The $9 Hair Product Serena Williams Used for Round One of Her Final US Open

Serena Williams has done it again—the tennis superstar won her first match at this year’s US Open, and she did it all while sporting some seriously glamorous hair. Williams played her first match dressed in a diamond-encrusted custom Nike set and shoes with studded curls to match. Williams’ curls were created by celebrity stylist Nikki Nelms, who’s also known for styling Solange Knowles, Zoë Kravitz, and more.

The bejeweled curls are only fitting for someone who always makes an impressive statement with the way she presents herself on the court. While the Swarvoski crystals are the main event, Nelms used a surprisingly affordable product to prep Williams’ hair: a $9 curl milk. 

Nelms opted for the Maui Moisture Curl Quench Curl Milk while prepping Williams’ hair. She first used it as a leave-in milk to help define curls and tame fly-aways. After sweeping Williams’ hair into a ponytail, Nelms added more to ensure her curls were as defined as possible. Afterward, she added crystals to Williams’ hair to match her outfit. It’s all the more impressive that Williams’ curls held up so well throughout the match—anyone who works out knows that it’s extremely tough to a) have a cute active hairstyle and b) make it sweat-proof. 

This shampoo gently cleanses hair without dehydrating it. 

With aloe as the first ingredient, this conditioner smooths and helps define curls. 

This curl smoothie is the perfect moisturizing styling cream.

For a bit of extra hold, opt for this defining gel. 

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