Bonding Oil

Multi-use bonding oil for strength and shine

✓CGM ApprovedStrengthProtein-FreeStep: Treat

Our Take

Part of the Strength (purple) range, this protein-free bonding oil is one of the more versatile products in the Curlsmith line — it works as a pre-shampoo hot oil treatment, a finishing oil over styled and dried curls, or an overnight strengthening mask. Rated 4.4 stars from nearly 1,000 Ulta reviews, and specifically recommended by Curlsmith for low-porosity hair, where its lighter oil base absorbs more readily than thick butters or heavier oils. One to two drops is genuinely enough for most hair lengths — start there and build up rather than applying freely, as it concentrates well. A good one to add if you want to work strengthening into your routine without committing to a protein-heavy cream or mask.

Who is this for?

Our assessment — not the brand's claim

Curl Pattern

Porosity

LowNormalHigh

Free From

✓ Sulphate-Free✓ Silicone-Free✓ Paraben-Free✓ Alcohol-Free

Ingredients at a Glance

Hydrogenated Ethylhexyl Olivate

Emollient

Olive-derived emollient with silky feel.

Hydrogenated Olive Oil Unsaponifiables

Emollient

Olive-derived conditioning agent that smooths cuticle.

Coco-Caprylate/Caprate

Emollient

Coconut-derived emollient with light, non-greasy feel.

Castor Oil Copolymer

Emollient

Modified castor oil for conditioning and film forming.

Hydrolyzed Chickpea Protein

Protein

Hydrolysed protein derived from chickpea seeds. Penetrates the hair shaft to reinforce str…

Free From

✓ Sulphate-Free✓ Silicone-Free✓ Paraben-Free✓ Alcohol-Free

Want to know more about an ingredient? Browse the ingredient glossary →

How to Use

Apply once your hair is 100% dry - after diffusing or air drying. Use one pump per section. Smooth over curls to gently coat strands and seal in moisture. Scrunch hair to break the crunchy gel cast and make your curls soft and bouncy. Separate curls that are part of bigger clumps to achieve more volume and fullness.