOLVh SmartCurl line and a few other EVOLVh products I use on my curly hair. I also share my step-by-step styling routine using EVOLVh products.
If you have fine curly hair and are looking for more volume also check out my EVOLVh InstaVolume review.
Want to try EVOLVh? Use my affiliate code HE15 to save on your first order!
Ready to transform your frizz into defined, bouncy curls and waves? Join my free Quick Start Guide To Mastering Your Curls email course below and be on your way to fabulous curls in just a few steps!
About EVOLVh
I first became interested in EVOLVh’s Smart Curl line after trying a trial size of their shampoo and conditioner in a beauty subscription box. I had tried their volumizing leave-in conditioner spray before and while it worked, I wasn’t wowed.
EVOLVh is a natural hair care line that uses clean, high-end ingredients. It’s all curly girl approved, water soluble, and lightweight.
I was excited to try this line because I had seen a few other rave reviews. And let me tell you, this line delivers! My curls are so bouncy, shiny, soft, and defined when I use the shampoo and conditioner. I thought I liked my hair before but after trying this line I am a total convert!
Remember that I have very fine, thin 2b 2c 3a hair that is high porosity and I live in a warm, humid climate.
EVOLVh SmartCurl Product Reviews
SmartCurl Hydrating Wash (shampoo)
The first thing you notice about these products is the scent. It is nice and fresh which they call “Smart Scent”- you can read about it here. It used to be strong but it’s less intense and now smells more like grapefruit. In fact, they recently reformulated all their products to have this same new scent.
The SmartCurl Hydrating Wash shampoo lathers nicely and leaves my scalp squeaky clean. It is not as hydrating as other curl lines which I actually prefer for my really thin and fine hair. It reminds me of the conventional shampoos I used to use years ago that left my scalp really clean. If you need something very hydrating, then skip this.
This is my go to shampoo for clean hair that's bouncy. Light in moisture but doesn't dry out my hair.
Use code HE15 to save on your first order with EVOLVh.
SmartCurl Conditioner
This conditioner has the same scent as the shampoo. Right away you’ll notice that it almost feels like water as your hair instantly absorbs it. The slip is ok for me but it might not be enough for others. I use about 2 squeezes and after squishing it into my hair I wait a few minutes before I detangle with my fingers. I also add water if I feel like I need more product before adding more conditioner. Usually, it just needs water since it’s so concentrated.
It rinses out well and leaves my hair really soft, with minimal frizz, and defined curls that have lots of bounce. Again, this is not as hydrating as other lines but as I said before, this works very well for my hair. The lightness of this line doesn’t weigh my hair down so that I actually have some volume!
This is a fantastic lightweight conditioner that softens curls.
Use code HE15 to save on your first order with EVOLVh.
The 2 photos below are my results using only the SmartCurl shampoo and conditioner. I used a gel from a different brand here. But my hair was so light, had more volume than usual, and was so shiny.
The pictures speak for themselves. Every time I use these products my curls turn out amazing.
This wash lasted me 5 days. For all 5 days I could leave my hair down and I needed minimal refreshing. My curls stayed shiny and bouncy, defined, and frizz was minimal. Since then, I have experimented with other brands and products but I always get great results with EVOLVh’s Smart Curl line.
SmartCurl Leave-in Conditioner
This spray conditioner makes my hair so incredibly soft and defined, but I think it is a tad too moisturizing for regular use on my hair now that it is so healthy. If I use too much it weighs my hair down a bit but I really love how it feels. It also has the same scent as their other products.
I think the SmartCurl leave-in would work well for any type of wavy or curly hair that needs moisture. Because of my hair type, I have to be sure to only use a small amount.
SuperCurl Defining Cream
I was very excited to try the SuperCurl Defining Cream because it’s not like a traditional curl cream that’s super moisturizing. It provides medium hold like the Total Control Styling Creme but a lot more definition and shine. It has more moisture and that is very tricky for my hair. Although my hair looks great on wash day, if I use too much it weighs it down so it doesn’t last as many days after.
This would be great for most curly hair types, especially thick and dry hair. This has minimal scent.
A defining cream for all wavy and curly hair that adds lightweight moisture and light hold. Works well on its own but style lasts longer when paired with DreamGel.
Use affiliate code HE15 to save on your first order.
WonderBalm magic For Curls
This product is like a hair serum that they call “magic for curls”. Again, it feels like water and you can’t feel it as you apply it. Their styling products really melt right into your hair which can be quite deceiving and lead to using too much product. Start small!
This stuff gives incredible shine and softness. I find it doesn’t give me any hold which is why I like to layer it on top of their gel or styling creme. They recommend it be used under but I prefer my results using it over the gel or cream. Sometimes, for efficiency, I mix it in my hands with the styling cream and apply at once.
Again, I always stress to experiment with new products to find what works for you. This product is also very expensive, but honestly, I can see this bottle lasting several years.
I add half a pump and scrunch up from the ends.
This is the best serum for smoothing, controlling frizz, and adding shine and definition. It makes a great finishing product for all hair types but helps with humid and dry conditions. It's pricey but there really is nothing else like this.
Use code HE to save on your first order with EVOLVh.
Curls Discovery Kit
I love that they offer this trial kit with 2 ounce bottles of the SmartCurl shampoo and conditioner, SmartCurl leave-in conditioner, and SuperCurl Defining Cream for only $29. It’s such a great way to try out these products at a more affordable price.
Below I washed and styled using only the 4 products in this kit. You can watch the styling tutorial below.
The EVOLVh Curls Discovery Kit is a great starter kit with the base products needed for your lineup. Check out my full EVOLVh SmartCurl review for more on these products.
Tips For Using the SmartCurl Line
I want to point out again that this line is very concentrated and requires some experimenting to get right.
It took quite a bit of tweaking around with the products as far as how much to apply, what method to use, and in what order to apply them.
So if you do try them out, don’t judge from just the first use. Try them a few times using different amounts and methods before deciding if you like them or not.
Other EVOLVh Products
Total Control Styling Creme
The Total Control Styling Creme is my go-to styling product from EVOLVh. This product is like a gel and cream in one with medium hold. It is thin but not runny as you can see below. It feels it as if you’re not even putting anything in your hair when you apply it because your hair just soaks it in. But don’t be fooled!
It is a touch hydrating (very little), doesn’t always give me a cast, and imparts some shine and definition. It provides a good amount of texture and volume and I prefer it over the SuperCurl cream for this reason. It can be used alone but I prefer to add the WonderBalm on top for extra softness, definition, and ultimate shine. I get the most volume when using this styling product.
Compared to the DreamGel, this has less moisture and more texture. So if volume is my goal, I go with this. But if I want definition and moisture, then DreamGel is a better pick.
I use about a nickel sized amount of the Total Control Creme.
I struggle with creams but this is a styling cream that doesn't offer much moisture. It provides light to medium hold, light texture, and volume. I can use this as a single styler and skip gel.
Use code HE15 to save on your first order with EVOLVh.
SmartVolume Leave-in Conditioner
The SmartVolume Leave-in is my favorite leave-in. It instantly softens my hair and adds volume. I like that all their leave-ins are in spray form because it really helps me concentrate the products on the length of my hair. I spray it liberally all over and scrunch up my hair before applying styling products.
This is my favorite lightweight leave-in that provides softening, detangling, and volume.
Use code HE15 to save on your first order.
DreamGel
DreamGel is a creamy gel that EVOLVh describes as the “modern gel” It’s pretty lightweight and provides hold, volume, definition, frizz control, smoothing, and some texture.
I really like this gel as it always gives me everything I want without weighing down my hair and actually lasting longer than a day! Check out my full review on the DreamGel.
This strong hold creamy gel provides definition, moisture, frizz control, a little volume, and long lasting hold without the crunch.
Use code HE15 to save on your first order with EVOLVh.
InstaVolume Line
This InstaVolume line is favorite for when I want volume. It’s a volumizing shampoo and leave-in conditioner duo, so a lot less moisturizing than the SmartCurl line. I did a full review of the InstaVolume line here. Shop the InstaVolume line here.
UltraRepair Reconstructing Masque
The UltraRepair Reconstructing Masque is a protein heavy deep conditioner and it works like any other. It is not as hydrating or thick as other deep conditioners for curly lines but it is perfect for my hair. I like to apply it and use a heat cap to help it penetrate the hair. My hair loves protein so it’s perfect for me as it’s not too moisturizing.
Lightweight moisture with a good amount of protein makes this mask a great pick for finer hair that tends to get weighed down by treatments.
Use code HE15 to save on your first order with EVOLVh.
Ultimate Styling Lotion
I have given this product several tries but I do not like it at all. It is a thin lotion that, to me, does not provide any hold. It does not give my curls any definition and it starts to get frizzy quickly. This is one I’d say to skip if you’re wearing your hair curly. Shop the Ultimate Styling Lotion here.
SmartStart Leave-in Conditioner
This is my second choice leave-in. It softens but doesn’t add volume and it;s not as moisturizing as the SmartCurl so it’s better for my hair. It’s a great choice if you don’t need volume or a lot of moisture. Shop the SmartStart leave-in here.
SmartColor
I have tried the SmartColor shampoo and conditioner a few times. It has the same scent all their products have and honestly seems to work the same as the UltraShine line does on my hair. It isn’t any more or less moisturizing than UltraShine so I”m guessing it just provides more protection for color-treated hair. I’d say it’s a great option for color-treated hair but if your hair is curly, stick with SmartCurl since it is also color-safe and will provide better moisture and definition.
Shop the SmartColor line here.
UltraShine
I love the UltraShine line almost as much as the SmartCurl. It is such a slight difference in how my hair looks when using it. I only notice a little better definition and softness with SmartCurl.
So if you have straight or wavy hair then this line will work for you. It is also color-safe. Shop the UltraShine line here.
My current curly hair routine using EVOLVh SmartCurl
- Wash and condition with the Smart Curl line.
- Flip my head upside down and spritz liberally with the Smart Volume leave in conditioner. This part is the most important as this is when you want to clump your curls, prior to applying the styling products. So I add water or conditioner as needed and squish and pulse towards my scalp to get the clumps I want.
- Once I have nice clumps, then I apply about a nickel size of the styling creme. I scrunch and pulse up from the ends and take my time to ensure it spreads out evenly.
- Then I apply 1 half pump of the WonderBalm (dime size) in the same way. I keep scrunching and pulsing up to my scalp.
- I use my t-shirt hair towel to scrunch out the excess water.
- After a few minutes I diffuse for about 10 minutes.
Final Thoughts
The reason I love this brand so much is that it leaves my curls ridiculously soft, without frizz, shiny, and defined without feeling like it has any product. My curls are totally weightless and the style lasts. Below are more pictures of my results using only EVOLVh products.
If you’re interested in trying EVOLVh use code HE15 for 15% off your purchase. They also have a Curls Discovery Kits for only $29 with 4 different products making it a great way to try out the line.
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If you want help with embracing your naturally wavy or curly hair, you can join my FREE email course and download my FREE pdf guide, THE QUICK START GUIDE TO MASTERING YOUR CURLS, full of everything you need to know to get started and bring out your beautiful waves and curls.
Love your hair! I live in Florida too and have trouble with frizzy curly silver hair (I’m 55). Are the products you mentioned (specially the shampoo) Curly Method Girl friendly?
Thanks! Yes, these products are CG friendly. If your hair is more on the dry side I suggest you try the Ultra Shine as the Smart Curl will probably not be moisturizing enough. Or you can try both, they sell the mini samples for only $3 a bottle. I recently tried these out and I think I prefer them and will update my post after some time to make sure.
How long does a bottle last for you?
I only have the 2 oz and the shampoo and conditioner last about 2 months, depending on how often and how much I use. The 2 oz gel is just now running out, and I’ve had it for 3 months.
These products sound wonderful but they are soooo expensive and don’t really sit with your living on a budget . That is unless you need to only use tiny amounts.
Hi Alison. You’re right these are a bit pricey but they do last because you use much less. However, I have a whole post on affordable options here https://holisticenchilada.com/affordable-clean-curly-hair-product/
Hello! I am interested in products for wavy/curly hair that are truly “clean” Every time I find a good product they change the formula – generally because they’ve been purchased by a huge corporation (Burts Bees, Aubrey Organics, Shea Moisture). I need super clean non toxic shampoo, conditioner and styling. Thank you!
Hi Molly! I love Evolvh and Raw Curls which I write about all the time but if you want something more affordable try Acure or Giovanni.
Hi, this post is super helpful. thanks! But I just want to clarify which Evolvh products you currently would recommend for someone with very fine curly hair (I definitely want to add volume, but also don’t want to dry out my hair, and where I live is currently very dry though it is humid in the summer). Would you recommend the Smart Curl or the Ultrashine line? And the volumizing leave-in? Thanks so much!
Hi Julie. I would recommend the SmartCurl and SmartVolume products. These are what I use and love and my hair is fine and low density.
Do you use the Evolvh Total Control and Wonderbalm on soaking wet hair or toweled dried damp hair, per their instructions. I normally put all my products for curly hair on soaking wet hair, but the instructions say damp toweled dried.
If I use them on wet hair, I apply to soaking wet hair the Total Control creme first then a dab of Wonderbalm and after I dry. Lately I’ve preferred to leave the Wonderbalm for after my hair has completely dried to scrunch in and add some more definition and softness.
Do you prefer to use a T-shirt or microfiber towel or the flour sack that Raw Curls offers and why?
T-shirt is best, followed by the Raw Curls towel, and microfiber last. I just find a lot less frizz with the t-shirt material since it doesn’t absorb as much as microfiber.
First I love EvolVh Smart Curl shampoo and conditioner and alternate with the Ultrashine. I. Thought to also try the Instavolume mousse and Dreamgel strong hold styler. I did try these on separate wash days as they are new to me. First I have wavy 2A-2B, low density very fine white and silver natural colored hair. It is also high porosity. So I use even less product than you do. However, the mousse left my hair feeling chalky, producty dull and loss of definition. It did give me a huge hair look but ugly feeling and feeling hair. My wide tooth comb had powder on it! Next time I used the Dreamgel strong hold styler. My hair is soft and shiny but the waves fell flat before the washday was done. It doesn’t have a caste which is okay with me however, today is only day two and my roots are greasy. So I did buy the normal size of each and will try again to make sure I am using correctly. But right now I am not thrilled with these products. Have you tried them as yet?
You should layer the mousse under the gel. A tiny bit of mousse, focus on the areas where you need volume, then apply a small amount of gel to the length of your hair, avoiding the roots. The mousse alone won’t work and the gel can be too much for the root area. I do have a video routine on these and a review of each of these products as well.