How to Choose the Right Men's Hair Gels According To Hair Type

There’s something no one tells you when you first start using hair styling products, not all men’s hair gels work for every hair type. You may see a nice ad on social media, buy the gel, try it once and then wonder why your hair looks nothing like what you expected.

The truth is: Your hair type, the gel's hold, shine level and even the weather around you, all these things affect how the gel works on your hair. If you're using the wrong product, your hair may end up looking too stiff, greasy or flat. The right gel can give you confidence and control. The wrong one can ruin your whole look.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through simple steps to help you choose the men's hair gels that suit your hair perfectly. Whether your hair is curly, straight, thick or thin, there’s a gel out there waiting to do wonders for you.

Tips To Choose the Best Hair Gel for Your Hair Type

Step 1: Know Your Hair Type First

Before you even look at a gel, take a moment to understand your hair. Run your fingers through it. Is it soft and fine? Is it thick and a bit hard to manage? Does it curl up or stay straight?

Each hair type needs a different kind of care. If your hair is fine, a strong gel might make it look flat and oily. If your hair is thick and wild, a light gel may not do much at all. That’s why knowing your hair type is the first and most important step before picking men’s hair gels.

Here’s a quick guide:

• Thin or fine hair: Needs a lightweight gel with light hold.
  
• Thick or coarse hair: Needs strong hold gel to stay in place.
  
• Curly hair: Needs gel that adds moisture and holds the curls together.
  
• Wavy hair: Works best with medium hold gel for shape without stiffness.

When you understand your hair, choosing a product becomes much easier and smarter.

Step 2: Choose the Right Hold Level

That simply means how firm your hair will stay after applying the product. The stronger the hold, the more control you have but it can also make your hair feel hard.

Most men’s hair gels come in three main hold levels:

• Light hold: Perfect for natural, casual styles. If you want your hair to move a little and look soft, this is the one. Great for thin hair.
  
• Medium hold: Keeps things neat without looking too stiff. Good for wavy hair or daily office styles.
  
• Strong hold: Great for slick styles, spikes or when you don’t want your hair to move at all. Best for thick, heavy hair.

Remember, stronger hold doesn't always mean better. Pick the one that works for your style and feels comfortable all day.

Step 3: Pick the Finish: Matte or Shine?

This is something most people overlook but it makes a huge difference in how your hair looks. Some men’s hair gels give your hair a shiny finish. Others leave a matte, no shine effect.

Let’s break it down:

• High shine gels: Best for sharp, polished looks like slick backs or side parts. Great for evening events or professional settings.
  
• Matte finish gels: Best for relaxed, casual looks. If you want your hair to look like there’s no product in it (but still styled), matte is the way to go.

If you have oily hair, shiny gels might make your hair look greasy. If your hair is dull or dry, a gel with shine can bring it to life. So always keep your hair’s natural texture in mind.

Step 4: Water Based is Better Than Alcohol Based

Some old school gels used alcohol as a main ingredient. While they gave a strong hold, they also left your hair dry, flaky and sometimes even itchy.

These days, water based men’s hair gels are more common and for good reason. They are easy to wash out, gentle on your scalp and don’t damage your hair.

Look at the back label of your gel. If the first ingredient is water, you’re on the right track. Stay away from products with too much alcohol or strange chemicals you can’t even pronounce. Healthy hair starts with clean and kind ingredients.

Step 5: Check the Ingredients Carefully

This step may feel boring but it’s super important. The ingredients tell you what’s going into your hair every day. If you're someone who uses gel regularly, you should treat it like skincare for your hair.

Here’s what to look for:

• Avoid parabens and sulfates, as they harm your scalp.
  
• Look for natural oils or aloe vera,  these help nourish your hair.
  
• Say no to strong perfumes or artificial colours, as they often cause irritation.
  

Many men’s hair gels now include plant based ingredients or vitamins to support hair health. Choosing a gel with the right ingredients is a smart way to style and protect your hair at the same time.

Step 6: Weather Changes Everything

This may surprise you but your gel should change with the seasons. In summer, you may sweat more and your gel needs to resist humidity. In winter, your hair may get dry, so your gel should offer some moisture too.

If you live in a humid area, go for anti frizz men’s hair gels with firm hold. If you live in a dry or cold place, go for hydrating gels with flexible hold. Don’t let the weather undo your hard work.

Step 7: Try Different Gels Till You Find Your Match

You won’t always get it right on the first try. Hair gel isn’t one size fits all. It’s okay to try a few products before finding the one that feels just right.

Sometimes, the perfect gel is the one you didn’t expect. Test different ones for a few days each. Use less or more, change how you apply it or mix it with a drop of water. Keep experimenting. In time, you’ll know what works best for your hair and your daily routine.

Step 8: How to Apply Hair Gel Properly

No matter how good your gel is, if you use it wrong, it won’t help. Follow these tips:

• Apply to slightly damp hair, not soaking wet or bone dry.
  
• Use a small amount about the size of a coin.
  
• Rub between palms spread evenly.
  
• Style with fingers for messy looks or a comb for sharp ones.
  
• Let it set naturally, avoid blow drying unless needed.
  

The way you apply men’s hair gels makes a big difference in how your style turns out.

Get Groomed the Smart Way

Choosing the right hair gel is not just about how your hair looks. It’s about how you feel. When your hair looks good, you feel more confident, more put together and ready for whatever the day throws at you. From hold level to shine, ingredients to weather, every little detail counts when choosing men’s hair gels.

And if you want to go one step further, explore more men’s grooming products that can help you build a full routine, including shampoo, conditioner, serum and more. Take the guesswork out of your grooming with trusted platforms like Mancrafters, where you can find the right products easily, smartly and hassle free. Just some taps and Taddaaa- Your cart is ready to deliver!