Several factors go into why products work or dont, but here are some recs++
Questions for curlies who decided not to go strict CG: can you share+++
I have fine curly hair, 2b/3c and I always air dry. Check out Jessicurl products. ++
FWIW SM left my hair a stringy mess, too.
This and Jessicurl Spiralicious
Not really a fan of either, honestly.
Jessicurl Spiralicious Styling Gel has no glycerin or coconut oil
By special request (loveoutdoors below) here are my current faves. What are yours? ++
Jessicurl
Using products with some protein in them might help+