I wet my hands, and rub the waterover the spot or area where I need the gel. Then I take the aloe vera gel (I also use Trader Joes version) and smooth it over my hair with my hands. I DON'T use a brush. Then, I continue to smooth my hair into the style I want. Once I'm satisfied with it, I tie it down with a satin scarf for a little while. And ta-da! lol.