10 best styling gels

Styling gels are hair care products commonly used to achieve and maintain specific hairstyles. These gels, falling under the category of "Styling Products," are designed to provide hold, control, and a polished finish to hair. Here's what you need to know about styling gels:

  1. Hold and Control: Styling gels are formulated to offer varying levels of hold and control over your hair. The level of hold can range from light to strong, allowing you to choose a gel that suits your hairstyle preferences.

  2. Versatility: Styling gels are versatile and can be used to create a wide range of hairstyles, including slicked-back looks, spikes, curls, and more. They are suitable for both short and long hair.

  3. Wet Look: Some styling gels provide a wet or glossy finish when applied to the hair. This can be ideal for achieving a sleek, polished appearance.

  4. Natural Look: Alternatively, many gels offer a matte or natural finish, which can help maintain a hairstyle without giving it a shiny appearance.

  5. Texture and Volume: Styling gels can be used to add texture and volume to your hair. This is especially useful for those looking to create textured or tousled styles.

  6. Long-Lasting: These gels are formulated to hold your hairstyle in place for an extended period, which can be especially helpful for events, workdays, or activities where you want your hair to stay put.

  7. Application: Styling gels are typically applied to damp or dry hair. You can work a small amount of gel through your hair, shaping and styling it as desired. Some gels may require heat styling for optimal results.

  8. Washable: Most styling gels are water-soluble, making them easy to wash out with water. This means you can restyle your hair or wash out the gel without much effort.

  9. Hair Types: Styling gels are suitable for a variety of hair types, including straight, wavy, curly, and coily hair. There are also specialized gels designed for specific hair textures and needs.

  10. Ingredients: The ingredients in styling gels can vary, but they often include water, polymers for hold, conditioning agents, and sometimes alcohol. Some gels are formulated with additional ingredients to provide benefits like moisture or heat protection.

It's essential to choose a styling gel that aligns with your hair type and the style you want to achieve.Experimenting with different brands and hold levels can help you find the product that works best for your hair and styling preferences. Remember to start with a small amount and gradually add more if needed to avoid overloading your hair with product.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best styling gels on the market
  

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.

ECO Styler Professional Styling Gel, Olive Oil, Max Hold 10, 16 Oz

ECOCO

Based on 28 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Eco Styler olive oil Styling Gel contains 100% pure olive oil for deep conditioning while maintaining maximum hold, no flaking, no tack and anti-itch, contains 100% pure olive oil.

  • Country of origin is United States
  • The package dimension of the product is 4"L x 3.5"W x 3.4"H
  • The package weight of the product is 4 ounces
  • Automatic safety shut-off
  • Hair type: Dry-&-Damaged

User questions & answers

Question: If I mixed styling gel 1teaspoon, 1 teaspoon olive oil and 1 teaspoon glycerine rose water whats the side effect of hair
Answer: have no idea, No matter where it is made. I have one dark blue, the color is super pretty... it appears to be made of thick fabric and solid stitching, I keep running everyday, and hiking once 2 weeks, and purchased many backpacks...but only this backpack really keep cool at least to 4 hours as they said and also it hasn’t leaked on us. The hip straps add to its comfortable design. Price is good too as I’ve seen some go for $40-60 dollars for a durable water pack. Overall pleased with this hiking. Lastly, I wouldn’t mind a little lighter version than this bag without compromising the durability.
Question: Good for wavy hair? 2C-3B
Answer: Just put the whole thing in the freezer. I dry mine as best I can, then freeze it until next use. Don't have to worry about the little bit of water you can never get out.
Question: Does it make your hair still feel soft or does it become crunchy? How strong is the hold of it
Answer: I remove the bladder and wash mine every few weeks in the washer on a normal cycle and hang dry. It's about a year old and holding up just fine. Air dry the bladder by first emptying it, then put a plastic cup in it to allow air to circulate to finish drying it. No need to wash if it dries and you only run water in it. Same with the hose...blow the extra water out, leave it detached with the valve open and air dry it.
Question: Can I use this on my dog’s Mohawk
Answer: Yes it's BPA free definetly, I always use the bladder to take enough water for my two little babies.

Eco Style Gold - Olive Oil, Shea Butter and Black Castor & Flaxseed Oil Gel 8oz

ECOCO

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Everything your hair needs, in one styling gel! EcoStyle Gold Styling Gel brings together the greatest elements of our top products. 100% pure Olive Oil helps moisturize your scalp, while Shea Butter protects every strand of hair and Black Castor and Flaxseed Oil repair and promote hair growth. Like all of our gels, it will leave your hair weightless yet superior hold and healthy shine.

  • Professional Styling Gel
  • Olive Oil, Shea Butter and Black Castor & Flaxseed Oil
  • For All Hair Types
  • Totally Alcohol Free

User questions & answers

Question: Is this a tiny container of the big bucket of gel
Answer: I make my own lotion using Plant Therapy brand fractionated Coconut Oil. It is deodorized and stays liquid at room temperatures. This oil is almost the consistency of water so sometimes I add plain shea butter to make my lotion, especially during winter. The Lemon smells very clean and fresh.
Question: Where's the ingredients statement
Answer: Yes. Lemon oil is the one that's good for fading dark spots. I use it specifically for that, cleaning my skin, and adding a wonderful scent to my shea butter. I am not sure about the vitamin C as it's just the oil of the lemon and not the juice. And sorry, I don't know anything about grape seed oil besides the fact that it's an anti-inflammatory and works well against skin aging.
Question: Does this contain wheat
Answer: There are no grades of essential oils. Therapeutic, food, medical, etc. grades are made up terms.
Question: What leave in do you use for this gel
Answer: Hi Genesis, Thank you for asking. Lemon can be good for skin issues. For regular cold-pressed Lemon, I would recommend never using above a 1% dilution, which would only be 3 drops per 2 tsps of carrier. I would preferand recommend using the steam distilled Lemon essential oil on the face, which is not phototoxic. Many cold-pressed citrus oils can be phototoxic and can cause a skin sensitivity when exposed to the sun, and in some cases a severe reaction.

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.

Wet Line Xtreme Professional Styling Gel, 77.06 Ounce

Wetline

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Wet line XTREME Professional styling gel, contains pantheon and Aloe Vera. Uv protection. Extra Hold.

  • Contains pantheon and Aloe Vera.
  • Uv protection.
  • Extra Hold.

User questions & answers

Question: Can i use this everyday with water and just the gel
Answer: Yes, that's how I use it every day. First get hair wet, apply gel and comb.
Question: Is this listing for the old formula
Answer: No. When I ordered, I received the new formula.
Question: Is this the original formula before the blue top formula was introduced
Answer: It depends in the stock in Amazon fulfillment center, you might get something from the old stock, but of you get from the new stock you will get the updated version with the blue top.
Question: does this have alcohol
Answer: It does not have alcohol.

Product features

Small changes in product size & weight lead to lower carbon emissions.

We created Compact by Design to identify products that, while they may not always look very different, have a more efficient design. With the removal of excess air and water, products require less packaging and become more efficient to ship. At scale, these small differences in product size and weight lead to significant carbon emission reductions.

Kenra Styling Gel #17

AmazonUs/IX21I

Based on 666 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Design versatile looks with Kenra Styling Gel 17. For use on all hair types.

Brand Story

Experience superior performance in every styling & haircare situation. From iconic Volume Spray 25 to Brightening System, Kenra delivers the perfect solution to complete your look with lasting benefits.

User questions & answers

Question: I have very fine, limp hair. Will this work at all? Blow out #5 doesn’t do anything
Answer: Yes, however a 17 is slightly more firm hold than a 13 body gel hold. I love 17 for hair body.
Question: Is this authentic
Answer: No. The gel color is green. If you have fine or color treater hair, this will dry out your hair if used on ends
Question: I have thickish wavy hair and am hoping to control the wave - the length is just below my earlobes. Is this a good choice for me
Answer: I have coarse hair that is very brittle. I use this product as a leave in conditioner. If I choose to straighten my hair, I simply use Kenra's Blow Dray spray, so I have double protection on my hair. I have been very satisfied with Kenra's products.
Question: Is this curly girl method approved product and without silicones that build up
Answer: It is not sulfate free, but the product itself is color safe.

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, 4.4 oz

SoftSheen-Carson

Based on 11 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, 4.4oz
  • EXTRA HOLD HAIR GEL: This hair gel features 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!
  • EASY TO USE: Our Extra Hold hair gel provides a flake-free conditioning strong hold for textured hair; It tames frizz and flyways for smoother hair; It's easy to apply and can be used on wet or dry hair.
  • LET'S JAM: This range of gel conditions and shines and is great for styling, braiding, smooth edges, and twisting, with no drying alcohol
  • 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: how many carbohydrates per serving, and what is the serving size? 1 Tablespoon is a serving size that is also equal to 14 grams. Zero (0) Carbohydrates Per Serving.
Question: Would this product help with box braids
Answer: Although I didn't purchase this item (I ordered Hellman's Vegan). 1 TBSP is equal to 1 point.
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: The mayonnaise is in a plastic jar.
Question: Is this carol's daughter, as in the description, or softsheen carson let's jam, as shown in pictures
Answer: Mine arrived one month before the expiration date. Disappointing.

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.

ECOCO Eco Style Gel, Black Protein 32 Ounce (Including 3 Piece Rattail Hair Comb Set & 2 pc Colorful Handle Nylon Bristles Brushes) Eco Styler Hair Gel & Styling Tools Kit

IGS

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Eco Hair Styling Gel & Hair Styling Kit Includes the following:



Eco Style Gel, Black Protein 32 Ounce - For Naturally Dry Hair. Strengthens, Nourishes, and Protects hair. No flake, no tack, anti itch. Eco Styler Gel Black Protein Oil Gel has UV Protection. Like all our styling gels, it is weightless and will leave your hair with a healthy shine and superior hold. Apply to dry or wet hair. Work desired amount through hair and style.



3 piece Rat Tail Comb Set (assorted colors)- These rattail combs are perfect for all your styling needs. Coming in a variety of colors they all have fine teeth and long tails that will make any style look great.



Colorful Handle Nylon Bristles Brushes (2 Piece)- Designed for All Hair Types. Perfect hair styling brush that helps get rid of tangles and leaves your hair looking healthy and shiny.



100% Money Back Guarantee

  • ECOCO Eco Style Gel, Black Protein 32 Ounce; Alcohol free; Strengthens, Nourishes, and Protects hair; No flake, no tack, anti itch; UV Protection
  • Rat Tail Bone Tail Comb Set (assorted colors) 3 piece
  • Colorful Handle Nylon Bristles Brushes (2 piece)
  • Eco Black Protein is a firm holding gel enriched with wheat proteins. It is ideal for rollersets, finger waves, and wrapped hair styles.
  • Complete Hair Styling Gel & Hair styling Tools Set.

Eco Style Styling Gel, Argan Oil, 24 Ounce (Including 3 Piece Rat Tail Hair Comb Set & 2 pc Colorful Handle Nylon Bristles Brushes) Eco Styler Hair Gel & Styling Tools Kit

IGS

Based on 68 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Hair Styling Gel & Hair Detangler Kit Includes the following:



Eco Style Styling Gel Argan Oil 24 oz- For All Hair Types. Shines, smooths, and conditions hair. No flake, no tack, anti itch. Eco Styler Gel Argan Oil Gel has UV Protection. Like all our styling gels, it is weightless and will leave your hair with a healthy shine and superior hold. Apply to dry or wet hair. Work desired amount through hair and style.



3 piece Rat Tail Comb Set (assorted colors)- These rattail combs are perfect for all your styling needs. Coming in a variety of colors they all have fine teeth and long tails that will make any style look great.



Colorful Handle Nylon Bristles Brushes (2 Piece)- Designed for All Hair Types. Perfect hair styling brush that helps get rid of tangles and leaves your hair looking healthy and shiny.



100% Money Back Guarantee

  • Eco Style Styling Gel Argan Oil, 24 Ounce; Made in Australia
  • Rat Tail Bone Tail Comb Set (assorted colors) 3 piece
  • Colorful Handle Nylon Bristles Brushes (2 piece)
  • Complete Hair Styling Gel & Hair styling Tools Set

Garnier Fructis Style Pure Clean Styling Gel, 6.8 Ounces

Garnier

Based on 5 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Acacia Gum is used around the world for its natural holding properties. Garnier Fructis Style Pure Clean Styling Gel is a 98% naturally-derived hair styling gel with Acacia Gum that gives extra strong hold, all day, and is non-flaking with no residue. Garnier Fructis Style Pure Clean is our first naturally-derived hair styling line with 24 hour clean hold + pure performance

Brand Story

By

  • 24 Hour Clean Hold Styling Gel: This naturally derived styling gel offers a 24 hour, extra strong, clean hold and pure performance all day long; Contains no silicone, parabens or dyes
  • Natural Formula: This 98 percent naturally derived hair styling gel features Acacia Gum, used around the world for its natural holding properties; Our formula gives extra strong hold and is non flaking with no residue
  • Explore Pure Clean: Discover our collection of Pure Clean Shampoo and Conditioner for fresher feeling hair in every wash without the weigh down; With system of Pure Clean Shampoo and Conditioner
  • Explore Fructis: Our paraben free formulas feature Active Fruit Protein, an exclusive combination of citrus protein, Vitamins B3 and B6, fruit and plant derived extracts and strengthening conditioners
  • Inspired By Nature: Garnier carries an array of products for your hair and skin care needs, from shampoos, color care and styling products to formulas that cleanse, moisturize and repair skin

User questions & answers

Question: I don't wash my hair every day & need a gentle-to-the-hair gel that I can use when my hair is already dry. Will this work
Answer: It is a clip that can be fit on a backpack strap.
Question: Is this finally a gel that holds well and doesn't damage hair unlike other gels and one doesn't need to shampoo ones haireverynight so thereno damage
Answer: Hey Aimee!We are still working on getting a separate listing for replacement bottles only. Unfortunately I project this to take about 5 more weeks.If you want, I can let you know as soon as we have them!Hope this answers your question.Regards,- Jonas / CEO, Adalid Gear
Question: Can I use this on my dog’s Mohawk
Answer: Hey Kevin,The size of our hydration belt's pouch is 6.7 inches wide and 3.5 inches tall, so this would technically fit an iPhone 6-which should have a dimension of 5.44 x 2.64 inches. However, it helps to note that it could be a snug fit and might not get in through the zippered opening if one has a bulky casing for example. Additionally, be mindful that there could be a chance that keys or gels would be hard to fit in or that it won't get through the zippered opening especially if you have a very bulky protective case. (As for the iPhone 6 Plus, it is 6.22 x 3.06 inches--it would still fit but we don't recommend it as it might not get in through the zippered opening). Rest assured, we are working on bigger pouches and they are yet to be released.I hope this helps answer your question, Kevin. Let me know if there's anything else I can help you with. Cheers!- Aileen/CMO, Adalid Gear
Question: I need a product that separates each hair and holds it with thickness rather than stickiness. Will it be suitable or which one would you recommend
Answer: Hey Martin!It is important to find the good balance for us between security and comfort; on the one hand, the bottles have to be held in tightly to keep it from bouncing, but on the other hand, they have to be easy to take out to quickly access it while running or walking. Now, taking out the bottles is very easy, but, putting it back in might require some getting used to. However, here's a helpful tip to make the bottle slide in smoother and easier: when putting it back in, simply keep one finger between the bottle and the bottle holder. For sure, you will quickly develop a feel for it after a few tries! Hope this helps! Let me know if there's anything else I can help you with. Cheers!- Jonas/CEO, Adalid Gear

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