best curl gel for fine hair

Best Gel on 4C Hair: Styling Tips for Perfectly Defined Curls

Gel is a popular styling product for those with natural hair, including 4C hair. However, using gel on 4C hair can be tricky as it tends to be dry, fragile, and prone to breakage. In this ultimate guide, we will delve into everything you need to know about using gel on 4C hair – from the different types of gel to use, the best techniques for applying it, and alternative products that you can use instead.

What Is Gel and How Does It Work on 4C Hair?

Gel is a styling product that provides hold and definition to hair. It comes in different types, including light-hold, medium-hold, and strong-hold. Gel is made up of a combination of water, polymers, and other ingredients that work together to provide hold.

On 4C hair, gel works by defining curls and coils, reducing frizz, and creating a sleek, polished look. However, if not used correctly, gel can also dry out 4C hair, leading to breakage and damage.

Anyone with 4C hair can use gel as a styling product. But, if you have extremely dry or fragile hair, you must use gel sparingly and ensure that you use a high-quality product that does not contain harsh chemicals. In case you have sensitive skin or scalp, you should avoid gels that contain alcohol or fragrances that may irritate your skin.

Why Use An Edge Control Gel for 4C Hair?

Taming Unruly Edges: 4C hair is known for its tightly coiled texture, which can lead to unruly edges that are difficult to manage. Edge control gels provide a firm hold, taming flyaways and baby hairs, creating a polished and neat look.

Long-lasting Hold: Edge control gels are designed to provide long-lasting hold, keeping your edges sleek and in place throughout the day. This is especially important for styles like sleek buns, ponytails, and updos.

Minimizes Frizz: 4C hair is prone to frizz due to its natural texture and high porosity. Edge control gels contain ingredients that combat frizz, helping your edges stay smooth and well-defined.

Adds Shine: Many edge control gels come with ingredients that add shine to the hair, enhancing the overall look of your hairstyle.

Versatile Styling: Edge control gels offer versatility in styling. Whether you prefer a sleek and polished look or a more textured and laid-back style, these gels can help achieve the desired look with ease.

Protects Hairline: 4C hair, especially at the hairline, can be fragile and prone to breakage. Edge control gels provide a protective barrier, helping to safeguard your delicate hairline during styling.

Easy Application: Most edge control gels come in easy-to-use packaging, making application simple and convenient. A little product goes a long way, so a single jar can last for a considerable period.

No Residue: High-quality edge control gels do not leave behind a sticky or greasy residue, keeping your hairline clean and residue-free.

Suitable for Various Hairstyles: Edge control gels work well with a wide range of hairstyles, from sleek updos to braid styles, making them a versatile addition to your hair care arsenal.

Boosts Confidence: Neat and well-defined edges can significantly boost your overall confidence, allowing you to showcase your natural beauty and express your unique style.

How to Use Gel on 4C Hair: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Wash and condition your hair

Start by washing and conditioning your hair with a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner. Rinse your hair thoroughly and remove any excess water.

Step 2: Apply a leave-in conditioner

Apply a leave-in conditioner to your damp hair to add moisture and prepare it for styling. Smooth the product evenly over each section of hair.

Step 3: Apply the gel

Take a small amount of gel in your palm, about the size of a quarter, and rub your hands together to distribute it evenly. Smooth the gel over each section of hair, starting from the roots and working your way down to the ends.

Step 4: Define your curls

Use your fingers or a comb to define your curls and create your desired style. You can twist or braid your hair to create protective styles or leave it loose for a more natural look.

Step 5: Allow your hair to dry

Allow your hair to air-dry or use a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer to speed up the drying process. Avoid touching your hair while it dries to prevent creating a hard texture.

Step 6: Scrunch out the crunch

Once your hair is completely dry, scrunch out the crunch to loosen the gel and create a more natural look. Use a lightweight oil or serum to add shine and moisture.

Comparing Different Types of Gel for 4C Hair

There are several different types of gel that you can use on 4C hair. Here’s a comparison of some of the most popular types:

Light-hold gel:

  • Ideal for defining curls and coils without creating a hard, crunchy texture.
  • Best used on fine or thin hair that does not need a lot ofhold.

Medium-hold gel:

  • Provides more hold and definition than light-hold gel, but still maintains a natural look.
  • Suitable for most hair types and textures.

Strong-hold gel:

  • Perfect for creating more intricate or elaborate styles that require a lot of hold.
  • May create a hard texture to hair if not used correctly.

5 Best Gels for 4C Hair

ECO Styler Olive Oil Gel: This gel is a popular choice for 4C hair due to its strong hold and ability to tame frizz. Enriched with olive oil, it also adds shine and helps retain moisture.

Cantu Shea Butter Maximum Hold Styling Gel: Formulated with shea butter and other natural ingredients, this gel provides maximum hold without causing stiffness. It’s perfect for sleek styles and well-defined curls.

As I Am Smoothing Gel: This gel is specifically designed for type 4 hair, offering a smooth hold and minimizing frizz. It contains aloe vera and other nourishing ingredients to keep your hair hydrated.

ORS Olive Oil Edge Control Hair Gel: While marketed as an edge control gel, this product is also excellent for overall styling on 4C hair. It provides a firm hold and helps protect your hairline from breakage.

Aunt Jackie’s Don’t Shrink Flaxseed Elongating Curling Gel: Ideal for defining curls and elongating the hair, this gel contains flaxseed and other natural ingredients to nourish and promote healthy hair growth.

Conclusion

Using gel on 4C hair can be a great way to achieve defined curls and coils, reduce frizz, and create a polished, sleek look. However, it’s important to use the right type of gel and follow the correct techniques to avoid dryness, breakage, and other issues. If you prefer not to use gel, there are plenty of alternative products available that can provide hold and definition without damaging your hair.

FAQs

  1. How often should I use gel on my 4C hair? You should use gel on your 4C hair as needed to achieve your desired style. Avoid using it every day to prevent dryness and damage to your hair.
  2. Can I use gel on wet or dry hair?  It’s best to use gel on damp hair to seal in moisture. However, you can also use it on dry hair if needed.
  3. How do I apply gel to my 4C hair without creating a hard texture?  Use a small amount of gel and smooth it evenly over each section of hair. Avoid using too much and avoid touching your hair while it dries.
  4. Can I use gel as a protective style? Yes, you can use gel to create protective styles such as twists or braids. Just be sure to apply it sparingly and use a high-quality product.
  5. How can I remove gel from my 4C hair?  You can remove gel from your 4C hair by washing it with a clarifying shampoo or co-washing it with a cleansing conditioner.

CURLY HAIR ROUTINE FOR BEGINNERS 

Curly hair is beautiful and unique, but it can also be challenging to manage. If you’re new to embracing your curls, don’t worry! This beginner’s guide will walk you through a simple yet effective routine to help you achieve defined, bouncy, and frizz-free curls. Let’s embark on this curly hair journey together!

CHOOSING THE RIGHT SHAMPOO

The “right” shampoo is one that’s gentle and designed to enhance your curls. With so many options out there, it can feel overwhelming, but starting with a sulfate-free shampoo is a great choice—these are increasingly common as more brands release sulfate-free ranges.

Most products will be clearly labeled as sulfate-free, but if you’re unsure, you can easily check. Just search for the shampoo’s ingredients online, then copy and paste them into CURLSBOT, a tool that instantly tells you if it’s Curly Girl-approved. I keep CURLSBOT saved on my phone—it’s a lifesaver at any stage of the curly journey!

CHOOSING THE RIGHT CONDITIONER

The “right” conditioner for curly hair means opting for a silicone-free formula. If you’re used to products with silicones, going silicone-free may feel like a big change, but it’s an important step in a curl-friendly routine.

Many commercial conditioners contain silicones, so it’s worth checking labels. Silicone-free conditioners don’t need to be expensive—they simply avoid silicones that can build up on your hair, causing greasiness, weighing curls down, and reducing bounce.

A T-SHIRT FOR DRYING

That’s right—a simple t-shirt is perfect for drying curly hair! Unlike a regular towel, a t-shirt is much softer and won’t roughen the hair cuticle.

You can use it as you would a towel, or you can try “plopping.” To plop, gently lower your hair forward into the t-shirt, then wrap and secure it around your head. Leave it on for 10-40 minutes to absorb moisture while helping curls form into defined clumps.

Alternatively, there’s “micro-plopping,” where you scrunch each curl individually with the t-shirt to remove excess water. Whether plopping or micro-plopping, a t-shirt is gentler than a towel, though a microfiber towel is also a good option for curly hair.

CHOOSING A STYLING PRODUCT – GEL, MOUSSE, OR CREAM

When starting a curly hair routine, it’s common to use a gel, mousse, or cream. Some people even layer all three! For beginners, starting with one product is ideal; you can experiment and build up your routine as you get to know what works for your curls.

It’s a good idea to check product ingredients, avoiding “nasties” like drying alcohols (e.g., Alcohol Denat) and silicones. This extra step helps keep curls healthy and bouncy.

Apply styling products on soaking wet hair to lock in moisture and minimize frizz. Scrunch the product up to the roots, aiming to shape your curls while wet and keep that definition as they dry.

GEL

Gel is great for setting curls in a “cast” as it dries, holding the shape until you’re ready to scrunch out the crunch, leaving soft, defined curls. A favorite gel for many is the Umberto Giannini Curl Jelly.

CREAM

Creams reduce frizz and add moisture, giving a softer look and more volume, though they typically don’t define curls as much as gel.

MOUSSE

A lightweight mousse helps define curls and add volume, especially at the roots. It should be light and non-sticky, so curls feel soft once dry. Each product offers unique benefits—try one and see how your curls respond!

A DIFFUSER

While air-drying is a solid option, many people find that a diffuser becomes an essential tool for styling curls. Air-drying can take a long time, especially since curly hair tends to dry in clumps and retains more moisture with the products you’re using.

Using a diffuser can speed up drying while encouraging curl formation by lifting and holding curl clumps closer to the scalp. For best results, use a low heat setting to reduce potential heat damage.

Avoid using a regular dryer without a diffuser, as it can disrupt curl clumps. If you don’t have a diffuser attachment, it’s actually better to air-dry. And as you transition into a new curl routine, try to minimize the use of heated tools like curling wands—your curls will thank you!

A DEEP CONDITIONER

Deep conditioning is key to keeping curls hydrated and healthy. Aim to deep condition at least every two weeks, or even weekly if your hair needs the extra moisture. A quality deep conditioner helps rehydrate naturally dry curls, while also softening and detangling them.

These treatments often contain nourishing oils and butters. Simply apply after shampooing and let it sit for around 30 minutes before rinsing out.

Another option is a “pre-poo” treatment, where you apply an oil or conditioning treatment like Olaplex to dry hair before shampooing. Leave it on overnight or for a few hours to give your curls a deep boost before you wash.

FINAL TIP

Keep track of your washday routine to fine-tune your curly hair care and see what works best for you. Here’s what to note down:

  • Which cleansing and conditioning products you used, including any deep conditioners
  • Did you plop or micro-plop?
  • Which styling products you applied, and in what order
  • Did you apply them with your hair hanging forward or back?
  • Did you scrunch the products in?
  • Did you diffuse until your hair was 100% dry or just 80%?

Also, take photos of your results! They’ll be invaluable when you’re figuring out what works best for your curls. I still jot down small changes I make to my routine, as even minor adjustments can lead to major differences in results.

I created a tracker for myself to keep track of my washdays, and I’m sharing it here because I’ve found it super helpful!

CONCLUSION

Congratulations, you’ve taken the first step towards embracing your natural curls! Remember, consistency is key. As you continue to experiment with your routine, you’ll discover what works best for your unique hair type.

Don’t be afraid to seek advice from other curly-haired individuals or consult with a hairstylist who specializes in curly hair. By following these basic steps and tailoring them to your specific needs, you’ll be well on your way to achieving healthy, beautiful, and bouncy curls.