Using Styling Gel : Your online pharmacy selection

What is styling gel and how can it enhance my hair style?

Styling gel is a hair care product designed to shape, set and hold hair in place throughout the day. Used by men and women alike, this product offers hold ranging from light to very strong, enabling hair to be sculpted according to the desired style, whether natural or more structured. Enriched with special polymers, styling gel creates a film around the hair fiber, ensuring long-lasting hold without weighing hair down.

How do I choose the right styling gel for my hair type?

The choice of styling gel should be based on the nature of your hair and the desired effect. For fine hair, a lightweight gel is ideal, as it won't weigh the hair down while offering sufficient hold. Thick or curly hair will benefit more from a strong-hold gel, capable of controlling flyaways and defining curls. It's also essential to consider the ingredients: give preference to alcohol-free gels to avoid drying out the hair.

What are the best techniques for applying styling gel?

For optimum application, start by distributing a small amount of gel evenly between the palms of your hands. Apply the product to slightly damp hair, starting at the roots and working towards the ends, to ensure even coverage. For a more natural look, use your fingers to style your hair. For a more precise style, such as a pompadour or banana, use a comb to structure and smooth hair.

How can I prevent styling gel from leaving residue or over-hardening hair?

To avoid residue and the feeling of cardboardy hair, it's crucial to choose a quality styling gel and not to exceed the quantity needed. A dab of product is often enough for good hold without weighing hair down. It's also advisable to wash your hair regularly to remove product build-up, using a mild shampoo.

What are the benefits of daily use of styling gel?

Daily use of styling gel offers a number of advantages: it maintains your style throughout the day, protects against the elements like wind and humidity, and provides a polished finish that can be matte or glossy, depending on the product chosen. What's more, some gels are enriched with nourishing ingredients that help moisturize and protect hair from environmental damage.

Are there natural alternatives to classic styling gel?

For those who prefer to avoid chemicals, there are natural alternatives to styling gel. Products based on aloe vera, guar gum or vegetable gelatin offer natural hold without the synthetic additives. These alternatives are not only eco-friendly, but also beneficial to hair health, providing moisture and nutrients without the drying effects of some traditional gels.

How does styling gel affect long-term hair health?

Regular use of styling gel can have varying impacts on hair health, depending mainly on the product's ingredients. Formulas containing alcohol or harsh chemicals can dry out and weaken hair over time. To minimize the risks, opt for gels enriched with nourishing ingredients such as vitamin E, aloe vera or natural oils, which help maintain hair moisture while styling.

Can styling gel be used on color-treated or chemically-treated hair?

Yes, styling gel can be used on color-treated or chemically-treated hair, but it's important to choose the right product. Prefer gels specifically formulated for colored or treated hair, as they are generally sulfate-free and contain protective agents that help preserve the color and structure of treated hair. It's also advisable to apply the gel gently to avoid further stressing weakened hair.

What's the difference between styling gel, wax and pomade?

Styling gel, wax and pomade offer different levels of hold and shine. Gel provides strong hold and often a glossy finish, ideal for highly structured styles. Wax offers medium hold with less shine, allowing more flexibility and movement, ideal for a more natural look. Pomade offers light-to-medium hold with a high-gloss finish, perfect for sleek, elegant styles.

How do I effectively remove styling gel from hair?

To effectively remove styling gel without damaging the hair, we recommend using a clarifying or sulfate-based shampoo if you use styling products frequently. Apply shampoo to wet hair, massage gently into scalp and hair to break up gel, then rinse thoroughly. If residue persists, a second application may be necessary. Use a moisturizing conditioner after washing to rehydrate hair.

Can I make my own homemade styling gel?

It's perfectly possible to create your own homemade styling gel using simple ingredients such as water and flaxseed or agar-agar. To do this, boil flaxseed in water until the mixture thickens and forms a gel. Strain the mixture to remove the seeds and add a few drops of essential oil for fragrance. This homemade gel is a natural alternative that offers light hold without the chemicals of commercial gels, while being gentle on hair and scalp.