I used gel for the first time and now my curls feel hard. Did I do something wrong?
We see this question all the time, and the good news is, your gel is probably doing exactly what it’s was designed to do.
What you’re feeling is called a gel cast.
As your hair dries, a styling gel can form a light cast around your curls to help support their shape. Once your hair is completely dry, gently scrunching out the cast reveals softer, defined curls underneath.
So yes, a gel cast is completely normal.
Why does one gel feel different from another?
Not every styling gel creates the same type of cast.
Some leave a firmer cast, while others provide a softer, more flexible hold. The results can also vary depending on:
Your hair type and density
How much water is in your hair when styling
How much product you apply
Your styling technique
The formulation of the styler
What if my curls still feel crunchy?
If your curls continue to feel stiff after you’ve scrunched out the cast, your styling product may simply be providing more hold than you’re looking for.
Many people with fine curls prefer a flexible-hold styler that provides definition and frizz control while leaving curls soft and touchable.
✨ If you love defined curls but don’t love a stiff finish, our Styler was created with that balance in mind.
