I’ve tried a lot of gels. A LOT. When I first went natural, I followed what all the popular YouTubers were using, which was EcoStyler and Wet Line. My hair never agreed with either — they always left my hair stiff and dry. As I got to know my hair more, I became more aware of the harsh ingredients in these gels and made a conscious effort to find ones with cleaner, simpler ingredients.
That being said, I’ve found my trifecta of the best natural hair gels. I rotate between these three gels, depending on the style I’m doing, the weather, or just what I have on hand. All three gels are phthalate, paraben, and sulfate free. Another thing they have in common? All three contain aloe vera. Aloe vera has so many amazing benefits for hair such as adding moisture, strengthening hair follicles, and can calm an itchy scalp. Aloe vera also has great slip and is a great ingredient for DIY hair masks. When I see the plant in stores, I always grab some for a fresh, easy treatment.
There’s always going to be a trendy gel that TikTokers swear is life changing, but these three are tried and true.
Kinky Curly Curling Custard – $21 at Target
This is my number one favorite gel. Its ingredient list is small and the top ingredients are water, horsetail, chamomile, nettle, marshmallow root and aloe vera juice. Kinky Curly always leaves my curls super defined, soft — never crunchy — for days. I never have to reapply more throughout the week. The hold of this gel is light, so it definitely gives my curls a more voluminous, fluffy appearance. To refresh, I simply spritz my hair with a mix of water and the Kinky Curly Knot Today Leave-In Detangler. If I want more hold, I’ll layer on The Doux Mousse Def Texture Foam.
Uncle Funky’s Daughter Curly Magic Curl Stimulator – $22.99 at Target
I picked up this gel when I couldn’t find Kinky Curly in any store near me. I was drawn to it for its simple and clean ingredient list. I am obsessed with this gel. It has amazing slip, a light, nice smell, and makes my hair extremely defined. I think this has a bit more hold than the Kinky Curly but also does not dry my hair out or flake. I get really nice twist outs with this gel.
Miche Beauty Tropical Oasis Anti-Humidity Firm Hold Hair Gel – $23
This is the newest addition to my hair care arsenal. I was interested in trying this gel because of the anti-humidity claims. New York is humid, even in the winter, and I work out often. My hair tends to frizz a lot. This gel definitely has the most hold out of all three and really elongates my curls. What I love about it is that I can use this for slick styles like buns as well and it is not drying, at all. This gel also gives my hair really nice shine. The Miche website says this gel is limited edition — I hope that’s not the case!
As always, it’s important to use what works for you, not what’s trending. Before taking any influencer’s recommendation, read the ingredients label of the product. Investing in products with natural, clean ingredients is always a good idea.
This blog post contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. Please note that I only recommend products that I personally use and believe in.
Leave a Reply