Gel is a huge no-no for those making a conscious effort to have healthier hair habits. The general consensus is that it causes flaking, destroys curl pattern and creates breakage. The truth is, it can do all of these things, but only if you’re using a gel formulated with alcohol, which is extremely drying. Adopting healthy hair habits doesn’t mean saying goodbye to pomades and puddies that will hold your style in place. Simply invest in ones that are formulated with ingredients that transform each strand from the inside out.
With fall just around the corner, embrace all-natural resources that will nourish and provide a coat of protection against the cooler elements. They include your go-to emollients (oils, butters), which should be chosen based on your specific hair texture. Once you’ve identified your respective needs, take this opportunity to invest in black-owned brands, all of which offer gel options that won’t leave you with crunchy curls. Check out five of our favorites below and remember: soft curls that actually stay in place are completely attainable.
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Uncle Funky’s Daughter Curly Magic, $16, target.com
Manipulate a tighter curl pattern by applying this gel to soaking wet hair. It’s infused with organic aloe vera, an ingredient that will moisturize strands plagued with dandruff, flaking and other drying conditions.
Curls Goddess Curl Gel, $8, target.com
Use alone or layer this fragrance-free option over your favorite styler for the ultimate hold. This botanical gel is also infused with aloe vera and alba flower extract, leaving zero room for crunchy curls.
Mielle Organics Honey & Ginger Edge Gel, $13, mielleorganics.com
If you can’t leave the house without laid edges, this all natural gel offers supreme hold that won’t compromise the health of your hair. Honey and ginger are also two ingredients that help stimulate hair growth and circulation atop your head.
SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curling Gel Souffle, $11, target.com
Made with certified organic ingredients, this silky souffle utilizes neem oil to tame frizz and coconut oil to reduce breakage. Prepare for curls that are smooth to the touch and stay in place!
Kimble Beauty Bounce Back Liquid Curl Enhancer, $14, sallybeauty.com
Kim Kimble’s oil-based gel will provide the same hold as an alcohol-based product without the unhealthy side effects and heavy residue.