How to Style Hair with Livingproof Styling Cream: A Step-by-Step Guide

Styling cream is one of the most versatile hair products you can own. It smooths flyaways, defines waves, and adds a healthy, flexible hold without the crunch of a gel or the stiffness of a wax. But to get the best results, you need to know how to apply it correctly for your hair type and desired style.

In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about using styling cream, with a focus on Livingproof's approach to weightless, buildable styling. Whether you want a sleek ponytail, soft beach waves, or a polished air-dried look, these tips will help you style hair with cream like a pro.

What Is Styling Cream and Why Use It?

Styling cream is a leave-in product that sits between a lotion and a pomade in texture. It typically contains conditioning agents and light polymers that give hair shape, definition, and control while keeping it soft and touchable. Unlike mousses or foams, creams are denser and work well on dry or damp hair to smooth the cuticle and fight frizz.

For many people, the appeal of styling cream is its flexibility. You can use a small amount for a natural, low-hold finish or layer it for more structure. It also works on all hair types—from fine and straight to thick and curly—as long as you adjust the amount and application method.

• Smooths frizz and flyaways without weighing hair down.
• Provides flexible, medium hold that allows movement.
• Adds subtle shine and definition to natural texture.

How to Apply Styling Cream: The Basics

The key to using styling cream is starting with the right amount. For short to medium hair, a pea-sized amount is usually enough. For longer or thicker hair, you may need a dime-sized amount. Always warm the cream between your palms before applying—this makes it easier to distribute evenly and prevents clumping.

Apply the cream to damp hair for a smoother, more polished result, or to dry hair for a more piecey, textured look. Focus on the mid-lengths and ends, avoiding the roots unless you have very coarse or frizzy hair. Use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to work the product through, then style as desired.

• Start with a small amount and add more if needed—you can always build up.
• Warm the cream in your hands to activate it and ensure even distribution.
• For fine hair, apply mainly to the ends to avoid weighing down the roots.

Styling Cream for Sleek, Polished Looks

If you're aiming for a sleek ponytail, a low bun, or a smooth blowout, styling cream is your best friend. It tames flyaways and gives a glossy, controlled finish without the wet look of gel. Apply a small amount to damp hair before blow-drying, using a round brush to smooth the hair as you go. Once dry, you can also use a tiny bit on dry hair to pat down any stubborn strands.

For extra sleekness, pair your styling cream with a heat protectant and finish with a shine spray. If you have frizz-prone hair, consider using a de-frizzer like the No Frizz Instant De-Frizzer before applying the cream to lock in smoothness even in humid weather.

• Use a wide-tooth comb to distribute the cream evenly through damp hair.
• Blow-dry with a round brush for maximum smoothness and shine.
• For a sleek ponytail, apply cream to the hairline before pulling hair back.

Styling Cream for Defined Waves and Curls

Styling cream is excellent for enhancing natural texture. On damp hair, scrunch the cream into your waves or curls to define them and reduce frizz. The cream helps clump curls together, creating a more uniform pattern. You can then air-dry or diffuse on low heat for bouncy, soft curls.

For best results, apply the cream in sections, especially if you have thick or curly hair. This ensures every strand is coated. If you want extra hold, you can layer a foam or gel on top, but for a natural look, the cream alone is often enough. The Perfect hair DayTM 5-in-1 Styling Treatment is a great option because it combines styling with heat protection and conditioning.

• Apply to soaking wet hair for maximum definition and curl clumping.
• Scrunch upward toward the scalp to encourage curl formation.
• For curly hair, seal the ends with a little extra cream to prevent frizz.

Styling Cream for Air-Drying and No-Heat Styles

If you prefer to skip heat styling, styling cream is a must-have for air-dried looks. After washing, apply the cream to damp hair and either let it dry naturally or twist sections for more defined waves. The cream will help control frizz and give your hair a polished finish as it dries.

For a beachy texture, apply the cream and then braid your hair or twist it into buns. Once dry, undo the braids and run your fingers through for effortless waves. The Style Lab® Air-Dry Styler is another great product for this purpose, but styling cream offers a more flexible hold if you want to change your style later.

• Use a microfiber towel to remove excess water before applying cream.
• For waves, twist small sections and let them dry completely before unraveling.
• Avoid touching hair while it dries to prevent frizz.

Styling Cream vs. Other Stylers: Which to Choose?

Styling cream is just one of many styling products available. Mousses and foams add volume and lift, while gels provide strong hold and shine. Creams are ideal for those who want control and definition without stiffness. If you have fine hair, you might prefer a foam like the Full Texturizing Foam for volume, then use a cream on the ends for texture.

For a comprehensive styling routine, consider layering products. Start with a volumizing spray at the roots, apply styling cream to the lengths, and finish with a hairspray for extra hold. The key is to experiment and find what works for your hair type and lifestyle.

• Styling cream: flexible hold, smoothness, definition.
• Mousse/foam: volume and lift at the roots.
• Gel: strong hold and high shine.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Styling Cream

One of the most common mistakes is using too much product, which can leave hair looking greasy or weighed down. Always start with a small amount and build up. Another mistake is applying cream to dry hair without warming it in your hands, which can cause it to clump and leave white residue.

Also, avoid applying cream to the roots if you have fine hair, as this can flatten your style. Instead, focus on the mid-lengths and ends. Finally, don't forget to wash your hair regularly to prevent product buildup. A clarifying shampoo once a week can help remove residue and keep your hair healthy.

• Start with a pea-sized amount and add more if needed.
• Warm the cream between your palms before applying to avoid clumps.
• Use a clarifying shampoo weekly to prevent buildup.

Styling cream is a versatile addition to any hair care routine, offering smoothness, definition, and flexible hold. By following these tips, you can achieve sleek, polished looks or enhance your natural texture with ease. For a product that combines styling with treatment, try the Perfect hair DayTM 5-in-1 Styling Treatment—it's a great all-in-one solution for your styling needs.