Best Hair Gel for Natural Hair: Our Top Picks for Naturalistas

If I had a dollar for every hair gel I’ve tried on my natural hair, I’d be rich! Ladies, I hate to admit it but the struggle was real. During my quest to finding the best hair gel for natural hair, I learned that every gel has a purpose, and in that same vein, not every gel was for my hair type.

Since I went through this, I’m pretty sure that there’s a handful of naturalista’s currently seeking the best hair gels to use on their hair. Whether you’re looking for a gel for your wash and go’s, sleek hairstyles or even just to tame your edges, we’re sharing some of our favorites below. Read on to learn how to use each of these hair gels on your natural hair.

Editors’ Picks: Best Hair Gel for Natural Hair

1. Best Hair Gel for Natural Hair to Define Curls

Usually, when you’re styling your hair into a hairstyle, like a wash and go, you’re hoping and praying that your curls will come out defined, smooth, soft and frizz-free. The wrong gel can leave your hair feeling stiff, dry and left with gel residue. Enter TRESemmé Flawless Curls Defining Gel into your styling routine and it’ll change your life forever. This gel is formulated to give you bouncy and defined curls without the frizz. Apply it to damp hair from root-to-tip using your hands, then finger-comb, or use a comb, to work it through your hair. Use the shingling method to really go in and define each section of hair, scrunch with your hands, or use the plopping technique.

2. Best Hair Gel for Natural Hair to Tame Edges and Create Sleek Updos

Gels that tout to provide firm hold are key for taming edges and creating sleek updos. Try using a gel like TRESemmé TRES Two Extra Firm Control Gel. This gel is perfect for locking in your style all day long and protecting it from humidity. While a gel that is formulated to lay your hair down is key for taming your edges and creating sleek styles, you can’t just rely on your gel. You’ll definitely need to the help of mini brush or toothbrush to smooth your hairline down, and a boar bristle brush to help smooth your hair into sleek updos.

3. Best Hair Gel for Natural Hair Sculpting

When it comes to hairstyles that require a lot of sculpting, like Bantu knots, or very detailed buns, you’re better off with gels that allow you to mold and shape your hair. Suave Professionals Firm Control Sculpting Gel is the best hair gel for natural hair to create these kinds of styles. For dry styling, apply a few squirts of the hair gel onto your hair to create your sculptural style.

Need a hand with other hair curling products for natural hair? Here’s a list of styling products you’ll need for the summer season.