10 Best Gels For Curly Hair (Curly Girl Approved)
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Do you ever feel like your curls have a mind of their own? One day they’re perfectly defined, and the next they’re frizzy and unruly. As someone with curly hair, I understand the struggle all too well.
But, fear not! A great gel can be your saving grace. However, with so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. That’s why I’ve compiled a list of the 10 best gels for curly hair that are also curly girl approved (just in case you’re following the curly girl method). Say goodbye to bad hair days and hello to perfectly defined curls! Let’s dive in.
Also looking for a curly girl approved shampoo and conditioner? Be sure to check out the 10 Best Curly Girl Approved Shampoos and 10 Best Curly Girl Approved Conditioners.
the 10 best gels For Curly Hair
I chose the following curly hair gels based on a few points:
- ability to create definition
- ingredient quality
- concentration – how much you need to use
- how lightweight to heavy it is
- buildup potential
- ease of use
- level of hold
- also noted if it contains protein or glycerin
I have assigned a number from 1 to 5 for each category, 1 being the worst and 5 being the best. Of course, they are all silicone free and drying alcohol free, which is what makes them curly girl approved.
1. DIY Flaxseed Gel – best overall for all hair types
Yep, DIY flaxseed gel is by far the most universal gel for hair out there! It adds a ton of definition, creates a good cast (read: less frizz), adds softness and shine, and doesn’t cause any buildup. It’s super cheap and a great option for beginners too.
The best part is that it is very customizable and easy to make. So if you need more or less moisture/hold it’s an easy tweak. Get the recipe here.
And if you prefer buying it instead, I recommend A Simple Planet or the more moisturizing Miribel Naturals.
- ability to create definition – 5
- ingredient quality – 5
- concentration – 5
- lightweight
- buildup potential – very low
- ease of use – 5
- level of hold – medium
- can add protein and glycerin if you want
Use my affiliate code HE15 to save at asimpleplanet.com
2. Giovanni LA Natural Styling Gel – best affordable hard hold gel
This is a fantastic budget option for a hard hold gel that works great in high humidity and dry climates. It can be drying to some so if your hair gets over moisturized easily this is a great option. If that’s not the case for you, just layer a good leave-in or cream under to get that moisture.
It’s pretty thick so can be tricky to figure out how much to use or how to get it to distribute. Start off with a small amount and apply to really wet hair and emulsify well. Shop the Giovanni LA Hold gel here.
- ability to create definition – 5
- ingredient quality – 4
- concentration – 5
- between lightweight and heavy
- buildup potential – low
- ease of use – 3
- level of hold – strong
- protein and glycerin free
3. Ecoslay Orange Marmalade – best for curl enhancement
Orange Marmalade is very popular for its curl enhancement and hard cast that it creates. It definitely lives up to its reputation so if you’re looking for something that has great hold, definition, and enhances curl pattern then this is it.
While this gel creates amazing definition and softness, I found this a bit too moisturizing for me so I’d say it’s great for anyone who doesn’t get over moisturized easily. It also works well in all climates. Shop the Orange Marmalade here.
- ability to create definition – 5
- ingredient quality – 5
- concentration – 5
- between lightweight and heavy
- buildup potential – low
- ease of use – 4
- level of hold – medium to strong
- protein and glycerin free
4. Jessicurl Gelebration Spray Gel – best for fine curls
Gelebration was specifically formulated for fine curly hair enhance curls, create definition, add hold, all without weighing down fine curls. This is also a highly concentrated product and will last a long time.
Many people do complain about the way it sprays. I recommend you spray it into your hands, emulsify, and then apply as you would any other product. Shop the Gelebration gel here.
- ability to create definition – 5
- ingredient quality – 5
- concentration – 5
- lightweight
- buildup potential – low
- ease of use – 3
- level of hold – medium
- protein free, contains glycerin
5. TreLuxe Hi! Definition Gel – best medium hold
This is another really popular gel because it’s easy to use, creates great definition, adds moisture, and works in most climates. You don’t need a lot and it is also a curl enhancer.
My one complaint is how strong the scent is. It smells really good but it’s strong. Shop the Hi! Definition gel here and use code holisticenchilada15 to save.
- ability to create definition – 5
- ingredient quality – 3
- concentration – 4
- between lightweight and heavy
- buildup potential – moderate
- ease of use – 5
- level of hold – medium
- glycerin free, contains protein
6. MopTop Curly Hair Custard – best medium hold for curl enhancement
This very popular custard is a lot like the TreLuxe gel but it has glycerin so it’s a better curl enhancer. Unfortunately, that means it doesn’t work as well in high humidity or dry conditions.
This is one of my favorite gels because of how lightweight it is while still providing hold, definition, and curl enhancement. This product must be applied to wet hair and not too much to avoid flaking. Shop the Curly Hair Custard here and use code HE10 to save.
- ability to create definition – 5
- ingredient quality – 4
- concentration – 4
- lightweight
- buildup potential – low
- ease of use – 4
- level of hold – medium
- contains protein and glycerin
This is my favorite lightweight gel with curl enhancing effects, medium hold, and softness.
Use code HE10 to save at MopTop.com.
7. Raw Curls Gel & Innersense I Create Hold – best organic options
These tied because they are so similar and both amazing. These are the cleanest gels you’ll find on the market that actually work. They create a great cast, and leave your curls shiny, soft, and bouncy.
The Raw Curls gel comes in both medium and hard hold and I can use either but prefer the medium hold. Innersense is hard hold.
Both are very concentrated, the most on this list. I recommend you apply to wet hair, starting with a small amount, and emulsify well. If your hair feels dry layer a cream underneath. Shop the Raw Curls gels here. Shop the Innersense gel here.
- ability to create definition – 5
- ingredient quality – 5
- concentration – 5
- lightweight
- buildup potential – very low
- ease of use – 4
- level of hold – medium or hard
- both contain glycerin, Raw Curls has protein
8. Jessicurl Spiralicious – best hard hold for humidity
This is another popular gel because it works well on all curl types in all climates. It’s also not expensive and pretty concentrated so it will last a while.
Spiralicious provides a hard hold and for most people creates a good cast that scrunches out easily to give you soft, shiny curls. Shop the Spiralicious gel here.
- ability to create definition – 5
- ingredient quality – 5
- concentration – 5
- lightweight
- buildup potential – very low
- ease of use – 5
- level of hold – hard
- protein and glycerin free
Probably the best gel for humidity and most people seem to really love their results using it. It works on all curl types too so it won't weigh down fine curls if you don't use too much.
9. Bounce Curl Light Creme Gel – best protein heavy gel
This gel is very popular and is actually a cream gel hybrid. It is really high in protein which a lot of curls like, but some don’t. It also only offers a light hold so you may need to layer a harder hold product over if you want more hold.
This gel will give you soft, bouncy curls if your hair needs protein and isn’t sensitive to aloe. It also contains a lot of glycerin so it’s no ideal in high humidity or very dry climates. Shop the Light Creme Gel here.
- ability to create definition – 4
- ingredient quality – 4
- concentration – 3
- between lightweight and heavy
- buildup potential – low
- ease of use – 5
- level of hold – light
- contains protein and glycerin
10. Boucleme Curl Defining Gel – best UK option
This gel creates a good cast and scrunches out to leave you with soft, shiny curls. It works well on all curl types but it does contain glycerin so it might not be great when it’s humid.
Like all the other gels apply to wet hair and start off with a small amount. Shop the Curl Defining Gel here.
- ability to create definition – 5
- ingredient quality – 4
- concentration – 4
- lightweight
- buildup potential – low
- ease of use – 5
- level of hold – light to medium
- contains glycerin
If you’re new to the curly girl method, I recommend you check out my post on affordable curly girl approved products to start off. That post contains over 60 affordable and drugstore options.
Choosing The Right Gel
When it comes to choosing the right gel for your curly hair, there are a few things to consider.
First, think about your hair texture and curl pattern. If you have fine or thin hair, you may want to opt for a lighter gel that won’t weigh your curls down. On the other hand, if you have thick or coarse hair, a heavier gel may provide the hold you need to define your curls.
Next, consider the ingredients in the gel and what your hair needs. You may also want to look for products that are curly girl approved, meaning they don’t contain sulfates, silicones, or drying alcohols.
Finally, think about how you want your curls to look and feel. Do you prefer a soft, touchable hold or a firmer, more defined look? Some gels provide a crunchy hold, but can be easily scrunched out for a more natural finish.
Ultimately, the right gel for you will depend on your individual hair type and preferences. Don’t be afraid to try a few different products until you find the one that works best for you. Remember, the key to beautiful, healthy curls is finding the right products and techniques that work for you and your unique hair.
If you need help finding the products that will work for your hair type, check out my product matching guide. There are so many things to consider when choosing products and this guide will help you narrow down what you need to look for.
This product guide will help you identify your hair type and characteristics, provide some styling tips, and list exact products that will work on your hair type. Click here for more info.
How to Use Gel for Curly Hair
Now that you have ten amazing options for curly hair gels to choose from, it’s important to know how to use them properly. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your gel:
1. Start with clean, damp hair. It’s best to apply gel to hair that has been freshly washed and conditioned and is still damp. This will help the gel distribute evenly throughout your curls.
2. Section your hair. To make sure you’re applying the gel evenly, divide your hair into sections. You can use clips or a hair tie to keep each section separate.
3. Apply the gel. Take a small amount of gel and apply it to one section of your hair at a time. Rub it between your palms and work it through your hair from root to tip. Be sure to distribute the gel evenly throughout each section of hair.
4. Scrunch your curls. After you’ve applied gel to all sections of your hair, use your hands to scrunch your curls upward. This will help define your curls and remove any excess water or product. Check out my guide on how to scrunch out the crunch.
5. Let your hair dry naturally or diffuse on the warm setting. Avoid touching your hair too much while it dries. This can cause frizz and disrupt the curl pattern. Instead, let your hair air dry or use a diffuser attachment on low heat.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to achieve perfectly defined, frizz-free curls with your new favorite curly hair gel!
Bottom Line
At the end of the day, the best gel for your curly hair is the one that works best for you. It’s all about trial and error, and finding what works best for your unique curl pattern and hair type.
Remember to always read the ingredients and look for products that are curly girl approved to ensure that you are providing your curls with the best possible care. With these 10 gels, you are sure to find a product that will give you the perfect curl definition, hold, and shine that you’re looking for. Happy styling!
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If you want help with embracing your naturally wavy or curly hair, you can join my FREE email course and download my FREE pdf guide, THE QUICK START GUIDE TO MASTERING YOUR CURLS, full of everything you need to know to get started and bring out your beautiful waves and curls.
Hi Holistic Enchilada!
I love your blog and the fact that your also covering the area of clean beauty. I was wondering if you could make a blog about the curly girl method stylers (gels, creams, mousses) without microplastics. I use the https://www.beatthemicrobead.org website but this is obviously no curlygirlmethod website. I find it really difficult to find a gel or mousse without microplastics. Do you have idea’s?
Hi Lisanne! I have not looked into this before so I don’t have any ideas. I would assume many of the cleaner brands like EVOLVh, Innersense, and Raw Curls don’t have microplastics but I could be wrong.