The great DevaCurl exodus of 2020 left many curly-haired folks in a bind. After reports of hair damage and scalp issues surfaced, longtime devotees found themselves scrambling for alternatives to the brand that had dominated the curly hair care conversation for years. While the controversy created uncertainty in the natural hair community, it also cleared the way for thoughtful brands that had been quietly innovating in the space.
We've found four brands that deserve attention for their distinct approaches to curl care. While we haven't tested these products ourselves, our research reveals companies that are bringing fresh perspectives to the industry through innovative formulations, sustainable practices, and science-backed solutions.
: Waterless Warriors Revolutionizing Shower Time
Think of Superzero as the Tesla of hair care – they're not just tweaking the existing model; they're completely reimagining it. Their Strengthening & Scalp Stimulating Shampoo For Hair Growth takes the familiar shampoo bar concept and elevates it into something that could genuinely reshape our daily routines.
The math behind these concentrated bars is compelling: each one replaces multiple plastic bottles of traditional shampoo. By removing water from the equation (which typically makes up 80% of regular shampoo), Superzero creates formulations where active ingredients take center stage. Their "Know List" approach focuses on proven ingredients rather than following the typical "free-from" marketing playbook.
Why we like Superzero
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Waterless Innovation
Revolutionary concentrated shampoo bars that eliminate plastic waste
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Ingredient Transparency
Unique 'Know List' approach focusing on proven active ingredients
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Environmental Impact
Each bar replaces multiple plastic bottles of traditional shampoo
4
Concentrated Formula
Maximum efficacy with minimal packaging and water waste
We've tried it, and we love it
: Desert Botanicals Meet Modern Hair Science
Drawing inspiration from the unforgiving Arizona landscape, Dae channels the resilience of desert plants into their hair care line. Their Desert Detox Scalp Scrubber reflects this philosophy, incorporating ingredients that have evolved to thrive in extreme conditions.
The brand's approach feels like a breath of fresh desert air in an industry often cluttered with unnecessary complications. Their formulations harness the power of Southwestern botanicals, creating products that make sense for modern routines while paying homage to the harsh beauty of their native landscape. There's something poetic about using ingredients from one of Earth's most efficient ecosystems to simplify our own beauty routines.
Why we like Dae
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Desert-Inspired Innovation
Unique formulations based on resilient desert botanicals
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Simplified Approach
Streamlined routines inspired by efficient desert ecosystems
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Regional Authenticity
Genuine connection to Southwestern landscape and ingredients
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Modern Interpretation
Traditional botanical knowledge adapted for contemporary needs
: Where Abuela's Kitchen Meets the Chemistry Lab
Ceremonia's Shape Up Aqua Gel represents a fascinating fusion of Latin American beauty traditions and modern cosmetic science. We're intrigued by how they've taken ingredients found in grandmother's recipes – think aloe vera, castor oil, and maracuja – and transformed them into sophisticated formulations that speak to contemporary hair care needs.
The brand stands out for its ability to bridge cultural beauty practices with scientific innovation. Rather than simply repackaging traditional ingredients, Ceremonia approaches formulation with the rigorous standards of modern cosmetic chemistry. Their products acknowledge that effective hair care can be rooted in cultural wisdom while embracing technological advances.
Why we like Ceremonia
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Cultural Heritage
Authentic incorporation of Latin American beauty traditions
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Scientific Innovation
Modern cosmetic chemistry meets traditional ingredients
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Thoughtful Formulation
Sophisticated updates to time-tested beauty recipes
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Bridge Building
Successfully connects cultural wisdom with contemporary needs
: The PhD of Protein-Moisture Balance
If other brands are creating recipes, Curlsmith is writing peer-reviewed papers. Their Shape Up Aqua Gel exemplifies their methodical approach to curl care, built on understanding the molecular structure of different curl patterns. This isn't just another natural hair care line – it's a scientific endeavor disguised as a beauty brand.
The brand's formulations reflect a deep dive into the chemistry of curly hair. Their products demonstrate an understanding that different curl patterns have distinct needs at a structural level. While many brands focus on surface-level moisture, Curlsmith's approach considers factors like protein-moisture balance, porosity, and curl pattern variation. Their educational content helps users understand not just how to use their products, but why specific ingredients interact with hair the way they do.
Why we like Curlsmith
1
Scientific Approach
Research-based formulations focusing on hair structure
2
Educational Focus
Detailed explanation of product chemistry and interactions
3
Customized Solutions
Products tailored to specific curl patterns and needs
4
Technical Expertise
Deep understanding of protein-moisture balance and porosity
The Road Ahead: What These Brands Tell Us About Hair Care's Future
These four brands signal an evolution in how we think about hair care. From waterless innovation to cultural wisdom, desert inspiration to scientific rigor, each brings a distinct perspective to the conversation. While DevaCurl's stumble created uncertainty, it also made room for brands that approach curl care with fresh eyes and innovative solutions. The future of hair care isn't about following a single brand or method – it's about understanding the science, embracing sustainability, and acknowledging that different hair types need different solutions.