To apply gel to curly hair effectively, rake it through your hair starting at the mids and ends, then work a little up to the top after it's completely raked through.
Here's a more detailed breakdown of how to apply gel to curly hair for best results:
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Start with Clean, Damp Hair: Gel works best when applied to clean, damp hair. Wash and condition your hair as usual.
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Section Your Hair (Optional): If you have very thick hair, sectioning it can help ensure even distribution of the gel. Use clips to separate sections.
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Emulsify the Gel: Take a small amount of gel (start with a dime-sized amount and adjust based on your hair's thickness and length) and rub it between your palms. This emulsifies the product, making it easier to distribute.
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Rake Through: Using your fingers like a comb, rake the gel through your hair, starting from the mid-lengths to the ends. This helps define your curls and prevent product buildup at the roots. According to the reference, concentrating on the mids and ends first is key.
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Work Upwards (Lightly): After raking through the mids and ends, gently work the remaining gel towards the roots, but avoid applying too much directly to the scalp. This helps prevent a weighed-down, greasy look.
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Scrunch (Optional): Scrunch your hair upwards towards the scalp to encourage curl formation. This can enhance your natural curl pattern.
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Plop (Optional): Plopping involves using a t-shirt or microfiber towel to wrap your hair, further enhancing curl definition and reducing frizz.
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Air Dry or Diffuse: Allow your hair to air dry for the most natural look. Alternatively, use a diffuser attachment on your hairdryer to gently dry your curls without disrupting the curl pattern and causing frizz.
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Scrunch Out the Crunch (SOTC): Once your hair is completely dry, gently scrunch your hair to break the gel cast (the slightly stiff feeling). This leaves your curls soft and bouncy. You can use a small amount of hair oil on your hands while scrunching to minimize frizz.
By following these steps, you can effectively apply gel to your curly hair, achieving defined, frizz-free curls with lasting hold.
