For wavy, curly and coily hair that needs more definition and longer-lasting frizz control than a foam or cream can give, for example wash-and-go styles in humid weather. Joico recommends it when you want to create a cast.

If you want softness more than hold, Joico points to the Hydrate & Define Curl Crème Styler instead.

A cast is what keeps a wash-and-go defined through humidity, and Define & Seal is the product in the Curls Like Us line that's made to form one. It locks the curl shape and moisture in while hair dries and protects against heat if you diffuse. Once hair is dry, you scrunch out the cast and the curls are left soft, not stiff.

Apply to wet hair using the praying-hands or glazing technique. For a stronger cast, remove excess water first by plopping or micro-plopping with a cotton T-shirt or microfibre towel. Let hair air-dry, or hover a diffuser over the curls to set the cast; diffuse upside down or side to side for more volume. Once hair is completely dry, scrunch the curls to break the cast. Joico suggests a glossing oil at this step for extra shine.

Pros:

• Buildable medium hold that defines curls without flaking
• Up to 72-hour frizz and humidity resistance
• Heat protection up to 450°F, useful when diffusing
• Silicone-, paraben- and gluten-free

Cons:

• Dries to a cast that you need to scrunch out once hair is completely dry
• Contains fragrance and several fragrance allergens (limonene, linalool, geraniol, citronellol, citral)
• Too much hold for a soft, loose finish; use the crème styler for that