A gel cast is a firm coating on your hair that can be created once your hair gel has completely dried. The level of stiffness depends on the product you are using, as not all gels are created equal. The purpose is to hold the curl’s shape and provide a protective shield to hold in hydration and prevent frizz.
What’s the difference between a “gel cast” and a “curl cast”?
The terms are often used interchangeably, but a curl cast is the more general term, referring to the hold created by any styler (gel, mousse, custard), while a gel cast specifically refers to the one created by a gel.
Why do I want a gel cast?
Creating a gel cast provides maximum definition and frizz control. The cast acts as a shield, preventing humidity from entering the hair shaft while the curl dries, which leads to longer-lasting, more defined curls.
Is a gel cast a good or bad thing?
Creating a gel cast is more of a styling preference rather than a good or bad situation. Depending on your hair type and the look you would like to achieve, you have options. For strong definition that last for days, you can leave the gel cast on. For a softer look, you can choose to soften the gel cast on wash day.
Does using hair gel always create crunchy hair?
Not every gel results in a crunchy cast, as formulas are designed with different levels of hold. If you’ve historically steered away from hair gel due to that stiff, crunchy finish, note that there are many options available to create your preferred look, from light and touchable to firm and defined.
Styling gel is an amazing tool because it sets your curl pattern, protecting your curls from daily exposure to weather and friction. By creating the initial gel cast, you secure this definition and frizz protection. After your hair is fully dry, you then have the choice to soften the cast completely for movable, touchable hair while still retaining the benefits of lasting curl definition.
The Curl Story – Scenarios
High Density, Tight Curls – On my daughter’s hair, for example, we never break the gel cast. She has high-density hair and tight curls, and she loves the lasting definition the cast gives her. By leaving it intact, the cast protects her hair by sealing in moisture from wash day and creating a necessary barrier against weather and daily activity. While her curls are stiff on wash day, they naturally soften, yet remain highly defined by the next day.
Medium Density, Loose Curls – Conversely, my routine is the opposite. I have medium-density hair and much looser, wavier curls. For me, leaving the gel cast intact makes my hair look too condensed and flat, exposing my scalp. Therefore, I prefer to soften the gel cast right away. This allows me to maintain the core curl definition while introducing much-needed volume and movement. While this may mean I need a quick 5-minute refresh on subsequent days to regain some definition, the immediate voluminous finish is always worth it.
How long will the gel cast last?
The gel cast will soften over time depending on the gel, the environment and your daily activities. High humidity can break the cast, sleeping on your hair, movement or friction from clothing, car seat, etc. Therefore, it can last just a day or several days.
Can I soften the gel cast?
Yes! You can soften the gel cast by scrunching out the crunch (SOTC) only once your hair is completely dry. If your hair is even slightly damp, you will create frizz by scrunching at that time. This technique will soften your hair within seconds! So, it’s a quick solution to add this extra step to your wash day routine.
How should I break the gel cast or ‘scrunch out the crunch’?
Once your hair is completely dry, gently scrunch out the gel crunch by cupping the curls in your palms and squeezing lightly. You can use bare hands or rub a few drops of a lightweight hair oil or serum between your hands first to reduce friction and add shine.
However, heat or moisture from your hands can interfere with your hair product while breaking the gel cast. For best results, cover your hands with a smooth cloth or silky scarf before scrunching. You can then apply a couple of drops of a finishing oil, with the praying hands method, if desired.
Does a gel cast cause buildup on my hair?
Hair gel does not necessarily cause buildup. What causes the buildup are certain ingredients in any hair products. Those buildup-causing agents can be in your shampoos/cleansers, conditioners, leave-in conditioners, oils, and styling products. This is why clean beauty brands emphasize using water-soluble ingredients. Their formulas rinse cleanly from the hair, leading to happier, healthier, and lighter curls.
Can I sleep in a gel cast?
Yes! This is one of my favorite curly styling secrets. I like to wash my hair on an afternoon or evening, and leave the gel cast in until the next morning. It protects my hair overnight and allows me to have fresh-looking curls the next day!
Why didn’t I get a cast?
If you used a hair gel, but it did not create a gel cast, the problem usually lies with product use or buildup. This can happen if you haven’t used enough gel or if the product you have is too light for your hair. Additionally, pairing the gel with a heavy curl cream used underneath will often inhibit its holding power. Similarly, existing product buildup (especially from heavy oils and butters) may prevent the gel from properly coating and sealing the hair strand.
What gels do you recommend for curly hair?
Innersense I Create Volume – A medium-hold product that scrunches out to beautifully soft curls.
Innersense I Create Hold – A strong hold gel to hold even the thickest of hair types with ease.
Uncle Funky’s Daughter, Curly Magic – A fabulous base layer that draws moisture to your hair.
Bioterra, Alcohol-Free Styling Gel – A budget-friendly gel with medium hold and amazing shine.
Giovanni Eco Chic, L.A. Hold Styling Gel – A strong hold gel that is my go-to on humid days. It may be difficult to find this one online, but it might be available at your local natural foods grocers.
Have more questions? Leave them below and I will add to this post!
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