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Kinky Curly Curling Custard: Why It's A Curl Staple in the UAE & Middle East

February 20, 20264 min read

Kinky Curly Curling Custard, commonly known in the curly haircare space as KCCC, has been around for well over a decade and still remains a tried and true textured hair staple. In an industry driven by constant reformulation and trend cycles, why does it continue to gain so much popularity many years on? For one, the formula has remained the same, centred on minimal, clean ingredients to truly nourish and define curly hair textures across the spectrum. 

At Emerson, this remains one of our best selling stylers along with The Doux Mousse Def

Let's breakdown what makes this curling custard different, how it performs in the Middle East and who its best suited to.

Kinky Curly Curling Custard | Available in Dubai, UAE and Middle East

What is Kinky Curly Curling Custard

Kinky Curly Curling Custard (KCCC) is not your standard gel, it's common for people to use the terms "gel" and "custard" interchangeably but in reality they are different, from a formulation and product performance perspective. KCCC is a botanical styling custard formulated to:

  • Enhance curl definition and elongate
  • Smooth the cuticle and reduce frizz
  • Maintain moisture levels during styling
  • Provide a flexible, touchable hold.

Unlike traditional curl styling gels, this formulation relies on plant based humectants and polymers instead of heavy film formers or synthetic alcohol derivates to deliver moisture, curl memory and shine. This is what makes it incredibly popular for moisture focused routines that do not want to compromise on definition and tighter curl patterns that need elongation.

How Does It Perform in UAE & Middle Eastern Conditions?

In hot and humid environments, curly hair textures need:

  • Controlled moisture retention 
  • Flexible hold that adapts and doesn't stiffen
  • Frizz control without the crunch

This is where Kinky Curly Curling Custard shines. This is what to expect in terms of results with this product: 

  • Strong Curl Formation (Curl clumping)
  • Elongated Curl Definition - especially important for tight curl patterns
  • Reduce halo frizz without flattening volume
  • Lasting moisture
  • No flaking when layered correctly

Texture Hold & Finish: What to Expect

  • Texture: Gel-custard hybrid consistency
  • Hold Level: Medium (buildable)
  • Finish: Touchable, elongated definition with a natural gloss 

Who Kinky Curly Curling Custard is Best For

This product performs well on all hair types, however for optimal results, product usage should be aligned with curl pattern and density.

Kinky Curly Curling Custard generally is best suited to tighter curl patterns ranging form Type 3 to Type 4 curls, as they have more curvature and tend to experience greater shrinkage than looser textures.

As well as high porosity or moisture seeking curls, or if you favour wash 'n' go routines this styler is the perfect match.

How to Use Kinky Curly Curling Custard 

This custard generally has stellar reviews across the board, to enjoy exceptional styling results with this product, we highly recommend the following:

  1. Start with freshly cleansed hair (free of build up, build up reduces styler performance)
  2. Apply a lightweight, water based leave in such as Knot Today.
  3. Apply Curling Custard to soaking wet hair, this is key for curls that seek elongation.
  4. Smooth and rake, avoid scrunching too early, allow the product to fully glaze your curls
  5. Allow cast to form before touching

This approach allows the custard to distribute evenly and form a flexible styling film that adapts as the hair dries.

Why Kinky Curly Knot Today Pairs Well

Knot Today works well as a supporting base layer under Curling Custard, particularly for detangling and smoothing the cuticle to allow the custard to glide and distribute evenly.

It contains natural humectant like properties making it hydrating for porous curls, a little goes along way with the Kinky Curly range.

Think of Knot Today as the preparation step, ahead of the main act for definition and elongation.

Where to Buy Kinky Curly in the UAE & Middle East

Authenticity and storage conditioners matter with cult curly hair products. Emerson, as the Middle East's 1st Curl Lifestyle Destination, doesn't compromise on quality, your trusted source for high performance curly hair brands and products including the Kinky Curly range. Available to shop at emersonhairandbeauty.com

  • Authored by

    Eve M

FAQs

Does Kinky Curly Curling Custard work in UAE heat and humidity?

Yes. Kinky Curly Curling Custard performs well in UAE heat and humidity when applied to soaking wet hair and layered correctly. Its plant based humectants help maintain moisture while while flexible styling polymers reduce frizz without stiffness. For best results in Gulf Climates, pair with a lightweight leave-in and allow a full cast to form before touching. Available in the UAE through Emerson Hair & Beauty.

Is Kinky Curly Curling Custard a strong hold?

Kinky Curly Curling Custard provides a buildable medium, hold. It forms a light cast as it dries, which can be softened once fully set. The finish is defined and elongated, without the crunch associated with traditional hard-hold gels

Can you use Kinky Curly Curling Custard on dry hair?

It is not recommended to add Kinky Curly Curling Custard on dry hair. This custard performs best on soaking wet hair, allowing the product to distribute evenly and form a flexible styling film. Applying to dry hair may result in uneven hold or flaking.

Is Kinky Curly Curling Custard good for curly hair?

Yes. Kinky Curly Curling Custard is especially effective for Type 3 to 4 curls, particularly high-porosity or moisture-seeking textures. It enhances curl clumping , reduces shrinkage, and supports elongated definition while maintaining softness.

How do you use Kinky Curly Curling Custard?

Start with freshly cleansed hair.

Apply a lightweight-leave in conditioner.

Apply Curling Custard to soaking wet hair.

Smooth and rake through evenly.

Allow a cast to form before scrunching or separating.

This technique helps reduce frizz and maximise curl definition in humid environments

Where can I buy Kinky Curly products in Dubai and the UAE?

You can buy authentic Kinky Kinky Curly products in Dubai and across the UAE through Emerson Hair & Beauty, the Middle East's first curl lifestyle destination. Emerson stocks the full Kinky Curly range with verified sourcing, proper storage conditions, and fast delivering within Dubai and to other Emirates