Table of Contents:
- The Different Types of Hair Gels
- The Different Levels of Hold
- Choose the Best Hair Gel for Your Curls
The best gels for curly hair offer a host of benefits, such as defining, and clumping your curls, adding volume, providing protection against humidity, and reducing frizz. With so many options available, there are curly hair gels to suit every texture and preferred hold level. Keep reading to find everything you need to know about gels for curly hair.
The Different Types of Hair Gels
There are many different types of hair gels, more specifically, around eight main kinds, and each work in a unique way to support different styling goals. From lightweight, flexible holds to strong long-lasting definition, not all gels are created equal. That’s why if you have tried a gel in the past and weren’t happy with the results, it doesn’t necessarily mean gels aren’t right for you. It may simply be that the formula didn’t match your desired outcome. Instead, consider exploring different types of gel that align more closely with your styling goals, whether that’s added volume, frizz control, enhanced curl definition, or a softer, more natural finish.
The Different Levels of Hold
Gels are often described by their hold level, typically light, medium, or strong. While this can be used as a helpful guide when choosing a product, it’s useful to understand what these differences actually mean.
- Light hold tends to have a more fluid, runny consistency and create a soft, flexible cast as they dry. They offer gentle definition without compromising on volume, making them ideal for those who prefer a natural, touchable finish.
- Medium hold gels provide more of a noticeable cast and enhanced definition. They strike a balance between hold and flexibility, helping curls maintain their shape while still allowing some movement.
- Strong hold gels deliver maximum definition and long-lasting hold. They form a firmer cast around the hair, helping to lock in curl pattern, reduce frizz, and extend the life of your style, particularly in humid conditions.
All hold levels create a cast on the hair while drying, once the hair is fully dry, scrunch the crunch to reveal soft bouncy curls.
Choose the Best Hair Gel for Your Curls
Ultimately, the best gel for curly hair means something different for each individual, regardless of curl type, or texture. Some may prefer a strong hold, while others may opt for a more flexible gel that doesn’t compromise volume.
Best Moisturising Hair Gel
Our Curl Defining Styling Souffle is the best moisturizing gel. As our best-selling gel it offers the best of both worlds, combining the moisture of a curl cream with the hold of a gel. The result? Beautifully defined, moisturized curls that maintain movement and softness, even with a stronghold. This versatile formula is suitable for curl types and porosities, and best for medium to coarse textures. The key ingredients include;
- Babassu Oil- known for its moisturizing properties
- Linseed- known to help reduce frizz and give an increased shine.
Best Strong Hold Hair Gel
Our strongest hold gel is In-Shower Style Fixer, this powerhouse delivers ultimate definition and long-lasting weather resistant results. Although this provides the strongest hold in our range, it doesn't leave you with the dreaded crispy curls that can often be associated with the use of gels. Say goodbye to stiff, crunchy hair and hello to bouncy, touchable curls. Suitable for all curl types, porosities and textures. Key ingredients include:
- Resurrection Flower- known for its moisture-retention properties.
- Avocado Oil- known for its ability to nourish hair.
Best Lightweight Hair Gel
Our lightweight gel, Hydro Style Flexi Jelly is true a curl friend favorite. It’s fluid, runny consistency glides effortlessly through the hair, evenly coating each strand to enhance and define your curl pattern without compromising on volume. Suitable for all curly types and porosities, this formula is ideal for fine to medium textures seeking definition with a lightweight, airy finish. Key Ingredients include;
- Castor Oil- known for its stimulating nourishing and moisturizing properties
- Hyaluronic Acid- a humectant known for its moisturizing properties. Has the ability to hold up to 100 times its weight in water.
Best Hair Gel for Frizz Control
Unwanted frizz poses a common challenge for those with curly hair. While a bit of frizz can add volume and body, excessive frizz can become troublesome. That’s why our Frizz Rescue Curl Retainer is formulated with a nourishing blend of curl-loving ingredients that control frizz and provide curl definition with a medium hold without leaving your tresses feeling sticky. Suitable for all curl types and porosities, best for medium and coarse textures. Key ingredients include:
- Trio-oil, sunflower, watermelon and argan blend- creates an invisible coat on the hair to help prevent curls from reverting in shape and becoming less defined when exposed to humidity.
- Squalane- known to moisturize, add shine, and enhance elasticity.
Best Hair Gel for Sensitive Scalp
Some people may have sensitivities to fragrances or simply prefer products without fragrance. Whatever the reason, there are many benefits of fragrance- free hair products such as our Fragrance-Free Strong Hold Gel which provides extreme definition and long-lasting weather resistance. Suitable for all curl types, porosities, and textures. Key Ingredients include:
- Jasmine Flower- known for its amazing moisturizing properties
- Lemon Peel- rich in vitamin C, helps strengthen the hair
Best Hair Gel with Temporary Colour
For any of our curl friends who want to experience a vibrant color without fearing damaging your locks, temporary hair makeup is the product for you. It is available in five different shades and combined with a gel, so it is the perfect product for definition and color. The gel contains a blend of sustainable, ethical, and high-pigmented pearls that deposit a high pigment to the hair's surface. The intensity of the pigment allows the color to show even on dark hair. You don't need gloves to apply the gel because they don’t stain. Once applied and 100% dry, the gel will define your curls with that pop of your chosen shade. The best part is it leaves the hair in just one wash, so you can move on to trying another shade without the fear of causing damage to your tresses. Suitable for all curl types, porosities, and textures.
By now you should have everything you need to choose the best gels for your curls and understand the different formats and benefits available. With so many options, you can easily find something tailored to your needs. Whether you’re after strong definition, flexible hold with volume, or frizz control, there’s a range of curly hair styling products to help you achieve your styling goals.
