When you have 4c hair, you want to find a good hair gel that lays down your baby hair, defines your wash-and go and sleeks down that ponytail! The right hair gel will elevate your hairstyles but the wrong product can ruin all your efforts. It’s important to choose the best gel for 4c hair. White residue, flaky and dry hair can result when you use a gel not suitable for your hair type. Before purchasing a new edge control to lay down your hair, you must determine which one is right for you.
Should you use gel on 4c hair?
Gels can be used on 4c hair the same way that it’s used on other hair types. All gels are not created equal so you will need to use different gels depending on the style you want to achieve. Gels can be used on 4c hair to define your coils, lay your edges or provide hold to a sleek bun or ponytail. Gels can make 4c hair dry and brittle if used too often so make sure to use it only every other day.
Is gel good for type 4 hair?
Gels are a great way to give hold to a hairstyle such as a sleek bun, a ponytail or a wash and go. Gel is good to use on type 4 hair when you are looking to set your hairstyle and holding the shape that you want to create. Many brands nowadays offer good gels for 4c hair that also offer moisturizing and defining properties.
How to choose the best gel for 4c hair?
When choosing a hair gel, it’s important to take into consideration your hair porosity as well as your styling needs. If your hair has low porosity which means your hair has a hard time to allow moisture in, choose a lighter gel to avoid product build-up. On the contrary, high porosity hair will need stronger hold gels. The best gel for 4c natural hair will also vary depending on your styling needs. Doing your edges might require stronger hold gel than laying down fly aways. The key is to try different products to find the best hair gel.
I have highlighted some of the best gels for 4c hair that can help your styling goals.
1. Eco Styler Olive Oil Gel (6$)
The Eco Styler Gel is the OG and superstar of hair gels in the natural hair community. It’s an easy choice for many naturals, including 4c hair. It provides a strong hold without causing flaking or dryness, making it a great option when you want to keep your hair in place without sacrificing its health. I’m recommending the Olive Oil eco styler because of it’s versatality, however this gel comes in various strengths and formulas, so you can choose the one that best fits your hair needs.
- Pros: Accessible and Budget Friendly.
- Cons: Easily creates product build-up.
2. Kinky-Curly Curling Custard (14$)
The Kinky-Curly Curling Custard is made with natural ingredients such as Agave Nectar and is known for defining curls and providing a long-lasting hold without leaving the hair feeling stiff or crunchy. This gel enhances the natural texture of 4c hair which makes it perfect for wash and go’s. It is a favorite for naturals want look for curl definition without compromising on hold.
- Pros: Perfect for Low porosity hair. Botanical formula made with ingredients that have humectant properties.
- Cons: Needs to be used on wet hair for best results.
3. Aunt Jackie’s Don’t Shrink Flaxseed Gel (7$)
Aunt Jackie’s Flaxseed Gel is another great option for 4c hair. This gel is made with flaxseed oil, which provides a strong hold while also nourishing and moisturizing your hair. The oil in this gel helps to strengthen the hair and improve its overall health.
- Pros: Nourishing for High porosity hair without leaving flakes.
- Cons: Lack of natural ingredients.
4. Camille Rose Curl Maker (12$)
The Camille Rose Curl Maker is a gel that is formulated with natural ingredients like aloe vera and marshmallow root to define curls without causing dryness or flaking. This gel is loved among the 4c hair community as it helps to keep hair in place while also nourishing and moisturizing your hair.
- Pros: Moisturizing and suitable for wash and go’s.
- Cons: Hold might not be strong enough for sleek looks.
5. Design Essentials Sleek Edge Control (15$)
Design Essentials Sleek Edge Control provides a strong hold needed to lay down your look to perfection. It is also infused with castor oil, which helps to strengthen the hair and promote growth. This edge control is great for 4c hair because it provides a sleek and polished finish without weighing down the hair. This edge control is perfect if you’re looking to create a sleek bun with no fly aways and baby hairs perfectly slayed.
- Pros: Perfect for edges.
- Cons: Product feel might be too strong.
When it comes to finding the best gel for 4c hair, there are many brands to try out and to choose from. These three gels – Eco Styler Gel, Aunt Jackie’s Flaxseed Gel Maker and Design Essentials Sleek Edge Control are great choices for defined curls and a strong hold. Remember to pay attention to your hair porosity and styling needs to find the gel that works best for you. To avoid damage on your natural hair, ensure to stick to your wash routine to avoid harmful product buildup.
