5 Things You Need to Know About Hair Gel

5 Things You Need to Know About Hair Gel

1. Hair 101

Hair gel is a product you'll find in nearly every bathroom that you encounter. It's a popular styling product that has the potential to tame curls or hold a hairstyle all day long. The key to a beautiful hairstyle is using hair products properly, including hair gel. With some helpful hints, you'll never have to hide under a hat again.

2. Too Much of a Good Thing

The biggest mistake consumers make with styling products, particularly hair gel, is using too much. Anything more than a dime-sized amount for shorter hair and a quarter-sized amount for longer hair is too much. Also, be sure to add hair gel to your hands first. Rub your hands together before applying to your hair, and apply the gel evenly throughout your hair. If you use too much hair gel, you'll end up with noticeable and flaky residue. Add a small amount first. You can always apply more if you didn't use enough, but if you use too much, you'll need to rewash your hair.

3. Timing is Everything

For females, it's important to apply hair gel to wet hair or hair that is slightly damp. Also, allowing hair to air dry after applying hair gel will result in crinkly hair. Only use hair gel when you plan to blow dry your hair. Use mousse when you plan to let your hair air dry. It's nearly impossible to apply gel evenly to dry hair, unless your hair is very short. Males with shorter hairstyles can apply hair gel to dry hair before styling.

4. High Maintenance Hairstyles Usually Have a High Price Tag

If you have a hairstyle that requires a lot of preparation and styling time, you probably also need a lot of hair products. You might be tempted to use less expensive styling products, but the final result will be less than spectacular. Avoid noticeable hair product residue by using high-end styling products. You'll pay more, but you'll most likely be pleased with the results.

5. Rinse and Repeat

Use clarifying shampoo and conditioner a few times a week to remove styling product residue, or shampoo twice on occasion. It's also helpful to avoid using hair gel a few days a week. Try to go natural on the weekends to avoid excess product buildup that occurs with daily use. Hair products inevitably end up on your face, so avoid using hair products during exercise. This helps minimize breakouts and keeps your skin clear.

Last updated on: Aug 11, 2011

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