Gel

• How do I use Styling Gel, and how much should I apply?

  It depends on your hair type and the results you want to achieve.

  For thick, tight curls and coils: For maximum definition, style on wet hair. Section into small to medium parts and squeeze a quarter-size amount of Styling Gel into your hands, then rake through from roots to ends. Add more as needed. For extra definition, finger coil. Finish by air-drying, diffusing, twisting or braiding to achieve your desired look. 

  For curly hair and thick, dry waves: Section wet or damp hair. For each section, squeeze a dime-size amount of Styling Gel into your hands, then rake through from mid-lengths to ends. Air-dry for curl elongation or diffuse (or scrunch) for maximum curl and volume.

  For sleek styles: Squeeze a dime-size amount of Styling Gel into your hands and rub them together, then evenly distribute throughout damp hair. Focus on roots and mid-lengths for smoothness, adding more as needed. Comb or brush hair into your desired sleek updo or ponytail, using a fine-toothed comb to smooth any flyaways.

  Tip: Layer on top of Hair Balm to seal in moisture.

• What hair types is Styling Gel best for?

  Styling Gel is formulated for wavy, curly and coily hair types—perfect for defining curls, smoothing frizz and enhancing natural texture. Styling Gel is also perfect for creating sleek styles like slick-backs, ponytails and polished updos. Its versatile, non-crunchy hold makes it a go-to for long-lasting looks.

• Will Styling Gel leave my hair stiff, crunchy or flaky?

  Not at all. This gel delivers flexible, touchable hold without stiffness, crunch or flakes. That’s thanks to a balanced blend of PVP and polyquaternium-7, two advanced holding agents that form a lightweight, breathable film over the hair to lock in style—without drying it out. Baobab seed extract adds moisture and strength, while coconut alkanes, a natural alternative to silicones, enhance slip and shine without buildup or heaviness. The result: long-lasting control with a soft, clean finish.

• How does PVP compare to other holding agents commonly found in gels?

  PVP is a film-forming polymer that offers long-lasting hold while remaining water-soluble, which means it won’t create buildup over time like some synthetic resins. And unlike harsher fixatives, it offers flexibility and doesn’t stiffen hair or lead to flaking, making it ideal for everyday use—especially on curly and coily hair.

• What role does polyquaternium-7 play in preventing crunchiness or stiffness?

  Polyquaternium-7 is a conditioning polymer that smooths the hair cuticle and improves slip. It enhances the gel’s spreadability and soft finish, reducing the risk of brittle or stiff results. It also helps improve the hair’s overall feel and reduces static.

• How does baobab seed extract contribute to softness and moisture retention?

  Baobab seed extract is rich in amino acids and antioxidants, helping to reinforce the hair’s barrier and reduce moisture loss. By supporting elasticity and hydration, it counteracts the drying effects that can sometimes occur with styling products—keeping hair soft, supple and flake-free.

• What kind of finish or hold can I expect from Styling Gel?

  Expect non-crunchy, defined curls or waves with a natural-looking shine. The hold is long-lasting yet flexible, giving your style shape and control that lasts without weighing hair down.

• What results can I expect when using Styling Gel?

  You’ll see more defined curls or coils, less frizz, added body and a soft, shiny finish. It also provides heat protection up to 450°F, so it works whether you air-dry or diffuse.

• Can I re-style my hair the next day without washing it out?

  Yes. Styling Gel leaves no sticky or stiff residue, so you can refresh or reshape your style the next day. To do so, lightly dampen hair with water using a spray bottle or your hands. Rub a small amount of gel between your palms and smooth it through mid-lengths to ends in a downward motion. Air-dry for elongation, or scrunch or diffuse for enhanced curls and volume.

• Does Styling Gel help smooth frizz or define curls?

  Absolutely. Powered by PVP and baobab seed extract, this gel is made to reduce frizz, lock in definition and enhance the natural texture of your hair.

• Can I use Styling Gel with other hair products?

  Yes! It pairs well with moisture-locking styling products like Hair Balm. Apply Hair Balm first for extra moisture, then layer on Styling Gel for hold and definition.

• What does Styling Gel smell like?

  It has a light, clean botanical scent—fresh and subtle, never overpowering. 

  All Hairstory product fragrances are 100% naturally derived. We don’t use any synthetic fragrances.

• Is Styling Gel suitable for low porosity hair?

  Yes! Styling Gel is suitable for low porosity hair, which is common in tighter curl patterns. It offers a soft to medium hold that enhances natural curl patterns without leaving hair crunchy or stiff. 

  Here are a few tips to get the best results:

  • Apply Styling Gel on very wet or steamed hair to help it absorb properly and reduce the risk of flaking or buildup. 
  • Layering over Hair Balm can help enhance slip, shine and definition, especially for coarse or dry textures.
  • Use generous water and sectioning to ensure even distribution.
• How does hair porosity affect how Styling Gel works?

  Hair porosity refers to how well your hair absorbs and retains moisture—and it can play a big role in how products like gel behave in your hair.

  There are three general types of hair porosity:

  Low porosity:

  • The cuticle layer is tightly packed, so water and product have a harder time getting in.
  • This can sometimes lead to issues like product sitting on the surface, causing flaking or a lack of definition.
  • If you have low porosity hair, try applying Styling Gel to wet hair with warm water and working it in well. Using steam or applying right after a shower can help, too.

  Medium (normal) porosity:

  • This hair type absorbs and retains moisture well and typically works great with most styling products, including Styling Gel.
  • You should get a consistent definition and hold without much adjustment.

  High porosity: 

  • The cuticle layer is more open, often due to damage or texture, which allows moisture (and products) to enter easily—but also escape quickly.
  • Styling Gel is likely to absorb well, but you may want to apply it over a hydrating base (like Hair Balm) to help lock in moisture and reduce frizz.