The worst kind of day is a bad hair day. For those of us plagued with unruly curls, it may seem at times there is no way to tame the mane. However, no need to fret. With the right tools and products, your curly locks can go from electric shock to flaming hot without costing a whole lot.

Curling Shampoo and Conditioner
It all starts with the right choice of curling shampoo and conditioner.
Splurge: Matrix Curl.life Shampoo and Conditioner ($17.49 each, CVS) is the biggest ally against frizz. Its patented formula wraps around each curl, defining and moisturizing it, and the result is shiny, bouncy curls.
Save: Pantene Pro-V Hydrating Curls Shampoo and Conditioner's ($4.99 each, CVS) pro-vitamin formula hydrates curls and touts up to 99 percent more defined curls after the first use.

Heat Defense Serum or Conditioner
To prep hair, protect it from the heat by applying a heat defense serum or conditioner.
Splurge: Frizz-Ease Thermal Protection Formula Hair Serum ($9.99, Walgreens) is a great hair serum that does not weigh down hair and moisturizes and protects your precious locks from the heat of a curling iron or diffuser.
Save: Alberto VO5 Extreme Style Heat Conditioning Spray ($3.99, Walgreens) conditions hair while providing great heat protection.

Curl Crème or Mousse
To lock in perfect curls, you can use curl crème or mousse.
Splurge: Frederic Fekkai Luscious Curls Cream ($19.50, sephora.com) uses ginseng and honey nectar to sculpt curls without the stiffness.
Save: Marc Anthony Strictly Curls Curl Defining Lotion ($7.99, CVS) eliminates frizz and repels humidity while locking in soft, shiny curls.

Splurge: Paul Mitchell Medium Hold Sculpting Foam ($13.49, CVS) helps control frizz and enhance shine while conditioning locks.
Save: Pantene Pro-V Scrunching Mousse Curl Defining ($4.19, CVS) sculpts curls and maintains hold while eliminating stiffness or frizz.

Diffuser
Next, use a diffuser at high heat on a low power setting. Show curls who's boss with a curling iron to keep a more polished look.

Hairspray
To finish, add a small amount of sheer hair spray to hold the style in place.
Splurge: Frederic Fekkai Sheer Hold Hairspray ($23, sephora.com) has an ultra-fine mist that will not weigh down hair or make it too stiff.
Save: Clairol Herbal Essences Body Envy Hairspray ($4.29, CVS) adds the perfect amount of hold and body, while its white nectarine and pink coral flower add an intoxicating scent.