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Out of the hundreds of gels on the market, you may be wondering what differentiates one from the other/ is its texture. Consistency? Formula? Gel has had a serious comeback in the past few years as new businesses and brands have found a way to reinvent the crunchy curls of yesteryears with a firm hold and definition that truly awakens your curls. A good gel product can be extremely versatile and is more about creating a shape than leaving a sticky mark. What the modern-day gel does for naturalists is enhance our natural texture and provide our curls with much-needed moisture, especially when it’s humid outside.
These gel selections below are staples for our naturalistas whether they are creating a classic wash and go, laying down their baby hairs, or braiding a protective style. They have been tried and tested for their amazing formulas, anti-frizz effects, and ability to lift the curls instead of weighing them down.
We have gels for Type 2 wavies, Type 3 curlies, Type 4 coilies, and if you’re not sure what your curl pattern is, you can take our Texture Type quiz to learn more about it along with your porosity, density and width.
Best for All Curl Types
Ecoco Eco Styler Olive Oil Gel
This is a gel classic for curlies because it has a great shine and adds moisture back into the scalp, unlike other gels. This is the OG of gels and has continued to be a staple for naturalistas everywhere because it absorbs into the strands which can produce stunning results whether you’re looking to create twists, braids, bantu knots, or a wash and go style.
Image Source: @mayaeaglin
This reigning “Best of the Best” winner is beloved for its versatility amongst all curl types, alcohol-free formula, and UV protection, which means your curls can bounce happily in the sun. The 100% pure olive oil combination with the gel creates a moisture that gives back to your curls and won’t weigh the hair down. It can be applied to wet or dry curls and won’t create any itching or flaking to the scalp! A little goes a long way with this fan favorite, so start stocking up your shelves.
Wavy Type 2
Raw Curls Firm Hold Gel
If you’re looking for a gel with a little extra oomph to hold your curls together, my wavy friends, this is your gel. What makes this a fan favorite amongst curlies is the certified natural and organic ingredients that make it eco-friendly for the vegan user. Some ingredients include flower extract from honeysuckle, aloe, and cucumber, resulting in a light scent that won’t overpower your curls.
Image Source: @hairandcurlsbyliz
For wavy users, definition and hold are important in a gel, BUT it cannot weigh down your hair. As a firm hold gel this product is all about preventing frizz and retaining moisture which results in a shiny, defined, and moisturized effect that you will love. The consistency is thick and firm, so a little goes a long way, and it is best used on wet or damp curls. This is the gel to add to your cart if you’re looking for maximum frizz control.
Curly Type 3
Ecoco Eco Styler Argan Oil Gel
Argan oil is here to stay with this 2021 “Best of the Best” winner that is here for type 3 curlies looking to slay. If you’re looking for a gel to help revitalize the hair on day 2 or 3, this is the one to keep handy. The argan oil conditions and protects the curls with an amazing shine that will make your curls vibrant in between washes.
Image Source: @luanabxnks
Argan oil is derived from Morocco and can help shine, smooth, and condition the hair. It’s popular for helping lay down edges and doesn’t leave a white residue when it dries, which makes it a grade winner to use between wash days. It can be used on wet or dry hair and is alcohol-free, which means no crunching or scrunching. Like many Ecoco products, it is extremely affordable, can be purchased at a drugstore, and doesn’t require much product to be effective.
Coily Type 4
Ecoco Eco Styler Olive Oil Gel
A gel so good, we had to put it on here twice! For our coily, kinky-type 4 naturalistas, Ecoco Eco Styler Olive Oil Gel remains supreme as the go-to gel to use on your hair. The alcohol-free formula makes it gentle on the scalp but has a thick enough consistency to hold a number of hairstyles.
Image Source: @elisacici_
Whether you’re sporting a protective style like braids or cornrows or creating a puff, your hair will remain moisturized, hydrated, and happy. The olive oil combination can also help promote healthy hair growth and rejuvenate the scalp instead of causing flakes or itch. Apply your favorite styling techniques using this little piece of heaven.
Which gel do you plan to add to your routine? Let us know in the comments!
