Remember that scene from F.R.I.E.N.D.S when Monica screams “It’s the humidity!”. Those are facts.
We all know how curls can go poof in hot weather.
The 123 Gel Method helps you control frizz and maintain definition during summer, so your curls stay light, hydrated, and defined all at once.
What Is the 123 Gel Method?
- Water down your hair cream using the #bowlmethod.
- Apply three different gels, one pump each, one after another.
- Pro Tip: Use creamy gels for moisture, end with a glycerin-free gel.
- Wet plop, then dry as usual.
How the 123 Gel Method Started
It was my second summer as a curly girl, and my curls needed something more to hold up against humidity.
I read about dew points and realized gels work better in hot weather while creams are ideal in the cold.
Cream = moisture.
Gel = definition.
My medium-high porosity hair was dry, so I watered down my cream with the bowl method, then layered three gels, one pump each, scrunching them in for volume and definition.
And it worked.
Why Try the 123 Gel Method?
✅ Curls feel light, hydrated, and defined
✅ Reduces frizz in humid weather
✅ Adds volume without heaviness
If your curls need moisture + definition in the summer, try the 123 Gel Method and tag #123gel on Instagram so I can see your results!
Watch How I Apply the 123 Gel Method 🎥
FAQs About the 123 Gel Method
How is it different from using one gel?
Not all gels are the same.
Each gel has unique ingredients and strengths. Using a small amount of different gels is often better than using a lot of one gel, just like eating different veggies for variety and balance.
How should I pick gels?
For coarse, thick hair:
Use moisturizing gels for added hydration.
For fine or wavy hair:
Use gels with protein for strength and hold.
Hair Gels That Work for the 123 Gel Method
I only use SLS- and silicone-free products.
International Gels:
- Miribel Flaxseed Gel (code: HONESTLIZHERE)
- Jessicurl Spiralicious Gel
- Ecoslay Orange Marmalade
- Curlsmith Flexi Hold Gel
- Treluxe Hi-Def (use link to save 15%)
- Giovanni LA Hold
- Only Curls London Gels (code: HONESTLIZ)
- Curly Girl Movement Gel
- Inahsi Custard
Hair Gels Made in India:
- Manetain Volume Gel (code: HONESTLIZ)
- Manetain Hard Hold Gel (code: HONESTLIZ)
- Curlsense Flaxseed Gel (code: HONESTLIZ)
- Alps Goodness Flaxseed Gel (see offers)
- SugarBoo Curls Gel (code: HONESTLIZ)
- Fix My Curls (code: HONESTLIZ)
- Ashba Botanics Gel
Best 123 Gel Combos (India)
✅ Manetain Hard Hold Gel (code: HONESTLIZ)
✅ Fix My Curls Flaxseed Gel (code: HONESTLIZ)
✅ Giovanni LA Hold Gel
Use this website to confirm product safety before purchasing.
A Word of Caution
- Some custard/film-forming gels may flake.
- Heavy gels can build up, causing itching and irritation.
- Dehydrated hair can feel frizzy, limp, and unmanageable.
✅ Clarify your hair regularly to prevent buildup.
✅ Clay treatments once or twice a month can help.
Ready to Try the 123 Gel Method?
If you try it, tag #123gel on Instagram so I can see your results and learn your favorite gel combos too!
Thank you for reading and watching.
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