from hair gel to hair wax
Written with barber Simon
Thinking about switching from hair gel to hair wax – and wondering what the real difference is? Here we break down the concepts and explain why wax is sometimes the better choice for certain users.
Summary
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Hair wax provides more control, flexibility and a more natural finish than hair gel.
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Hair gel is best for high shine and firm hold, while wax offers more options for different hair types.
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Ingredients and scalp needs determine which styling product works best.
consistency
Hair gel is a runny product most often applied to wet hair, and when the hair dries the gel stiffens and becomes very firm and hard. Hair wax, on the other hand, can be used in both dry and slightly damp hair and does not weigh the hair down or harden into a rigid shape the way gel often does. With wax, you can in most cases continue to restyle your hair throughout the day – the hair becomes more flexible and workable – while still providing the hold you need.
look and finish
Hair gel offers high shine and a slick finish. If you want a wet look with very strong hold, gel works well for many users. Gel also comes in different forms, including sprays.
The big advantage of wax is that it comes in many variations tailored to hair type and personal preference. Some are matte, others offer shine; some have a clay-like texture, others are fibrous or creamier and lighter. In other words, wax gives you far more options. No matter your hair type, you can find a wax that suits your desired look. If you want a lighter styling product with more shine than traditional wax, you can also try pomade.
ingredients
If you have dry hair, you should avoid certain gels as they may contain alcohol, which dries the hair even more. Gel can also contain chemicals such as sulphites and ammonia, while many waxes today rely on natural ingredients that are better for both hair strands and scalp. There are alcohol-free, paraben-free natural gels on the market, but wax generally has a less drying effect.
summary
In conclusion, hair gel can be a good choice if you want a wet look with strong hold that keeps slick hairstyles firmly in place – especially for slightly longer styles, where wax often performs better on shorter hair. If you prefer a more natural result and want the flexibility to restyle during the day, the many wax options on the market offer more and better alternatives, regardless of hair type or preferred style. If you have dry hair or a sensitive scalp, wax is usually the safer option – and if you still prefer gel, choose natural formulations without alcohol or chemicals.
Also remember to use a shampoo suited to your hair and scalp type to wash out the styling products and avoid buildup on both the hair and scalp.
