No matter how long you’ve gotten to know your unique curl pattern in all its splendor, being blessed with curly hair can still sometimes feel like a (literal) handful. Crafting a routine that will nourish your spirals to their utmost potential isn’t easy, especially with the endless stream of products to consider. From hydrating masks to styling serums, a curly product lineup can go from zero to 100 real quick—but nailing down the best shampoo and conditioner for curly hair is the first step.

Wash day is the foundation of a great curly routine, since the products you use in the shower dictate how well your curls will hold up throughout the week. Personally, copious amounts of conditioner is the life-blood to my 3C curls, but keeping coils, kinks, ‘fros, and braids pristine means not sleeping on cleansers, either. Shampoo (or co-wash) and conditioner work in tandem for healthy, bouncy curls, but we wanted to know which ones our top curl crushes—and the most sought-after natural hairstylists in the industry—couldn’t live without. So clear out your shower caddy, and get ready to add the best shampoo and conditioner for curly hair to your routine ASAP.