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These easy-to-use finds are basically the styling equivalent of hair care training wheels.

I am a contributor who has been writing for the BuzzFeed Shopping team since 2020; as a film nerd and long-term pop culture enthusiast, I bring an engaging, conversational voice to my work and love discovering and testing new products to share with readers.

Promising review: "If you’ve been thinking about it, just get it. I am lazy with styling my hair, and this dries my hair and leaves it bouncier and with a little curl. So much better than a regular hair dryer." —chickadee

Get it from Amazon for $108.50+ (available in four sizes).

Promising review: "Perfect for humid weather. I have relatively fine hair, and my hair looks HORRIBLE every time we travel somewhere tropical. I came across this wax one day, and I am in love. I’ve been able to do cute hairstyles and have them stay in place all day." —arlerh n.

Promising review: "I used these rollers last night to sleep in. Took them out in the morning, carefully separated each curl, then pinned my hair to one side, and the outcome is so adorable. Quick, easy glam-styling without the salon fuss. They're pretty comfortable to sleep in. I feel like a little doll with these bouncy curls." —cristiana

Get them from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in five sizes and two colors).

Promising review: "I love this air-dry cream! I have naturally wavy hair, and this works great when I want to air-dry my hair but still look styled. It creates soft, defined waves without leaving the hair crunchy or heavy. It gives the most beautiful, natural look. It also has the amazing Crown Affair signature scent. I highly recommend!" —addiryane

Promising review: "I’ve been dealing with frizzy fly-away hair for as long as I can remember — and this One Hit Wonder spray has been a real game changer. The application is smooth, lightweight, and my hair feels soft rather than stiff or weighed down. I’ve noticed that the frizz is kept under control, and those little fly-aways stay put even on humid days. The heat-protection benefit is a big plus for my routine, too. For the price, this leave-in spray delivers premium-feeling results without the premium cost. Highly recommend if you’re looking for a smart, affordable way to smooth your hair and simplify styling." —Loves Being A Mom

Promising review: "So I’ve always wanted to do this style, but because I have naturally red hair, I didn’t think I would find a color that matched. I saw this and it was such a good price, I figured, what’s the harm in trying? I am so, so happy I did because my expectations were way surpassed! It’s super comfortable, and it matches almost perfectly! It’s a tad darker than my natural hair, but you can’t really tell unless you’re really looking to see. It stays in place during walks with my dog, and I’ve gotten a ton of compliments! I got the shade 'sunset brown,' and like I said, it’s not an exact match, but it’s soooo close it’s really hard to tell! I absolutely recommend this product! A lot of times, headbands give me headaches, but this is so comfy, and it stays in place! I totally recommend it!" —Luci M

"Very unique. This headband definitely takes a hairstyle to another level." —Sunshine

Get it from Amazon for $13.99+ (available in 34 colors/styles).

Promising review: "AMAZING! I'm a cosmetologist and really don't believe much in brand-name or high-priced hair products. You can find much cheaper alternatives with basically the same 'recipe' or ingredient list, but I've been hearing about this product for a while now, so I decided to watch a few reviews on YouTube, and the results looked amazing, so I decided to take the plunge and spend the money. I ordered the Ouai Wave Spray and the Ouai Air Dry Foam. I can honestly say I am extremely impressed. My husband thought I had styled my hair with a hot tool. And typically when I air-dry my hair, it dries stick straight as seen in the last photo." —Mackenzie C Warren

Get it from Amazon for $12.80 (also available in a bigger size and a two-pack).

Promising reviews: "Obsessed with this product. It makes all the difference when I’m styling my curls. If you do the curly hair routine with mousse and gel, TRUST ME, you want this product. I put this curl cream in my hair before I put in the mousse and gel, and it keeps my hair from being crunchy + it smells amazing." —Malsim

"I absolutely love this styling cream. Third time buying. I put it on wet hair and go to bed like that and wake up with the best wavy hair. Also, the scent is very nice." —D

Get it from Amazon for $12.80+ (available in two sizes).

Promising review: "I have thick, long hair, so sometimes it is a struggle to initially put in my hair, but overall my hair holds for long periods of time, I don't need to adjust the tightness, and it looks so cute. I use them every day. It takes a little getting used to, but it helps to maintain a long ponytail style. It definitely is made well, since my hair usually snaps hair ties or stretches them out. I use this to style my hair every day or a little fancier for special occasions." —Brittany Fogel

Get a two-pack from Amazon for $5.60+ (available in six styles and in a one- and three-pack).

Promising reviews: "Works wonders! Not crunchy, great for fine hair, easiest styling product I've used. Don't need much to see it work." —Madeleine C

"This is another one of my go-to hair products and something I reach for consistently. I use it on damp hair, and the difference between using it and skipping it is honestly huge. When I apply this before blow-drying, my hair has noticeably more volume and body. It doesn’t feel heavy or sticky, and the fullness lasts surprisingly well throughout the day. My hair looks more lifted, thicker, and styled — without feeling overdone. Personal thought: I can always tell on the days I don’t use this, which says a lot. It’s one of those products that quietly does its job but makes a big impact. For me, it’s absolutely worth the price and truly lives up to the hype. If volume is something you struggle with, especially with fine or short hair, this is a solid investment." —Real Rockies Reviewer

Get it from Amazon for $12+ (available in two sizes and in a set).

Promising reviews: "Great feeling product, made my hair frizz-free, and kept my natural waves. Only used it once so far, but I’m super impressed about how my hair came out!" —Kayla

"This product lives up to, if not exceeds, the hype. I have long, fine, wavy hair (2A), and curl/wave products always weigh down and flatten out my hair, leaving behind some sort of sticky residue that either tangles or frizzes my hair. This product feels weightless. Rather than trying to exaggerate my natural wave pattern, it helps what it is come through more clearly. I haven’t noticed any stickiness. This is the one and only step you need for styling wavy hair." —Amazon reviewer

Promising reviews: "OK, so I found out about this life-changing device on TikTok. I've always wanted these kinds of beach wave curls, but no matter what I did or what I tried, my hair would never look how I wanted. Well, let me tell you, this thang does exactly what it should. It is seriously the best hair tool ever, so if you're looking for the absolute perfect beach waves, then do yourself a favor and just get it." —Rachael

"This tool is nice and easy to use for beautiful waves. It takes about 10–15 min to style my whole head of shoulder-length hair. My hair is already thick and textured, so this gives extreme volume, and the style holds well in my hair. It’s a comfortable weight, doesn’t smell more than any other new tool, and I like the color. I didn’t notice any extra shine from using this, but that’s OK, that can be achieved with products. The only thing I wish is that there were more of a plastic lip to keep it off my counter because there’s only the tiniest edge of plastic on both ends of the heating plates, making it sit uncomfortably close to my counter." —K

Get it from Amazon for $29.99 (available in two colors).

AyursBatchofNature is a Black woman–owned small business based in Towson, Maryland, rooted in Ayurvedic and natural wellness principles.

Promising review: "Used the paste on wet air and sealed it with hair grease. Def kept my hair moisturized and defined curls." —Janay

Get it from AyursBatchofNature on Etsy $19.50 (originally $30; available in six scents and an unscented option).

These hair extensions are heat-resistant up to 300ish degrees, so you can blow-dry, straighten, and curl them with the rest of your hair.

Promising review: "These products are simply amazing. I have about ear-length hair with an undercut on both sides and back, making it very difficult to have nice, properly styled hair for special events. I went looking for clip-in extensions of decent quality that wouldn't break the bank. I know, I know, that's asking a lot. However! I was completely surprised by these products. The quality of the hair is something I attempt to get my own to have. It is so shiny, soft, and silky smooth. It doesn't feel weird or stringy, or like the hairs will fall out all over the place. The clips are so easy, even attaching to my regular buzzed regrowth. The color, as well, is just simply stunning. That perfect shade of sun-kissed brunette. The color doesn't match my current shade exactly, but I was going to have it colored, and this is a beautiful shade to have done.

I couldn't be happier. The quality for the price is astounding. I ordered both the extensions and then bangs (which, what a fun idea! I know I love the straight across look, but it's such a pain for upkeep. With this, I have the option to rock an always-perfectly-styled bang (or just my natural part). I will absolutely DEFINITELY be re-ordering this brand in the future when/if need be." —Ashley

Get them from Amazon for $9.99 (available in six lengths and tons of colors/styles).

Promising review: "I’m honestly so impressed with this satin heatless rod set! I put it in overnight and secured it with a duckbill clip, and it stayed perfectly in place the entire time. I’m also a side sleeper, and it was still incredibly comfortable. I barely noticed I was wearing it. I have naturally curly, frizzy hair that’s fairly long (down to my bra strap), and I simply brushed and detangled it before putting the original size rod in. I’m pretty lazy and not very skilled when it comes to doing my hair, but I watched a few how-to videos and couldn’t believe how simple it was to execute.

The results were amazing. My hair came out soft, smooth, and beautifully styled, with the frizz noticeably tamed. It also helps extend my hair-washing days. My hair stays less greasy and much more manageable. The next morning, I took it out, and my hair looked incredible and voluminous. Perfectly formed curls on the very first try. No learning curve at all. It gave me that effortless, polished look without any heat damage. If you’re looking for an easy, comfortable way to get beautiful, smooth curls, I highly recommend this. It exceeded my expectations!" —E

Get it from Amazon for $11.97+ (available in 10 colors). 

Promising reviews: "Love this! It stays in all day and doesn’t move if I put it in correctly. There is a learning curve, but YouTube helps a ton. I do have thick, long hair, and it still holds it in better than a hair tie and is much kinder to my hair. I highly recommend giving this a try. There are a few different ways to use it, and I have even added braids going back into a bun to add some more style to it as well!" —LydV

"Once you've watched some YouTube videos on how to use this, it is a game changer for easy hair styling!" —Lisa Dyer

Get it from Amazon for $6.99+ (available in six styles).

Promising review: "I have hair that goes past my bottom, and it is extremely thick. This brush has been working wonders on my hair! With my hair being so long, it takes forever to dry usually, but I can dry my hair in about 20 minutes with this! It helps a lot with frizz, and hair is easy to style using it. I curl my ends, and it stays for over a day for me. I highly recommend giving this a try, especially if you have hair like mine. It also helps that it’s pink, lol." —Ashley Marsh

Get it from Amazon for $43.50+ (available in two sizes and two colors).

Promising reviews: "I have very fine hair, and no matter what product I use, it never seems to have any volume...until I found this miracle powder! I've been using it for years. Just a few dashes of powder to my roots, and my fine limp hair looks amazing! If you have fine hair, don't hesitate to buy this!!!" —Kitty Blocher

"This is my son’s favorite hair product for his messy, yet styled hair. Texture is great, very easy to use, and holds the look great. Washes out easily. I think it’s a bit expensive, but isn’t any good hair product?" —Amazon Customer

Promising reviews: "I absolutely love this! My hair is naturally bone straight, and this product gives it beautiful waves and added volume without any dryness or crunchiness. It feels lightweight and leaves my hair looking effortlessly textured, perfect for that beachy, lived-in look. I also appreciate that it doesn’t make my hair sticky or stiff like some other sea salt sprays I’ve tried. If you’re looking for an easy way to achieve soft, natural waves, I highly recommend giving this a try!" —Sarah B.

"Yes! I do love this spray texturizer. I have tried EVERYTHING...from Aquage (which I also like) to Nioxin gel to Bumble and Bumble products, OGX products, Aveda, Paul Mitchell...on and on!!! This sea salt spray (and I've tried other sea salt sprays...even made my own) works wonders! It 'thickens,' texturizes, and pieces my pixie cut beautifully and quickly. Right out of the shower: towel dry...spray... mess it up...and out the door!! I usually get dressed first, but you get where I'm coming from. Fast, easy, and smells FABULOUS!" —sistyugler

Get it from Amazon for $11.61 (also available in a two-pack).

Promising review: "I absolutely love this curling iron. ✨ It makes curling my hair so much easier and faster compared to traditional curling wands. The automatic rotating feature works amazingly well and helps create soft, beautiful curls without the struggle. I also appreciate that it’s anti-scald and tangle-free because it makes styling feel much less stressful, especially for beginners. The curls come out smooth, shiny, and long-lasting, and the long barrel works perfectly for longer hair. Definitely one of my favorite hair tools I’ve purchased!" —apatel13

Get it from Amazon for $64.10+ (available in three sizes and three colors).

Promising reviews: "I was looking for a product for my hair after all of the summer swimming/chlorine dries it out. I went with this product because the ingredient list was limited to things I can actually understand. I was pleasantly surprised by the result. After one use, my hair is softer and shinier, and I didn't even have to style it. Definitely would recommend." —Ray Ray

This diffuser is compatible with hair dryers with a nozzle diameter of 1.7–2.6 inches.

Promising reviews: "I’m really impressed with this diffuser! It’s much more compact than my regular one, which makes it so much easier to pack and travel with. Despite the smaller size, it still does a great job distributing heat evenly and enhancing my curls without frizz. It fits securely on my dryer and doesn’t fall off like some other universal diffusers I’ve tried. Plus, the design is sturdy and lightweight — great for on-the-go styling. If you’re looking for a travel-friendly diffuser that actually works, this is a great pick!" —Sara T.

"My hairdryer came with a diffuser, but it was way too small for the amount of hair I have, so I took a chance and purchased this one. Not only does it fit perfectly on my dryer, but the bowl is also big enough to make diffusing my hair much easier and quicker than the original that came with my dryer. I’m pretty sure this would fit on most hairdryers." —Ginger Snap

Get it from Amazon for $19.99 (available in seven colors). 

Promising reviews: "I mainly use these to protect my hair while lounging around the house or running a quick errand. All the colors are so cute. I won't say it is real silk, but it is very silky and perfect for protecting your hair while also wanting a prettier look. The price is also far better than the beauty supply stores in my area. I wouldn't sleep in it as it will slide off; tying it toward the front doesn't help since it is so silky. I do highly recommend it to my POC gals." —Alannah

"I actually bought these because I have ultra curly hair, and I saw someone advise to wrap the headrest of my truck seat with one to stop from frizzing. I get compliments on it all the time, and I rotate the colors as I switch them out to wash. They are so soft, and the colors are so cute! I would highly recommend!" —Sydney D.

Get a three-pack from Amazon for $9.99 (available in five color combos). 

Promising review: "The CHI G2 flat iron is a winner! I have long, thick hair that tends to soak up humidity, and of course, that causes frizz. This flat iron with its digital temperature controls works exceptionally well on my hair and allows me to consistently get salon-quality styling at home. My hair remains smooth, with a nice sheen, and it does not frizz up in the humid weather. I am very pleased with this flat iron. To protect my hair from heat damage, I always use a heat protectant on my hair before using my CHI G2 (or any hair straightener), and I make certain that the heat protectant has had a chance to completely dry (or I gently blow-dry it) before using the CHI G2 flat iron. I love my CHI G2; it gives me the confidence to do my own hair, and it saves me money on salon visits. LOVE IT!!!" —Newbie

Get it from Amazon for $142+ (available in two sizes).

Promising reviews: "Writing this review after three nights of using the serum to say it works! I felt and saw immediate results the first night I used it. My hair felt softer, and I had fewer flyaways than usual. I have wavy hair, so when I usually brush my hair out in the mornings, it becomes a puffy mess. For the past two mornings, my hair has looked almost identical to how it looked styled the day before, even after brushing it. The product is pricey, but a little goes a long way. Sooo worth it!" —Rose

"This is amazing for long hair. I shower at night and dry my hair. Then add this to the lengths and ends. The smell is strong at first, but fades by morning into a pleasant, clean smell. My hair becomes very soft and somehow fuller. It's helped my dry hair so much. It's the best if you prefer night showers and can wake up like you just styled it." —ashley

Get it from Amazon for $32+ (available in two sizes).

Promising reviews: "I absolutely love these satin scrunchies! They are gentle on my hair and have significantly prevented breakage. Plus, they come in a great variety of colors that match everything. Highly recommend for anyone looking to protect their hair while sleeping or styling." —Modesty

"Really like them. I put my hair up every night, and it really helps to keep hair styled and adds volume!" —tawnyaskokos

Get a five-pack from Amazon for $5.60+ (available in 16 color combos).

Promising review: "I’ve been using this product for a year or so now, and it’s great! Adds that needed moisture without getting my hair too oily or greasy! I add to the ends of my hair, and it cuts down on frizz, but is still lightweight! Definitely makes my hair softer and more healthy! I have fine hair, btw. It’s so easy to use, just lather hands with a pump or two and comb through your ends with your fingertips! I will continue to use this product!" —Alana Kiker

Get it from Amazon for $16.50+ (available in two sizes and in a two-pack).

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BuzzFeed Shopping is service journalism first: our writers and editors spend all day shopping so you don’t have to, vetting products, fact-checking brand claims, and surfacing what actually helps in real life. We center readers over revenue, recommend products with authenticity (using real experiences, not ad-speak), and reflect our diverse audience, inclusive of a variety of price points, people, and needs. We cut through fake deals, favor useful info over glossy fluff, and recommend both budget and splurge options with context so you can decide what’s right for you — and still have a little fun along the way.

Reviews for this post have been edited for length and/or clarity.