Last Updated on August 25, 2022 by Verna Meachum
Many people are curious about what flaxseed gel is and how to use it. If you’re having trouble taming your hair’s frizz and finding the best product, this may be the answer. Making your own is not only inexpensive and simple, but it’s also an excellent way to save money.
Although more scientific research is necessary to verify the hair benefits of flaxseed, there is a lot of anecdotal evidence that it has beneficial effects. Additionally, the research showing the benefits of flaxseed on human health would suggest that it would also be good for hair.
In this article, we will discuss everything you’ve always wanted to know about flaxseed gel!
What Is Flaxseed Gel
Flaxseed gel is a hair styling product made from flaxseeds. It’s also sometimes referred to as linseed gel. They’re both nutritionally similar, with the exception of the plant itself Flaxseed has long been recognized as a healthful food, owing to its historical use as natural medicine.
Flaxseeds are one of nature’s most nutritious seeds that are rich in:
- Omega-three fatty acids
- Protein
- Lignans or bioactive compounds
- Vitamin B
- Vitamin E
- Iron
- Magnesium
- Selenium
- Antioxidants
Flaxseed, in addition to possessing a long list of nutritional advantages, is also considered an excellent ingredient for hair care. The nutrients and minerals found in flaxseeds can help to improve your hair’s health and have healing and moisturizing properties.
Why Use Flaxseed Gel
There are numerous benefits to using flaxseed gel. It can give your hair a natural shine, help it be more manageable, and tame frizz. It also helps to strengthen hair and prevent breakage. Flaxseed gel has been known for its ability as a natural conditioner, giving your locks a silky finish.
Flaxseed gel can help to hydrate hair, seal the cuticles, and protect your hair from damage due to heat. Flaxseed gel can help promote hair growth because it provides nutrients to your hair follicles. Flaxseeds also have the ability to moisturize dry or damaged strands without making them greasy because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
Benefits for Each Hair Type
Straight hair
It helps keep straight hair smooth and moisturized, promotes healthy hair growth, and provides great shine.
Wavy hair
Flaxseed gel is great to use for wavy hair. It can help to define waves adding a good texture, as well as minimizing frizz.
Curly hair
Flaxseed gel is fantastic for producing curl clumps and minimizing frizz. Clumping is a subject that many curlies struggle with, especially when they want their curls to look defined and uniform. With the right tools, flaxseed gel can make this a cinch!
Coily hair
Individuals with type 4 hair benefit greatly from flaxseed gel. The gel may be used as a moisturizer and to stimulate hair growth on the hair and scalp, as well as to define curls and lay the edges down.
Locs/Braids
Flaxseed gel, having moisturizing and hydrating qualities, might help locs and braids feel softer.
How to Make Flaxseed Gel
DIY’ing your own flaxseed gel is simple and inexpensive, making it very convenient for those on a budget.
All you need are three ingredients and the following items:
- 4 Tbsp. flaxseeds
- 2 C. water
- Muslin cloth or knee-high stocking
- Wooden spoon
- Small saucepan
- Glass measuring cup
- A jar or container that can be sealed shut
Directions:
- Add the water to the small saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Add the flaxseeds and reduce the heat to medium and cook for approximately 10 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent any sticking. Make sure to keep an eye on the mixture as it can thicken up pretty quickly. The consistency should not be too thick or too thin.
- Remove the pan from the heat and allow the mixture to cool for approximately 45 minutes. The gel will thicken as it cools.
- Next, pour the mixture into the muslin cloth or knee-high stocking in a glass measuring cup. Squeeze the gel out of the muslin cloth/stocking and into the measuring cup to strain the gel.
- To kick it up another notch, feel free to add your favorite essential oil, coconut oil, aloe vera juice, etc.
- Let it cool for up to 2 hours before using.
- Store in the fridge.
Styling With Flaxseed Gel
Apply the gel from the roots to the tips of your hair in small sections to create a smooth finish.
The gel can be used in conjunction with other styling products like a leave-in conditioner as the primer or curl cream.
If you’d rather not make the flaxseed gel yourself, there are some ready-made options to try.
Jason Styling Gel, Flaxseed Hi-Shine
CurlMix Pure Flaxseed Gel with Sweet Almond Oil
Aunt Jackie’s Don’t Shrink Flaxseed Elongating Curling Gel
CurlMix Ogranic Flaxseed Gel for Curly Hair with Castor Oil
What Are The Drawbacks of Flaxseed Gel?
For some, flaxseed gel may be drying. This is usually because it was not diluted with water or left to cool down before using it. If you don’t wash your hair at least once a week, the gel will go bad and may start to smell.
FAQs About Flaxseeds And Flaxseed Gel
How to store it?
Make flaxseed gel in small amounts and keep it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
How long does the gel last?
Some people prefer to store it for longer by adding preservatives, but the most common solution is to make small amounts and avoid using them.
Can you eat it?
Don’t eat raw or unripe flax seeds. They may cause indigestion and may also contain harmful chemicals. Ground flaxseed is easier to digest than whole flaxseed, according to most nutritionists. Whole flaxseed might go undigested through your intestines, therefore you won’t get all of the potential benefits.
Note: Flaxseed supplements should be avoided during pregnancy due to the risk of hormonal side effects.
Tips
- Apply on freshly cleansed and conditioned hair.
- Best when applied on wet hair, as you want to achieve the best definition.
- To evenly distribute the gel, work in small sections, as it will give you more control.
- Do not disturb your hair until the gel has fully dried, as any friction can cause frizz.
- Flaxseed gel is a film-forming gel. Applying too much of it will cause flakes.
- If your flaxseed gel or flaxseeds have an unpleasant odor, they’re no longer usable.
Safety
Do not use if you have an allergy to flax. Like with any new product or do-it-yourself treatment, proceed with caution by performing a patch test on a tiny area of your hair first before applying it to your whole head.
Comments +