Gel

What is hair gel?

Hair gel, also known as hairstyling gel, is a hair product designed to set your hair and keep it in place all day long. While traditional gels have a bit of a bad reputation for creating super-slick hairdos that won't budge, modern gels for hair are creamier, more versatile and even nourishing for your locks. They'll let you set your style in place while still offering plenty of movement and softness to adjust your look throughout the day.

At Hairhouse, you can find styling gels for all hair types that provide everything from a light hold and flexible hold to a strong hold for maximum control. Whether you want to achieve the perfect pixie cut, sculpt some spikes, define your curls or create a sleek updo that's free from flyaways, this versatile hair styler can help you do it.

There are plenty of different types of gel to choose from. A gel for curly locks is specifically designed to tame curls and add gloss and definition. Juuce Angel Mist is an easy-to-apply gel spray that hydrates hair, controls frizz and defines curls instantly.

A product such as American Crew Light Hold Gel will give you light control with plenty of natural movement, while Oribe Rock Hard Gel will provide you with intense hold for shaping spikes and other styles without stiffness or flaking. It's also a wet-look gel for sleek styles with a shiny finish.

Gel wax and gel pomade combine two different hair products into one. Gel Pomade by V76 is water-soluble for easy rinsing and delivers high-shine, reworkable hair. For even more height, Sexy Hair Big Blow Dry Volumizing Gel is your secret weapon to a voluminous blowout. Use it with your hairdryer to give your fine hair a lift and create big hairstyles with medium hold.

How does styling gel work?

This styling solution is made up of particles known as polymers that swell up in the liquid to form a jelly-like consistency. When you apply it, these polymers coat your hair, making the strands stick together and giving your style hold and shape. As the water evaporates, the gel dries into a clear film, keeping your hair in place until you brush, touch or wash it out.

When it comes to the gel vs. wax debate, the right product for you will depend on the look you want to achieve. Hair wax is more pliable than gel and gives you a more textural result with a matte finish. It is best for creating natural hairstyles that are choppy with loads of definition and is applied to dry hair.

These styling solutions are typically applied to damp hair and are ideal for when you want maximum lift and hold. They can secure even the most extreme styles in place and are key to mastering the wet look. They’re also the best choice for adding a healthy gloss to curls and making fine hair appear thicker and fuller.

What makes a good hair gel?

Gone are the days when styling gel left your locks crunchy and unmovable! Today, a good gel uses high-quality ingredients with a formula designed to hold your style in place while still offering softness, flexibility and the ability to rework it throughout the day as needed.

With an increasing focus on clean haircare, organic and eco-friendly options are skyrocketing in popularity. Natural ingredients that nourish the hair and protect the planet are more important than ever.

De Lorenzo Elements Densify is Australian-made with certified organic ingredients to hold, control and lift hair without causing damage or stickiness. Davroe Construct Gel is vegan and contains Quinoa Protein to strengthen and protect hair.

Paul Mitchell gels are also safe for colour-treated hair. Vegan, gluten-free and paraben-free, these multi-tasking gels provide light to firm holds while thickening, lifting and adding shine.

Is it safe to use hairstyling gel every day?

It's safe to use styling gel every day if you choose a product that also nourishes your hair and helps to maintain hair health. This is even more important for those with curly hair, as using gel daily can dry out curls. Look for a product that's packed with moisturising ingredients to keep your curls hydrated and nourished.

Matrix A Curl Can Dream Light Hold Gel is a popular pick that delivers defined, frizz-free curls without parabens, silicones, mineral oils or other artificial nasties that can cause damage to hair. For seriously dehydrated curls, Matrix Total Results Curl Please Super Defrizzer is infused with Jojoba Oil and Wheat Protein to control frizz and restore a lustrous shine to your curls.

When using gel daily, make sure to use a cleansing shampoo and conditioner to prevent product build-up in the hair.

How do you choose the right gel for your hair type?

Choosing the right gel for your locks depends on your type of hair and the style you want to achieve. For curly locks, look for gels that add moisture and control frizz. If you have straight hair, opt for gels that offer shine and smoothness.

Consider the hold strength you need. Gels with a strong hold are perfect for complex styles that need to stay put all day. For a more natural look, medium or light hold gels provide control without stiffness.

Always check the ingredients. Natural and nourishing components like aloe vera and jojoba oil are great for maintaining hair health.

How much styling gel should you use for your hair?

Using the right amount of gel for your hair is key to getting the perfect style. Too much can make your locks stiff and sticky, while too little may not give you enough hold. It's best to start small and add more if needed.

For short hair, a dime-sized amount usually works. Medium-length hair might need a quarter-sized amount. For longer or thicker hair, you may need two or more quarter-sized portions.

How do you style your hair with gel?

If you're wondering how to use gel for your hair, it's easier than you think! Our Hairhouse experts recommend following these simple steps:

1. Start with damp hair that's been towel-dried.
2. Take a small amount of gel in your hands and rub together.
3. Apply the gel to your hair. For a separated, spiked look, use a strong hold gel and rub pieces of the hair together. Smooth upwards and arrange as desired. For a sleek look, use a comb to run the gel from the roots to the tips and press down any flyaways. For curls, evenly distribute the gel through your curls and either air-dry or use a diffuser while blow-drying for bouncy locks with epic shine!

You can shop hair gel online at Hairhouse with free delivery on orders over $50, or visit your nearest Hairhouse store in Australia and let our friendly team give you professional advice for your hair type.

Looking for alternatives? We've got plenty of other hairstyling products to help you conquer any style, including pomade, cream, mousse, sea salt spray, hairspray and much more.

We also have a range of cruelty-free hair care, hair colours and hair accessories, so you can achieve any look. Don't forget to view cart for all your favourite items. Check out our bestsellers, trending products and latest arrivals today and find everything you need to perfect your hairstyle!