Finding the right curl cream can be frustrating. Some leave hair crunchy, others feel too heavy, and many just don’t deliver the promised results. I’ve tried my fair share of curl products, always searching for something that enhances my curls without making them stiff or greasy. That’s when I came across Marc Anthony’s Strictly Curls Curl Envy Cream.
From the first use, I noticed a difference. My curls looked more defined, felt softer, and had a natural bounce. The best part? No crunch. If you have wavy, curly, or coily hair and struggle with frizz or dryness, this product might be exactly what you need. It hydrates, shapes, and holds curls without weighing them down. Whether you air dry or diffuse, it keeps hair looking fresh all day.
If you’re tired of curl creams that don’t work, I’d say give Marc Anthony Curls a shot. It’s affordable, easy to use, and makes styling simple. Now, let’s get into what makes it special, how to use it, and how it compares to other popular curl products.
What Makes Marc Anthony Curls Special?

Marc Anthony Strictly Curls stands out because it delivers salon-quality results without the hassle or high price tag. The formula is packed with ingredients that truly nourish curls, including shea butter, avocado oil, and vitamin E. These ingredients work together to deeply hydrate hair, reduce frizz, and enhance curl definition without making your hair feel crunchy or weighed down. Unlike some curl creams that leave behind residue or stiffen the hair, this one keeps curls soft, touchable, and bouncy throughout the day.
Another thing that makes Marc Anthony Curls special is its versatility. Whether you have loose waves, tight coils, or something in between, this product adapts to your hair type. It helps define curls without making them stiff and provides just the right amount of hold to keep them looking fresh. The formula is also free from parabens, sulfates, SLS, and phthalates, which means it’s gentler on your hair and scalp.
The ease of use is another big selling point. You don’t need complicated styling techniques to get great results—just apply to damp hair, scrunch, and let it air dry or diffuse for more volume. Even on days when you don’t wash your hair, a quick refresh with a little water or a curl spray reactivates the product, making styling effortless.
Marc Anthony Strictly Curls delivers hydration, hold, and shine all in one, making it a must-have for anyone looking to embrace their natural curls while keeping them frizz-free and healthy.
How to Use Marc Anthony Curls for Best Results?
Using Marc Anthony Strictly Curls correctly can make all the difference in achieving soft, bouncy, and well-defined curls. Start with freshly washed hair using a sulfate-free shampoo and a hydrating conditioner to keep moisture locked in. Once out of the shower, gently squeeze excess water from your hair with a microfiber towel or a cotton T-shirt to reduce frizz.
Apply the product to damp, not soaking wet, hair. Take a small amount in your palms, rub them together, and distribute evenly from roots to ends. If you have thicker or coarser curls, you might need a bit more product, while those with finer curls should use less to avoid buildup. Scrunch your hair upward toward your scalp to encourage curl formation.
For best results, let your hair air dry to maintain its natural texture, or use a diffuser attachment on a blow dryer for extra volume and bounce. When using a diffuser, set your dryer to a low heat and speed setting to prevent frizz. Avoid touching your hair too much while drying, as this can disrupt curl formation.
Once your hair is completely dry, gently scrunch your curls again to break any slight stiffness from the product. If needed, apply a lightweight oil or serum to add extra shine and reduce frizz. To refresh your curls the next day, lightly mist them with water and scrunch to revive their shape. By following these steps, you’ll maximize the benefits of Marc Anthony Strictly Curls and enjoy beautifully defined, frizz-free curls.
How to Maintain and Get the Most Out of Marc Anthony Curls?

Keeping your curls looking their best with Marc Anthony Strictly Curls requires a combination of the right application technique and proper hair care habits. First, always start with clean, hydrated hair. Using a sulfate-free shampoo and a moisturizing conditioner ensures your curls retain the moisture they need. If your hair tends to get dry, consider deep conditioning once a week to keep it soft and manageable.
When applying Marc Anthony Curls, use the right amount for your hair type. If you have fine hair, start with a small amount to avoid buildup. For thicker curls, you might need a bit more to ensure even distribution. Always apply the product to damp hair, scrunching it in to enhance curl formation. Let your hair air dry for a softer, more natural look, or use a diffuser for added volume and definition.
To maintain your curls throughout the week, refresh them with a little water or a curl-refreshing spray. Avoid brushing dry curls, as this can create frizz—use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb instead. Sleeping on a satin or silk pillowcase can also help reduce friction, keeping your curls intact overnight.
If you notice product buildup over time, use a clarifying shampoo once every few weeks to reset your hair. This ensures your curls stay bouncy and fresh without feeling weighed down. By following these simple maintenance steps, you’ll get the most out of Marc Anthony Strictly Curls and enjoy well-defined, frizz-free curls every day.
Pros and Cons of Marc Anthony Curls

Every product has its strengths and weaknesses. Here’s what I found after using this curl cream for several weeks.
Pros:
- Defines curls without stiffness: Keeps curls looking soft and bouncy without the crunch of a gel
- Controls frizz: Works well in different weather conditions, especially humidity
- Lightweight but moisturizing: Hydrates hair without making it look greasy or weighed down
- Affordable: Delivers salon-quality results without the high price tag
Easy to use: Works well whether you air dry or diffuse your hair
Cons:
- May not work for extremely coarse hair: While it hydrates well, thicker curls may need an additional leave-in conditioner for more moisture
- Requires the right amount: Too much can leave a slightly sticky feeling, so it’s important to use the right amount for your hair type
- Not as strong of a hold as gels: If you need a super firm hold, you may need to layer it with another styling product
Marc Anthony Curls Vs. Other Brands
There are plenty of curl creams on the market, so how does Marc Anthony Strictly Curls compare to other popular options? Here’s a breakdown.
- Marc Anthony Curls Vs. Cantu Curl Activator

Cantu Curl Activator is another favorite among curlies, but the two products work a bit differently. Cantu is heavier and provides more moisture, making it ideal for thick or coarse curls.
However, Marc Anthony Curls is lighter and provides better curl definition without weighing hair down. If your hair tends to get greasy easily, Marc Anthony might be the better choice.
- Marc Anthony Curls Vs. SheaMoisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie
SheaMoisture’s Curl Enhancing Smoothie is deeply moisturizing and great for drier hair types. However, it can feel a bit too thick for finer curls. Marc Anthony Curls has a more lightweight formula, making it a better choice for those who want definition without heaviness. Both are great products, but Marc Anthony is better for everyday use if you prefer a lighter feel.
- Marc Anthony Curls Vs. DevaCurl SuperCream
DevaCurl’s SuperCream is a high-end option known for delivering hydration and definition. While it works well, it’s also much pricier. Marc Anthony Curls provides similar results at a more affordable price. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that still delivers, Marc Anthony Curls is a solid alternative.
- Marc Anthony Curls Vs. Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Gel
Ouidad’s gel provides stronger hold and is designed for high humidity. However, it can make curls feel a bit stiff. Marc Anthony Curls is a better choice if you want a softer, more natural finish while still controlling frizz. If you prefer a firmer hold, you can always layer Marc Anthony Curls with a light gel.
- Marc Anthony Curls Vs. Not Your Mother’s Curl Talk Cream
Not Your Mother’s Curl Talk Cream is another lightweight curl product, but it has a slightly stickier feel compared to Marc Anthony Curls. If you like a smooth application with a non-tacky finish, Marc Anthony Curls wins in terms of texture and ease of use.
Also Read: My Thoughts On Aunt Jackie’s Curl La La
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Marc Anthony Strictly Curls helps define, shape, and hold curls while controlling frizz. It provides hydration and softness without making hair stiff or greasy.
Yes, Marc Anthony is a salon-quality brand that creates professional-grade hair products at an affordable price.
Marc Anthony Strictly Curls is sulfate-free, which makes it friendly for the Curly Girl Method. However, always check the ingredients list to ensure it meets your specific hair care needs.
Marc Anthony hair products are part of Marc Anthony True Professional, a brand founded by hairstylist Marc Anthony Venere.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a lightweight curl cream that defines, hydrates, and controls frizz without making hair crunchy, Marc Anthony Strictly Curls is a great option. It’s easy to use, budget-friendly, and works well for a variety of curl types. While it may not be the best choice for extremely thick or coarse hair without an additional leave-in, it delivers great results for most curl patterns.
For those who want soft, natural-looking curls with minimal effort, this product is absolutely worth trying.