Head to head
Curl Talk Defining Cream vs Wave Spray
Not Your Mother's Curl Talk Defining Cream edges out OUAI Wave Spray, 7.8 to 7.3. It wins on results, formula and value, while the Wave Spray is stronger on texture and feel.
Benefit fingerprints
What each one does.
Not Your Mother's Curl Talk Defining Cream
OUAI Wave Spray
Side by side
Every detail, compared.
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- Curl definition
- Frizz control
- Hydrating
- Shine
- Volume
- Curl definition
- Hydrating
- • Wavy and curly hair that wants soft definition without crunch
- • Budget shoppers building a cream-plus-gel routine
- • Protein-tolerant curls (a fragrance- and protein-free version exists)
- • Straight to wavy hair wanting soft beach waves
- • Adding texture to heat-styled waves
- • Fans of OUAI's North Bondi scent
- Very affordable for a curl cream
- Light enough for fine waves when used sparingly, per the brand and Reddit users
- Free of sulfate surfactants, silicones and parabens
- Salt-free formula that the brand says keeps hair soft and hydrated
- Adds beachy texture without crunch, according to creator reviews
- Works for heatless waves or after curling irons and wavers
- Little hold on its own; the brand recommends layering a gel
- Contains protein and fragrance, which some curls don't tolerate
- Light-hold texturizer rather than a strong-hold styler
- Contains fragrance allergens plus Yellow 5 and Red 33 dyes
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Affiliate links — we may earn a commission. How we make money
FAQ
Quick answers.
Which is better, Curl Talk Defining Cream or Wave Spray?
Not Your Mother's Curl Talk Defining Cream edges out OUAI Wave Spray, 7.8 to 7.3. It wins on results, formula and value, while the Wave Spray is stronger on texture and feel.
Which is better value?
Not Your Mother's Curl Talk Defining Cream works out to about $1.84 / oz and OUAI Wave Spray to about $5.01 / oz, based on typical non-Amazon retail prices when we last checked.
How do you score them?
Both are scored on the same five-factor rubric (results, formula & ingredients, texture & experience, value, community love), using the formula or specs, verified creator reviews, community consensus and value. Brands can’t pay for placement.