Hair gels are a staple in many hair care routines, offering the power to shape, hold, and define strands. Whether you’re taming flyaways, creating a sleek look, or defining curls, the right hair gel can make all the difference. But with so many options available, choosing the best one for your needs can feel overwhelming.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about hair gels, from choosing the right formula to application techniques and top-rated products, all thanks to insights from celebrity hairstylists.
Understanding Hair Gel’s Versatility
Hair gels are primarily designed to sculpt, hold, and define hair. They can provide varying levels of hold, from flexible to rock-solid, catering to a wide range of hairstyles.
Pro hairstylist Mideyah Parker, who works with stars like Natasha Lyonne, emphasizes the versatility of hair gel: “The best hair gel is going to give you the most hold with versatility,” she says. “Meaning you can use it in the foundation of the hairstyle to create the look you’re going for, or you can use it at the end as a finishing touch to secure out of place hair.”
Choosing the Right Gel for Your Hair Type and Style
The key to finding the perfect hair gel lies in considering your hair texture and the level of hold you need.
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Fine Hair:
Opt for lightweight gels that won’t weigh down strands.*
Thick or Curly Hair:
A stronger hold gel can help define curls and control frizz.Hair Gel Ingredients and Considerations
While hair gels are generally safe for hair, choosing the right ingredients is crucial for healthy strands.
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Alcohol:
Beware of gels heavy in alcohol, as it can strip hair of its natural moisture and lead to dryness.*
Hydrating Ingredients:
Look for gels with hydrating ingredients like coconut oil, which can nourish hair and prevent damage.*
Quality:
Higher-quality gels use better ingredients, often offering additional benefits like moisture and nourishment.Expert Tips for Applying Hair Gel
The application method plays a key role in achieving the desired look. Here are expert tips from professionals:
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Start with a Small Amount:
Apply a small amount of gel to your palms and distribute it evenly through your hair.*
Curly Hair:
Scrunch the gel into damp hair or use your fingers to curl each strand individually for defined curls.*
Structured Styles:
Use a higher hold gel for long-lasting control in styles like slicked-back looks.*
Wet Hair Application:
Apply gel to wet hair to distribute it evenly. Your desired style will determine whether you apply it from root to ends, just at the roots, or from root to mid-length.*
Even Distribution:
Use a wide-tooth comb for even distribution, especially when applying from scalp to ends.*
Curly Hair Scrunching:
Rake fingers through with the desired amount of gel, then add more to your palms and scrunch for extra definition.Vogue’s Favorite Hair Gels
Ready to find your perfect hair gel? We’ve curated a list of top-rated products based on their hold, hair type, and intended use:
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Best Soft Hold:
R+Co Motorcycle Flexible Gel*
Best for Fine Hair:
Oribe Rock Hard Gel*
Best For Thick Hair:
Got2B Ultra Glued Invincible Styling Hair Gel*
Best Affordable:
Eco Style Olive Oil Styling Gel*
Best for Sleek Styles:
Aveda Confixor Liquid Gel*
Best For Curly Hair:
Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Heat and Humidity Gel*
Best Finishing Gel:
Crown Affair The Flexible Hold Finishing Hair Gel*
Best Alcohol-Free:
Moroccanoil Styling Gel*
Best For Textured Hair:
Bread Beauty Supply Hair Gel*
Best for Curl Definition:
Mizani True Textures Curl Enhancing Hair Cream*
Best Drugstore:
Garnier Fructis Pure Clean Styling Gel*
Best Edge Control:
Kiss Colors Maximum Hold Edge Fixer*
Best Long-Wear:
Redken Sculpting Curl Gel*
Best For Light Hold:
Briogeo Curl Charisma Rice Amino + Quinoa Frizz Control Gel*
