Best Hair Gel for Curly Hair: The Top 25 of 2023
May 6, 2022
by
Verna Meachum
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Last Updated on April 11, 2023 by Verna Meachum
The hot summer sun can be tough on your hair. The humidity can leave it frizzy and unmanageable, and the heat can sap it of its natural moisture.
If you’re looking for a product that will help keep your curls in place while also protecting your hair from the summer elements, look no further.
Hair gel is a versatile product that can be used to create different hairstyles, from sleek and polished to messy and undone.
It can also help to tame flyaways and control frizz. Whether you’re headed to the beach or a backyard barbecue, we’ve rounded up the best hair gels for curly hair that will help you keep your curls intact all summer long.
Plus, we’ll give you some tips on how to use them to get the best results!
Introduction
Not all curly hair gels are created equal- some work well for certain types of curls, while others make your hair look greasy or crunchy.
When it comes to choosing the gels for curly hair, there are many different factors to consider.
Some people prefer a lightweight and flexible formula that won’t weigh down their curls or make them look overly stiff or greasy.
Other people may be looking for a stronger hold, in order to achieve certain styling effects or keep their locks in place all day long.
Whatever your particular needs as a curly, there are countless options available on the market today that can help you achieve the perfect style.
Just a few of the top contenders for best hair gel for curly hair include Giovanni L.A Hold Styling Gel, and Curls Blueberry Bliss Curl Control Jelly by Curls.
Each of these gels is crafted specifically with curly hair in mind, using nourishing ingredients and unique formulations that give your curls just what they need to look their best.
Whether you’re looking to define and moisturize your curls, add lustrous shine and volume, or simply hold them all in place throughout the day, there’s sure to be an option that meets your hair needs exactly.
Best Hair Gel for Curly Hair: Top 25
Adwoa Baomint Moisturizing Curl Defining Gel
Features: This is a concentrated cream-gel hybrid for medium and thick hair. It creates definition without the flakes and will provide a medium hold.
Best for: all curl types
Color-safe: Yes
Protein-free: Yes
Price: $14
Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Glycerin, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Adansonia Digitata (Baobab) Oil, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (Fractionated Coconut Oil), Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Opuntia Ficus Indica (Prickly Pear) Seed Oil, Phthalates Free Fragrance, Cucurbita Pepo (Pumpkin) Seed Oil, Acrylates Copolymer, Polyquaternium,-11, Xanthan Gum, Dehydroacetic Acid, Benzyl Alcohol, Carbomer, Aminomethyl Propanol, Lavandula (Lavender) Spica Oil, Gaultheria Procumbens (Wintergreen) Oil, Mentha Viridis (Spearmint) Leaf Oil, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil, Urtica Dioica (Nettle) Extract.
Aunt Jackie’s Flaxseed Don’t Shrink Curling Gel
Features: If shrinkage is an issue with your curls, this styling gel gives the stretch to your curls that you need without the crunch. It is a lightweight gel that will give your hair a soft hold and can be used on wet or dry hair.
Best for: curly and coily
Color-safe: Yes
Protein-free: No
Price: $7.95 – $14.85
Ingredients: Water, Glycerin, Carbomer, Aminomethyl Propanol, Phenoxyethanol, PVP, Polysorbate 20, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Parfum, Ethylhexylglycerin, Tetrasodium EDTA, Potassium Sorbate, Linum Usitatissimum Seed Oil, Tocopherol, Limonene, Hexyl Cinnamal, Linalool, Amyl Cinnamal, Butylphenyl Methylpropional.
Here are my results using the Aunt Jackie’s Flaxseed Don’t Shrink Curling Gel below.
Aussie Instant Freeze 20-Hour Hold Hair Gel
Features: This maximum-hold hair gel is fragrant with citrus and aquatic notes and contains jojoba oil and sea kelp. If you struggle to get a gel cast, this strong-hold gel might be the answer.
Best for: all curl types
Color-safe: Yes
Protein-free: Yes
Price: $4.79
Ingredients: Water/Eau, Laureth-23, Polyquaternium-4, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Benzyl Alcohol, Acrylates/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Copolymer, Aminomethyl Propanol, Dmdm Hydantoin, Fragrance/Parfum, Acrylates Copolymer, Disodium EDTA, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Ecklonia Radiata Extract, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil.
Briogeo Curl Charisma Rice Amino + Quinoa Frizz Control
Features: This gel is lightweight, non-sticky, and silicone-free, so it will not leave your hair feeling heavy. The rice amino acids and quinoa work together to smooth the hair cuticle and add shine.
Best for: all curl types
Color-safe: Yes
Protein-free: No
Price: $22
Ingredients: Water/Aqua/Eau, VP/VA Copolymer, Carrageenan*, Glycerin*, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Extract*, Lactobacillus/Tomato Fruit Ferment Extract*, Rice Amino Acids*, Hydrolyzed Quinoa*, Keratin Amino Acids*, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter*, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil*, Tocopheryl Acetate, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil*, Citrus Paradisi (Grapefruit) Peel Oil*, Polysorbate 80, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate*, Acyl Coenzyme A Desaturase*, Fragrance (Parfum), Dehydroacetic Acid, Benzyl Alcohol. * Coconut, vegetable, or plant derived.
Bouncecurl
Features: This is a lightweight styling gel with light, soft hold. It will make your hair feel light and it will keep your curl’s shape and will also minimize frizz. It is infused with its flagship ingredient – Black seed oil.
Best for: all curl types
Color-safe: Yes
Protein-free: No
Price: $17.99 – $27.09
Ingredients: Water, VP/VA copolymer, Glycerin, Hydrolyzed Jojoba Esters, Jojoba Esters, Hydrolyzed quinoa protein, Hydrolyzed Oat protein, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Panax Ginseng root Extract, Salvia Officlnalis (Sage) Extract, *Nigella Sativa (Virgin Black Cumin) Oil, Boswellia Carter Oil, Aminomethyl Propanol, Carbomer, Sodium Phytate, Caprylyl Glycol, Hexylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Citric Acid, **Fragrance (100% Natural Fragrance).
*Certified Organic **New 100% Natural Fragrance
Bumble and Bumble Anti-Humidity Gel Oil
Features: This gel-oil combination adds moisture, bounce, and sheen while also protecting against the humidity. UV protection also helps to protect curls from the sun’s drying effects.
Best for: curly and coily
Color-safe: Yes
Protein-free: Yes
Price: $30 – $32
Ingredients: Water/Aqua/Eau, Glycerin, Chondrus Crispus (Carrageenan), PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hydrolyzed Corn Starch, Caprylyl Glycol, Tocopherol, Sucrose, Ethylhexylglycerin, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Xanthan Gum, Octyldodecyl Citrate Crosspolymer, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, Ethylhexyl Salicylate, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Hydroxide, BHT, Fragrance (Parfum), Citral, Butylphenyl Methylpropional, Linalool, Geraniol, Limonene, Potassium Sorbate, Phenoxyethanol.
Camille Rose Naturals Curl Maker
Features: This gel will give your hair definition, shine, and hold without weighing it down. The aloe vera juice, agave extracts, and marshmallow work together to give your hair a soft, bouncy, and shiny finish. No gummy or crunchy curls with this product.
Best for: curly and coily
Color-safe: Yes
Protein-free: Yes
Price: $17 – $22
Ingredients: Deionized Water, Pectin, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Panthenol, Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Althaea Officinalis (Marshmallow) Leaf/Root Extract, Agave Americana (Agave) Leaf Extract, Equisetum Arvense (Horsetail) Extract, Urtica Dioica (Nettle) Leaf Extract, Hydrolyzed Corn Starch, Xanthan Gum, Chondrus (Seaweed) Crispus Powder, Polysorbate 20, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Cyanocobalamin (Vitamin B-12), Phenoxyethanol (Optiphen ND), Caprylyl Glycol, Phthalate Free Fragrance.
Curls Blueberry Bliss Curl Control Jelly
Features: This jelly is formulated to define, defrizz, and hold your curl’s shape. Formulated with organic blueberry extract, and raw castor oil, this jelly will leave your hair feeling soft and looking shiny. Use a tiny dab. Treat it like a gel rather than a cream, which means you need only a little bit.
Best for: all curl types
Color-safe: Yes
Protein-free: No
Price: $17 – $18
Ingredients: Water, Sorbitrol, Polyacrylate-14, Hydrogenated Castor Oil (seeds co pressed from the ricinus communis plant), Certified Organic Blueberry Leaf Extract, Certified Organic Aloe Leaf Juice, Keratin, Hydrololyzed Quinoa, Silk Amino Acids, Panthenol, Certified Organic Shea Butter, Certified Organic Mango Seed Butter, Certified Organic Argan Oil, Certified Organic Evening Primose, Jojoba Esters, Tocopheryl Acetate, Tetrheyldecyl Ascorbate, Carbomer, Aminomethyl Propanol, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Tetrasodium EDTA, Fragrance, Citric Acid.
Curlkeeper Original
Features: The Original formula is water-based, so it will not leave your hair feeling crunchy or cause any build up. This is a liquidity type gel, but it provides a strong hold and is ideal for humid weather.
Best for:
Color-safe: Yes
Protein-free: Yes
Price: $19 – $49
Ingredients: Aqua/Water/Eau, VP/VA Copolymer, Propylene glycol, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Glycerin, DMDM Hydantoin, Oleth-20, Parfum, Polyquaternium-10, Fragrance (Amylcinnamyl Alcohol, Limonene, Linalool).
Curls Smooth Curl Butter Gel
Features: If you’ve ever used a gel that only has one benefit, such as a strong hold in your protective style, then you know how frustrating it is when your hair starts to feel dry. This curl butter gel gives your hair definition, a soft hold, and moisture all in one product.
Best for: all curl types
Color-safe: Yes
Protein-free: Yes
Price: $5.99 – $8
Ingredients: Water, Sorbitol, Polysorbate 80, Glycerin, PEG-40, Hydrogenated Castor Oil, PEG-12 Dimethicone, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Chamomille Recutita (Matricaria), Flower Extract, Methylheptyl Isostearate (Beantree), Polyquaternium-11, Fragrance, Sodium Carbomer, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, FD&C Yellow 2.
EcoSlay Orange Marmalade Gel
Features: What I love about this gel is the amount of curl definition this will give your hair. It is a lightweight gel, but will provide a firm hold. The gel is also hydrating and will make your curls shine.
Best for: all curl types
Color-safe: Yes
Protein-free: Yes
Price: $10-32
Ingredients: Flaxseed extract, Agave nectar extract, Pectin, Aloe Vera juice, Marshmallow Root extract, Vitamin E, Xanthan Gum, Optiphen Plus, Sweet Orange Essential Oil.
Eco Style – Olive Oil
Features: This is a strong-hold gel that will give your hair a lot of shine and definition. It is alcohol-free, so it will not dry out your hair. You can also use it on wet or dry hair every day!
Best for: all curl types
Color-safe: Yes
Protein-free: No
Price: $9.49
Ingredients: Water/Aqua/Eau, Carbomer, Triethanolamine, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Pvp, Glycerin, Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate, Polysorbate 20, Tetrasodum Edta, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil), Fragrance (Parfum), Ci19140 Yellow 5.
Giovanni L.A Hold Styling Gel
Features: This is a strong-hold gel that will give your hair definition and shine, due to aloe and mallow extract. It is alcohol-free and will not weigh the hair down.
Best for: all curl types
Color-safe: Yes
Protein-free: No
Price: $6.44
Ingredients: Aqua (Purified Water), VP/VA Copolymer, Hydroxyethylcellulose (plant derived), Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Citric Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Seed Extract, Fragrance (includes essential oils), *Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice, *Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, *Glycine Soja (Soybean) Seed Extract, *Betula Alba Extract, *Malva Sylvestris (Mallow) Extract, *Achillea Millefolium Extract, *Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, *Equisetum Arvense Extract, *Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Extract, *Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, *Salvia Sclarea (Clary) Extract, *Thymus Vulgaris (Thyme) Extract, *Tussilago Farfara (Coltsfoot) Flower Extract, *Urtica Dioica (Nettle) Extract. *USDA Certified Organic.
Innersense Organic Beauty I Create Hold
Features: This gel will give your hair a soft, crunch-free hold. The certified organic ingredients will also leave your hair feeling moisturized and looking shiny. This gel is essentially aloe, water, and honey, making it a hydrating, lightweight formula.
Best for: medium to thick curls
Color-safe: Yes
Protein-free: No
Gluten-free: Yes
Price: $26
Ingredients: water/aqua/eau, aloe barbadensis gel*, hydroxyethylcellulose, maltodextrin copolymer, potassium hydroxide, gluconolactone, sodium benzoate, calcium gluconate, alkyl acrylate crosspolymer, citrus aurantium dulcis peel oil, caprylic/capric triglyceride, potassium sorbate, sodium phytate, glycerin*, chamomilla recutita (matricaria) flower extract*, eucalyptus globulus leaf extract*, ginkgo biloba leaf extract*, aspalathus linearis leaf extract*, honey extract*, limonene†. *Certified Organic. †A natural component of essential oils.
Jessicurl Spiralicious Styling Gel (Citrus Lavendar
Features: This gel gives your hair a soft, crunch-free hold with a refreshing citrus scent. It is aloe-based and will leave your hair feeling moisturized.
Best for: all curl types
Color-safe: Yes
Protein-free: Yes
Price: $16.95
Ingredients: Aqua (Water), Polyquaternium-69,
Hydroxyethylcellulose, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Lavandula Officinalis (Lavender) Flower Oil, Citrus Sinensis (Sweet Orange) Peel Oil Expressed, Citrus Paradisi (Grapefruit) Peel Oil, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Panthenol, Polyquaternium-11, Diazolidinyl Urea, Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate, Alcohol, Limonene, Linalool.
Kenra Styling Gel 17
Features: This is an alcohol-free, lightweight gel that will give your hair a strong hold. The gel is also humidity-resistant, so it’s great for frizzy hair.
Best for: all curl types
Color-safe: Yes
Protein-free: No
Price: $16.99
Ingredients: Aqua/Water/Eau, VP/VA Copolymer, VP/Dimethylaminoethylmethacrylate Copolymer, Carbomer, Triethanolamine, Polysorbate 20, Imidazolidinyl Urea, DMDM Hydantoin, Parfum/Fragrance, Methylparaben, Propylene Glycol, Ethoxydiglycol, Glucose, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Urtica Dioica (Nettle) Extract, Melissa Officinalis Leaf Extract, Tussilago Farfara (Coltsfoot) Flower Extract, Equisetum Arvense Extract, Aesculus Hippocastanum (Horse Chestnut) Seed Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Leaf Extract, Hydrolyzed Silk, Benzophenone-9.
Kinky-Curly Original Curling Custard
Features: There’s a reason why this hair gel is one of the most frequently recommended for curlies; it clumps softly, moisturizes, and defines without weighing hair down. If you have low-porosity hair, this is a great gel to try because it’s super moisturizing.
Best for: all curl types
Color-safe: Yes
Protein-free: Yes
Gluten-free: Yes
Price: $18.49
Ingredients: Botanical Infusion Of Water, Horsetail, Chamomile, Nettle, Marshmallow, Organic Aloe Vera Juice, Agave Nectar Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Pectin, Citric Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Natural Fragrance.
LA Looks Extreme Sport Alcohol-Free Hair Gel
Features: You’ll get a lot of hold and definition from this gel, but it’s not too crunchy. It’s also alcohol-free so it won’t dry out your hair. It’s suitable for all climates, so it will keep your hair under control even in high humidity.
Best for: wavy hair
Color-safe: Yes
Protein-free: No
Price: $2.12 – $10
Ingredients: Aqua (Water), PVP, Sorbitol, Oleth-20, Carbomer, Propylene Glycol, Aminomethyl Propanol, Parfum (Fragrance), Diazolidinyl Urea, Methylparaben, Tetrasodium EDTA, Benzophenone-4, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinone, Ci 42090 (Blue 1), Ci 60730 (Ext Violet 2), Keratin Amino Acids, Rahnella/Soy Protein Ferment, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Panthenyl Ethyl Ether, Glyceryl Acrylate/Acrylic Acid Copolymer, Polysorbate 20, Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1.
Mop Top Curly Hair Custard Gel
Features: This custard gel will give your hair definition, shine, and hold without being crunchy. It is also alcohol-free and won’t weigh your hair down.
Best for: all curl types
Color-safe: Yes
Protein-free: No
Price: $16.49 – $18
Ingredients: WATER, GLYCERIN, CARBOXYMETHYLCELLULOSE, ALOE BARBADENSIS LEAF EXTRACT, PECTIN, HYDROXYPROPYLTRIMONIUM HONEY, SILK AMINO ACIDS, HYPNEA MUSCIFORMIS EXTRACT (SEAWEED), GELIDIELLA ACEROSA EXTRACT (SEAWEED), SARGASSUM FILIPENDULA (SEAWEED) EXTRACT, SORBITOL, ROSMARINUS OFFICINALIS (ROSEMARY) LEAF EXTRACT, SALIX ALBA (WILLOW) BARK EXTRACT, URTICA DIOICA (NETTLE) EXTRACT, ETHYLHEXYLGLYCERIN, PHENOXYETHANOL, CITRUS SENENSIS OIL, CITRUS LIMON OIL, CITRUS AURANTIFOLIA OIL, CITRUS PARADISI OIL, FRAGRANCE (PHTHALATE FREE).
MopTop Salon Anti-Frizz Medium Hold Gel
Features: This is a medium-hold gel that will give your hair definition and shine. It is also humidity-resistant, so it’s great for frizzy hair. It’s infused with sea botanicals and honey, which will leave your hair feeling moisturized.
Best for: all curl types
Color-safe: Yes
Protein-free: No
Price: $23 – $49
Ingredients: WATER, ALOE BARBADENSIS LEAF EXTRACT, METHACRYLIC ACID/SODIUM ACRYLAMIDOMETHYL PROPANE SULFONATE COPOLYMER, SILK AMINO ACIDS, HYPNEA MUSCIFORMIS EXTRACT, GELIDIELLA ACEROSA EXTRACT, SARGASSUM FILIPENDULA EXTRACT, ARNICA MONTANA FLOWER EXTRACT, URTICA DIOICA (NETTLE) EXTRACT, ANTHEMIS NOBILIS (CHAMOMILE) FLOWER EXTRACT, SPIRULINA MAXIMA EXTRACT, PANTHENOL, SORBITOL, GLYCERIN, HYDROXYPROPYLTRIMONIUM HONEY, HYDROXYETHYLCELLULOSE, POLYQUATERNIUM-4, POLYQUATERNIUM-10, CETRIMONIUM CHLORIDE, TETRASODIUM EDTA, PHENOXYETHANOL, ETHYLHEXYLGLYCERIN, FRAGRANCE.
Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Heat and Humidity Gel
Features: This is a lightweight styling gel that helps to lock out humidity and protect curls from heat and UV damage. It has Anti-Frizz Nano Technology for advanced frizz protection.
Best for: most curl types
Color-safe: Yes
Protein-free: No
Price: $26
Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Butylene Glycol, Polyquaternium-28, Sericin, Tocopheryl Acetate, Retinyl Palmitate, Panthenol, Polyquaternium-7, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Actinidia Chinensis (Kiwi) Fruit Extract, Lawsonia Inermis (Henna) Extract, Wheat Amino Acids, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein/PVP Crosspolymer, PEG-60 Almond Glycerides, Glycerin, Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Behentrimonium Chloride, Cetrimonium Chloride, PPG-26-Buteth-26, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, VP/DMAPA Acrylates Copolymer, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Hexylene Glycol, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Potassium Sorbate, Disodium EDTA, Phenoxyethanol, Fragrance (Parfum).
Shea Moisture Daily Hydration Styling Gel
Features: This is an alcohol-free gel that adds hydration. No hard crunchiness and a medium-strong hold keep your style in place with soft, smooth strands. It wraps your hair in nourishing Coconut Milk, Acacia Senegal, and a creamy blend of 100% Virgin Coconut and Shea Oils.
Best for: all hair types
Color-safe: Yes
Protein-free: Yes
Price: $10.49
Ingredients: Water, Glycerin (Vegetable), PVP, Maltodextrin/VP Copolymer, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Fruit Juice, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter* ♥, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil* ♥, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Fruit Extract, Acacia Senegal Gum, Xanthan Gum, Pullulan, Sorbitol, Trehalose, Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Gluconolactone, Sodium Benzoate, Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hydrolyzed Corn Starch, Calcium Gluconate, Maltodextrin, Phenoxyethanol, Fragrance.
SheaMoisture Frizz Control Styling Gel for Curly Hair Papaya and Neroli Alcohol Free Hair Gel
Features: This is a moisturizing and curl gel with frizz control that provides a touch of moisture and shine while keeping the curls smooth. It is also fights against the humidity to keep your curls frizz-free. Made with Papaya, juicy Neroli, Elder flower and Fair Trade Shea Butter.
Best for: Curly and wavy hair
Color-safe: Yes
Protein-free: Yes
Price: $9.99
Ingredients: Aqua, Glycerin (Vegetable/ Végétale), PVP, Sclerotium Gum, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter***, Carica Papaya (Papaya) Fruit Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Flower Oil, Sambucus Nigra (Elderflower) Extract, Panthenol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Tocopheryl Acetate, Polyquaternium-11, Polyquaternium-7, Maltodextrin/VP Copolymer, Xanthan Gum, Caprylyl Glycol, Triethyl Citrate, Benzoic Acid, Parfum.
Uncle Funky’s Daughter Curly Magic Curl Stimulator
Features: This is an aloe-based firm hold curl enhancing gel. It is great for definition, shine, and hold. It also works well for taming frizz, elongating curls, and increasing moisture.
Best for: all curl types
Color-safe: Yes
Protein-free: No
Gluten-free: No
Price: $24.99
Ingredients: Organic Aloe Barbadensis Leaf (Aloe Vera) Extract Juice, Aqueous – Infused Althaea Officinalis (Marshmallow) Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Chamomile) Flower Extract, Urtica Dioica (Nettle) Extract, Equisetum Arvense (Horsetail) Extract, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Agave Tequilana (Agave Nectar) Extract, Citric Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Natural Fragrance.
Wetline Xtreme Professional Extra Hold Wet Line Styling Gel
Features: This is an affordable alcohol free (Free of ethyl alcohol)styling gel that provides extra hold without any residue.
Best for: all hair types
Color-safe: Yes
Protein-free: Yes
Gluten-free: Yes
Price: $4.14
Ingredients: Aqua/Water/Eau), Glycerin, Carbomer, Sodium Hydroxide, Polyacrylate-2 Crosspolymer, Phenoxyethanol, Parfum/Fragrance, Sodium Polyacrylate, Tetrasodium EDTA, Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate, Hydroxycitronellal, Panthenol, Methoxycinnamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Ext. Violet 2 (Ci 60730), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice.
How To Choose Gel For Curly Hair
When it comes to choosing a hair gel, there are many factors to consider.
The type of curl, the level of hold, and the ingredients are just a few of the things that can make a big difference in the final result.
For those with curly hair, finding the best hair gel can be a bit of a challenge. However, by keeping a few key factors in mind, it is possible to find a gel that will work well for your specific hair type.
Curly hair type
First, consider the type of curl you have. If you have loose curls, you will need a gel with a bit more holding power.
Those with tighter curls will need something with a bit more light, but can add something stronger when needed.
If you need gels specifically for high porosity hair, read – Best Gels For High Porosity Hair: Key Ingredients.
If you have low porosity hair and need some gel recommendations and other products, read – A Complete Care Guide For Low Porosity Hair.
Ingredients
Second, pay attention to the ingredients. Some gels can be very drying, so it is important to choose one that contains hydrating ingredients like aloe vera or glycerin.
Compatibility
Finally, make sure to select a gel that is compatible with your other hair products. If you use products with silicones, for example, you will need to use a silicone-free gel to avoid build up.
By taking these factors into account, you can be sure to find the best hair gel for your curly locks.
Gel cast
When it comes to curly hair, the question of whether to use a hard gel or a soft hold gel to get a gel cast is a common one.
Both have their pros and cons, and ultimately it comes down to personal preference.
However, there are some general guidelines that can help you decide which type of gel is best for your hair.
If you have very frizzy hair or if the dew point level is high outside, then a hard holding gel can help to tame the flyaways and give your curls definition.
On the other hand, if you have naturally defined curls and don’t want a lot of hold, then a non-crunchy gel can help to enhance your curl pattern without making your hair feel stiff or crunchy.
Ultimately, the best way to find out what works for you is to experiment with both types of gels and see what gives you the best results.
Ways to Apply Hair Gel for Curly Hair
There is not a one-size-fits-all when it comes to applying hair gel to curly hair. The best method for you will depend on the type of curl you have, the level of hold you need, and your personal preference.
Here are a few of the most popular methods.
The Scrunch
This method is best for those with loose, undefined curls. To scrunch the gel into your hair, simply apply a generous amount of gel to wet or damp hair and then cup your hair into your hand and scrunch it repeatedly.
The Finger Coils
This method is best for those who want a lot of definition. To finger coils, start with a small amount of gel on wet or damp hair. Then, use your fingers to twist small sections of hair around each other until they form coils.
The Diffuser
Diffusing your hair is best for those with frizzy hair or thin fine hair who want to enhance their curl pattern while keeping the definition. To diffuse, apply a generous amount of gel to wet or damp hair and then diffuse it on low heat until your hair is mostly dry.
Wet Hair
This method is great for any curl pattern, who want a lot of definition. Make sure the hair is not sopping wet. To do this, apply a generous amount of gel to wet hair and then use your fingers or styling tool to help distribute the product throughout the hair.
For a slippery texture, the amount of water to product should be greater. Once the gel is evenly distributed, you can proceed to style your hair as usual.
Soaking Wet Hair
To get curl definition, apply a generous amount of gel to soaking wet hair. It’s best to rake and smooth the product into the hair in sections from roots to ends, as this will guarantee that the product is uniformly distributed throughout the hair.
To finish, you can diffuse, air dry, or whatever your preference is, then once fully dried – fluff and you’re ready to go.
Apply in Sections
Apply in small sections using your preferred styling tool. This could be a wide-tooth comb, Denman brush, or your fingers. Work the product through each section from roots to ends.
Once all sections are complete, you can proceed to dry and style your hair as usual.
Start with Less and Add More
This method is best for those who are new to using hair gel or have never used it before. Start with a small amount (nickel-size) of gel and work it through your hair from roots to ends.
If you need more, simply add more until you get the desired result.
Damp Hair
Apply gel to damp hair in small sections, using your fingers or your favorite styling tool to work it through the hair from roots to ends.
Once all sections are complete, you can proceed to style your hair as usual. If you need more hold, you can always add more gel as you go.
Rake
Using your fingers, rake the gel through your sopping wet hair in sections, re-wetting each section as you work (trust the technique). Once all sections are complete, proceed to dry and style as usual.
Trial and Error
When it comes to finding the best hair gel for curly hair, there is no magic formula. What works for one person may not work for another, so it is important to experiment with different gels until you find the one that gives you the best results.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different application methods, ingredients, and hold levels until you find the perfect combination for your hair.
With a little trial and error, you will be sure to find the best hair gel for your curly locks.
FAQs
What does styling gel do to curly hair?
Styling gel can help to enhance your curl pattern, add definition, and tame frizz. It can also help to keep your hair in place and maintain the shape.
What’s a gel cast and why is it good?
A gel cast is the stiff, shiny, “wet look” you see after applying gel to your hair and allowing it to air dry.
The gel forms a crunchy shell around each curl as it dries, defining, and protecting it from humidity and frizz.
It is good because it is a great way to get defined, frizz-free curls.
Is hair gel good for curly hair?
Hair gel can be good for curly hair if it is used correctly. When selecting a gel, look for one that is alcohol-free and provides medium to strong hold.
A gel is usually advised for curly, frizzy hair. If you don’t use it, your hair will be more prone to environmental aggressors that can make it frizzy. It is great for taming frizz and defining your curl pattern.
Is gel or cream better for curly hair?
While not all gels and creams are created equal, gels generally offer a stronger hold as compared to creams.
Creams are more popular for their moisturizing properties. If you go through the ingredients list and make an informed decision, both gels and creams can work wonders.
Conclusion
Now that you know the basics of choosing and applying hair gel, you are one step closer to achieving perfect curls.
By following these simple tips, you can be sure to find the best hair gel for your curly hair and get the perfect results every time.
So what are you waiting for? Get out there and start gel’ing those curls!
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If you’re interested in a list of glycerin-free hair products, you get get it at my shop.
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