Since I went through this, I’m pretty sure that there’s a handful of naturalistas currently seeking the best hair gels to use on their hair. Whether you’re looking for a gel for your wash-and-go, for your sleek hairstyles, or even just to tame your edges, we’re sharing some of our favorites below.
Editor’s Picks: Best Hair Gel for Natural Hair
Read on to learn how to use each of these hair gels on your natural hair:
1. TRESemmé Flawless Curls Defining Gel
When you’re styling your hair, you’re hoping your curls come out defined, smooth, soft, and frizz-free. The wrong gel can leave your hair feeling stiff, dry, and left with gel residue. Enter TRESemmé Flawless Curls Defining Gel into your styling routine and it’ll change your life forever. This gel is formulated to give you bouncy and defined curls without frizz. Apply it to damp hair from root to tip using your hands, then finger-comb, or use a comb, to work it through your hair.
2. Suave Define & Shine Serum Gel
We’ve also become obsessed with Suave Define & Shine Serum Gel for definition and extra shine! Use the shingling method to really go in and define each section of hair, scrunch with your hands, or use the plopping technique.
3. TRESemmé TRES Two Extra Firm Control Gel
Gels that tout firm hold are key for taming edges and creating sleek updos. Try using a humidity-fighting gel, like TRESemmé TRES Two Extra Firm Control Gel, which is perfect for locking in your style all day long. You’ll definitely need the help of a mini-brush or toothbrush to smooth your hairline down, and a boar-bristled brush to help smooth your hair into a sleek updo.
4. Emerge Style Goals Gel
When it comes to hairstyles that require a lot of sculpting, like Bantu knots or very detailed buns, you’re better off with gels that allow you to mold and shape your locks. Emerge Style Goals Gel is the best hair gel for natural hair to create these kinds of styles. For dry styling, apply a few squirts of the hair gel onto your hair to create your sculptural style.
5. SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil + Flaxseed Strong Hold Styling Gel
This hair gel pulls double duty and keeps a tight hold on your strands while also hydrating your locks. The castor oil hydrates while the other ingredients create a strong grip on your edges.
6. Dove Amplified Textures Define N’ Moisture Styling Gel
This hair gel is perfect for anyone looking for a stronghold that won’t get flaky throughout the day. The formula reduces frizz and adds a beautiful shiny finish to curly hair.
7. SheaMoisture Papaya & Neroli All Day Frizz Control Milk Gel
This formula is the perfect lightweight option for anyone looking for added smoothness and hold. Keep your coils hydrated and in place with just a bit of this milk gel formula.
8. Suave Professionals Castor Oil & Mango Butter Defining Gel
This product pulls double duty by holding your natural curl pattern while also conditioning your curls. The Castor Oil nourishes your hair while the mango butter promotes healthy-looking hair.
9. Suave Max Hold Sculpting Gel
If you’re looking for a stronghold gel that won’t let you down, this is the one! This hair gel lives up to its name and offers lasting hold and a high-shine finish. And there you have it, curly girls! You can now embrace your coils and have a sleek look at the same time.
