11 best gel for hair

Gel for hair, often referred to as hair gel, is a popular styling product in the realm of hair care and beauty. It is commonly used to achieve various hairstyles and holds hair in place. Here's what you need to know about hair gel:

  1. Styling Aid: Hair gel is primarily used as a styling aid to help individuals create and maintain different hairstyles. It offers control and hold, allowing hair to be shaped and styled as desired.

  2. Hold Levels: Hair gels come in various hold levels, such as light, medium, and strong. The hold level determines how firmly the gel will keep hair in place. Strong hold gels are suitable for intricate styles, while light hold gels offer a more natural look.

  3. Versatility: Hair gels are versatile and can be used for a wide range of hairstyles, including slicked-back looks, spikes, pompadours, and more. They work well for both short and long hair.

  4. Texture and Shine: Depending on the specific product, hair gels can provide different levels of shine and texture to the hair. Some gels leave a glossy finish, while others create a matte look.

  5. Application: To use hair gel, a small amount is typically applied to damp or dry hair. It should be evenly distributed through the hair, and styling can be done with a comb, brush, or fingers.

  6. Flexible or Firm: Some gels offer a flexible hold, allowing for some movement and re-styling throughout the day. Others provide a firm, long-lasting hold that keeps the hair in place for extended periods.

  7. Hair Types: Hair gels are suitable for a variety of hair types, including straight, curly, and wavy hair. Different formulations cater to specific hair types and needs.

  8. Ingredients: Hair gels can contain various ingredients, with water, alcohol, and polymers being common components. Some gels are formulated to be alcohol-free, making them less drying to the hair.

  9. Washability: Most hair gels are water-soluble, which means they can be easily washed out with water. This feature makes them convenient for daily use without leaving a residue in the hair.

  10. Hair Health: It's essential to avoid excessive use of hair gel, as it can lead to build-up and potentially dry out the hair. Regularly washing and conditioning the hair can help maintain its health.

  11. Hair Gel vs.Hair Wax: Hair gel is often compared to hair wax, but they have different characteristics. Wax offers a more matte finish and a firmer hold, while gel provides a shinier finish and is usually more pliable.

  12. Beauty and Personal Care: Hair gel is considered a staple product in the beauty and personal care industry. It is commonly found in the styling products section of stores alongside other hair care products.

In summary, hair gel is a versatile styling product that offers varying levels of hold, shine, and texture for different hairstyles. It is a popular choice for individuals looking to create and maintain their preferred hair looks, making it a valuable addition to the world of hair care and beauty.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best gel for hair on the market
  

SexyHair Style Hard Up Hard Holding Gel

Sexy Hair

Based on 6 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Hard Up Gel is a high-performance hair gel that gives you maximum hold and all-day shine. It can be used on damp or dry hair to sculpt, mold, and form hair into place for your perfect look. This maximum hold hair gel is for all hair types, from fine to curly hair. Use gel to spike hair or achieve a sculpted, sleek or refined look on wet hair. On dry hair, Hard Up Gel allows for a messy, tousled look. It's all about control with our line of styling products, like hard hold hair gel for curls or spikes, professional styling wax, or hair texturizing cream. Style Sexy Hair gives you control over the texture and hold of your hair for your perfect, sexy look. Style Sexy Hair products help you create your favorite look, texture, and hold. Choose from a full range of styling products, including hair texture cream, hair gel for men and women, and hair styling wax from SEXYHAIR. SEXYHAIR is loved by professionals and best known for our big red can of hairspray. We are a Leading Professional Hairspray Brand. We also have a full line of both styling and hair care products to suit the need of most hair types.

Brand Story

SexyHair was created in Los Angeles, CA in 1998 and is now a global brand in over 60 countries. Best known for its red can of hairspray, SexyHair has a full line of care and styling products for every hair type

SoftSheen-Carson Let's Jam! Shining and Conditioning Hair Gel by Dark and Lovely, Extra Hold, All Hair Types, Styling Gel Great for Braiding, Twisting & Smooth Edges, Extra Hold, 14 oz

SoftSheen-Carson

Based on 10 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Let's Jam Shining and Conditioning Extra Hold Gel's formula has micro-emulsion technology for great extra hold, shine and conditioning with up to 3X less breakage and with no wax, no flaking, and no drying alcohol. Sleek it, slick it, shine it, define it with conditioning hold that moves with a stroke of a brush. • No wax or grease • Conditions hair as you style • Extra strength hold • We believe in beauty without compromise Apply a small amount into the palm of your hand, rub hands together.  Work through wet or dry hair.  Style as desired.  Avoid eye contact. HAIR IS FLAMMABLE. FLAMMABILITY IS INCREASED WHEN TREATED WITH PRODUCTS OF THIS TYPE. KEEP HAIR AWAY FROM OPEN FLAME, LIT TOBACCO PRODUCTS, FIRE OR SPARKS. KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN.

  • Hair Gel by SoftSheen-Carson Dark and Lovely Let's Jam, Shining and Conditioning Gel, Extra Hold, For all Hair Types, Styling Gel Also Great for Braiding, Twisting and Smooth Edges, Value Size 14oz
  • HAIR GEL: This Shining and Conditioning Extra Hold formula has micro-emulsion technology for great extra hold, shine and conditioning with up to 3X less breakage and no wax, no flaking and no drying alcohol.
  • EXTRA HOLD FORMULA: This hair gel provides a flake-free conditioning strong hold; It conditions and shines and is great for styling, braiding, smooth edges and twisting, taming frizz and flyaways.
  • STYLING PRODUCTS: We make an array of products for all types of curly hair, including moisture-sealing gels and leave-in sprays, rejuvenating oils, pomades, creams, butters and protective edge savers.
  • UNIQUE LOOKS: We help people of color celebrate unique looks and styles with an array of treatments, colors and styling products for all hair types: curly, wavy, natural, relaxed, transitioning and more.
  • SOFTSHEEN-CARSON: For over 110 years we have provided beauty to all consumers of African descent with our innovative, tailor-made, superior products and services specially designed for their needs.

User questions & answers

Question: Will the product give my hair the grunge look i have very thick hair and pomade and seasalt spray is not enough my hair absorbs alot of product
Answer: I have very thick and coarse hair, and this holds my hair in "spikes" better than anything I have used so far...I am an older woman and it works great.
Question: Would this product help with box braids
Answer: Thank you for reaching out to SoftSheen Carson. The Let's Jam Shine & Conditioning Gel is good for box braids. It is best used to tame hairline for a smooth look, but it can be used for braiding natural hair.
Question: It's been two weeks and I've washed my hair a million times and this stuff still won't wash out!! Help
Answer: I've never had this problem and I have tons of hair, so I have to use tons of product. Try Shea Moistures shampoo and maybe even rinse your hair with vinegar; that could help cut some of the greasy buildup and loosen the product from your hair shaft.
Question: Is this carol's daughter, as in the description, or softsheen carson let's jam, as shown in pictures
Answer: Hi there! Thank you for inquiring about about Let's Jam Shining and Conditioning Gel. This is a SoftSheen-Carson product.

Product features

Let’s Jam! Shine, Moisture & Conditioning Gels

Lets Jam has A Jam for Every style. Our micro-emulsion formulas are Great for Braiding, Twisting & Smooth Edges. Sleek it, slick it, shine it. Define your hair with conditioning hold that moves with a stroke of a brush.

Got2b Ultra Glued Invincible Styling Hair Gel, 6 Ounce (Pack of 3)

Got2B

Based on 8 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This Got2b gel’s hold is no joke! So put it down and slowly back away if you’re not up for the strongest gel hold ever! This non-sticky, no-flake formula is powered by high-tech styling agent - we call it Alpha XTR. Call it what you want, it lets you take your hair to new heights. Or do your own thing and cement your individual style. And when the party comes to an end, easily un-glue with a little shampoo. Go ahead - style away. Use on damp or dry hair. Squeeze a small amount into palms, rub hands together and distribute evenly throughout hair.

  • No Joke Hold : Non sticky, no flake formula for crazy Holds
  • GO ALL NIGHT: But once the fun is over, easily "un glue" with a little shampoo
  • USE FOR: vertical hair styles
  • HOW TO USE: Use on damp or try hair; Squeeze a Small amount into palms and distribute evenly throughout hair
  • IN THE BOX: Pack Includes three 6 ounce Ultra Glued tubes for a total of 18 ounces

User questions & answers

Question: Does this gel work to keep african american hair in extensions or braids
Answer: Got2b Ultra Glued Invincible Styling Hair Gel is great for all hair types including African American hair.
Question: Can this help slick down coily African hair
Answer: Yes. I used it on my locked hair and it worked well and held tight for several days. Just remember to moisturize your roots with soft hair crème, such as Shea butter lotion, before applying.
Question: How can i order some to PNG
Answer: Is PNG Papua New Guinea? Amazon has Got2b and they ship seemingly everywhere, so give it a go with them.
Question: can this be used for blow drying
Answer: You need to use a blow dryer "For Blow Drying" and... I think you might be asking the question incorrectly

JOHNNY B. Mode Styling Gel

Johnny B

Based on 9 reviews Check latest price

Product features

Johnny B. Mode Gel

This gel gives you muscle to tame stubborn hair. With an alcohol-free formula that has a higher viscosity than other styling gels, Mode establishes perfectly-tamed hair that appears thick and lush. Ideal for medium to thick hair.

Styling

Run a small amount of product through hair and style as desired. Restyle or revitalize through the day by adding a small amount of water to hair once product has dried, style as desired, then let dry again.

Cantu Shea Butter For Natural Hair Moisturizing Twist & Lock Gel, 13 Ounce (Pack of 1)

Cantu

Based on 8 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Cantu Shea Butter for Natural hair moisturizing twist and lock hair gel, for natural hair, Controls frizz for a silky smooth hold, no sulfates, silicones, parabens or mineral oil moisturizes, de-frizzes and adds manageability to hair revealing soft, shiny twists and locks, keeps frizz under control for a silky smooth hold.

  • Adds manageability to hair
  • Keeps frizz under control for a silky smooth hold hair.
  • For a silky smooth hold
  • Great for twists & braid outs

User questions & answers

Question: Does this offer light or medium hold
Answer: Yes
Question: Does it work to control frizz on braids
Answer: I'm considering getting one for that reason. My suggestion would be to do what they do in the movies: cut some of the face off of the mask, so that the hockey mask will sit on your son's real face. That way he'll still have the head and neck hooded by the mask, but he'll only have one layer sitting on his face.
Question: Caucasian hair, thick, super dry and frizzy. twisting daughters hair to lock in moisture. will this work? will it look oily? i'm so lost
Answer: Yes it is an over head mask
Question: Would this work on straight caucasian hair
Answer: Yes i highly recomend it

Product features

Type 2 - Wavy

Type 2 waves are bendable, can be fine to coarse, and are characterised by their definitive s-shape pattern.

2a - Tousled almost-straight texture with a loose, soft bend.

2b - Straighter roots with defined s-shape curls starting below brow level.

2c - Defined waves starting at the root mixed in with some full ringlets

Type 2 waves are bendable, can be fine to coarse, and are characterised by their definitive s-shape pattern.

2a - Tousled almost-straight texture with a loose, soft bend.

2b - Straighter roots with defined s-shape curls starting below brow level.

2c - Defined waves starting at the root mixed in with some full ringlets

Type 3 - Curly

Type 3 curls can range from loose, buoyant spirals to tight, springy corkscrews which have some sheen but are prone to frizz.

3a – Large & loose, curls fit around your middle & index fingers combined.

3b – Springy, tight ringlets, curls fit around your index finger.

3c – Densely packed corkscrews, curls fit around a pencil.

Type 3 curls can range from loose, buoyant spirals to tight, springy corkscrews which have some sheen but are prone to frizz.

3a – Large & loose, curls fit around your middle & index fingers combined.

3b – Springy, tight ringlets, curls fit around your index finger.

3c – Densely packed corkscrews, curls fit around a pencil.

Type 4 - Coily

Type 4 hair forms very tight, small coils & zig-zags straight from the root & are prone to major shrinkage.

4a – Dense, springy s-shaped coils that fit around a chopstick.

4b – Small, tight coils similar to a spring in a pen.

4c – Tightly coiled, z-shaped strands with greater density & shrinkage.

Type 4 hair forms very tight, small coils & zig-zags straight from the root & are prone to major shrinkage.

4a – Dense, springy s-shaped coils that fit around a chopstick.

4b – Small, tight coils similar to a spring in a pen.

4c – Tightly coiled, z-shaped strands with greater density & shrinkage.

Gummy Hair Gel, 33.8 Ounce

Gummy

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Fonex Hair Gels are produced for creating extreme hair styles with extra strength for long lasting effect.

  • Hair gel with maximum hold and extreme look
  • For creating extreme hairstyles and structured shapes
  • Alcohol free

User questions & answers

Question: Does it wash off easily
Answer: It rinses out very easily in the shower, plus you can kind of "reactivate" it with a splash of water in your hands and running them through your hair. Really user friendly, great hold and nice smelling. Can't recommend it enough.
Question: How does this smell
Answer: We are very sorry. We can not describe the smell. It doesn’t smell good to me.
Question: do you apply on wet or dry hair
Answer: I have straight hair the best look is once my hair is dry. You have more control on the style than when your hair is wet.
Question: What color is it
Answer: Red but doesnt change the color of your hair

BIOLAGE Styling Gelee | Firm Hold that Adds Body, Shine & Control | Paraben-Free | for All Hair Types

Biolage

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Product description

All-purpose professional gel that is ideal for all hair types, from fine hair to curly hair to add body, shine and control. Volumizing and effective at smoothing frizzy hair, this hair cream is perfect for taming flyaways and creating hold and shape without crunchiness or residue. Firm Hold No Parabens. No Mineral Oil. No Artificial Colorants.

Brand Story

Professional By Nature. Honest By Choice. A recognized leader in professional haircare, BIOLAGE offers high-quality, stylist-favorite products powered by botanicals.

DevaCurl Light Defining Styling Hair Gel, 32 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

DevaCurl

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Product description

DevaCurl Soft Hold Hair Gel -Soft Hold No-Crunch All-Day Styler Gel for Define & Control -The glistening, fruity aroma of Starfruit & Mango is sunny and succulent.. -This soft-hold gel will work on wavy, curly, and super curly hair. -Formulated with wheat and soy proteins to give you luscious, frizz-free curls. How Do I Use It?: 1. Wet Hair 2. Rub gel between palms. Tilt head forward then scrunch gel all over very wet curls in an upward motion. 3. Use the DevaTowel to soak up excess water and speed up air-drying time. Now hands off! 4. Once curls are completely dry, shake at the root and gently scrunch upward again to soften the firm cast. 5. You'll get touchable, crunch-free curls that look and feel moisturized. Choose Your Bottle Size and Quantity: 3 Fl. Oz Pack of 1 3 Fl. Oz Pack of 2 12 Fl. Oz Pack of 1 12 Fl. Oz Pack of 2 32 Fl. Oz Pack of 1 32 Fl. Oz Pack of 2 **All DevaCurl products are 100% sulfate, paraben, and silicone free.** The DevaCurl Light Defining Hair Gel is selling quickly. Purchase yours today!

  • LIGHT DEFINING SOFT-HOLD HAIR GEL: If you want a non-drying gel that will give you soft curl control, added moisture and long-lasting, frizz-free definition without the crunch, your search is over! The DevaCurl Defining Gel is formulated to hydrate your curls while providing a soft hold all day long. This control styling gel can be used on wavy, curly, or super curly hair.
  • HOW TO USE DEVACURL HAIR GEL: Before applying our styling gel, wet your hair. Squeeze the gel into your hands (amount depends on hair length & thickness) and rub between your palms. Tilt your head forward and scrunch the gel onto your curls in an upward motion. Next, use our DevaTowel to soak up excess water. When your curls are completely dry, shake at the roots and gently scrunch upward to soften the firm cast. This will give you crunch-free curls that look and feel moisturized!
  • NON-CRUNCHY CURLS: Style your hair before you start your day with the DevaCurl Light-Hold Gel. This gel will give you soft, smooth curls without the sticky crunch! Our moisturizing formula surrounds your curls with a non-sticky, protective curl cast that eliminates frizz and defines your curl shape.
  • REFRESHING SCENT: The unique formula, made with wheat and soy proteins locks in moisture, amps up shine and adds bounce. The light & refreshing scent smells like tropical Starfruit & Mango.
  • DEVACURL PROMISE: All DevaCurl products are 100% sulfate, paraben, silicone and cruelty-free. Gluten free

User questions & answers

Question: how much does the 32oz bottle weigh
Answer: Yes, all Buck fixed blade knives are full tang. All Buck knives also have a lifetime warranty. Buck will repair or replace your knife for as long as you own your knife.
Question: Is this product cruelty free
Answer: The sheath is lined with plastic, kydex?, very sturdy and durable. No worries wearing it or tossed in a pack. My favourite knives, I have two. Holds a razor edge. Angle of the gut hook is perfect. More than adequate for skinning. Rubber grip won't slip. I got the first when they came out, many years back. Many deer hunts, bear hunts, backpacking trips. Looks like new, cleans up easily.
Question: How old is this product? They haven't sold it as "Angel" for some time now. Do you have the newer product
Answer: Yes it does. The knife is very secure in the sheath.
Question: I was told by deva curl to use this along with wave maker. should i use them together? which one first? so confusing
Answer: Had my knife for years and never had to sharpen the guthook. Then again, I only use for this knife for hunting and the guthook only for it's intended use. To sharpen the guthook; use a slip stone or flat ceramic steel sharpener available in the internet for less than $10. Avoid using rounded file sharpeners intended for use on serated knives.

Product features

DevaCurl Light Defining Styling Hair Gel

This soft hold gel gives you the definition you’re looking for without being crunchy. The non-drying formula with wheat and soy proteins surrounds your curls with a non-sticky curl cast that enhances shape, fights frizz, and amplifies shine and bounce.

L'Oreal Paris Studio Line Mega Hair Gel, 6.8 Fl Oz

L'Oreal Paris

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Get ultimate control and definition with L'Oreal Paris Studio Mega Gel. This hair gel provides maximum hold for hard-to-hold styles. For a slicked back look, apply to wet hair and comb hair from front to back. Perfect for short hairstyles and mens hairstyles. • Ultimate Control and Definition • Extreme Hold for Hard-to-Hold Styles • Long-lasting Hair Gel • Maximum Hold Work evenly through damp or dry hair. Style as usual. For classic styles, apply to hair and use fingers or a comb to shape style. For a slicked back look, apply to wet hair and comb hair from front to back.

Brand Story

By

  • L'OREAL MEGA GEL FOR STRONG HOLD: Take your style anywhere with Studio Mega Gel. It provides long lasting control, structure and definition for hard-to-hold styles.
  • L'OREAL STUDIO GEL FOR HAIR: For hairstyles long and short, for women and men, hair gel from L'Oreal can help give your look hold, definition, and style. Spike it, slick it, style it your way with L'Oreal gel.
  • HOW WILL YOU STYLE IT? Whether your style is curly, wavy or straight, this hair gel gives your look definition & hold to give you a style all our own
  • L'OREAL STUDIO LINE provides you with products formulated by the hair experts at L'Oreal Paris for a range of styles. Whether you are looking for a gel to add definition and hold, or a thickening putty.
  • COMPLETE THE LOOK: Try with L'Oreal Paris Studio Line Mega Spritz Hairspray to lock your look into place all day long.

User questions & answers

Question: where is the buy button
Answer: I’m sure you could use an electric drill to make holes if you need the drainage. So far I have not had any problem with that. Sorry, I did not notice where it was manufactured. It is very well-made, good heavy metal and good wheels. I think it’s an excellent value and will last for years.
Question: What's the difference between mega hold, strong hold and extreme hold ? and which one gives you the wet and shiny look
Answer: You can grow anything
Question: Can I use hot curling device with it
Answer: yes
Question: Is this for one tube of hair gel
Answer: 8” inches deep

Product features

L’Oreal Paris Studio Line Mega Gel

Max Hold

High Shine

Get ultimate control and definition with L'Oreal Paris Studio Mega Gel. This hair gel provides maximum hold for hard-to-hold styles. For a slicked back look, apply to wet hair and comb hair from front to back. Perfect for short hair.

Free & Clear Hair Styling Gel, Fragrance and Gluten Free, For Sensitive Skin, Unscented, 7 Oz

Free & Clear

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Free & Clear hair styling gel provides firm, long-lasting control without the use of common chemical irritants found in ordinary hair styling products. Holds hair in place without leaving greasy or sticky residue. Nourishes and repairs damaged hair, reduces flakiness, and adds body, leaving the hair manageable and static-free. Ideal for sensitive skin and scalps.

  • Free of common chemical irritants such as dyes, fragrance, masking fragrance, lanolin, parabens, formaldehyde, formaldehyde releasers, and other preservatives.
  • Alcohol-free. Sulfate-free. Phosphate-free. Gluten-free.
  • Dermatologist tested.
  • Can be used daily on wet or dry hair

User questions & answers

Question: does this make your hair really stiff or will I still be able to run my fingers through my hair without too much problem
Answer: My hair is very fine, due to medical problems it is thinning-- I love the Clear & Free Styling gel,, I did find that a little bit is all you need-- if I used too much it would be a little stiff. .
Question: is this product also a heat protectant? Can you use before with flat ironing
Answer: um I'm not sure what that is (flatiron) but I could put it in & use my curling iron on it as long as my hair was not sopping wet from the shower , like I would put it in wet hair, blow dry to barely damp hair & then curl, it's definitely free n' clear, strong scents & my super sensitive skin I would never be able to use it if it wasn't 100% free n' clear. hope that helps.
Question: is this gel suitable for acne prone skin
Answer: Is this product is good for acne prone skin. It cleans without adding any build up from residue associated with other hair care products. And contains no dyes or fragrances that would further aggravate oily skin problems.
Question: can this hair gel be used on wet and dry hair
Answer: I only use it on wet hair, I never added gel to dry hair with any product.

LA Looks Extreme Sport Hair Gel, Level 10 Hold, 20 Ounce [with Bonus 3 Ounce Travel Size] (Pack of 2)

LA Looks

Based on 406 reviews Check latest price

Product description

L.A. Looks Extreme Sport Gel is for the athletic type looking to get their game on without fussing with unruly locks. It is made with a triactive hold for absolute staying power, resistance and durability. Enjoy a non-stop hold that will keep your hair managed during high-performance activities. This alcohol-free hair gel keeps tresses under control even in high humidity, making it suitable for all climates.

  • Bundle of 4, two 20 ounce bottles + two 3 ounce tubes
  • Non-stop hold for any high performance activity even in humidity
  • Advanced TriActive Hold for superior fixation, hold and durability
  • This alcohol-free, non-sticky gel will keep your hair in control
  • Heat and Humidity Resistant; Activity Proof

User questions & answers

Question: is this a pump bottle
Answer: Of course,it can be used on the face.

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