Hair gel has been around for a long time and has been a staple of the hair-care industry. You may be wondering why? It’s versatile and can be used for many hair styling purposes. Hair gel can be used to create beachy waves or define curls. It can also be used to manage and control frizz. Gel can be used to manage flyaways and baby hairs. We use hair gel sometimes to manage our brow hairs.

There are many styling gels available on the market. It can be overwhelming to choose the right one for you. Many gels contain alcohol, which can dry out hair and cause damage over time.

We are happy to help you find the perfect one with a moisturizing and comfortable formula. Below are some of our favourite hair gels and those of our hairstylist friends. Some gels are expensive, while others can be purchased at a drugstore or Amazon for as low as $4 (looking at Garnier Fructis). Keep scrolling to see the top hair gels available.

Ceremonia Pequi Styling Gel

Ceremonia’s Pequi Styling Gel has a medium-hold formula, which is great for fine hair. It is moisturizing because the active ingredient in this product is pequi oil. The oil moisturizes hair and makes it shine. It also contains aloe vera and acai extract, which give hair shine and strength, and hydration.

Harry’s Sculpting Gel

For a root lifting gel, check out Harry’s Sculpting Gel. Devin Toth, a New York City hairstylist says it gives hair volume without any flaking or crunch. It’s also great for sculpting baby hairs and preventing flyaways.

Garnier Fructis Style Pure Clean Styling Gel

Angela Trakoshis, senior commerce writer, has used the Garnier Fructis Style Purified Clean Styling Gel for many years. She says, “I use it for everything. I can use it to curl my hair, or use it to give it a sleek-back look. You can even use some on a spoolie to make a brow gel. The best thing? It costs less than $5, which is a steal.”

Oribe Curl Gelee

The Oribe Curl gelee is designed for curly and textured hair. The butter complex, which is made up of murumuru butter and mango butter, hydrates and detangles hair. It also contains macadamia and apricot oils that seal in moisture and add shine.

Bumble and Bumble Sumogel

Bumble and Bumble Sumogel has a clear, non-alcohol formula that leaves hair feeling fresh. You can use it in two ways. One, you can apply a small amount to baby hairs and fly away hairs. Two, you can add more to damp hair to achieve that wet look.

R+Co Wall Street Stronghold Gel

R+Co’s Wall Street Stronghold Gel is a high-shine formula that provides hair with hold no matter what style. Mia Santiago, a New York City hairdresser, loves it. She says it doesn’t leave hair dry and it gives hair a firm hold.

The Not Your Mother’s Curl Talk Hard Hold Hair Gel

The Not Your Mother’s Curl Talk Hard Hold Hair Gel is formulated with a rice curl compound. It gives curls a long-lasting hold. It will also reduce frizz and hydrate, and it has the best citrus and jasmine scents that last all day.

Kerastase Curl Manifesto Curl Defining Gel-Cream

Toth states that Kerastase Curl-Manifesto Curl Define Gel-Cream is a great choice for curls. He says that it adds moisture and holds curls and keeps them looking defined all day. You might be wondering how? The formula’s manuka honey, ceramides and other ingredients are responsible.

Pattern Strong Hold Hair Gel

Pattern Strong Hold Hair Gel is a long-lasting, flexible gel that provides great hold. This gel is great for curling hair, and it can even lay down stubborn strands. It also helps to moisturize hair with the castor oil and flaxseed in the tub.

American Crew Styling Gel

Santiago states that American Crew Styling gel is light and breathable, and does not weigh hair down. She says that it enhances shine and leaves hair looking just the way you want, every time.

Aussie Instant Freeze Gel

The Aussie Instant Freeze Gel is a great option for those looking for a more affordable choice. Toth claims that the gel creates a lasting hold and doesn’t contain any damaging alcohols or hair drying. It does contain moisturizing jojoba oil, and sea kelp which we love.

Tresemme Extra Hold Styling Gel

Tresemme’s Extra-Hold Styling Gel gives hair a hold that is so strong it will resist humidity. It won’t make hair dry and crunchy, so it can be styled easily once it is dried.

Got2b Glued Styling Spiking Gel

Santiago says that Got2b Glued Style Spiking Gel has been the go-to product for stylists for all eternity. It’s flexible and doesn’t flake, so it can be used in all styles. You don’t need to think or worry about your hairstyle after you have set it.