If you’re tired of crunchy, weighed-down curls, you’re in the right place. Today, I’ll share my top tips for using gel without overloading your curls, plus my favorite gels that cater to all needs and budgets.
Top Gel Picks for Every Need:
- Bounce Curl discount code HONESTLIZ10 – buy here
- Boucleme discount code HONESTLIZ15 – buy here
- Miribel Naturals discount code HONESTLIZHERE – buy here
- Manetain discount code HONESTLIZ – buy here
- TréLuxe discount code HONESTLIZ15 – buy here
- Only Curls London discount code HONESTLIZ – buy here
Avoid Gel Overload with These Tips:
- Start small: Always use a dime-sized amount and build up if needed. Less is more!
- Emulsify Your Gel: Start by rubbing the gel between your palms until it’s thin and glossy. This ensures even distribution without clumping.
- Apply to soaking wet hair: This helps distribute product evenly and prevents that crunchy feel.
- Focus on sections: Divide your hair into sections to ensure every curl gets the right amount of product.
- Use a Hydrating Leave-In: Apply a lightweight leave-in conditioner first to keep your curls hydrated, preventing that dreaded crunch.
- Finger-Coil for Definition: This technique uses less gel while providing amazing curl definition.
- Scrunch gently: After applying gel, scrunch upwards to lock in definition without overload.
- Reactivate Gel with Water: On days two or three, refresh your curls by misting with water instead of applying more gel.
- Scrunch Out the Crunch: Once fully dry, scrunch your curls to break the gel cast for soft, bouncy waves.
Review Summary
All hair gels are Curly Hair approved. That means, all hair products in this blog post are SLS-free, silicone-free, no drying alcohol, no mineral oil, nor waxes. Also cruelty-free, with neutral fragrance for those sensitive to strong scents… and we are only getting started.
| CURLY HAIR GEL | HOLD | Protein | Key Ingredients | Remarks |
| Bounce Curl Light Hold Creme Gel | Light | YES – HIGH! | black seed oil | Works best to revive limp mushy curls |
| Miribel Naturals Silky Smooth Flaxseed Gel | Light to Medium | NO | aloe vera, flaxseed, lavender | Adds shine and softens hair |
| Manetain India’s Volume Gel | Medium | NO | aloe vera, flaxseed | Improves volume and shine! |
| TréLuxe Hi-Definition Gel | Medium to Strong | YES – Medium | tomato, seaweed | Ideal for frizzy limp curls |
| Boucleme Seal + Shield | Strong | NO | cupacu butter, marula oil | Best for humidity |
| Only Curls London Mega Hold Gel | Strong | NO | Avocado, Flaxseed and Kukui Nut Oil | Ideal for long lasting hold |
Need more help? Check out these options
Basic
$12.99Curly Hair Products Guide
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$29.99Curly Hair Online Course
Premium
$97Curly Hair 1:1 Coaching
