Styling Your Hair Without the Crunch - Part III: Gel

The Basics

Gel can be found just about anywhere, but that doesn’t mean that you can use any kind! If you want the best results and the most agreeable look, consider your hair texture and length and shop accordingly. If you haven’t been doing that yet, don’t worry– I’d been using super-strength hair gel for years without even realizing it. (Hence the reason for all these articles on hair products!)

How to Use It

1. Start with towel-dried hair. Scoop a small amount of hair gel out of the tub or pot– not too much! Aim for about a teaspoon or so to start with, especially if you’re trying out a new brand or formula of product.

2. Rub your hands together and apply the gel to your hair. Be sure to distribute it evenly enough to avoid clumps or sections.
Tip: Apply the gel more to your root area to add extra volume.

3. Continue to sculpt your hair with your fingers until you’ve got the right look, and then give it a blast with a blowdryer for impressive hold and quick finish.

What Styles Does It Suit? Gel is offered in so many different formulas that it’s tough to find one that doesn’t suit your hair type exactly. Chemically treated, short, coarse, longer, fine. . . you name it, you can find the right gel for it.

Why You’ll Love It: Much like mousse, gel may be reactivated with a little water. All you need to do is spritz your hair with a water bottle and then reshape it as desired. If you need major holding action, you can always reapply a tiny bit of gel to keep everything in place.

Gel Tips

• Consider a gel spray to use when you need to set a previously-styled look. All you need to do is mist your finished hairstyle with spray gel, and allow it to air dry.

• Read the package carefully. Gel comes in lots of different qualities and varieties, and they can truly make a difference. Look for gel with the following perks to make your hair healthier and happier: conditioning products, moisturizers, vitamins, and sunscreens. If you live in a tropical or warmer climate and spend time near the ocean, this gets even more important. Sunlight and salt can damage your hair significantly, and in no time.

• Gel is perfect for a no-fuss style, but if you like a perfect style with lots of sheen, you can also try hair wax. See what suits you best!

• Don’t forget that gel can be used for more than just contouring your hairstyle. You can tame flyaways and frizz with a slight sheen applied lightly with the palm of your hand.

Suggested Products

• American Crew Firm Hold Styling Gel for Men, 15.2-Ounce Bottles (Pack of 2): Apply this gel for serious hold and no flaking in sight.

• Hi-Shine Styling Gel 6 oz.: This product smells fantastic, and better yet, it does exactly what it promises. You’ll see great shine and benefit from its vitamin-packed formula.