Top 10 Hard Hold Gels for Wavy Curly Hair 😱😍✨

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✨Swavy Curly Confidence PRODUCT GUIDE✨ ➡ bit.ly/scc-productguide
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✨Some other Wavy/Curly Hair things✨:
▪Amazon Favorites -- www.amazon.com/shop/swavycurl...
▪CurlSmith Awesomeness -- curlsmith.com/
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▪ MopTop -- bit.ly/sccmoptop
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▪LoveUrSelf -- glnk.io/yny1/swavycurlycourtney
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▪Treluxe Awesomeness -- discovertreluxe.com/
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▪Awesome Curlfriend Collective Silk Scrunchie -- bit.ly/ScrunchiesSCC
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▪Pony Flo Cap -- www.ponyflohats.com/
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▪Miribel Naturals: miribelnaturals.com/swavycurlycourtney
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▪️ Kerotin Hair Care: bit.ly/47tLEP3
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▪Laifen Tech Hair Dryer -- bit.ly/40rmZ9R
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▪ Innersense Organic Beauty -- shrsl.com/46ijr
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▪MyKSilk Pillowcase -- www.myksilk.com/
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▪️ Thermal Hair Care Hot Head -- www.thermalhaircare.com/?ref=28
(use code SWAVYCURLYCOURTNEY to save 10% off at checkout)
~DISCLAIMER~ this video is NOT sponsored, but there are affiliate links in the description. Buy stuff, save money, and be my hero! 😄❤️
#curlyhair #hairgel #wavyhair
00:00 HELLO! Here is what we are talking about!
03:58 Treluxe Hi Definition
07:24 Ouidad Stronger Hold Gel
10:12 Innersence I Create Hold
11:59 Jessicurl Spiralicious Gel
14:48 Effortless Waves Spray
16:03 (Bonus Gel) Hydro Style Flexi Jelly
16:39 Shine Gel Hold Level 9
17:41 Matrix Biolage Gel
20:54 4U By Tia Curl Defining Gel
22:19 Kinky Curl Curling Custard
24:45 Briogeo Gel (no one is surprised 😅)

[@leoskiss3390]

As a black girl with curly hair watching your videos has really helped me a lot, for instance I had never heard of “wet frizz” and “flash drying” and once I learned the technique for how to combat that it was game over! 😂 so thank you 🙏🏾

[@SwavyCurlyCourtney]

Awe, thank you! I am so glad this helped!!!

[@leoskiss3390]

@@SwavyCurlyCourtney my big take away is there is something to be learned from everyone….Thank you Courtney!😇

[@jenniferwhite4244]

My chefs' kiss combo are 2 products and a technique I learned from you! My best, longest lasting results are from Kinky Curly Custard using 1/2 teaspoon per side followed by a dab of the Briogeo gel scrunched into the ends. My ends tend to separate out of their clumps (they are trimmed and healthy), but this combo keeps them locked in. And like you, I had to learn that less is more, use a measuring spoon for consistent results (plus I hate dipping my hands in tubs), and don't use a leave in under these. It's my holy grail combo! Thank you for being you!

[@madsquishy3410]

Girl, you are the best!! Your videos have inspired my current wash day routine and OMG the results!! I could just cry. I got a trim recently and between that and my washday routine my hair has never looked better! It's so bouncy, and soft, and shiny. AND and and I've gotten like 3 compliments from random people in my town when I go out to shop or run errands in the past week or so. Honestly, You and Manes by Mell have been a God send to me and my 2c wavy hair. I can't thank you enough!!!!!

[@SwavyCurlyCourtney]

Oh my goodness, you just made my day! I’m honored if I was able to help you in someway. You’re doing a great job!

[@jenlovesjesus]

Love this video! Thank you for specifying which gels to try without a leave-in or curl cream. So helpful 😂❤

[@snowflakes215]

You mentioned you have a lot of products, could you make a new “how I organize my products” videos? I have a tiny bathroom and struggle with this constantly bc I want my products at my fingertips all the time but I have space issues (plus I love organizing videos!). TIA

[@SwavyCurlyCourtney]

Yes! Love this idea! I know not everyone has a cabinet available... lol

[@Star-dj1kw]

Great video!! You’ve turned me back onto the Kinky Curly Curling Custard. Love the Biolage Gelee especially for when my hair is protein sensitive. Then the last 2 Washdays, I used an old fave- the Biosilk Rock Hard Gelee.

[@Kerryjotx]

This is the video I have been dreaming of!!! Thanks

[@SwavyCurlyCourtney]

Yay!!! I love hearing this! Glad it helped!

[@judiegarnett2644]

show us the cabinet..... It is a must...... And go through and to a keep and toss brands.

[@nataliewilliams625]

As always you rock!

[@soniaburgos4595]

Great video! Thanks for the hard hold gels recommendation! My favorite hard hold gel is Curlsmith 9 shine strong hold gel...this gel always does the job!😍

[@musiklovr11]

Thank you for putting up the clips from each wash day! It's so helpful to me to see the difference between each one in fairly quick succession.

[@SwavyCurlyCourtney]

Good! Glad it was helpful! Thank you for the feedback!

[@suttondawnmariemazar4680]

I'm using curlsmith shine gel & quidad red bottle. This is only the 2nd video I've watched on your channel & enjoyed it! Learned quite a bit, thanks doll! 😊 ❤ Looking forward to more!

[@bobbisuescott6710]

I absolutely love the kinky curl. I also love that you put products in here that we can afford and not just the higher end products that some can't afford in times like today. God will provide. Your my favorite person on here and Instagram ❤❤❤❤

[@sarahallegra6239]

Thank you so much, this was very helpful!!

[@SwavyCurlyCourtney]

I'm so glad!

[@bethanyjacobsen3460]

I love the ouidad stronger hold you mentioned.

[@job13822]

I am so excited for the biolage one brand washday. The hydration balm is my winter conditioner every year excited to see what to try out for an Atlanta summer and a south florida future.

[@karenruggiero9500]

Oh my goodness this was awesome. I was literally going to ask you this question tonight and then saw your video. I’m just starting my journey. You are so right about transitioning, it’s not pretty or fun. I’ve tried the freeze hold from Aussie and the oiudad one. The Aussie was meh, but the oiudad had no cast and left my hair looking really frizzy even though it felt good. So thanks again. PS. I ‘ve gotten very brave about returning products I don’t like.

[@karissathatcher9206]

Great video!! So helpful! What do you like to put under the Spiralicious gel?

[@VengefulAngeI]

AG liquid effects is one of my fav gels & is hard hold. If you layer it over the curl fresh definer it gives even more hold since the curl fresh definer also has hold. That's one of my fav wash day combos 💜

[@Janielee1951]

I used the Curl fresh definer with the mousse gel and had an outstanding wash day! I just got the liquid effects. Haven't used it yet.

[@JillianSiobhanMal]

I love CS Shine 9 too. That and Ouidad Strong hold humidity blocking gel give me best hold so far. Especially with hairspray. I need to retry Kinky since my hair has improved since starting transition. Thanks for all your info!

[@MommyOfMia]

Harry's. At one point, I searched your channel and found you mentioned Harry's, but I've never seen you do an actual review of it. We've been using it in our house for a couple of years now, and I hesitate to look elsewhere, because it does such a good job for us.... Especially when made into a foam (so good!). I know you're on this one brand wash day kick, but based on how frequently I see this gel mentioned in multiple facebook groups, I really think it would be a great drugstore alternative to review in your channel.

[@alicesings1971]

I think the Kinky Curly and Quidad are my most favorite and since I use hardly any leave in conditioner or curl cream. I’ve had bad results using too much Curlsmith Shine. I need to try the Jessie Curl and the Briogeo gel. I like to combine the Curls Blueberry Bliss with the Kinky Curly to give it a different texture but you are 100 % right about leaving out the leave in conditioner and Curl Cream. I could watch these videos for ever. Thank you.

[@SovereignSelf2095]

Hey Courtney! Do you update your Swavy Curly Confidence Product Guide as you try new products? Just wondering before I purchase, thanks!

[@LKH-cj5fm]

I am enjoying the Jason flaxseed Hi shine gel. I have just recently changed up my routine, where I am pixie defusing till I feel the gel set in my hair and then using a dryer bonnet to finish drying my hair to about 90%. Today was the first day this week I have needed to refresh my curls after trying this routine. I am an aquatics director at an aquatics center and I am around the pool daily. That being said I do not always get in the water but do have the humidity from the pool. This shields my hair from the humidity and gives me great hold and definition.

[@amyauthbert]

Hi Courtney ☺ just wanted to say hi and thankyou so much for all your videos! I'm 34 and my hair is so similar to yours. I'm going through the horrible transition phase at the moment and your tips have really helped so much! I had a really good wash day today and way more definition with less frizz and stringy-ness, all thanks to your videos. Lots of love and appreciation from Yorkshire, England 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿❤

[@MarilynSmith-qj5ru]

Oh the transition phase sucks! Just remember that your hair only looks bad to YOU, everyone else just sees lovely curls!

[@thearb2003]

Confident curls or rockin ringletes work so well with Jessicurl gel :)

[@ladygem]

Love your t shirt!! I was having a conversation with someone on Monday and the song came up…it’s my all time favorite hymn. It’s the song I live by and even ended my mom’s funeral with it being played.

[@alicesings1971]

I like that song too and My condolences about your mother. 💐

[@Janielee1951]

Those t-shirts are really nice, soft and well made. They have a club you can join and get 40% off and free shipping making them $14. I have so many now! I have the one she's wearing too. When she wears a new one, I jump on the website, lol, just like with products 🤷🏼‍♀️

[@catalinatisdall6434]

Would love to see u review the new reformulated aveda be curly line

[@lisabeckman6581]

I’ve tried 4 from this video because of you ❤️ 6 if I include the Chi and Biosilk gels you showed in the beginning.

[@SwavyCurlyCourtney]

Those two are great as well! Happy to be able to share!

[@lyndavandeventer9125]

So appreciate your videos! I’m learning SO much even in my 70’s. I just started going wavy/curly after 50 years of blow drying and flat iron along with the natural gray during Covid. I’m having difficulty with determining my curl pattern. Products and process both make such a huge difference in performance. I have only tried a few brands and was able to get trial sizes…Curlsmith, Deva Curl (I saw you don’t recommend and I see why) and have Treluxe coming this week. Love your shirts!!😇

[@Janielee1951]

Hello! Born in 1951. Nice to see I'm not the only one and a Christian as well. I have bought a ton of the shirts! I keep thinking we need a channel for "mature" curlies, though I would never stop watching Courtney!

[@sbkir]

Great video and information. That Jessicurl is my favorite, but I haven't used any of the others other than the Rock Hard Gelee from Biosilk. I do love that and have been using that for so many years even before I decided to just let my hair be curly rather than straightening it. I want to try Curlsmith products.

[@SwavyCurlyCourtney]

Nothing wrong with sticking with Jessicurl! But the others are fabulous too!

[@ChynnaBlue1]

I can vouch for some of these, as well. I really love both the TreLuxe Hi! Definition and the Innersense I Create Hold gels, but they don't hold up in the Austin humidity. (I already took my first Humid-and-Sticky-Outside cold shower last night and it's only April!) I use Hi! Definition a lot in the winter and decanted mine into a pump bottle. My HERO products are the Ouidad ACC Heat and Humidity Gels. I buy them by the liter when it's 25% off to save on the cost. I disagree about the CurlSmith Effortless Waves spray. That gives me almost no hold and I agree with the label - it's a 3 for me. I'll use that on a week when I'm working from home or traveling to a low humidity area. I prefer it as a refresh product. But we have very different hair. You mention being able to skip a leave-in conditioner with a few products and I can't do that with anything. Skipping leave-in is the best way for me to guarantee I have a bad wash day. I also can't use any of the CurlSmith gels because they all give me extreme flash dry. I absolutely *love* their conditioners, though.

[@SandraGlenn-we3ri]

Thank you for your videos! I started my curly girl journey about four years ago when I realized my pin straight hair wasn’t straight any longer. I went through transition and was doing well until last summer when I lost all curl again. I struggled for nine months. From your videos I learned I had over moisturized my hair, and you had recommended two products with high protein that brought my curls back! Thank you! But I have a question: are the K18 products okay to use on wavy hair? Not to destroy your budget, but would you consider a one day wash day using K18 products?

[@traciwheeler2077]

Thanks for explaining the glycerin ❤

[@SwavyCurlyCourtney]

Glad this helped!

[@GummyBear1972]

I am currently drying my waves with Jessicurl Spiralicious gel (fragrance free) and it is the only styler I have repurchased so far in my journey of a mere 6 months, because, despite the stickiness (or maybe because of it 🤔) it holds my weak and damaged waves. I am grateful for this video but now am curious if I can find a less expensive and comparably performing product from this list. I will have to do some cost analysis to see what to try next, as I am on a budget and need to consider my hair journey expenses. Thanks for filming this one! I can't wait until all my damage is grown out and cut off so I can style my hair with more confidence.

[@ludmilakachlova2486]

For me, my favourite gels are Cantu moisturizing twist & lock gel, Cantu define and shine custard, Maui moisture Curl quench ultra-hold gel

[@aimeegrant9155]

Hey Courtney, such a great video thank you!! I'm just about out of my current gel so this was perfect timing. What would you say the grit/moisture scale for kinky curly and briogeo gels are?

[@amyhopkins8862]

I've been doing this stuff since 2009. I was on the DevaCurl bandwagon...and there are a couple I still like...but I wasn't completely satisfied. A few months ago, I watched one of these videos that was the best starter products. What did I have to lose? I found the 4U gel to be BETTER than any of the Deva gels. I mean, it just had chemistry with my hair and did not make it stringy. Win. Suave sulfate-free was a nice alternative on my checkbook, but it doesn't help with any slip like the no-poo does...still, for the price, I'm in! I'm still stuck on DevaCurl Decadence (One-C) so that's where I won't compromise:). The big win was the 4U, though. WINNNNNNN!

[@OddinaryOne]

Do you like the shine gel more than the in shower fixer?

[@michellehusson6059]

I literally just used the Briogeo gel in my hair 😊 It’s the only gel i use now and i love it ❤️❤️❤️

[@SwavyCurlyCourtney]

I can see why! Its so lovely! This gel is a very neat product!

[@petuniaflower100]

I don't know if you've ever tested the Vanicream gel, but it gives an incredible cast! I use it overtop of Kinky Curly Curling Custard and top it off with a light mousse. I keep buying gels (Idk why... It's an obsession lol) and nothing compares, so far, not even Ouidad. I have baby fine, medium porosity, 2b-2c-3a hair, very similar to yours.

[@Monkeyjelly]

New on your channel, I didn’t know the video was uploaded 2 hrs ago! Thanks ❤

[@SwavyCurlyCourtney]

Oh wow! How cool! Welcome!

[@Monkeyjelly]

@@SwavyCurlyCourtney a new fan!💗

[@ellenjolenewilkins6511]

I love travel size products for us Curly Girls!❤

[@SwavyCurlyCourtney]

Yes! Me too!

[@egh6510]

I too am on the hunt for a curling gel that works on my fine wavy/curly hair . So far, per your recommendation, I tried Kinky Curly custard and love e. I also like the Blueberry Bliss curling gel . The Umberto Giannini gel is good , but light to med hold very soft.

[@SwavyCurlyCourtney]

🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻 i’m so excited to hear that the kinky curly curling custard worked good for you!

[@Kerryjotx]

Thanks for telling me about the TreLuxe . I bought it and didn’t like it, but I think I’ve used too much and was too moisturizing for me. I’m going to try it again using less.

[@dennissems]

Ok so I purchased the Hard Rock Gelee or whatever it’s called. And Oh. My. Goodness. I’ve only been using it one day but I can already tell that it’s a good one. I’m so sad that it’s discontinued. Will try the Chi as it seems to be available in some of my drugstores. Hoping it performs the same.

[@melissabaldwin9462]

This organized go to was exactly what I need right now. I was using Aussie Instant Freeze but it is a light/medium hold for me. I used Twist Weather Up gel last summer and it worked well, so I repurchased but my hair has changed it's mind and all I get is super frizz and barely any hold. The Umberto Giannini is my favorite, but TJ Maxx hasn't had it in stock for a while so I need a more available gel. i think I will try to Kinky Curly Custard b/c I can't find the Briogeo gel in store here.

[@SwavyCurlyCourtney]

It's tough when things change or you can't find the product locally! Definitely give Kinky Curly Custard a go!

[@Janielee1951]

Have you heard of Raw Curls? It's a small company owned and formulated by a curly hair stylist and her husband. He had cancer and went "clean". He had also been in a related industry and together they formulated clean organic water soluable curly hair products. And no I don't work for them, lol. Just been using the products for years. I also try tons of stuff but keep coming back. They are having a sale right now. I have used Raw Curls Vault cream gel last two wash days with their anti frizz as a leave in (very light) and their mousse for volume. Lots of people use the cream gel as a one and done. They have a wavy swavy shampoo and I pair with the vault 007 condish. I am including the link. I wish more influencers knew about them. Thanks for all the info. My cupboards are overflowing and so are my t-shirt drawers with your awesome shirts, lol. ❤️ 🙏

[@nancybogle5114]

Love your review! First timer, Sebastion’s potion 9 it’s crunchy if you don’t blow dry, but if you add some heat, beautifully formed tresses!-,bonus if you add Moroccan oil, argan oil the best shine and smell to boot! Moroccan oil all by itself will just bring your hair back to its prime in youth and with natural curls, belisema!!!

[@user-op1ee7px1b]

Can you please review Bed Head Foxy Curls contour cream?

[@ajetton]

I keep coming back to the Giovanni LA Hold. I’ve yet to find anything that cooperates better with my hair or holds as well. Occasionally I have issues breaking up the cast with it!

[@lorijean1487]

My fave of all of those are the Ouidad Advanced Climate Control and the Curlsmith Shine gels. Some of the others either have aloe or certain proteins that cause flash drying for me.

[@jeannineg9130]

VERY interesting how gels perform differently/ better without a leave-in! I have thrown away some gels on this list and now I’m sorry I didn’t try using them without a leave-in first!!! 😮

[@Byscane1234]

I agree! I’m grabbing that tub of Hi-Definition gel out of the back of the cupboard and using on its own!

[@carmenjaco6007]

Lord me too!!!!!

[@cvonsutphen]

I'm still playing with Kinky Curly Custard, loving the Curlsmith Shape Up (scored it for $12 at Marshall's). Soaking wet or damp, also on the fence....the journey continues.

[@SwavyCurlyCourtney]

It's a journey for sure! But WOW $12! That's a fantastic find!

[@ashleehoward47]

Were those listen in order like a top 10 countdown where the best were at the end?

[@Aimee0206]

Wella shockwaves tuff stuff is by far my favourite. Gives great hold, a great cast and it's only £3

[@SwavyCurlyCourtney]

I would love to get my hands on some of that stuff! I may buy a plane ticket just to pick it up! Lol! 🤣🙈

[@ceystal]

I remember years ago when you came out with the ecoslay orange marmalade video and saying it was the hardest hold gel youve tried. Now they have the jello shot which is a stronger hold than orange marmalade! It would be super cool to see your opinion on ecoslay now after a few years!

[@SwavyCurlyCourtney]

I haven’t had those products in my cabinet for a very long time! I really love them, use them up, and they never repurchased. 🤦🏼‍♀️😬

[@JillianSiobhanMal]

I was wondering about that since her OM ad comes up sometimes when looking at their products. I just bought some things from them. The Sangria refresh spray really works really well for me which was a surprise bc it’s the first refresh product that has worked for me even compared to how just adding more of the same products from washday. I just did Matcha Boost and loved it. I still have those 2 gel samples to try. Do u use their products? What do u think?

[@carmenjaco6007]

Omg I am so with you on the Sangria refresher!!!!!!!! So bizarre how it works so well but never hear anyone talking about it. The jello shit proved to be too strong for my curls but I know others love it. I gifted the rest of that to a friend and they love it.

[@karissathatcher9206]

It seems like there are TWO types of hold: cast hold, and structure hold. Cast hold are your strong hold gels. Structure hold are your products like Curlsmith Effortless Waves. Those are products that lend internal hold to your hair by providing structure.

[@jeannineg9130]

Do the structure/ internal hold products give the same longevity in between wash days?

[@karissathatcher9206]

@jeannineg9130 I think it depends on your hair and your goals. Based on Courtney's reviews in this video, i would say yes. I really like "structure/internal" hold products because they seem to improve my hair internally so that it can "hold its own," and they are lighter weight. They give the hair a very natural hold and movement. I suppose "cast" hold products provide a "curlier" hold and keep your curls more defined. These are just my opinions. Both holds are great! :)

[@user-vl6bl1di5k]

I love the Treluxe Hi Def gel but I find it doesn’t have as much hold as I would like. I have been using the Treluxe reflex serum under it. I am definitely going to try just the gel as a single styler after your advice!

[@Janielee1951]

Adding their mousse also helps a ton!

[@sneakerteacher89]

The Doux Bee Girl Custard. Try it.

[@vaskylark]

Kinky Curly Custard is my fave, next to Marc Anthony Hydrating Cream. The only other one I even use is the popular Shea Curl Enhancing Smoothie. I have had bad luck with the Curlsmith gels that I've tried but I've hardly scratched the surface as I think I've only tried one or two, the In Shower One and one other. Both were way bad. They dried my hair out, made it look flakey and crusty to where no amount of scrunching out the crunch would work. I thought maybe I used too much the first time so I tried again and used barely any and still it flaked and looked drab and lifeless with no bounce and very dull looking hair. I was surprised because I think it was the most expensive of the four.

[@jayne1173]

would you do eco styler gel?

[@hayleeblack6639]

The Oiudad is THE HOLY GRAIL hard hold gel. It holds up in ALABAMA HUMIDITY. It’s the go to summer months every year.

[@raeofsunshine0521]

I love this type of video and especially how you compared the Curl Smith gels. I do have a question about your routine, how long do you typically go between washes? I'm wondering how these last over a few days before needing to be refreshed.

[@SwavyCurlyCourtney]

Glad this video was helpful for comparing them! Usually 2-3 days. I cannot go much past that!

[@raeofsunshine0521]

Thank you!! Also, I appreciate the quick reply. 💛💛

[@amandawilson890]

Im looking for a med-hard gel that is nice and cast-y but isn't too heavy any ideas? Im too lazy to experiment plus the world is too expensive these days lol. Currently i have been layering the camille rose under the bioterra and thats fine since one is med and one is light-medium hold but its a LOT of glycerine for texas summertime

[@rgrdesigns]

CS Shine Gel is what I use. I add some water to make it suit my fine hair. I don't find it gritty. Im quite sensitive to many fragrances, so this product is ideal for me.

[@SwavyCurlyCourtney]

That is a great one for fragrance free. And great tip for helping it to suit your hair!

[@amyschultz7103]

I can’t get the amount I need of the 4 u gel right it’s either weighed down or not enough

[@jeffreyhoushour1532]

Have you ever done a single-styler showdown with hard hold gels? I only remember curl creams and light hold gels. ??

[@audreyc.crosby627]

I love this idea!

[@Kerryjotx]

I love the kinky curl shampoo and conditioner, but I just can’t get the gel to work. I think my hair is very similar to yours -same length, same appearance, same amount of waves, but I just can’t get that to hold like you did on your wash day. What am I doing wrong?

[@pollymeloy]

I’ve tried a lot of these gels. I really like Innersense I Create Volume mixed with either I Create Lift foam or I Create Definition foam. Another favorite of mine is the CS Hydro Flexi Jelly mixed with a smaller amount of CS In Shower Style Fixer. One softer hold gel that I use when I don’t want a cast is IGK Rich Kid. Have you tried it?

[@SwavyCurlyCourtney]

No I haven’t! But it sounds really interesting! I may have to check it out! 🤗

[@shellastew]

I may have missed it, but have you tried the Zotos line from Sally?

[@SwavyCurlyCourtney]

Not within this format! I have previously! This is an older video...kzbin.info/www/bejne/onO1eap8gJ2UpNk

[@AnnaEley]

Just to let u know the triluxe have the same gel. In fragrance free

[@Lu.G.]

For reasons I'm not smart enough to figure out 😆 so many gels (and foams, for that matter) tend to dry out my hair. Even my beloved Raw Curls gel can cause my hair to feel dry, unless I use their Curl Cream underneath. That said, I have found a few that do work for my very fine silver hair: Ouidad Climate Control (very watery which isn't so bad but it has zero hold), Kinky Curly Curling Custard (which I had tried previously and didn't like, but purchased again after your amazing "One Brand Wash Day" demo) and Innersense I Create Volume Lotion (which is a gel, much like the consistency of the Ouidad but it has really good hold for me). Thank you so much for all the love and effort that you put in to help us all out! ❤

[@SwavyCurlyCourtney]

Glad this helped!!! Thank you so so much!

[@KathleenKC1]

I have several places I store my products and a spreadsheet to keep track. I also use my spreadsheet to track products I have tried and like (will buy again) and don't like - so I don't buy them again. I use google sheets, so I can see it on my phone, and can refer to it if I am out shopping and I can't remember if I tried a product in the past.

[@SwavyCurlyCourtney]

Yes! I love this!

[@BBarn711]

Have you tried the Innersense I Create Definition? It’s a foam, but the hold on that product is unbelievable! It is the perfect super strong hold without being heavy.

[@sfogliatelle]

Nothing makes my hair as curly for as long as this stuff it's insane! It took a few times to figure out how much I needed to use, I needed more than most people reviewing it used but nothing comes close to it

[@audreyc.crosby627]

Do you two use it alone or combined with other products?

[@BBarn711]

@@audreyc.crosby627 I can use it alone, but I usually pair it up with Innersense I Creat Lift and/or I Create Volume.

[@sfogliatelle]

@@audreyc.crosby627 for me personally it works best alone I've used it with other products but I don't get the cast I get when I use it alone and it seems to hold longer and give me stronger curls and curlier hair when I use it alone. It works both ways for sure but for me it seems to last longer and give me better results when used alone

[@Janielee1951]

Innersense blowout cream underneath and Quidad volume mousse (or something similar) works amazing. Got this from Gal, another influencer who is also a curly hair stylist.

[@DesireeMarineau]

I have tried the ouidad gel without success.... I've tried it with a leave-in conditioner I've tried it without a leave-in conditioner, I've tried it with a curl cream underneath, I've tried it all by itself, it does not work for me I can't believe I spent so much money on something that is not even close to something I ever want to try again

[@WendyMantel-bw7cg]

Curl Smith In-Shower Fixer is one of my go-to gels. Not a CS groupie but this product is awesome, especially in the humid summer. Love your tip about limiting layering products as a way to get more out of the gel. Will def try. Awesome work Courtney ❤

[@PS-hi9os]

does it dry out your hair in winter?

[@jennywellman3025]

I want grit 😂🙈 The Shine gel makes my hair feel sooo soft and fluffy. Everything I’m trying right now makes my hair sooo soft, I need grit and texture but I don’t know what to use? Even Hairspray makes my hair feel soft… I need help!

[@Nemisha17]

So I love soft to medium hold gels and mousses/foams. I'm not a hard hold gel person. BUT I do appreciate you making this video. I like gels with film forming humectants and NO synthetic polymers because it breaks out my skin.

[@carmenjaco6007]

Hi there. Was just going to suggest AG Mouse-Gel. I use it on top of my gel. I just spread it around and scrunch it in then diffuse. Very soft cast that breaks easily and I’m left with soft fluffy bouncy curls except you still get the hold. At least in my experience. I actually love and use a lot of AG products. They play nice in my hair. Btw the gel I top with the mouse gel is the innersence I Creat Hold. Such beautiful products!! May not help but it just might! Have a great evening! Oh and Hi Courtney!!😂

[@Janielee1951]

Mousse gel also works great without an added gel and over their newly formulated curl cream. AG always gives me great hair days, not much cast but good hold and volume. I don't like hard casts. I'm fine with no cast actually.

[@carmenjaco6007]

@@Janielee1951 omg I just got the newly reformulated curl fresh definer!!! I haven’t used the old formula so I don’t have anything to base it off of but I am excited to use it. I will try putting the mouse gel on top with nothing else. Thank you for the tip!!

[@stacylirio8930]

After watching this I really want to try the Biolage Gelee but it's sold out in the link you provided and I'm not having any luck with googling. Any other leads on where I might find it?

[@Janielee1951]

Amazon. It's confusing because the packaging has changed. It's pink and white now.

[@kChandler10]

Bad experiences with several of these gels. Mostly way too much fragrance causing itchy scalp, watering eyes and too much glycerine causing limp frizz. Best results on my fine, shoulder length, wavy curly hair are from Giovanni LA Hold gel mixed with a pea sized amount of Curlsmith Shine (unscented.) I can't use Curlsmith alone - too moisturizing. I don't plop, because that soaks up the stying products reducing the cast and hold.

[@SwavyCurlyCourtney]

Ooo it sounds like your hair loves all the grit! It is so interesting how everyone’s hair is so different and has different needs!

[@lululocks2894]

brilliant video .... well done brilliant thank you for sharing this i use a lot of these products too! hahaha :0)

[@nicolewalker3231]

Ok, girl, I really need to try that Briogeo Curl Charisma gel! My current fave is NYM Curl Talk hard hold gel. It never fails me! 😊

[@user-xj6pg2lo1t]

Is mousse a good alternative to gel? Is it less damaging than gel? I have fine, wavy hair. My hair has been thinning significantly since I started using gel/doing the CGM. I have read that gel can cause thinning.

[@audreyc.crosby627]

I would love to see responses to this because I've never heard of that and it makes me nervous.

[@Janielee1951]

I love a good mousse! They can be soft or harder hold. All will add more volume. AG mousse gel is great for harder hold but not crunchy and volume. Also Verb foam gel.. There's really alot. I always use a foam or mousse with or without a gel and/or curl cream. I don't like hard cast gels. I like voluminous definition and touchable hair. Check our curly Chelle. She did a mousse and foam comparison. She's a stylist.

[@user-xj6pg2lo1t]

Thanks for the info. I'll look into it. I have experienced significant hair thinning since I started the CGM using gel. It gets old being gaslighted that CGM and gel doesn't cause thinning.

[@alwaysunknown81]

The only "gel" you mentioned in this video that actually gave me a hard hold was the Kinky Curly Custard. The Innersense gel is one of the worst gels I've used. It just makes my hair frizzy.

[@MarilynSmith-qj5ru]

I love the Innersense gel but it’s tricky to use, emulsifying and starting with a small amount will help. You could also add a scoosh of water to your hands after emulsifying to make it easier to apply

[@alwaysunknown81]

@@MarilynSmith-qj5ru Well, I no longer had the Innersense gel but apparently they just upgraded their website and somehow the new system re-processed an old order of mine - which included a travel size bottle of the gel. I guess I'll give it a try again one of these days since they sent me a box of free stuff. 😅

[@CrombieTX]

Your Matrix Biolage gelee is in a white and blue bottle, but all I am seeing in my searches in a white and pink bottle. Can you confirm if they are the same product?

[@pollymeloy]

I reached out to her with the same question, and she said that she thinks they are the same, just have new packaging.

[@leeanns79]

I haven’t watched yet.. but what happened to biosilk Rock Hard gelee ? Almost all of these products in the video aren’t hard enough hold for me 😩 I can’t seem to find anything to match the rock hard gelee. If I’m not mistaken, they somewhat recently changed their formula. I had stocked up on the old formula and I’m down to 1 unopened bottle. I need to find an alternative that’s actually hard hold like the biosilk is. Any help would be great! Thank you

[@SwavyCurlyCourtney]

I wasn't aware of the change in the biosilk rock hard gelee formula. Have you played with the chi infra gel? howl.me/cl37re0j5lm

[@Star-dj1kw]

When something I love goes out of stock, I search on eBay for people who’ve hoarded these items and are finally selling them 😂

[@Star-dj1kw]

I see it on Amazon for $12

[@karamyrenfrow5065]

NYM's Curl Talk Hard Hold gel. Only available at Ulta & NYM's site (the Curl Talk sculpting gel that's sold everywhere is a completely different formula.)

[@FeyreAthalar]

How do you keep hair detangled if you just use a gel and no other stylers?

[@SwavyCurlyCourtney]

The deep conditioner helps and I detangle at that time.

[@LKH-cj5fm]

I was wondering how long the CurlSmith products last. Do they last longer than products you buy in the drugstore? The price is what stops me from trying these products.

[@SwavyCurlyCourtney]

They do! They are more concentrated! They do have sales including at Ulta. I have a discount code for it as well in the description.

[@cindyms.1237]

I have fine wavy curly hair and my everyday gel is the Curlsmith Hydro Style Gel. I live in Florida and I also work 12 hours outside in it and I'm currently on 5 days with just this product in my hair (today is wash day). The only other gel I use is the Tre Luxe. It's wonderful too.

[@lyndavandeventer9125]

So, I just received my 3 Treluxe products…they came in a bundle (ReFlex Curl Defining Serum, Soothe & Restore Mousse, and Hi! Definition Gel) and I can’t find how I would use all three or even if you would use all three. Can anyone help guide me?

[@deniseruffini1688]

Just bought the same. Go onto their website & they tell you various ways to use it. I’ve used all 3 & it seems to be too heavy for me. Just today I tried only the serum & gel so will see what happens. So far not impressed with the hold but the lack of frizz is amazing. Unfortunately, if the defination doesn’t last.. doesn’t do it for me

[@lyndavandeventer9125]

@@deniseruffini1688 Thank you! I also found website and various way to use. Yesterday, I tried the Serum and then the gel. I didn’t get a strong cast but probably will try again with more of the gel. Has Courtney done a video yet using these three products?

[@mishie618]

I thought you are in an ad for Ecoslay saying orange Marmalade is the absolute hardest hold gel you have ever used? I just sae it on Amazon. It's not in your list.

[@SwavyCurlyCourtney]

Ecoslay did not have my permission for this AD! Thank you for letting me know about this!

[@Janielee1951]

I've seen it too. It's all over!

[@karissathatcher9206]

OK, this is my third comment, but I have to say, my biggest take away from this video is: some gels don't need anything underneath because they are already moisturizing! Such a good tip!!

[@annablack7363]

Curly smith

[@shannonsummers7587]

I absolutely LOVE the Tre Luxe Hi Def, the Ouidad, and the Jessicurl! The Kinky Curly doesn’t give me enough cast and hold. I tried the 4U because you recommended it in another video, but unfortunately it flakes in my hair. I also do love the cult fave Aussie Instant Freeze! I find it gives so much moisturizing as well as high hold.

[@michellesmith1298]

Courtney, which one's do you suggest for super fine hair that gets weighed down?

[@user-ee9vr6ru1f]

I’m curious if you’ve ever layered Kinky Curly Custard and the Briogeo Curl Charisma gel together, and whether the result was even better than using them separately?

[@lorenthomas9106]

What a great video! So helpful! I’m going back to kinky curl following your advice. Thanks!!