Nothing But Curly Pudding: A Look Back at a Natural Hair Styling Favorite

By Lady Carolyn M. Summerset
Crowning Glory — Coils & Kinks
Originally published June 22, 2013 | Refreshed October 2026

Hello, my beautiful Curl Friends! 💕

Let's take another trip down memory lane!

If you were part of the natural hair community back in 2013, you probably remember how exciting it was to discover new styling products. We were experimenting with twist-outs, wash-and-go styles, curl puddings, custards, gels, and just about anything that promised beautiful curl definition.

One product featured during that period was Nothing But Curly Pudding, a styling cream marketed to help define and enhance natural curls and coils.

Today, we're revisiting this product from the Crowning Glory archives while discussing what we have learned about choosing styling products for our beautiful natural hair.

What Was Nothing But Curly Pudding?

Nothing But Curly Pudding was presented as a curl-defining styling product for textured hair. Its packaging emphasized enhancing curls and coils.

At the time, products like this appealed to naturals who wanted more definition without completely changing the character of their hair.

But ladies, here's something I've learned over the years: a product doesn't have to work for everybody to be the right product for somebody!

Our strands are wonderfully different. What creates soft, defined curls on one head may leave another person's hair feeling coated, stiff, or weighed down.

Understanding the Ingredients

The original product label featured conditioning agents, oils, and styling ingredients intended to influence the feel and appearance of the hair.

One ingredient worth discussing is glycerin, a humectant commonly used in hair-care formulations.

Humectants can help attract and retain moisture, although the way a product performs depends on its entire formula, the weather, and the condition of your hair.

The archived ingredient list also included silicones and conditioning ingredients that may contribute to slip, smoothness, and styling performance.

Some naturals prefer silicone-free products, while others enjoy the smoothness silicones can provide. Neither preference is automatically right for every head of hair.

Archive note: The ingredient information in the original 2013 article reflects that period. Product formulas and availability may have changed, so always consult current packaging when considering a purchase.

Is Curl Pudding Right for Fine or Low-Porosity Hair?

Now, this is where I pay especially close attention!

Having fine strands and low-porosity hair myself, I have learned that heavier creams are not always my best friends.

My hair tends to respond better to lightweight leave-ins, liquid moisturizers, and carefully applied oils.

For those of us with fine or low-porosity strands, using too much styling product can sometimes leave the hair feeling heavy or coated.

My advice? Start with a small amount, distribute it evenly, and observe how your hair responds before applying more.

Remember, ladies: more product does not necessarily mean more moisture or better curls.

What Makes a Good Curl-Defining Product?

When selecting a curl pudding or styling cream, I like to consider several things:

• Does it provide enough slip for easy styling?

• Does it leave the hair soft after drying?

• Does it work well with my leave-in conditioner?

• Does it create visible buildup or flaking?

• Can I maintain the style without repeatedly applying large amounts of product?

A styling product may help curls clump together and appear more defined, but it cannot permanently change your natural curl pattern.

And that's perfectly fine!

Our goal should be to care for the hair we have rather than constantly trying to make it behave like someone else's.

What This 2013 Product Spotlight Teaches Us Today

Looking back, I appreciate how products such as Nothing But Curly Pudding encouraged conversations about textured hair and styling choices.

These early product discoveries were part of a much larger natural hair journey.

We learned about ingredients, experimented with methods, and gradually discovered that healthy hair care is not about purchasing every product on the shelf.

It's about understanding what works for our particular strands.

And sometimes, ladies, the simplest routine produces the loveliest results!

More Natural Hair Care From Crowning Glory

If you are working toward softer, more manageable curls, these related articles may help:

1. 10 Ways to Keep Your Natural Hair Moisturized

Practical ideas for keeping natural hair hydrated and maintaining a consistent moisture routine.

2. What Is Hair Porosity? A Simple Guide to Moisture and Natural Hair Care

Learn how porosity may influence the way your hair responds to water and styling products.

3. The Ultimate 3C & 4A Wash-and-Go: Beautiful Curl Definition Without All the Frizz!

Explore styling techniques for encouraging defined curls while minimizing frizz.

Let's Talk, Ladies! 💕

Do you remember using Nothing But Curly Pudding?

Were you a curl pudding girl, a gel girl, or did you prefer a simple leave-in conditioner?

Have your product preferences changed over the years?

Share your experiences in the comments. I love hearing about your natural hair journeys!

Happy Curls to You!

Lady Carolyn M. Summerset
Crowning Glory — Coils & Kinks

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