Natural curly hair can be both a blessing and a challenge. Its unique texture and volume make it stand out, but maintaining those curls can require special care and attention. One essential product for curly hair enthusiasts is curl defining gel. It helps to enhance your natural curls, reduce frizz, and keep your hair looking fresh and bouncy throughout the day. But instead of purchasing expensive, store-bought gels, why not make your own? In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of making your own curl defining gel at home, using natural ingredients that are gentle on your hair and effective in defining your curls.
What Is Curl Defining Gel?
Curl defining gel is a styling product specifically designed for curly hair. It works by clumping curls together, defining their shape, and holding them in place without weighing them down. The result is well-defined, frizz-free curls that last throughout the day. Unlike regular hair gels, curl defining gels are formulated to be lightweight and non-crunchy, allowing for natural movement while maintaining curl definition.
Why Do You Need Curl Defining Gel for Natural Curly Hair?
Curly hair is prone to frizz, dryness, and uneven curl patterns. Without the right products, curls can become undefined, lose their shape, and appear frizzy. Curl defining gel helps to:
- Enhance Curl Definition: It brings out the natural curl pattern of your hair, making your curls more defined and structured.
- Reduce Frizz: The gel forms a barrier around each curl, preventing moisture from entering the hair shaft and causing frizz.
- Provide Hold: It keeps your curls in place throughout the day, ensuring they stay bouncy and well-defined.
- Add Shine: Many curl defining gels also add a natural shine to your hair, making your curls look healthier and more vibrant.
How Do You Make Curl Defining Gel at Home?Ingredients You’ll Need
Making your own curl defining gel is easier than you might think. Here are the basic ingredients you’ll need:
- Flaxseeds: Flaxseeds are the star ingredient in DIY curl defining gel. They are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help to moisturize and strengthen hair. When boiled, flaxseeds release a gel-like substance that is perfect for defining curls.
- Water: Water is essential for hydrating your hair and mixing with the flaxseeds to create the gel.
- Aloe Vera Gel: Aloe vera is known for its moisturizing properties. It helps to soothe the scalp and keep your curls hydrated.
- Essential Oils (Optional): Essential oils like lavender, rosemary, or peppermint can be added for fragrance and additional hair benefits.
- Vitamin E Oil (Optional): Vitamin E oil is a great addition if you want to add extra moisture and shine to your gel.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Curl Defining Gel Step 1: Boil the Flaxseeds
- Measure the Flaxseeds: Start by measuring ¼ cup of flaxseeds.
- Boil the Water: Pour 2 cups of water into a pot and bring it to a boil.
- Add the Flaxseeds: Once the water is boiling, add the flaxseeds to the pot.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the flaxseeds simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll notice the water thickening as the flaxseeds release their gel-like substance.
Step 2: Strain the Gel
- Prepare a Strainer: Place a strainer or a fine mesh sieve over a bowl.
- Strain the Gel: Pour the flaxseed mixture through the strainer, catching the gel in the bowl. You may need to use a spoon to press the seeds and extract as much gel as possible.
Step 3: Add Aloe Vera Gel and Optional Ingredients
- Mix in Aloe Vera Gel: Once the flaxseed gel has cooled slightly, add 2 tablespoons of aloe vera gel to the mixture. Stir well to combine.
- Add Essential Oils: If you’re using essential oils, add a few drops to the gel and stir.
- Add Vitamin E Oil: For added moisture, you can also add a few drops of vitamin E oil.
Step 4: Store the Gel
- Transfer to a Jar: Pour the finished gel into a clean, airtight jar or container.
- Refrigerate: Store the gel in the refrigerator to extend its shelf life. It should last for about 1-2 weeks.
How to Use Curl Defining Gel on Natural Curly HairApplying the Gel to Wet Hair
For best results, apply the curl defining gel to wet hair right after washing and conditioning. Follow these steps:
- Section Your Hair: Divide your hair into sections to ensure even application.
- Apply the Gel: Take a small amount of gel and apply it to each section, working the product through your hair from roots to ends. Be sure to distribute the gel evenly.
- Scrunch Your Curls: Use your hands to scrunch your curls upwards, encouraging them to clump together and form defined ringlets.
- Air Dry or Diffuse: Allow your hair to air dry, or use a diffuser on a low heat setting to dry your curls.
Refreshing Curls with Curl Defining Gel
Curl defining gel can also be used to refresh your curls on non-wash days. Here’s how:
- Dampen Your Hair: Lightly mist your hair with water to rehydrate your curls.
- Apply the Gel: Take a small amount of gel and scrunch it into your damp curls to redefine them.
- Let It Dry: Allow your hair to air dry, or use a diffuser if needed.
Benefits of Using Homemade Curl Defining GelNatural Ingredients
One of the biggest advantages of making your own curl defining gel is knowing exactly what ingredients are going into your hair. Store-bought gels often contain chemicals and preservatives that can be harsh on curly hair. By making your own gel, you can ensure that you’re using natural, gentle ingredients that nourish and protect your curls.
Cost-Effective
Homemade curl defining gel is also much more cost-effective than store-bought options. Flaxseeds and aloe vera gel are affordable and easy to find, and a little goes a long way. You can make a batch of gel for a fraction of the cost of a commercial product.
Customizable
When you make your own gel, you have the flexibility to customize it to suit your hair’s needs. You can experiment with different essential oils and add-ins like vitamin E oil or glycerin to create a gel that works best for your hair type and concerns.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Curl Defining GelOvercooking the Flaxseeds
One common mistake when making curl defining gel is overcooking the flaxseeds. If you simmer them for too long, the gel can become too thick and difficult to strain. To avoid this, keep an eye on the flaxseeds and remove them from the heat as soon as the water thickens.
Not Straining Properly
Straining the gel is a crucial step in the process. If you don’t strain it properly, you could end up with flaxseed bits in your gel, which can be difficult to remove from your hair. Use a fine mesh sieve or a strainer with a cheesecloth to ensure a smooth gel.
Adding Too Much Gel
While curl defining gel is great for defining curls, adding too much can weigh your hair down and make it look greasy. Start with a small amount and add more as needed, focusing on the ends of your hair.
Conclusion
Making your own curl defining gel at home is a simple and rewarding process that allows you to create a product tailored to your natural curly hair. By using natural ingredients like flaxseeds and aloe vera, you can achieve beautifully defined, frizz-free curls without the use of harsh chemicals. Whether you’re looking to enhance your curls, reduce frizz, or simply try something new, homemade curl defining gel is a fantastic addition to your hair care routine.
