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Best Gel For Wavy Hair Curly Girl Method (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a styling product that will enhance your wavy or curly hair, the curly girl method – CGM – recommends using a gel. However, not all gels are created equal, and choosing the right one can make all the difference in the world.

One of the most important factors to consider before buying a gel for wavy hair is the ingredients. Look for gels that are free of sulfates, silicones, and drying alcohols, as these can strip moisture from your hair and ruin your curl pattern. Also, make sure the gel is lightweight and non-greasy, as heavy products can weigh down your hair and cause frizz.

Another thing to keep in mind is your hair’s porosity. If your hair is highly porous, meaning it absorbs moisture quickly but releases it just as fast, you may need a heavy gel. On the other hand, if your hair is low in porosity, meaning it repels moisture, you may benefit more from a lighter gel that can penetrate your hair strands.

Are you tired of dealing with frizz, undefined curls, or flat waves? Do you want to learn how to properly care for your natural hair and get the best possible results? Are you curious about the CGM and want to give it a try? If you answered yes to any of these questions, keep reading to discover the best gels for wavy hair according to the CGM principles.

10 Best Gel For Wavy Hair Curly Girl Method

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
The product is ideal for providing extreme hold styling to dry, wavy, curly, or coily hair.
2
This product is ideal for defining and moisturizing natural curly or kinky-coily hair, while also combating frizz and dryness.
3
This product is ideal for people with curly or wavy hair looking for a natural, sulfate-free styling gel.
4
This product is ideal for defining, moisturizing, and activating curls while preventing frizz, and is suitable for natural hair.
5
This hair care set is ideal for individuals with curly hair looking for a complete daily routine to moisturize and style.
6
This hair gel is ideal for styling and holding curly hair without drying alcohols, parabens or silicone.
7
This product bundle is ideal for those with wavy hair looking to cleanse, condition, and style without weighing down their natural texture.
8
Ideal for defining, moisturizing, and de-frizzing all types of curly hair with a crunchless ultra hold.
9
The product is ideal for individuals with dry, wavy, curly or coily hair.
10
This product is ideal for people with curly hair who want a 3-step system that cleans, conditions and styles without crunch or stickiness.
The product is ideal for providing extreme hold styling to dry, wavy, curly, or coily hair.
This product is ideal for defining and moisturizing natural curly or kinky-coily hair, while also combating frizz and dryness.
This product is ideal for people with curly or wavy hair looking for a natural, sulfate-free styling gel.
This product is ideal for defining, moisturizing, and activating curls while preventing frizz, and is suitable for natural hair.
This hair care set is ideal for individuals with curly hair looking for a complete daily routine to moisturize and style.
This hair gel is ideal for styling and holding curly hair without drying alcohols, parabens or silicone.
This product bundle is ideal for those with wavy hair looking to cleanse, condition, and style without weighing down their natural texture.
Ideal for defining, moisturizing, and de-frizzing all types of curly hair with a crunchless ultra hold.
The product is ideal for individuals with dry, wavy, curly or coily hair.
This product is ideal for people with curly hair who want a 3-step system that cleans, conditions and styles without crunch or stickiness.

1. Curlsmith Extreme Hold Gel For Curls!

Curlsmith In-Shower Style Fixer is a game-changer for those who want to tame their frizzy and flyaway hair while maintaining a defined curl. This product provides extreme hold and definition without drying out the hair. The secret to its magic lies in its moisture-retaining formula that provides a soft, bouncy, and defined curl.

Using this product is easy. Apply it to your soaking wet hair right after the shower by smoothing it down the length of your hair using the "praying hands" method. Then, scrunch it gently upwards and let your hair air dry or diffuse. Once your hair is fully dry, scrunch it again to break the cast and reveal your soft, bouncy, and defined curls.

Curlsmith is a brand that takes inspiration from generations of homemade hair remedies. They blend fresh curl-loving foods with kitchen cupboard staples and rare natural ingredients to make premium products that really work. This means that you get healthy ingredients and professional results without any compromises. Additionally, all Curlsmith products are free of Sulphates, Silicones, Mineral Oils, and Phtalates. They're also Curly Girl Friendly, 100% Vegan, and Cruelty-Free.

Curlsmith In-Shower Style Fixer has received numerous positive reviews from its customers. They claim that it's the best non-gel product they've ever used and that it's an amazing curl product. With this product, you can achieve the soft, bouncy, and defined curls that you've always wanted.

Pros

  • Provides extreme hold and definition without drying out the hair
  • Moisture-retaining formula provides soft and bouncy curls
  • Easy to use
  • Made with healthy ingredients and rare natural ingredients
  • Free of harmful chemicals such as Sulphates, Silicones, Mineral Oils, and Phtalates
  • Curly Girl Friendly, 100% Vegan, and Cruelty-Free
  • Receives numerous positive reviews

2. Curl-Defining Gel For Natural Hair

Achieve the perfect curls with this amazing curl activator! This product is specially formulated to fight frizz and enhance natural waves, curls, or kinky-coily textures. It is designed to provide definition to your hair while leaving it with a nice natural sheen and shine. With this styling custard gel, you get maximum hold, moisture, and shine without any heaviness or crunch. The product is easy to use and a little goes a long way. Simply apply a small amount to your wet hair and watch your curls come to life!

This curl activator is made with natural ingredients like Aloe, Sea Botanicals, and Honey. It is free from harmful chemicals like Parabens, Sulfates, Dyes, Silicones, and Phthalates, making it safe for regular use. The product is concentrated for the best value, ensuring that you get the maximum benefit from each bottle. Additionally, it is 100% guaranteed, giving you peace of mind when making your purchase.

By purchasing this curl activator, you are also supporting anti-bullying programs. The company believes that people make choices based on how they feel about themselves and is committed to supporting initiatives that promote positivity and self-confidence.

Pros

  • Fights frizz and enhances natural waves, curls, or kinky-coily textures
  • Provides definition to hair while leaving a natural sheen and shine
  • Made with natural ingredients like Aloe, Sea Botanicals, and Honey
  • Free from harmful chemicals like Parabens, Sulfates, Dyes, Silicones, and Phthalates
  • Concentrated for the best value
  • 100% guaranteed
  • Supports anti-bullying programs

3. Noughty Curl Jelly – Natural, Vegan, Styling Gel

Achieve luscious curls and bid farewell to bad hair days with this curl scrunching jelly. This lightweight gel is designed to eliminate frizz and add moisture, providing long-lasting definition and shine without causing dryness or crunchiness. The curl styling product effectively restores the natural shape and health of curls while fighting frizz, taming, smoothing, and hydrating the hair, defining and controlling curls even in the worst humidity.

This sulphate-free curl scrunching gel is specially formulated for curly and wavy hair and is perfect for disciplining unruly and undefined curls. It is paraben and petrochemical free, and has an invigorating fragrance of an Ocean Fresh scent. The product is 100% vegan and cruelty-free, containing 97% natural ingredients that are ethically traded and sustainably sourced.

This award-winning hair care product is founded by women who are experts in natural beauty. It is Curly Girl method approved, and comes in a 200 ml / 6.7 fl oz bottle.

Pros

  • Lightweight gel that eliminates frizz and adds moisture
  • Provides long-lasting definition and shine without causing dryness or crunchiness
  • Effectively restores the natural shape and health of curls while fighting frizz, taming, smoothing, and hydrating the hair
  • Defines and controls curls even in the worst humidity
  • Sulphate-free and specially formulated for curly and wavy hair
  • Paraben and petrochemical free, and has an invigorating fragrance of an Ocean Fresh scent
  • Contains 97% natural ingredients that are ethically traded and sustainably sourced
  • 100% vegan and cruelty-free
  • Curly Girl method approved
  • Comes in a 200 ml / 6.7 fl oz bottle

4. Moptop Curl Custard – Frizz-Free Curls!

If you are looking for the best curl activator, this product is a great option. It fights frizz and enhances natural wave, curl, or kinky-coily textures, while adding definition and leaving a natural sheen and shine. This styling custard gel is ideal for curly hair, providing maximum hold, moisture, and shine without any heaviness or crunch. It contains Aloe, Sea Botanicals, and Honey that help to hydrate and nourish your hair. The product is paraben-free, sulfate-free, dye-free, silicone-free, and phthalate-free, which makes it safe and gentle for all hair types. One of the best things about this product is that a little bit goes a long way. You only need to start with a small amount applied to the complete surface of wet hair. All the products are concentrated, which means you get the best value for your money. The brand also supports anti-bullying programs, which is an added bonus. The product is 100% guaranteed, which means you can buy it with confidence.

If you have curly hair, this styling custard gel is a must-have in your hair care routine. It provides maximum hold, moisture, and shine without any heaviness or crunch. The product is easy to use and is concentrated, which means you get the best value for your money. It contains Aloe, Sea Botanicals, and Honey that help to hydrate and nourish your hair. It is also paraben-free, sulfate-free, dye-free, silicone-free, and phthalate-free, which makes it safe and gentle for all hair types. The brand also supports anti-bullying programs, which is an added bonus. The product is 100% guaranteed, which means you can buy it with confidence.

This curl activator is a game-changer for people with curly hair. It fights frizz and enhances natural wave, curl, or kinky-coily textures, while adding definition and leaving a natural sheen and shine. The styling custard gel is easy to use and provides maximum hold, moisture, and shine without any heaviness or crunch. The product contains Aloe, Sea Botanicals, and Honey that help to hydrate and nourish your hair. It is also free of parabens, sulfates, dyes, silicones, and phthalates, making it safe and gentle for all hair types. The brand supports anti-bullying programs, which is a great cause. The product is 100% guaranteed, which means you can buy it with confidence.

Pros

  • Fights frizz and enhances natural wave, curl, or kinky-coily textures
  • Adds definition and leaves a natural sheen and shine
  • Provides maximum hold, moisture, and shine without any heaviness or crunch
  • Contains Aloe, Sea Botanicals, and Honey that help to hydrate and nourish your hair
  • Free of parabens, sulfates, dyes, silicones, and phthalates
  • Concentrated formula for best value
  • Brand supports anti-bullying programs
  • 100% guaranteed

5. Moptop's Ultimate Curly Haircare Set

Achieve beautiful, healthy curls with MopTop's customized array of products designed for those with wavy, curly, and kinky-coily hair. This curly hair bundle includes all the essentials you need for defined, bouncy curls with natural shine. The bundle includes a detox shampoo that removes product buildup and clarifies your hair to bring it back to its soft, natural state. The gentle shampoo is enriched with the natural benefits of coconut to lightly cleanse your hair and scalp, allowing your curls to retain their natural moisture and shine. It is also suitable for color-treated hair. The daily conditioner moisturizes your dry, frizzy, damaged, or color-treated curls for restored manageability and easy styling. Finally, the Curly Hair Custard is a must-have product in every curly hair routine. It is Curly Girl Method Approved and activates all hair types and textures, leaving you with soft, defined, and shiny results without any unwanted heaviness or crunch.

All products in this bundle are specially formulated to provide deep cleansing while restoring vital nutrients for healthy, bouncy curls. Whether you have fine, thick, wavy, curly, or kinky-coily hair, this bundle is perfect for you. The products work together to give your curls a healthy reset, allowing you to achieve your desired curl pattern with ease.

MopTop's curly hair bundle is the perfect solution for anyone looking to achieve beautiful, healthy curls. The products are easy to use and free from harmful chemicals, making them safe for daily use. With this bundle, you can say goodbye to bad hair days and hello to gorgeous, defined curls.

Pros

  • Customized bundle for wavy, curly, and kinky-coily hair
  • Detox shampoo removes product buildup and clarifies hair
  • Gentle shampoo lightly cleanses hair and scalp while retaining natural moisture and shine
  • Daily conditioner moisturizes dry, frizzy, damaged, or color-treated curls
  • Curly Hair Custard activates all hair types and textures for soft, defined, and shiny results
  • Free from harmful chemicals and safe for daily use

6. Curl Quench Coconut Ultra-Hold Gel, 12oz.

Do you want to embrace your natural curls without having to deal with crunchy and stiff hair? The solution is here! Try this rich blend of hair gel that will keep your curls in place while adding moisture, shine, and definition. This vegan formula is made with 100% aloe vera as the first ingredient, which provides hydration and nourishment to your hair. It also contains coconut oil, papaya extract, and plumeria extract, which give your curls a natural and flake-free hold. This hair gel is free of harsh additives such as parabens, silicones, sulfated surfactants, synthetic dye, mineral oil, and gluten. This means you can enjoy the natural goodness of this product without worrying about harmful chemicals.

This hair gel is perfect for those who want a soft, crunch-free feel. Unlike other hair gels, it doesn't leave your hair with a stiff texture. Instead, it provides a natural-looking hold that will keep your curls in place all day long. You can use it to enhance your curls' definition and add shine to them. The simple styling application makes it easy to use. Just rake it through your hair and go. Alternatively, you can use it with a diffuser to create different looks for your curls.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a hair gel that will give you a natural and flake-free hold, enhance your curls' definition, and add moisture and shine, then this is the product for you. It's easy to use, free of harsh additives, and perfect for those who want to embrace their natural curls. Try it today and see the difference it makes to your hair!

Pros

  • Keeps curls in place while adding moisture, shine, and definition
  • Soft, crunch-free feel
  • Made with 100% aloe vera as the first ingredient
  • Contains coconut oil, papaya extract, and plumeria extract for natural and flake-free hold
  • Simple styling application
  • Free of harsh additives such as parabens, silicones, sulfated surfactants, synthetic dye, mineral oil, and gluten

7. Curlsmith Wave Trio: Cleanse, Condition, Style!

Curlsmith Wavy Kit is specially designed for those who have wavy hair with thin S-shaped waves. Wavy hair usually lacks volume, but with this kit, you can enhance your hair texture without compromising on volume. The kit includes Curl Quenching Co-Wash (12fl oz), Weightless Air Dry Cream (8fl oz), and Hydro Style Flexi Jelly (8fl oz) to provide you with weightless, defined, and voluminous waves.

To use the kit, start with wet hair and apply a generous amount of Curl Quenching Co-Wash to your scalp and smooth it through the lengths of your hair. Leave it for three minutes and rinse it off. Then, apply Weightless Air Dry Cream to coat all strands evenly, using the 'praying hands' method. Seal in moisture and tame the cuticles. Finally, apply Hydro Style Flexi Jelly to coat all strands evenly and scrunch to encourage curl formation. Air dry or diffuse your hair to complete the process.

What sets Curlsmith apart is that it's inspired by homemade hair remedies and blends fresh curl-loving foods with kitchen cupboard staples and rare natural ingredients to create premium products that work exceptionally well. Curlsmith products are made with healthy ingredients, professional results, and no compromise.

Curlsmith products are free of Sulphates, Silicones, Mineral Oils, and Phtalates, making them 100% vegan, cruelty-free, and curly girl friendly. Our customers have seen real results and have rated Curlsmith products highly. Try Curlsmith Wavy Kit today and see the difference it can make to your hair.

Pros

  • Enhances the texture of wavy hair without compromising on volume
  • Includes Curl Quenching Co-Wash, Weightless Air Dry Cream, and Hydro Style Flexi Jelly
  • Made with fresh curl-loving foods, kitchen cupboard staples, and rare natural ingredients
  • Free of Sulphates, Silicones, Mineral Oils, and Phtalates
  • 100% vegan, cruelty-free, and curly girl friendly

8. Curl Defining Gel – Ultra Hold & Moisturize

The styling gel is designed to provide strong hold and moisture retention while enhancing shine. It is perfect for keeping curls firmly defined without causing frizz or crunchiness. The product is specially formulated to deliver essential moisture that nourishes and defines curls while keeping them frizz-free. It offers gentle cleansing without lather and is suitable for all types of curls.

Pros

  • Provides strong hold and moisture retention
  • Enhances shine and definition of curls
  • Gentle cleansing without lather
  • Suitable for all types of curls

9. Revive Curls Kit: Vegan Haircare For Transitioning Hair

The Curlsmith all-in-one kit is the perfect solution for those on a journey to natural curly hair. This kit includes a Cowash, Deep Conditioner, Leave-in Cream and Styling Gel that will cleanse, define, and hydrate your curls. The natural ingredients in each product work with your hair to achieve the best results. For example, the avocado in the Conditioning Wash will smooth and condition your hair, while the rare Rose of Jericho in the Deep Quencher locks moisture into your hair.

Curlsmith's inspiration comes from generations of homemade hair remedies. They blend fresh curl-loving foods with natural ingredients found in your kitchen cupboards to make premium products that really work. They are committed to using healthy ingredients that produce professional results without any compromise. All their products are vegan, cruelty-free, and Curly Girl Friendly. You won't find any sulphates, silicones, mineral oils or phthalates in their products.

The results from using the Curlsmith all-in-one kit are real and speak for themselves. Customers have expressed their satisfaction with the product by stating things like, 'A must try', 'So amazed by these products from day 1', and 'Love the way my hair feels'.

Pros

  • Contains everything you need to start your transitioning journey
  • Natural ingredients work with hair to smoothe and condition
  • Inspired by generations of homemade hair remedies
  • Healthy ingredients produce professional results without any compromise
  • All products are vegan, cruelty-free, and Curly Girl Friendly

10. Curl Love System – 3 Steps To Bouncy Curls

Say goodbye to bad hair days with the Curly 3-Step System, designed to simplify your curly hair routine. This system is perfect for loose and bouncy ringlets or tight and springy spirals, with products customized for Soft, Defined Curly Hair (3A, 3B, 3C). The Gentle & Moisturizing Shampoo gently cleanses hair without stripping natural oils, while the Ultra-Hydrating & Detangling Conditioner nourishes hair and detangles knots. The All-in-One Styler is formulated to enhance curls, leaving them soft, defined, and full of shine.

Infused with shea butter and moringa oil, the products are packed with hair-nourishing nutrients that repair, strengthen, moisturize, and reduce breakage. These natural ingredients work together to bring out the best in your curls, creating touchable, defined curls that last all day. Unlike other styling products, LUS hair care products won't leave your curls crunchy, cast, or sticky.

LUS curly hair products are clean, vegan, and cruelty-free. They are never tested on animals and are gluten-free. Dermatologist-tested and approved, these products are hypoallergenic, non-irritating, and suitable for sensitive skin. With the 3-Step System, you can achieve the perfect curls without worrying about damaging your hair or skin.

If you're not completely satisfied with the Curly 3-Step System, LUS offers a 30-day money-back policy. As a team of real curlies, LUS understands that learning how to care for your curls is a journey, and these products are designed to help you bring out the best in your unique curls. Say hello to healthy, defined, and touchable curls with LUS hair care products.

Pros

  • Customized 3-step system for Soft, Defined Curly Hair (3A, 3B, 3C)
  • Infused with shea butter and moringa oil
  • Nourishes, repairs, strengthens, moisturizes, and reduces breakage
  • Creates touchable, defined curls without leaving hair crunchy or sticky
  • Clean, vegan, and cruelty-free
  • Dermatologist-tested and approved for sensitive skin
  • 30-day money-back policy

Best Gel For Wavy Hair Curly Girl Method FAQs

Can I use a leave-in conditioner with a gel for wavy hair when following the curly girl method?

Yes, you can definitely use a leave-in conditioner with a gel for wavy hair while following the curly girl method. In fact, using a leave-in conditioner can be beneficial for wavy hair as it helps to add moisture and definition to the curls. The curly girl method emphasizes using products that are free of sulfates, silicones, and drying alcohols in order to maintain healthy and defined curls. Make sure to choose a leave-in conditioner and gel that are curly girl approved to ensure that they are free of these ingredients. When applying the products, it is important to scrunch them into the hair to encourage curl formation. You can also experiment with different techniques such as plopping or diffusing to enhance your wavy curls. Remember, finding the right products and techniques for your hair may take some trial and error, but don't give up! With patience and persistence, you can achieve beautiful, healthy, and defined waves.

How do I apply gel to my wavy hair using the curly girl method?

To apply gel to wavy hair using the curly girl method, you need to follow a few simple steps. First, wash and condition your hair with a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner that are suitable for your hair type. Then, gently towel dry your hair to remove excess water, leaving it damp but not dripping wet.

Next, apply a leave-in conditioner or curl cream to your hair, using your fingers to distribute it evenly from root to tip. Then, take a small amount of gel and emulsify it in your palms, rubbing your hands together until it is evenly distributed.

Starting at the ends of your hair, scrunch the gel into your hair, working your way up to the roots. Make sure to use a light touch and avoid pulling or tugging at your hair.

Once you have applied the gel, let your hair air dry or use a diffuser to dry it gently. Avoid touching your hair until it is completely dry to prevent frizz and maintain your beautiful waves. With these simple steps, you can achieve gorgeous, defined curls while following the curly girl method.

How often should I use gel for wavy hair when following the curly girl method?

The frequency of using gel for wavy hair while following the curly girl method depends on various factors such as hair type, texture, and length. Typically, it is recommended to use gel once or twice a week to maintain the natural curls and waves of your hair. However, you may need to use it more frequently if your hair tends to frizz or lose its shape easily.

It is essential to choose a gel that is free from harsh chemicals and alcohol as they can strip your hair of its natural oils and cause damage. Look for gels that are specifically formulated for wavy or curly hair and contain natural ingredients like aloe vera, jojoba oil, and shea butter.

To apply gel, start with damp hair and distribute the product evenly from roots to ends, scrunching your hair as you go. You can also use a diffuser to enhance the curls and waves while drying. Remember, it's essential to avoid touching your hair until it is completely dry to prevent frizz.

In summary, using gel once or twice a week while following the curly girl method can help maintain the natural shape and texture of your wavy hair. However, it is crucial to choose the right product and apply it correctly to avoid damage and achieve the desired results.

What is the best gel for wavy hair when following the curly girl method?

When it comes to wavy hair and the curly girl method, finding the right gel can make all the difference. The curly girl method is all about embracing your natural texture and avoiding products that contain harsh chemicals like sulfates and silicones. With that in mind, the best gel for wavy hair when following the curly girl method is one that is free of these ingredients and is lightweight enough to enhance your waves without weighing them down.

One popular gel that fits these criteria is the DevaCurl Light Defining Gel. This gel is formulated specifically for wavy and curly hair and is free of sulfates, silicones, and parabens. It has a lightweight, non-sticky formula that helps define and enhance waves without leaving them crunchy or stiff. Another great option is the Jessicurl Spiralicious Styling Gel, which is also free of sulfates, silicones, and parabens and provides a strong hold without weighing down your waves.

Ultimately, the best gel for wavy hair when following the curly girl method will depend on your individual hair type and preferences. It's important to experiment with different products and techniques to find what works best for you and your unique waves.

Which ingredients to avoid in a gel for wavy hair when following the curly girl method?

When following the Curly Girl Method, it is important to avoid certain ingredients in hair gels if you have wavy hair. These ingredients can cause damage to the hair and prevent it from achieving its full potential. Here are some ingredients to watch out for:

1. Sulfates: This ingredient can strip the hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness and frizz.

2. Silicones: These can create a buildup on the hair and prevent moisture from penetrating the hair shaft.

3. Alcohol: This can dry out the hair and cause damage to the hair cuticles.

4. Parabens: This ingredient can disrupt the hormonal balance in the body and can cause skin irritation.

5. Mineral Oil: This can cause buildup on the scalp and prevent the hair from getting the moisture it needs.

When choosing a gel for wavy hair, make sure to read the label carefully and avoid these ingredients. Instead, look for gels that are formulated with natural oils and ingredients that will help to nourish and hydrate the hair. With the right gel and proper hair care routine, you can achieve beautiful, healthy-looking waves.

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